Last Thursday over 50 people attended Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s (QTIC) World Environment Day hosted at the stunning Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler said World Environment Day is crucial to the tourism sector because without the environment in Queensland their wouldn’t be a tourism industry, she also highlighted the exceptional experiences here in the Whitsundays.

“The natural environment is such a critical part of the tourism industry,” she said.

“If you look at all of our world-renowned experiences across Queensland, they're all based on an environmental piece, Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet, Skyrail in Cairns. We have heritage sites all across Queensland.

“It feels so great to be back in the Whitsundays, but to be able to represent our entire state and make sure that not just our city thrives, but our regions as well, and make sure that we as an industry body, represent and connect with all parts of it Queensland is something really important to me.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said World Environment Day is important to discover and understand ways to promote a eco-friendly tourism sector in the region.

“Today's event is more than just being about ideas it's about exploring the very tangible steps that can be taken to preserve, to promote our environment through sustainable tourism,” said Mayor Collins.

“From keynote speakers to hands on eco initiatives, this afternoon is a celebration of what's possible when industry and community come together with a shared purpose, and that purpose, protecting our natural assets while growing our economy has never been more important.”

Assistant Minister for Tourism Bree James MP said that Tourism supports one in six jobs in Tropical North Queensland, one in three in the Whitsundays, and one in 11 across Queensland and announced that last week the Government had launched its Destination 2045 vision.

“Destination 2045 has supercharged to the state's tourism industry into a new area of growth, sustainability and global leadership,” she said.

“Delivering Queensland's tourism future isn't just about new attractions and experiences, it's about making the most of what we have and building on our strong foundation of world-famous icons. So when people visit, they stay for longer and they travel to more places.”

Leader of Opposition Steven Miles MP was also present at the event and he said he was honoured to attend and give support to an event he used to thoroughly enjoy whilst he was Environment Minster.

He also said it is important to highlight the environment in Queensland’s tourism industry.

“Queensland natural environment is what attracts people to come here, and we're incredibly blessed,” he said.

“The Great Barrier Reef, the Sand Islands, the Daintree outback. There's not many places with one of those things, and we have all of them and that's a responsibility, but also means there's economic opportunity.”

Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth said it was great that QTIC chose the Whitsundays to host the World Environment Day event.

“The Whitsundays is a place where the connection between tourism and the environment is so deeply felt,” he said.

“Bringing the conversation on sustainability into our own backyard not only highlights the importance of protecting what makes our region so special, but also celebrates the local operators and communities leading the way.

“The energy in the room was inspiring and it’s clear The Whitsundays has a big role to play in shaping a more sustainable future for Queensland tourism.”

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CEO of Tourism & Events Queensland Craig Davidson, Acting Deputy Director-General of Innovation, and Department of the Environment, Science and Innovation Tony King, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Assistant Minister for Tourism Bree James MP, QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler, Acting Deputy Director-General, Tourism at Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation Natalie Patch, Tourism Whitsunday CEO Tim Booth, and Leader of the Opposition Steven Miles MP. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Last Friday locals saw an impressive new addition open in the heart of Airlie Beach.

The new Airlie Beach Foreshore Ferris Wheel stands tall near the lagoon and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said it’s great to see more mainland activities here in region.

“I think it'll really add an additional layer of things to do, whether they're for locals, for visitors that are here, and even the cruise ship visitors that come to town,” he said.

“It gives a real reason,  particularly for young families and young people to come here into town.

“It’s something different that they can experience in the area and while they're here, they can go and have lunch or dinner, or go and have a drink at a local bar, or enjoy time in some of our public spaces here.

“It adds to the wonderful things that we have here to do in Airlie Beach.”

Director of Skyline Attractions Jay Jones said the assembly of the Ferris Wheel was not an easy task, due to manoeuvring around trees but the location is great.

“We're not in somebody's hotel room window with the lights or in anybody's way or taking up car parks,” he said.

“Hopefully it has no negative impact on anyone, but it is something cool to look at down the beach.

“It's also good for anyone from ages two to 102, a lot of retirees will go on there, young families or people on dates. It's accessible for everyone.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Director Commercial Business Craig Turner was thrilled with the opening days success.

“We're actually delighted to come down and see people lining up and getting a different perspective from Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays,” he said.

“We reached out to Skyline Attractions six weeks ago and they were amazing, easy to work with, it happened very fast and the great thing is, there's actually no cost to council.”

The Airlie Beach Foreshore Ferris Wheel is currently undergoing a five-month trial and Craig Turner said after the trial council will conduct a community consultation to get people's feedback.

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and Councillor Jan Clifford. Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot

The Ferris Wheel is open now for a 5 month trial. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Last week, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry brought together business owners, students, and educators to talk about what matters most to the next generation of workers and what it means to work for a local business in today’s world.

The event focused on the future of our regional workforce, exploring challenges around attracting and keeping great people, and what we can do as a business community to create clear, positive pathways for young locals from school, through training, and into long-term careers in the Whitsundays.

More than 30 local business leaders attended the event, which featured a keynote from Georgia Lavers of the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee.

Georgia shared real-life insights and tips on building supportive, engaging workplaces and how businesses can adapt to stay competitive in a changing labour market.

“Our youngest generations in the workforce are Gen Z and Gen Alpha,” she stated.

“Gen Z and Gen Alpha is essentially anyone aged 1-30. Given we are talking about those in the workforce, I’m really talking today about young people between 15-30, but particularly those under 25.

“It seems like a fairly small group but by 2034, just 9 years away, Gen Z and Gen Alpha will make up almost half of our workforce.

“So, this isn’t a “nice to know”, it’s essential to understand us if you want to future-proof your organisation.”

Georgia also explained what young people expect in the workplace.

She said young people today have grown up with digital technology and expect it to be part of the workplace. They're globally connected, influenced by international trends, and constantly online through social media which can affect their in-person communication skills.

Mobility defines their lifestyle, with frequent changes in jobs, homes, and even careers.

Finally, they prefer visual, interactive content over written text, turning to platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok for learning and engagement.

A lively panel followed, with five young locals sharing their stories and ideas: Proserpine State High School students Mia Vloedmans (studying Allied Health with PhysioPlus) and Luke Stefani (IT traineeship with Managed Computer Solutions), along with former students Will Muller, Ryan Muller, and Beau Sales, now apprentices with Wilmar Sugar and Renewables and Filby’s Motors.

Some of the top takeaways:
• They want to stay local – and build their lives and careers right here.
• They value purpose – working for businesses that share their values matters.
• They’re keen to grow – with mentoring, upskilling, and clear career paths.
• They want honest communication – regular feedback and open leadership go a long way.

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Queensland Day 2025 was hosted at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, and it was a great success.

The free community afternoon was packed with local entertainment and Queensland spirit!

Highlights included the Skyhigh Circus show, Wildlife Whitsundays animal encounters, market stalls, food vendors, kids’ craft and games, and live music on the lawn.

Free lamingtons were also given out and the event ended with a special screening of Crocodile Dundee.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said it was great to see so many smiling faces and seeing everybody come together to celebrate Queensland Day.

“Queensland Day is about more than just a date on the calendar,” he said.

“It’s a celebration of our stories, our people, and that unbeatable Queensland spirit and nowhere captures that better than our Whitsundays.

“From our vibrant towns to our hard-working communities, this region is packed with talent, passion, and heart. And today we’re showing it off, Whitsunday-style.”

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Musicians opening the Queensland Day Event
Hayley Borg and Councillor Jan Clifford
Susan McGaffin
Gary Hiles and Aria Hiles
Wildlife Whitsundays
Ian Wilson, Winnie, Wyatt, and Chloe Wylder
Heather Berry, Islay, and Duncan
Shannon Elwin, Grace Pitt, and Tennelle McLeod
Cooper, Alfie, and Luke
Thomas, Lehan, Madhu, Ryan, and Kieley

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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With all youth teams having the weekend off, it was up to our seniors to provide some spectacle at home.

The Divisional men hosted Country on Friday night hoping to return to winning form. However, the opposition had different ideas. Whitsunday took an early lead in the Div2 game, but Country grew into the game, earning a contentious penalty to equalize before halftime. They sustained pressure in the second half, eventually securing a 4-2 victory for the away side.

Division 1 controlled possession throughout their match but struggled to find the net. Country employed counter-attacking tactics effectively, scoring late in each half against Whitsunday as they pushed players forward, resulting in a 2-0 win for the visitors.

The Whitsunday Ladies went down to a strong Magpies side but delivered a commendable performance throughout the match. Claire and Danielle were rock-solid in central defence, helping to absorb sustained pressure throughout the game. The Magpies led 2-0 at halftime and added two more in the second half to seal a 4-0 win. The team took away valuable lessons and will continue working hard to improve in the coming weeks.

The U23 FQPL men's team entered their match against Magpies confident after last week's performances and secured a 7-0 victory. Sean McCarthy and Aaron Kinsella each scored hat tricks, while Kai Savy contributed another goal. The reserve grade team's comprehensive performance was reflected in the premier league men’s game. Early on, Magpies created better chances, but after goals from Cillian Crowe and Ben Smith (from a free kick), they led 2-0 at halftime. Whitsunday continued scoring in the second half with contributions from Oisin Sherlock, Mikey Nash, and Cillian Crowe, concluding the game 5-1.

Contribtued with thanks to Allan Milostic

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For those chasing a dreamy Whitsundays escape, Wings Sailing Charters offers the ultimate sailing experience from Airlie Beach. Recognised on the Best of Queensland list for exceptional personalised service, Wings delivers three premium products to suit every style of traveller.

The Whitsunday Islands Sail, SUP and Snorkel Day Tour is perfect for those short on time but not willing to miss the magic. This six-hour experience cruises to stunning Langford reef and surrounding anchorages, with flexible anchorages. With a maximum of just 29 guests, you will enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere aboard the luxurious 60-foot SV Wings III. Spend the day snorkelling vibrant reef spots, paddle boarding over crystal-clear waters or unwinding on the top sundeck. Morning tea and a delicious lunch are prepared onboard using quality local ingredients. Bring along your favourite drinks for the day, so you can sit back, relax and soak in the breathtaking views of the Whitsunday Islands.

For a more relaxed affair, Wings’ all-new Airlie Beach BYO Sunset Sail cruise, offers the perfect way to wind down your day. Enjoy a tropical welcome drink as the sun dips below the horizon, paired with mouth-watering antipasto platters and desert canapès... yes that's right there are desserts!

Seeking something extra special? Wings’ Skippered Private Charters deliver, catered and crewed personalised experiences. Whether it is a day charter, a romantic proposal or a multi-day holiday escape, the team takes care of every detail while you relax and enjoy the best of the Whitsundays in total comfort.

Whether it’s adventure, relaxation or celebration, Wings Sailing Charters invites you to discover the Whitsundays in unforgettable style.

Visit wings.com.au to book.

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What’s more important to you in the City Centre – cool, green garden spaces or vibrant public art?

Mackay Regional Council is in the process of finalising the draft Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy and is asking residents to have their say on the actions to prioritise.

The Mackay Waterfront Place Strategy is a collaborative project setting goals to support placemaking in the City Centre and Riverfront – helping the areas to offer more for residents, better support local businesses and attract more visitors.

A series of actions were developed with community and businesses during the first engagement phase that cover shaping, activating and managing our City Centre and Riverside.

Council would like the community to select the top three actions to prioritise from each category.

Some of the 27 proposed actions include:

Connecting the City Centre to the Riverside via Wood Street.
Increasing the representation of First Nation’s and Australian South Sea Islander communities in the public realm.
Improving the appeal of the Riverside Precinct.
Improving thermal comfort and shade by enhancing the tropical garden experience.
Supporting Mackay’s public art scene to flourish.
Encouraging owners of empty tenancies to improve facades.
Supporting local businesses to bring the blue water river to life.
The survey is open now on connectingmackay.com.au until 11.59PM on Monday, June 16, 2025.

You can also have your say in person at the following events:

June 7 - Pop-up stall at the River of Light Festival.
June 13 to 15 - Pop-up stall at SPARK! Wood Street.

Your feedback will be used to inform the final strategy, and support decision-making on implementation.

Should you have any questions about this consultation, please contact council's Community Engagement Team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au.

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Laughter, stories, and a touch of nostalgia filled the air at Carlisle Gardens on 26 April, as the descendants of the late Frederick Leonard Stayt (Lenny) and Margaret Francis Eleanor Stayt (née Mosey) gathered for a heartfelt family reunion.

Frederick, born in 1896, was a well-known farmer at Newbury Junction near Marian and the proud patriarch of eight children and 27 grandchildren.

This special occasion brought together 47 adults and 17 children – including two cherished matriarchs, 17 first cousins, and extended family and friends – travelling from all corners of Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria.

With plenty of laughter, hugs, and tales passed down through the years, the day was a vibrant celebration of family ties and shared history. From reminiscing about childhood adventures to introducing the newest generation to their roots, it was a reunion to remember.

Descendants of Frederick and Margaret Stayt reunited in Mackay for a joyful celebration of family, legacy, and shared memories spanning generations.

The 1st Cousins

The Matriarchs. Elinor and Shirley. Photos supplied

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Students Shine In Pioneer Valley Film Workshops

Noosa Film Academy’s hands-on program, supported by the Mackay Regional Arts Development Fund, gave Mirani, Marian, and Mackay students a rare opportunity to direct, act, and edit their own short films – resulting in a red-carpet premiere at the Pinnacle Playhouse.

Laughter and applause filled the historic theatre as young filmmakers walked the red carpet to debut their creative works. The audience, made up of proud families, educators, and community members, viewed four short films produced during intensive one-day workshops held at Mirani State School, Mirani State High School, Marian State School, and Holy Spirit College.

Each film was scripted, acted, and shot in a single day as part of an immersive experience that boosted both skills and self-belief.

“Honestly, this was the best day ever,” said one Mirani State School student.

Another added, “It was the best experience I have had in my whole life, it’s so amazing we got to do this.”

A Year 6 Marian State School student shared, “I was scared, but I still did it,” about stepping in front of the camera for the first time.

Teachers were equally impressed by the transformation.

“One of our students who is usually very quiet ended up delivering a fantastic acting performance,” said Mick Tame of Mirani State High.

Teegan Denman of Mirani State School noted, “One normally reserved student found the confidence to share her ideas even.”

Workshops were led by Greg and Andrea Huglin of Noosa Film Academy. Armed with professional gear and decades of experience, the couple guided students through all facets of filmmaking – from camera work and sound to directing and editing.

“Our students learned about how to create shots, blocking, and editing – not just acting – which was a great experience at their age,” said Karen Brett of Marian State School.

One Holy Spirit College student enjoyed “learning about the camera angles and how clips are edited,” while a Mirani High student who directed a scene said it allowed her to build confidence in a leadership role while having fun and would help her “write better scripts” in class.

Teachers also gained insights.

“The kids soaked up everything,” said Ms. Denman, praising how Greg shared expert tips while Andrea kept the momentum going.

“This workshop was extremely valuable for our school community,” Mr Tame added.

At the final screening, students dressed to impress, posing for photos with their mentors before watching their films on the big screen.

“My favourite part is when I see people laughing as they watch their friends on screen,” said Greg Huglin.

“That’s when the magic happens.”

Andrea added, “There is so much talent in our regions, we want to nurture that.”

Greg Huglin thanked the Mackay community and the RADF program for their support.

“We’re definitely looking forward to coming back and helping even more students get their films on the big screen.”

Contributed By Andrea Huglin

Mirani, Marian, and Mackay students premiered their own short films on the red carpet after hands-on workshops with Noosa Film Academy, supported by the Mackay Regional Arts Development Fund. Photos supplied

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A program with a proven track record of improving the quality of care for surgical patients has been introduced at Mackay Base Hospital and the clinical team overseeing the initiative is excited about its potential.

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) was developed by the American College of Surgeons (ACS) in the early 90s to monitor the surgical care of veterans.

The project is led by Surgeon Champion Dr Adrian Westcott and clinical nurse consultant Emma Jacobson, who was appointed to the role of Mackay NSQIP Surgical Clinical Reviewer in July last year.

“This is a program trusted around the world to check and improve on the safety and quality of surgical care and it has now been rolled out in 24 hospitals in Queensland,” Emma said.

“I review surgical patient charts to check the patient recovered well in hospital and speak to them over the phone to assess how they recovered at home after surgery.

“That’s the great thing about NSQIP, I’m not just looking at a chart; but I’m also calling the patient and completing an over-the-phone assessment of how they recovered after surgery so I can really get an accurate portrayal of what’s happened to them post operatively.”

“This is not just about the surgery itself. It’s about making sure that across the entire spectrum of our patient’s journey, we are providing the best care possible.”

Emma has undergone intensive training to use the program and cases are chosen for review via a sophisticated selection process to ensure broad sampling from all surgical specialties.

“I am working towards a goal of reviewing 40 cases every eight days and I am looking to see how the patients are going between 30 and 90 days after their surgery,” she said.

“I’ll be looking at their pre-operative risk factors too which is an important predictor of surgical outcomes. Caring for someone who is elderly or chronically ill is very different to caring for a healthy 18-year-old so we need to consider that in our quality improvements.”

“I also ask some questions about their experience. Questions such as: ‘Did they have the opportunity to discuss the risks with their surgeon prior to surgery? and ‘Did they receive information about their procedure and what to expect afterwards?”

Emma started capturing data for surgeries at the end of September 2024 and is looking forward to the provision of benchmarking reports going forward.She also said she had a positive response to the process from patients.

“Most people are really excited to either talk about their surgical experience or to know that someone cares how they're going, even after they've maybe been discharged from a post operative clinic list,” Emma said.
“The Post Operative Discharge Support Service (PODSS) was created thanks to NSQIP data from the STARS hospital in Brisbane identifying a need for this kind of service for patients after surgery. The PODSS model of care has now been rolled out across multiple hospitals across the state including Mackay.

“Our patient information brochures are the next quality improvement project we are working on. We want to make them easier to read and more accessible for patients online.”

ACS NSQIP Fast Facts:

• It’s estimated that between 200 and 500 complications are prevented annually in NSQIP hospitals.
• Over 850 hospitals participate in NSQIP around the world.
• MBH is sampling cases from obstetrics, gynaecology, orthopaedics, general
• surgery (breast, endocrine and colorectal) and urology.
• Read more about NSQIP at National Surgical Quality Improvement Program | Clinical Excellence Queensland

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Welcoming the initiative (left to right), is Director of Nursing & Operations Perioperative & Ambulatory Care Samantha Sanders, Clinical Director – General Surgery Dr Adrian Westcott, Clinical Nurse Consultant – NSQIP Emma Jacobson and A/Nursing Director Lachlan Frank. Photo supplied

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A popular coastal haven near the Port of Mackay is receiving a major upgrade, with construction officially underway on the $2 million North Wall Recreational Area improvement project.

The works were launched on Tuesday morning by Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates, alongside Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly, North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) Chair Jane McTaggart and Acting CEO Carissa Mansfield. They were joined by some of the community’s most passionate users of the site—local surfers who know the beach best.

The upgrade will deliver more shade, increased seating and improved access, all while preserving the site’s unique character and peaceful outlook. Queensland-based contractor JMAC Constructions is leading the project, which is expected to be completed by late 2025.

To support continued access during construction, a temporary car park and beach access point are now in place. Every effort is being made to minimise disruption to the public.

NQBP Acting CEO Carissa Mansfield said the project represents a long-term investment in a space that holds deep meaning for many in the community.

While in town, Minister Bates also toured the Port of Mackay, including the STL Bulk Sugar Terminal, to see firsthand the ongoing work supporting jobs, trade, and regional communities.

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Construction has kicked off on the North Wall Recreational Area Improvement project. Photo credit: NQ Bulk Ports

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, NQBP Acting CEO Carissa Mansfield, Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly at North Wall Beach

Community feedback was a key part of the North Wall Recreational Area Improvement Project

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The foreshore area adjacent to the McEwens Beach swimming enclosure – locally known as “the Knoll” – is undergoing a makeover.

The project, initiated by the McEwens Beach Progress Association, will see 2000-plus tube stock, all local coastal species, planted to reinforce the foreshore’s native vegetation and help stabilise the foredune.

Beach fencing, which has improved access to the swimming enclosure and will help protect the new plantings, has already been installed.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the important environmental initiative would enhance the natural landscape while also strengthening community connections with the coastal environment.

“This project is a tremendous example of council and community working together to care for and enhance one of our region’s hidden gems,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It will not only improve coastal resilience but also provide an educational and scenic space for residents and visitors to enjoy,” he said.

To celebrate and support this effort, council is inviting residents to lend a hand at a Community Planting Day from 9am to 1.30pm on Monday, June 9, at McEwens Beach Reserve (southern end of the beach).

Volunteers can register via Eventbrite.

Participants are asked to wear enclosed boots, full length pants and long sleeve shirts. We also ask everyone to bring along a hat, added sun protection, and if they have them, a water bottle and gloves. Light refreshments following the planting activities will be provided by the McEwens Beach Progress Association for the volunteers.

There are plans for interpretive signage to also be installed to help visitors learn about the native flora and deepen their understanding of the local ecosystem.

Mayor Williamson said the McEwens Beach Progress Association had played a key role in bringing this project to life, working closely with council and the community during a planning session in January and through further consultation.

“The level of collaboration and care shown by the McEwens Beach Progress Association has been outstanding,” he said.

“This is a perfect example of a community-led project that will reflect the community’s vision and values.

“It’s always fantastic when our team gets to work so closely with local stakeholders to achieve an outcome.”

For more information, contact council’s Community Engagement team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or visit connectingmackay.com.au/mcewens-beach-reveg

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The foreshore area adjacent the McEwens Beach swimming enclosure, locally known as “the Knoll”, will undergo a native vegetation makeover, with the community invited to get involved and lend a hand at the upcoming planting day. Photo supplied

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Where Every Meal Feels Like A Celebration

Whether you're planning a casual brunch, a romantic dinner, or a celebration with friends, Ocean International is the place to be from sunrise to sunset.

Start your day with a breezy beachfront breakfast, settle in for a long lunch, or toast to good times with a sunset dinner on The Deck. Oceans Bar & Restaurant, open to the public seven days a week, offers elegant à la carte dining alongside your favourite seaside classics.

Craving something new? Try the Lasagne alla Bolognese – a rich, rustic dish straight from the stone oven, with layers of hand-rolled pasta, Black Angus beef ragù, béchamel, and bubbling cheese. Or refresh your senses with the new Lychee Lagoon mocktail – an invigorating blend of lychee, mint, cucumber, and soda, perfect for toasting to the good life.

Don't miss the live music every Friday and Sunday on The Deck – an electric atmosphere paired with the aroma of woodfired pizza and sizzling tapas from 5pm on weekdays and 12pm on weekends.

With spacious accommodation, ocean views, and welcoming hospitality, Ocean International is the perfect backdrop for everything from quiet coffees to milestone celebrations.

Call 4957 2044 to book your table today…because every day is better by the beach.

Try the all-new Lychee Lagoon mocktail - fresh lychee, mint, cucumber, and soda in every refreshing sip!

Lasagne alla Bolognese - crafted with hand-rolled pasta, black angus beef ragù, creamy béchamel, and baked to perfection in the stone oven.

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Nothing says “Aussie comfort food” quite like a piping-hot cob loaf fresh out of the oven.

Once a staple at every neighbourhood gathering, footy night and backyard barbecue, the humble cob loaf is staging a triumphant comeback – and this time, it’s dressed to impress.

At its heart, a cob loaf is simplicity itself: a crusty round bread, hollowed out and filled with molten goodness, then baked until golden and gooey. But the new generation of cob creations is pushing flavour boundaries in all the right ways.

Spinach and bacon dip? Still a classic. But why stop there?

Mac and Cheese Cob
Creamy, cheesy and impossible to resist, this twist replaces the usual creamy dip with a luscious macaroni and cheese filling. For extra flair, mix in crispy bacon or a touch of smoked paprika, then bake until the top turns golden and bubbling.

Mexican Fiesta Cob
Spice things up with a Mexican-inspired filling: taco-seasoned beef mince, black beans, corn and grated cheddar, all swirled into sour cream and cream cheese. Serve with fresh coriander or a side of salsa for dipping.

Butter Chicken Cob
East meets West in this warming version featuring velvety butter chicken. Add mozzarella for melt appeal and garnish with chopped coriander. It’s rich, hearty and ideal for a winter dinner party.

Garlic and Four Cheese Cob
Think cheesy garlic bread – made for dipping. Use a blend of mozzarella, cream cheese, parmesan and cheddar with a hint of roasted garlic and fresh thyme. Serve it hot and let the cob do the talking.

Veggie Patch Cob
Vegetarians, rejoice. A creamy mushroom and spinach cob with sautéed leek and a splash of white wine offers a gourmet twist that even meat-lovers will envy. Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pine nuts for texture.

The beauty of the cob loaf lies in its versatility – mix, match, or raid the fridge for leftovers and create your own DIY version. Serve with a big bowl of toasted cob chunks and vegetable sticks, or place it at the centre of your next gathering as a hearty share plate.

Because in winter, comfort food reigns supreme – and the cob loaf is once again king!

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The Beating Heart Of Sweet Success

There’s a reason Sarina Sugar Shed continues to steal both hearts and headlines. This small-but-mighty attraction is the region’s crown jewel, distilling the essence of Mackay’s sugar industry into an unforgettable visitor experience.

With a trophy cabinet brimming with accolades – including Best of Queensland 2025, TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, and a sweep of honours at the Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards for Best of Queensland Tour or Attraction, Excellence in Food Tourism, and Best of Queensland Food & Dining – the Sugar Shed is a proven crowd favourite.

A recent Tourism & Events Queensland report reveals the Sugar Shed’s review scores sit well above both state and regional averages, confirming what thousands of guests already know: this is no ordinary tour. It’s a lively fusion of history, hospitality, and hands-on fun – further sweetened by national recognition, including Silver and Bronze medals at the Australian Rum Awards and a Bronze at the Royal Queensland Distilled Spirit Awards.

Whether it’s sampling award-winning rum or diving into rich house-made jams and sauces, every moment is crafted with care by a passionate all-female team. Real mill machinery, a working miniature sugar factory, and a café serving local delights round out this sensory experience.

As it nears its 20th anniversary, Sarina Sugar Shed continues to shine as a symbol of food tourism, heritage, and regional pride.

Book your taste of sweetness at www.sarinasugarshed.com.au.

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