Imagine you were given 9 hours to write, illustrate and publish a novel. But here’s the catch, you also have to include a special set of parameters that are only revealed that day. This is what 32 dedicated students accomplished on Wednesday. These students, spanning from Years 7 to 10, not only showcased their literary and artistic talents; they also raised vital funds for The Kids' Cancer Project.

"Our biggest challenge was trying to get everyone’s ideas into the story," said Hannah.

"It was really exciting to be able to use and acknowledge everybody’s strengths," Charlotte added.

All books written during the competition are digitised and will be distributed to children in hospitals across Australia, offering a much-needed escape and a source of entertainment during their treatment. The books will also be judged by a panel of leading Australian authors, and illustrators, as well as members of the Children’s Book Council of Australia, adding an extra layer of motivation for the students.

"The best part was working with my friends and seeing what we could create together," Addisyn said.

The Navy Team also explained, "We had been planning our story, but we didn't know the full parameters yet, so it was a bit of a mystery. The challenge made it even more enjoyable."

The students' efforts extended beyond the writing room. To get their books judged and contribute to the cause, each team needed to raise a minimum of $240. The St Patrick's College teams had rallied the community, raising an impressive $4,500 through their individual efforts, a raffle and a bake sale.

Every dollar raised went directly to The Kids' Cancer Project, an independent national charity that funds life-saving childhood cancer research. A special congratulations to Layton Liningston, who was the top fundraiser in Queensland for the competition, exemplifying leadership and generosity in supporting this important cause.

This initiative truly highlighted the spirit of St Patrick’s College Mackay and its commitment to nurturing students who make a positive impact on the world. Their collective efforts have showcased not only remarkable teamwork and creativity but also a profound sense of compassion to help those in need. Well done to all the students involved in this year’s Write A Book In A Day initiative.

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St Patrick’s College students wrote books in a day and raised $4,500 for The Kids’ Cancer Project. Photos supplied.

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Mackay Hospital and Health Board Chair Helen Darch will step down from her key role to pave the way for local leadership and a smooth transition ahead of the renewal of health board appointments in April next year.

Ms Darch said she was pleased to be handing the reins to a local Board representative with strong community connections.

“As five of our seven Board member terms, including my own as Chair, are due to conclude in early 2026, I wanted to ensure a smooth and stable change process for the Mackay region,” Ms Darch said.

“Current Board member Monica McKendry will take on the role of Interim Chair until new appointments are finalised in 2026.

“Monica is a highly respected member of the Mackay business community, a chartered accountant and she has served on the Board since 2024.

“As her term continues until 2028, her interim appointment provides welcome stability through this period of change.

“Monica also chairs the Board’s Finance sub-committee and represents the health service on the Board of the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

“I know I am leaving the Board in capable, committed and local hands.”

Ms McKendry said she welcomed the opportunity to make a greater contribution to the delivery of health care in the region.

“I want to thank Helen for her strong leadership of the Mackay Hospital and Health Board over the past two years and I look forward to continuing her legacy during this interim arrangement,” Ms McKendry said.

“Mackay is where I was born and raised, and where I chose to build a career as a chartered accountant and partner in an accountancy practice.

“My expertise is in finance and business.

“I also care deeply about ensuring that the people of this region can access the health care they need, because this is home for me.”

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Helen Darch is stepping down as Chair to allow for a smooth local leadership transition

Monica McKendry will be named Interim Chair, providing local expertise and continuity. Photos supplied

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Mackay’s police force has welcomed two new first-year constables to the Mackay Whitsunday District, marking an exciting addition to the region’s law enforcement team. Constable Will Beveridge will be stationed at Northern Beaches Police Station, while Constable Milla Faragher heads to the Whitsundays Police Station. Both recruits bring fresh energy and enthusiasm after completing extensive training at the Brisbane Academy.

Acting Inspector and Northern Beaches Sergeant Mitch Benson said the recruits are a valuable addition to the district.

“Today we welcomed two new police officers to the Mackay Whitsunday District. We’re very excited to see them join the team here, and they come to us from the Brisbane Academy after several months of training.”

“It’s great to see additional police come to the district. They both come from diverse backgrounds, so it’s good to see them bring those experiences into regional areas and join us here.”

The recruits will begin in general duties, focusing on first response work while continuing their training over the next 12 months.

“They’ll be in first response, doing general duties. Over the next 12 months they’ll be continuing their training as first-year constables until they finish out and become confirmed officers,” Acting Inspector Benson said.

He encouraged aspiring police officers to take on the challenges of the career.

“My advice to the next generation is to embrace the challenges that are out there. Be yourself, enjoy working with the community, and remember the good people who are out there.”

For Constable Will Beveridge, the motivation to join the police force comes from a lifelong desire to help people.

“I’ve always wanted to help people. Since I was a kid, I just love the way you can get out there, meet new people, and help,” he said.

Reflecting on his future, Constable Beveridge said he’s hoping to go into the Child Protection Unit once he's done a few years of general duties.

And for Constable Milla Faragher, joining the police was always her goal.

“I think just being in the community and making it a safer place – this is the career path I’ve always wanted to take,” she said.

“I’ve got two close friends in the police. They kind of influenced me as well – they’re great role models.”

She reflected on the opportunities ahead, “There are lots of exciting opportunities – you’ve just got to go for it and work hard.”

With their training complete and their placements confirmed, Constable Beveridge and Constable Faragher are ready to contribute to the region's safety, reinforcing the police presence across both Mackay and the Whitsundays.

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Constables Will Beveridge and Milla Faragher join Mackay’s police, boosting general duties across the district.

Acting Inspector and Northern Beaches Sergeant Mitch Benson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Sarina Cricket Association is charging into another season, with both juniors and seniors already back on the pitch and games running through to 5 April 2026.

Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has proudly supported the club over the years with major sponsorship, assisting the Association in their efforts to grow from a single team into 10 teams across all age groups.

With continued support from Community Bank Sarina, this family friendly cricket club has created more opportunities for people of all ages to be active, stay connected and enjoy the benefits that come with being part of a team.

This season, programs cater to a range of age groups, from the juniors’ and seniors’ Master Blasters Program to junior teams, a senior men’s team, a senior ladies’ team and an over 40s team.

Sarina Cricket Association President Brodie Boswood said it’s the inclusive nature of cricket in the Sarina community that makes the club so special.

“Our club has become a place where families come together, friendships are built and everyone can gain confidence, teamwork and life skills that stretch far beyond the game itself,” said Mr Boswood.

“Cricket is a sport for everyone and our club's growth wouldn’t be possible without continued support from Community Bank Sarina.”

Community Bank Sarina is proud to sponsor Sarina Cricket Association, supporting the development of its programs, encouraging wider community participation and ensuring it continues to provide a welcoming space where people of all ages can learn, play and belong.

For more information on this year’s season, visit @sarinacricketassociation on Facebook.

To see how Community Bank Sarina continues to support local groups and initiatives that make a lasting difference in the community, visit Community Bank Sarina on Facebook.

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Second-grade Sarina Spartans Senior Mens’ team from Sarina Cricket Association

Players, coaches and supporters of the Sarina Spartans teams from the Sarina Cricket Association

Under 12s’ Sarina Spartans Junior 2024 Championship team from Sarina Cricket Association. Photos supplied

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That Place Mackay hosted a successful Open Day for families and the community last Saturday, 20th September, offering a first-hand look at the local disability service provider’s programs and facilities.

Founded by local fathers Steve and Tim, who both have children with disabilities, That Place Mackay provides after-hours activities and safe, inclusive spaces for young people in the region. Free Saturday morning sessions allow participants of all ages and abilities to enjoy games, art, cooking, and social connection.

“It’s been fantastic… a really, really good turnout,” said Tim Gable, reflecting on the strong response as the venue quickly filled from the 9am start.

Mayor Greg Williamson, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox attended the event to show their support.

The Open Day highlighted That Place Mackay’s commitment to families, providing opportunities for participants to learn new skills, connect with others, and enjoy a welcoming and inclusive environment.

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That Place Mackay hosted a well-attended Open Day last Saturday, showcasing its inclusive programs for young people and community support. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Nothing redhotblue creates is accidental. Every project is handcrafted to spark curiosity, make an impact, or evoke emotion. When a business knows its marketing objectives, it can afford to be more playful, daring, and even spontaneous. The seemingly ‘random’ becomes intentional, fun becomes functional, and every creative choice works harder because it ties back to the bigger picture.

Imagine this: You’ve poured months of late nights into your marketing - teaching yourself new tools, finessing copy, selecting colours, tweaking layouts, and taking on tasks well outside your wheelhouse. There have been hurdles and setbacks, but eventually, things start to take shape. You hit publish on a look that feels right, and for a moment, you breathe easier.

Then… nothing. The phone doesn’t ring, engagement dips, and sales don’t climb. Doubt creeps in. You start chasing what competitors are doing, trying to replicate their formula in the hope of seeing the same results. Yet your audience still isn’t responding as you’d hoped, and you can’t help but feel disheartened. After all that effort, the question lingers: so what?

The truth is, that question should have been asked long before the work began. Every clever idea or eye-catching design needs to be grounded in purpose and aligned with business objectives. With a solid brand or marketing strategy, it becomes clear how each idea contributes to the bigger picture. Ensuring time, energy, and resources aren’t wasted on work that doesn’t drive your results.

It may seem like strategy takes the creativity out of marketing, but in reality, it’s what gives creativity its full potential. Strategy doesn’t restrict ideas; it sharpens them, giving every concept direction and meaning. Instead of producing content that looks appealing but falls flat, strategy channels creativity towards outcomes that matter, whether that’s building awareness, driving engagement, or increasing sales.

That’s where guidance from an expert with hands-on marketing experience makes all the difference. When clients sit down with redhotblue’s director, Jody Euler, the conversation uncovers business goals, clarifies positioning, and maps out the most creative, yet purposeful, path forward. Strategy gives creativity focus and freedom to push boundaries in ways that truly connect, and with the right support, this is when magic happens.

Jody Euler from Red Hot Blue

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Mackay’s Beeyoutiful Pageant Inspires All Ages

In a world often focused on competition and comparison, the Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants offer a refreshing alternative: a space where local women, girls, and even men can shine, grow, and celebrate themselves, without the pressure of rivalry. More than crowns and sashes, the event is about nurturing confidence, fostering self-love, and creating a supportive, joyful environment where everyone is encouraged to step into their best self.

Founder and event organiser Jenna Kerschbaumer reflected on the magic of the day.

"I needed to get my tissues multiple times – it was just beautiful to see the girls grow in confidence and come out of their shell, from doing the master classes in the morning to absolutely killing it on the runway in the afternoon."

Jenna emphasised the core mission of the pageants.

"Everyone walks away winning because they've increased their confidence, mindset, or love for themselves, more than what they had when they started the event in the morning."

From ages eight to adults in their thirties, participants of all backgrounds and abilities embraced the experience.

"We had people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities—anyone who wanted to enter could, and that was beautiful to see," Jenna said.

The event’s structure combines mindset workshops, runway training, and personal development tasks.

"The first task of the day was for the girls to look into their phone camera and repeat affirmations. When you repeat something to yourself, your brain starts to believe it," Jenna explained, a technique that instilled immediate confidence.

The Beeyoutiful Pageants also nurture a sense of giving back. Across all fundraisers, Jenna and participants raised $3,000 for the Children’s Starlight Foundation.

"I really love the community volunteering side of it. Anyone can do this without a sash, crown, or title… you just have to take that initial step into it.”

Judges and volunteers helped make the day memorable, including Nigel Dalton, Member for Mackay MP, who said, "Being part of the judging panel gave me a real appreciation for how this event empowers women and girls to celebrate who they are, beyond just looks.

“It’s about confidence, community, and embracing individuality.”

Alongside Nigel were Sandi Kelly from Sirens Tantalizing Beauty, and Kaley-Jade Baker, radio announcer from Star 101.9. MC Fallon Drewett from the Just Saying Project and volunteers such as Nikki, Miss Australia Legacy 2025, and Nikita from Little Niks Beauty—who generously donated hair and makeup services—ensured the day ran smoothly.

The impact of Beeyoutiful is already evident beyond Mackay. Jenna proudly shared, "One of the girls who was crowned Little Miss Beautiful has gone on to enter a national pageant.

“And that’s exactly why I bring these events to Mackay—to give people a taste of what it’s like and inspire them to pursue bigger competitions if they can.”

Supported by local sponsors including Jim’s Mowing Paget, Marty Streaker Photography, Harvey Norman Bedding Mackay, and Udo Jatke from New Level Real Estate, the pageant continues to provide an avenue for confidence, community, and self-love.

Congratulations to all winners and entrants:

Winners:

Little Miss Beeyoutiful: Cindy Litzow
Junior Miss Beeyoutiful: Darley Vernalls
Miss Beeyoutiful: Madison Richardson
Ms Beeyoutiful: Lauren Heitman

Entrants:

Cindy Litzow, Jacinta Jones, Stella Versaci, Olivia Poynton, Darley Vernalls, Imogen Argus, Alexis Versaci, Zoe Place, Madison Richardson, Jessica Kirsopp, Lauren Heitman, Tegan O’Keeffe

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Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants offer a supportive, non-competitive space for all ages to grow confidence, celebrate themselves, and give back to the community. Photo credit: Marty Streaker Photography

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The Pioneer Valley Rail Trail is set for a major upgrade, with Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP announcing $75,000 in funding to improve the much-loved community asset. The boost, delivered through the Department of Transport and Main Road’s Rail Trail Program, will resurface around two and a half kilometres of the track, enhancing safety, accessibility, and the experience for locals and visitors alike.

Mr Kelly said that the $75,000 will go a long way in adding to the work that’s already been done on the Rail Trail.

“This $75,000 is the start of the new venture for the Pioneer Valley, and that’s tourism.” Mr Kelly said.

“A rail trail up in the beautiful country of the Pioneer Valley is something that could help put the area on the map as a tourist hotspot.

“We’re looking at two and a half kilometres of the rail trail, meaning more distance being added to what is already there.

Mike Browne from the Pioneer Valley Rail Trail welcomed the funding.

“We’re very happy with the support we’ve received from Glen Kelly MP’s office to help us get this funding,” Mike said.

“This money will go towards improving the trail’s surface, from Gargett for 2.6km which will make it more accessible to users of all abilities.”

These upgrades are part of the Crisafulli Government’s Destination 2045 strategy, which is focused on unlocking Queensland’s ecotourism potential and driving regional development Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said this investment would increase visitation and economic activity in regional areas.

“Cycling tourism is growing rapidly, and rail trails play a vital role in supporting the economies of regional towns,” Minister Mickelberg said.

“This investment helps revitalise disused infrastructure, connect people with nature, and create new opportunities for communities to grow and prosper.”

Supporting the development of rail trail experiences in Queensland also contributes to Destination 2045’s ecotourism and regional growth priorities.

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The Pioneer Valley Rail Trail will receive a $75,000 upgrade to resurface 2.6km of track, improving safety, accessibility, and boosting the region’s tourism potential. Photos supplied

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Major upgrades have now been completed at Alsatia Park, with the community already taking advantage of the improvements.

Following extensive community consultation, new play equipment, barbeque facilities and football posts have been installed.

The redesigned park also ensures greater separation of the younger children's playground and the skatepark as highly requested by the community.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said a lot of work had been done to ensure the park caters to a range of age groups.

“The new and improved Alsatia Park includes two themed play units – a small tractor for younger children and a large harvester for older children, which really tie in with the history of the area,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We’ve listened to community feedback about facilities at the park and have included new toilet amenities and an improved barbeque area.”

As part of the large-scale project, extra care was taken to ensure a lasting legacy for a young skateboarder, who championed the original design, continued to be a part of the park.

The bronze memorial plaque for Luke Payne has now been inlaid to the skate park.

“Luke was just shy of his 18th birthday when he died in a crash in 2004. He was a passionate skateboarder and had started designing the kind of facility he would like to have seen developed in Walkerston,” Luke’s sister-in-law, Kirsty Payne said.

“The park has always been somewhere our family has gone to remember Luke and when our kids were younger, it was nice to be able to have a picnic at ‘Uncle Luke’s Park’, instead of taking them to a cemetery.”

As well as playground equipment, Alsatia Park features a ping pong table, which will have custom designed artwork by local artist, Muddy Grimes.

Muddy, who is a full-time tattoo artist, has worked with local groups like Crossroad Arts and contributed to large murals in the city heart, including the CQ Rescue painting near Wood Street.

“I’m really looking forward to my first ping pong table and it’s been great to get ideas from young people in the Valley about how they’d like the artwork to look,” Muddy said.

“They’ve already got some strong themes around the work being bright and bold and include images of bats and turtles – things that are really iconic to the area.

“Hopefully it will be something that really draws people to the park and maybe even inspires young people to pursue a career in creative art.”

An official opening of Alsatia Park will be held in mid-November.

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The recently re-opened Alsatia Park has already proven popular with locals and visitors. Photo supplied

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Top Parks To Visit For Picnics, Play And Holiday Fun

Make the most of the sunshine these school holidays with some of the region’s best parks and playgrounds – perfect for family adventures, picnics, and play.

Queens Park
Home to one of the biggest playgrounds in the region, Queens Park is a must-visit. With sky-walk towers, toddler play zones, swings and seesaws, kids of all ages will be entertained. Wander through the orchid house or simply relax in the open gardens.

Northview Park
This fully fenced and shaded playground is a family favourite. Featuring interconnected climbing towers, undercover areas, and plenty of equipment for ages 2–12, it’s a great spot for a safe day out. Don’t miss the full-size basketball court – perfect for both daytime and evening games.

Seaforth Esplanade
For a seaside adventure, head to Seaforth. Kids can enjoy two play zones, a flying fox and an all-abilities water play area (8am–6pm daily). Families will love the picnic shelters, barbecues, and sunlounges overlooking the swimming enclosure. Coastal walks complete the beachside experience.

Northern Beaches Community Hub
Opposite Mackay Northern Beaches State High, this hub is a fresh spot for families. A multi-purpose court offers basketball, netball, futsal and pickleball, while the nature play area features climbing nets, swings and a giant crocodile. Picnic shelters make it easy to stay and play.

Mulherin Park – Mackay Harbour
Located beside the Surf Club, Mulherin Park has it all – playgrounds, BBQs, shaded seating, and big grassy areas. It’s a relaxed spot for a weekend picnic after the kids have played or had a swim at the beach.

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Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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Water and fertiliser are two of the biggest costs – and opportunities – for cane farmers, and new insights are highlighting how the two are closely linked.

According to Farmacist agronomists, irrigation scheduling can play a decisive role in whether nitrogen fertiliser is effectively used by the crop or lost through run-off, leaching or denitrification.

With sugarcane heavily reliant on nitrogen for growth, ensuring the nutrient remains in the root zone is vital. Poorly timed irrigations risk washing valuable fertiliser away before the cane has a chance to use it.

Tools such as the GDot soil moisture sensor are proving to be a simple yet effective way for growers to fine-tune irrigation timing. By monitoring soil moisture, farmers can better match water applications to crop needs, reducing stress on cane while improving fertiliser efficiency.

Farmacist says the benefits extend beyond productivity. Smarter irrigation not only helps keep nitrogen where it belongs but also reduces environmental losses, supporting both economic and sustainability outcomes for the industry.

“By aligning irrigation with crop demand, growers can make every drop of water – and every kilogram of nitrogen – work harder for them,” the article notes.

With the Queensland farming regions so dependent on irrigation, adopting these strategies offers significant potential to lift yields while lowering costs and protecting waterways.

For more information, visit: farmacist.com.au/blog/nitrogen-management-and-irrigation-scheduling.

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Federal Coalition representatives are warning that Labor’s mining regulations and coal royalty regime are costing jobs and damaging regional economies, with urgent calls for reform.

Shadow Minister for Resources Senator Susan McDonald said mining companies were preparing to mothball Queensland assets, with suppliers already being told their services were no longer required.

She said three years of the Albanese Labor Government’s policies had left miners struggling.

“This is a dire warning that Australia is becoming uninvestable, and this threatens the first-world lifestyles mining provides,” Senator McDonald said.

“The layering of Labor’s sneaky anti-productivity taxes, like the Safeguards tax, vehicle emissions tax, and skyrocketing energy costs is now impacting Australia’s ability to generate well paid jobs and budget-supporting income.

“It is madness that our own Federal Government can be so tone deaf to the impacts on our most profitable industries – impacts the Coalition repeatedly warned them about.

“Since Queensland Labor brought in the highest royalty rates in the world, times have changed, and cost of production has skyrocketed.

“There is a real need to investigate whether these royalty rates are having a negative impact on Queensland’s economy and the future pipeline of resources investment.

“If you work or are connected to the coal industry, you can blame Labor for wanting to appease activists instead of looking after the economic backbone of Australia.”

Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry said the announcement of 750 job losses at BHP was devastating for Dysart and the Bowen Basin.

“This is not bad luck, it is the direct result of the former Labor government’s job-destroying royalty regime. Introduced by a former Labor Government, these royalties are now the highest in the world. They are driving up costs, shutting down investment and killing jobs across Central Queensland,” she said.

“I will be lobbying my LNP colleagues to bring forward an urgent review of the royalty regime. We simply cannot afford to sit on our hands while mines close and livelihoods are destroyed.

“The job-destroying Safeguard Mechanism is hitting 215 heavy industries, including 66 coal mines – 28 of which are in Capricornia. Central Queensland has become ground zero for Labor’s reckless carbon tax.

“Labor is waging war on mining, and workers are the collateral damage.

“Queensland deserves better. We need an urgent review of Labor’s destructive royalty regime to protect jobs, attract investment, and keep regional communities alive.”

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the flow-on effects for his region were already evident.

“Without coal mining in Queensland, we lose wealth across Australia,” he said.

“Mackay is home to the largest service sector in Australia for the mining industry and when coal isn’t being produced and we lose jobs, there’s a massive flow-on to the economy in Mackay and associated sectors.

“Time has run out and there needs to be urgent action to protect mining jobs, the services that support mining and the families who rely on coal to put food on the table. Enough is enough.”

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The resilience, beauty, and spirit of rural Australia have been captured in the winning entries of Rural Aid’s sixth annual Spirit of the Bush Photography Competition.

This year’s competition drew a record-breaking response, with 201 entrants submitting 429 photos – almost double the number received in 2024. The powerful images tell stories of life on the land, from moments of quiet reflection to the vastness and challenges of the Australian landscape.

Ten winners were each awarded a $250 prepaid Visa card for photos that judges said reflected the realities of rural life – its struggles, its triumphs, and the deep connection people share with country and community.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the competition continues to highlight stories that might otherwise go unseen.

“This year’s photos are a moving tribute to life outside the city limits. They tell stories of perseverance, pride and connection,” Mr Warlters said.

“There’s an authenticity to these images that resonates. Whether it’s a family working through drought, or a breathtaking sunrise over a remote property, the spirit of the bush shines through.”

Among the winners was Calliope’s Amy Ahchay, a first-time entrant, whose candid photograph of countrymen Rob and Gordon sharing a laugh over a cuppa in the paddock struck a chord with judges.

“I spotted Rob and Gordon deep in conversation across the paddock and just had to capture the moment. It was the perfect snapshot of bush life, two country larrikins, their horses, a cuppa, and a good laugh,” Amy said.

“To me, this is what the spirit of the bush is all about. It’s raw, it’s real, but it’s also full of heart. Mateship, storytelling, and that unshakable sense of connection that ties rural communities together.”

The winning images will feature across Rural Aid’s campaigns, publications and social media, helping to raise awareness of life in the bush and the people who call it home.

Rural Aid is also encouraging photographers to consider becoming volunteer content creators by donating images to support its fundraising and awareness work.

Since 2015, Rural Aid has provided vital support to farmers and rural communities, from hay and drinking water to mental health counselling and community-building initiatives. Now celebrating its 10th year, the charity continues to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with rural Australians, ensuring their stories – and their resilience – are never forgotten.

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2025 Spirit of the Bush Photos (Photo Supplied)

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

In the heart of Australia’s sugar-growing region, Mackay, “The Sugar City”, there exists sugarcane transport networks of the region’s two milling companies -the German- and Grower-owned   joint venture Mackay Sugar, and Singaporean-owned Wilmar Plane Creek.

These transport networks play a pivotal role in the production process, moving millions of tonnes of sugarcane each crushing season, from farms’ point of delivery cane rail sidings to the factories. This intricate network of railways, roadways, and logistical innovations is not only a testament to regional engineering but is also the foundation of the modern sugar industry which has been around for 100 years supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions of dollars of revenue each year for the Queensland economy.

Unique among Australian agricultural operations, for the majority of cane transport is a socialistic system, whereby if your point of delivery siding is 3 km from a mill or 70km from the mill, the grower has equal benefit.  Mackay Sugar and Plane Creek mills rely heavily on diesel locomotives to haul bins laden with freshly harvested cane on narrow-gauge cane railways. Spanning almost 1000km kilometres of track throughout the Mackay region, these rail lines form a sprawling web that connects cane fields with the processing mills at Farleigh, Marian, Racecourse, and Plane Creek in Sarina.

During the crushing season, which in the current times, runs from June into late December, trains can be seen crisscrossing the region day and night. Their movement aims to deliver the harvested cane to the mills as soon as possible after harvest as this is a critical factor in preserving sucrose content and maximising sugar yield.

While rail dominates, road transport also forms a relatively small but vital part of the logistics network. Road links ensure every grower, regardless of location, can participate in the supply chain. These trucks are often seen lined up at delivery points, loading and unloading their sugarcane payloads.

Both Mackay Sugar and Plane Creek mills are investing in technology to attempt to rectify shortfalls in logistical operations and improve efficiency. GPS tracking and automated scheduling systems allow mill operators to better keep a handle on their rolling stock in an attempt to quickly improve the lower level we have experienced in the last season or so. This rectification will help reduce down-time, optimises crushing operations, and ensures that the mills and the harvesting sector run at a higher capacity going forward.

The transport network’s efficiency directly impacts the livelihoods of the harvesting sector as well as local cane growers. Timely collection and delivery of bins is critical to enable growers to efficiently harvest without excessive waiting times at peak ripeness, maximising returns for both growers and millers.

With global sugar demand rising, along with new markets for sugarcane-based biocommodities, it is imperative that Mackay Sugar and Plane Creek mills continue to upgrade their transport infrastructure. Investment in new Diesel over Electric powered locomotives, track improvements, and potentially improving logistics platforms are needed to future-proof the network.

At the same time, community engagement remains a priority, with the industry working closely with growers, local authorities and the wider community to minimise disruptions and enhance safety, in sidings, along the network, and at rail crossings.

From steel rails winding through the cane fields, the transport network of Mackay Sugar and Plane Creek mills remains a vital artery in Queensland’s sugar industry—delivering not just cane, but prosperity, to the region.

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Invest Or not?

Last year alone the tourism industry contributed approximately $666.3-million to the Mackay region.  The tourism industry is a vital part of our economy.  Improving our region economic viability and diversifying our economy has been a strong focus for our council over the past years.  Sarina Field of Dreams Parklands plays an important role in the tourism industry as it forms the southern gateway to the Mackay region.  It is the home of the Tourist Information Centre, Arts and Craft Centre, Sarina Museum, Sarina Art Gallery, and the Sarina Sugar Shed. The parklands is a great place to stop, refresh and explore what’s on offer in our region.

It is important for council to make investments in these types of facilities as a catalyst to encourage private enterprise investment in the region. Council has also invested in other tourism related facilities such as Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, Artspace Mackay, MECC, BB Print stadium, Bluewater Lagoon, Bluewater Trail and the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails. There is always a balance between what council invests in and what should be a private investment or a public-private partnership.  The ongoing operating expenses is always an important part of deciding to undertake a project.

The Sarina Shire Council back in the year 2000 made the commitment after extensive community consultation to undertake the development of the Sarina Field of Dreams. The highway position of the site enabled the council and community to create a tourism precinct that would provide a place where visitors and community could learn about the Sarina region and visit a range of facilities. The development was based on sound economic rationale with the desired outcome being that local businesses would benefit from this investment and drive increases in tourism related businesses.

The last component of the development was the Sarina Sugar Shed.  The SSS was seen as the anchor piece of the parklands.  Again, after community consultation the plan to develop the SSS began to be implemented. This was one of the very first paid tourism attractions in the Mackay region. The SSS opened its doors in 2007 and last year alone received 12,700 visitors, which contributed an economic value of $2.6-million into the local economy. The SSS has won many tourism awards over the years and has been inducted into the Tourism Hall of Fame.

Over the past years we have seen growth in private tourism ventures, which is exactly what we want to achieve from our council tourism investments.  Building a strong economic tourism sector is a vital part of the overall economy.  The council has a vital role to play and ensure we are enabling and supporting growth in the tourism sector.

Deputy Mayor
Karen May

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