Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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In this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
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It has been another remarkable year for Mackay’s Sense of Skin, with founder Bre Sanders returning from two major industry awards with an impressive collection of accolades celebrating both her business and the results achieved for her clients.
Sense of Skin recently placed second in the Pigmentation Category and third in the Revive Category at the Best in Skin Awards, before an exceptional showing at the 2026 Circadia Awards Gala.
Marking a significant milestone in her career, Bre was named Circadia Australia’s Sole Operator for 2026 and Queensland Sole Operator for 2026, while also receiving Blue Diamond status and recognition as a Queensland Ambassador. Bre also excitingly took home first place for Skin Transformation – Pigmentation, second place for Skin Transformation – Acne and third place for Skin Transformation – Sensitive, with the results recognising the transformations achieved alongside her clients.
“My favourite part wasn’t the awards themselves—it was being able to tell my clients that we had won because of their incredible skin transformations,” Bre said.
“For me, it’s never really about the award. It’s about changing someone’s life.”
After also receiving industry recognition in 2025, Bre believes the continued success of Sense of Skin comes back to something simple: authenticity.
“I created Sense of Skin to be a safe space where people could feel comfortable being vulnerable about their skin, their struggles, and how those struggles can affect their confidence and everyday lives,” she said.
“At the end of the day, I just want people to feel heard, supported and cared for—and that will always be at the heart of what I do.”
Having experienced difficult skin herself as a teenager, Bre understands firsthand how deeply skin concerns can affect confidence, and that experience has in turn helped shape her approach throughout 14 years in the industry and continues to drive her commitment to education and evidence-based treatments.
“The industry is constantly evolving, and if there’s something better out there, I want to know what it is, how it works, and most importantly, why it works,” she said.
Now back home after attending the Circadia Awards Gala in Sydney, the reality of receiving national recognition as a sole operator from regional Queensland is beginning to sink in, with Bre describing the achievement as particularly surreal and crediting her family, clients and Circadia community for their continued support.
“I’m a regional, small-business owner, doing what I love in a little corner of Queensland—and somehow, I’ve just won National Sole Operator for Circadia. Like… WHAT?!
“It’s moments like this that remind me that you don’t have to be in a major city or have a massive team behind you to make an impact. You just have to be passionate, back yourself, and keep showing up.”
With the potential for even greater things ahead, Bre is now looking for the next “superstar skin therapist” to join Sense of Skin, while a new premises could also be on the horizon as the business enters its next chapter.
Bruno is a handsome Rottweiler cross with a big love for life and plenty of affection to give. Surrendered through no fault of his own, this playful and active boy is now looking for a loving family to call his own.
Bruno gets along well with adults, children of all ages, other dogs and even cats. He thrives on human connection and enjoys everything from beach walks and playing in the water to a game of fetch or simply relaxing by your side.
Well trained and easy to walk on a lead, Bruno loves family time just as much as playtime.
Fully vaccinated, desexed and microchipped, Bruno is ready to become part of your life.
To arrange a meet and greet, contact his carer from Lucys Lucky Tags & Dog Rescue Inc on 0401 366 573 or email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com
Feeling tired has become so common that many of us simply accept it as part of modern life. We push through the day, reach for another coffee or stock up on vitamins and supplements, hoping they will restore the energy we once had.
But what if persistent tiredness is not something you should tolerate? What if it is your body’s way of asking you to pay attention?
At Healthy Life Essentials, we view poor sleep as an important signal rather than an isolated symptom. Instead of masking tiredness with a quick fix, we put on our detective hats and explore the underlying factors that may be preventing the body from resting, repairing and rejuvenating properly.
There is no single cause of poor sleep. Each person’s sleep is shaped by their unique lifestyle, health history and everyday pressures. Stress involving work, family, finances or relationships can keep the mind active long after the lights go out. Even when life briefly becomes calm, busyness has a habit of quickly filling the space again.
Our nervous systems must also process more information than ever before. Emails, notifications, news and social media can keep the body in a heightened state when it should be winding down. Electronic devices are useful tools but using them late at night can disrupt the natural rhythms that help us become sleepy.
Hydration and nutrition matter too. Is your body receiving and effectively absorbing the nourishment it needs from real food? Eating to the point of being overfull or regularly snacking close to bedtime may leave the digestive system working when the body needs to be focused on overnight recovery.
We also consider the sleep environment. A bedroom that is dark, clean, quiet, cool and comfortable, with gentle airflow, can support deeper rest. Daily movement and exposure to natural daylight are equally valuable because sunrise and sunset help regulate the body’s internal clock. When night arrives, we should naturally begin to slow down.
Other patterns may provide useful clues. Do you wake at the same time each night? Do you feel alert at bedtime but exhausted in the morning? Are you resting enough during the day, or treating rest as something that must be earned? There are manyquestions worth exploring.
Sleep and rest form one of Healthy Life Essentials’ eight pillars of health. Quality sleep supports the body’s natural repair processes and provides a strong foundation for overall wellbeing.
If you are struggling to sleep or constantly waking without energy, please do not ignore it.
Your body may be telling you that it needs support. With personalised investigation and targeted strategies, refreshing sleep may be closer than you think.
There is nothing quite like waking restored, recharged and ready to embrace the beauty of a new day.
If restful sleep feels out of reach, let Healthy Life Essentials help you uncover what your body is trying to tell you and take the first step towards the restorative sleep you deserve.
Brad Baker
Healthy Life Essentials
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Board Chair Karen May alongside Sarina District Schools Chaplaincy Committee members at their 2026 AGM. Photo supplied
The latest round of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s Community Engagement Program has been announced, with over $306,000 in community grants, sponsorships and scholarships and donations committed to groups and projects across the greater Sarina region, alongside lifesaving defibrillators for 12 community groups.
The FY26 program supports a range of initiatives, from wildlife conservation and sustainability to community arts, recreation and educational opportunities, as well as projects that strengthen community spaces.
Community Bank Sarina Business & Community Engagement Chair Maree Franettovich said the projects are “wide-ranging, but all have a common thread – supporting the people who live, learn, work and volunteer locally”.
“These are the kinds of impact investments that change lives – whether it’s creating opportunities for youth, improving community facilities or gathering people together through shared spaces and activities,” Ms Franettovich said.
“Importantly, this long term impact is only possible because people choose to bank with us. As a profit for purpose organisation, our profits are reinvested into our community, creating impact through local initiatives and organisations. We’re incredibly proud of that and grateful to our customers for making it possible.”
Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said it was a moment to reflect on what the region might look like without the direct and significant support of Community Bank Sarina and its customers.
“Over the last 21 years, over $5.3 million has been returned to the community through our community grants, sponsorships, donations and scholarships,” Mrs May said.
“These latest community investments are an extension of our ongoing commitment to the community. When you reflect on the range of support – from school chaplaincy, recreation hubs, community clubs and more – you start to realise the deep impact this support has on the community.
“It’s a privilege to play a part in that, along with my fellow directors, and to stand beside so many local organisations working diligently to make Sarina and the surrounding regions an even better place to live, while leaving a legacy for future generations.”
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, LinkedIn or Instagram.
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Community Grant Recipients
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Sponsorship Recipients
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Defibrillator Recipients
Community Bank Sarina FY26 Donation Recipients
Every business has news to share at some point. Sometimes it’s exciting – you’re moving offices, launching a new product or event, hiring someone or celebrating a milestone. Sometimes it’s less fun – your phones are down, an event is cancelled, prices are changing or something has gone spectacularly pear-shaped.
Good or bad, a little planning can make communicating it a whole lot easier. Before you start typing a Facebook post, run through these four things:
1. Who needs to know?
Customers are often the obvious answer, but what about your staff, suppliers, contractors, partners or other stakeholders? Make a quick list before you communicate anything, because the last thing you want is an important audience finding out secondhand. Eg your team learning about a major business change on Facebook? Yeah, that’s not good.
2. What does each audience need to know?
You generally don’t need to tell everyone exactly the same thing. For example, staff probs need the why + what happens next, while customers only need to know what changes for them. Give people the information that's actually relevant, rather than trying to cram everything into one announcement.
3. What order should you tell them?
For an office move, probs best to tell staff first, then go external – contact key suppliers, email customers, update your website + Google Business Profile, then announce it on socials. There's no magic formula, but thinking through the order can save you from some very awkward conversations later.
4. What could you prepare now?
This one is especially handy for the not-so-good news. Think about the things that could reasonably go wrong in your business. Phones stop working? Event cancelled? Terrible review? Upcoming legislation change that could affect your customers?
In PR, we call this a crisis communication matrix – which sounds like a big deal, but it’s just a communications plan for worst case scenarios. You don't need to prepare for every possible disaster – just start with the obvious stuff. Even having a few notes on who needs to be contacted + some draft wording ready means you're not trying to work out what to say while stressed, annoyed or rage-replying to a one-star Google review!
Which brings me to some good news of my own! In case you hadn't heard, I'm heading off on maternity leave shortly, so this is my last Mackay Life column for a little while.
While I'm off, my business partner Taren will be taking the helm at Rebel Nation, and you can go to him or any of our team for anything you need. They're more than up to the challenge + will probably enjoy the few months of peace + quiet without me around!
I'll be back in February but until then – you're in very good hands!
Make the most of any good business news you have to share – like winning awards! ( L-R Taren McAuley, Jade McAuley, Luke Chetcuti). Photo supplied
Photos supplied by The Pyjama Foundation
For five years, Heather O’Connor has been a constant in the life of a young person who has faced more change than most.
Heather first began volunteering with The Pyjama Foundation in July 2021, when she was introduced to a 10-year-old boy living in out-of-home care. Since then, she has remained a steady presence in his life through changing circumstances, care arrangements and the journey from childhood into his teenage years.
Earlier this week, that commitment was been recognised, with Heather named Mackay’s 2026 Pyjama Angel of the Year by The Pyjama Foundation.
What began with simple visits has grown into a meaningful relationship built around learning, creativity and connection. Heather has encouraged her Pyjama child to become a reader and taught him life skills, cooking together and undertaking hands-on projects, most recently creating a wooden loom and rug for his bedroom.
The Pyjama Foundation Founder and CEO Bronwyn Sheehan said Heather’s greatest gift was not being able to change the circumstances around the child, but simply being someone he could rely on.
Bronwyn also praised Heather for continually adapting as he grew and his circumstances changed, while never losing sight of their relationship.
Heather was presented with her award on Sunday 23rd August at Oceans International by Bronwyn, alongside Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, marking five years of an extraordinary commitment to one young person.
Her recognition also highlights an ongoing need for carers within the Mackay community.
According to The Pyjama Foundation, currently 23 children are in care waiting to be matched with their own special person and mentor in the region. For children navigating circumstances beyond their control, having a trusted adult who continues to show up can make a world of difference.
Congratulations Heather on being named Mackay’s 2026 Pyjama Angel of the Year!
There is no shortage of impressive projects carrying the Fergus Builders name across Mackay and the Whitsundays region. From schools and commercial spaces to striking homes and community landmarks, the company’s work has become a familiar part of the local landscape.
But despite another remarkable night of recognition at the 2026 Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Awards, Director Adam Wright is quick to shine the spotlight towards the people behind the projects.
Fergus Builders took home seven awards across residential, commercial and education categories, recognising the Gardian Office Fitout, St Patrick’s Mercy Campus Hall Refurbishment, Catherine McAuley College Stage 3, Pandanus House at Eimeo and Whitehaven at Beaconsfield. Team member Amanda Wilson was also the recipient of the Women in Building Award, while Fergus Builders received the prestigious BUSSQ Building Super President’s Award for Azura Place at Glenella.
For Adam, the achievement was not simply about collecting trophies.
“We were lucky enough to pick up seven awards. It’s always a good feeling, and we come together as a team to celebrate it. It’s a great night to celebrate not just our own team, but the whole industry and the level of excellence the region produces.”
It’s statements like this that reflects the nature of the business itself.
Behind every finished façade, polished fit out and carefully considered home is a different set of challenges, clients and ideas.
“Each project is different, and that’s one of the great things about building, no two jobs are ever the same. They all come with their own experiences, different clients and different designs, so the awards are a great reflection of the team we have, and I’mvery proud to be part of it.”
While Fergus Builders has become a familiar name among the winners at the annual awards, Adam said the recognition never becomes routine.
“We treat each project individually, and each one brings its own challenges and experiences. To receive that recognition is a great reflection of the work our team continues to put in day-in and day-out.”
Among the night’s highlights was Amanda Wilson’s Women in Building Award, with Adam describing the recognition as particularly rewarding.
“Amanda winning the Women in Building Award was probably the highlight for me. She’s been a valuable member of our team on the residential side of the business for a number of years, so it was great recognition for the hard work she puts in, both at work and away from work.”
The President’s Award for Azura Place was another significant moment, recognising the quality of work Fergus Builders continues to deliver.
“The President’s Award is always a great award to win. It showcases the quality of work that we produce, so we’re very proud of that recognition as well.”
For Adam and the Fergus Builders team, however, the greatest measure of success remains the trust placed in them to help shape the community around them.
“Delivering for our clients across the region is one of the highlights of the job, to tell you the truth. It feels good to know that you’re entrusted to deliver those prominent projects for the community.
“That’s what we strive to do – build the best projects we can for our clients and for the community.”
Amanda Wilson, Residential Manager at Fergus Builders, has been recognised with the Women in Building Award following 14 years in the construction industry. Photo supplied
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, Amanda Wilson has spent the past 14 years proving there is no limit to where knowledge, determination and a willingness to learn can take you.
Now Residential Manager at Fergus Builders, Amanda has risen through the industry while becoming an advocate and mentor for other women in construction, with her achievements recently recognised with the Women in Building Award.
“Being a female in this industry can feel isolating. Especially if you are relatively new and don’t understand all the building jargon or the construction process,” Amanda said.
“But it’s not something you can learn overnight, it takes time. Women have a really important role to play in this industry and it’s no longer confined to office work.”
Amanda joined Fergus Builders in 2018 in a sales and estimating role, bringing six years of previous industry experience. Over the years, her responsibilities have grown greatly alongside her knowledge of construction, leading to her appointment as Residential Manager in 2024.
“I began working for Fergus in a sales/estimating capacity in 2018, and over the years I’ve learnt so much more about on-site construction and project management,” she said.
“Having a comprehensive understanding of how design, pricing and construction on site are intertwined with each other has been essential to heading the division.”
Determined to keep progressing, Amanda began studying a Bachelor of Construction Management two years ago while working full-time and is now also working towards becoming a qualified site supervisor and obtaining her QBCC licence.
“The more I learn, the bigger role I can play, the more job satisfaction I feel.”
Amanda’s innate drive has extended well beyond her own career, with her passion for the industry reflected in the support and mentorship she provides to new residential office staff at Fergus Builders, alongside initiatives designed to give female employees greater exposure to the practical side of construction. Additionally, in 2025, Amanda became a mentor through Master Builders’ Emerging Women in Construction program and has continued in the role this year.
“Women offer a valuable perspective in construction and tackle problems differently, sometimes more efficiently, more methodical,” Amanda said.
“It can be daunting, but it can be such a rewarding career path, so I would encourage women to take that leap of faith if they are interested in it.”
Amanda’s own contribution to the industry was recognised with the Women in Building Award, an achievement Amanda described as an honour after looking up to previous recipients throughout her career.
“I have looked up to the women who’ve received this award over the years and aspired to make a difference in this industry, so it was an honour to receive this award,” she said.
Despite having already contributed to more than 250 projects throughout her career, Amanda sees plenty still ahead, with part of that future focused on creating opportunities for other women to forge their own paths in construction.
“Personally, I feel like I’m just getting started in this industry,” she said.
“I want to break through the glass ceiling of what women have traditionally achieved in the construction field and help pave the way for the women behind me to achieve great things in this career path.”
IMPACT Group members at the Social Justice event. Photos supplied
Education is about far more than academic achievement. At Holy Spirit College, students are learning the importance of compassion, service and community responsibility by putting their faith into action and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Holy Spirit College students are provided with opportunities to place catholic values into action while deepening their understanding of their role as responsible community members.
The College’s Catholic Identity is reflected in opportunities for students to put the teachings and example of Jesus into practice through community initiatives.
This is reflected in the College’s Inspiring, Motivating, Promoting About Christian Teachings (IMPACT) Group and Z Club students, who have dedicated their time to causes that support and encourage others.
IMPACT Group students first explored the challenges faced by people experiencing housing insecurity, gaining a deeper perspective on the circumstances surrounding homelessness and the importance of responding with compassion.
The recent Social Justice event provided students with the opportunity to walk in faith and respond to the issues of homelessness. Students spent months fundraising and preparing to pack Backpacks with essential items before donating them to the St Vincent de PaulSociety.
As the year continues, the IMPACT Group is preparing for its Christmas Appeal, with students soon to support St Vincent de Paul in providing Christmas gifts and essential items to members of the Mackay community experiencing hardship.
The same commitment to supporting others was reflected through the College’s Z Club and its involvement in the Cancer Council Ponytail Project, where students and staff came together to support the initiative, creating a strong sense of encouragement and solidarity within the College community.
Students continue to support the Mackay region through other initiatives including Peer Support programs, Book Buddies, Environment Group, Justice Action Group, the Respect in Every Step march and Music Ministry.
These opportunities reflect an approach to education that values all aspects, encouraging students to recognise their strengths and use them in service of others.
Holy Spirit College’s Catholic identity provides a foundation throughout Years 7–12, with quality learning, supportive pastoral care and a holistic approach that supports students’ character development.
For more information about Holy Spirit College and the opportunities available for students to learn, contribute and grow within its community, contact enrolments@hsc.qld.edu.au.
"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in"- Matthew 25:35.
St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School Mackay continues to provide students with a vibrant, engaging and inclusive learning environment where every child is encouraged to thrive academically, culturally, spiritually and socially.
Throughout the year, students embrace a wide range of extracurricular opportunities that enrich their learning beyond the classroom. From sporting competitions and cultural celebrations to academic challenges and artistic achievements, St Brendan’s students have proudly represented their school and community.
Among the highlights are student participation in the Rock Pop Mime Show, the Readers Challenge Cup, Challenge Cup Netball and Rugby League, Cumberland Sports and the highly regarded Mackay Maths Competition, where one St Brendan’s team achieved an outstanding second-place finish.
The school’s commitment to reconciliation and cultural learning was showcased through several significant events, including NAIDOC Cultural Day, which welcomed more than 30 Elders to spend time with students and staff. Students also participated in the Mackay Central Queensland University Reconciliation Week Artist Workshop, “Ochre Lens for Juniors,” led by Venita Mooney. Further success followed at the Mackay Central Queensland University Reconciliation Art Exhibition, where both St Brendan’s First Nations student entries were awarded first place.
Students also benefit from a range of experiential learning opportunities, including the Year 4 Day Camp and extended Year 5 and Year 6 camps, fostering resilience, independence and teamwork. Looking ahead, excitement is building for the upcoming Mulga Art Experience, a whole-school immersive arts initiative designed to inspire creativity and imagination.
St Brendan’s commitment to future-focused learning is strengthened through a STEM partnership with the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy, providing valuable opportunities for students to engage with science, technology, engineering and mathematics in authentic and engaging ways.
Supporting this innovative learning approach are the school’s modern facilities, featuring contemporary technology, purposefully designed open-plan learning spaces, flexible educational environments and expansive green spaces and playing areas that encourage active lifestyles and outdoor play.
Principal and staff recognise that strong partnerships between home, school and parish are central to student success. Throughout the year, the school hosts family breakfast mornings, picnic lunches, prayer celebrations, class and whole-school Masses, book fairs, book swaps, Book Week activities and mini fairs. St Brendan’s also enjoys a strong relationship with Holy Spirit College through initiatives such as STEM Day.
Parent engagement remains a cornerstone of the school community, with regular Parent Community Engagement Meetings helping to plan and deliver much-loved events including Grandparents Morning, school discos and the annual Colour Run. Parents also generously volunteer within classrooms, supporting student learning and strengthening community connections.
Student wellbeing remains a priority at St Brendan’s. Dedicated Health and Wellbeing lessons are delivered from Prep to Year 6, supported by a Student Wellbeing Officer and School Counsellor. The school also provides sacramental program support and a range of lunchtime clubs including Chess Club, Just Dance, Chalk Art and Uno Club, ensuring students have opportunities to connect, develop new skills and build friendships.
A strong commitment to inclusion is reflected through the presence of First Nations staff, the unique Pastoral Groups program where siblings learn together under the leadership of Year 6 students, and targeted learning support programs. Students across Prep to Year 6 benefit from comprehensive literacy and numeracy intervention programs, supported by a dedicated Learning Support Team comprising teachers and teacher assistants.
At St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School, every student is encouraged to discover their gifts, embrace challenges and develop confidence in a caring, faith-filled environment. Through excellence in education, community partnerships and a strong focus on wellbeing, St Brendan’s continues to nurture young people who are ready to make a positive difference in their world.
Our experienced Bio Dunder contractors take the work out of fertilising, while ensuring nutrients are precision applied for best results. Photo supplied
Jasmin Lewis
Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices
Behind every Bio Dunder application is a combination of technology, experience, and careful planning.
Bio Dunder is applied with precision, using variable-rate and GPS-controlled equipment, delivering the right amount of liquid fertiliser across multiple rows in a single pass.
While technology has changed the way fertiliser is applied, local knowledge and experience remain as important as always.
Bio Dunder contractors know the farms, the terrain, and the realities of a busy harvesting season. They work closely with growers, harvesters, and our Operations team to keep everything moving and, wherever possible, apply fertiliser as close behind the harvester as conditions allow.
There’s a lot happening behind the scenes to make it all come together. It’s the coordination, experience and knowledge that takes the complexity out of fertiliser application and gives growers one less thing to worry about.
With more of the season still to come, Bio Dunder contractors will continue working alongside growers to keep nutrition on track, applications timely and the job as simple as possible.
Call us on 1800 881 957 and we’ll put you in touch with your local contractor.
Alternatively, email AgServices@Wilmar.com.au
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
As farmers plying their trade growing sugarcane in what has always been considered “The Sugar City”, it would be fair to assume our regional councils would be proactive supporting industry economics. However, it doesn’t appear to be the case with Mackay Regional Council, which has slapped the farming industry with up to 10.39% general rates increase, a hike over 3% above residential rate rises and leaving cane farming taxed near-double the rate of other rural land uses. It’s threatening farming families and the economic backbone of our Sugar City, during an already punishing harvest season.
For generations, cane has been the heartbeat of Mackay, pumping jobs and generational wealth into our towns. Yet, when Council dropped its latest budget and rates structure, it delivered a bitter pill to growers. We note several councillors voted against this budget. We thank them: it will be remembered at election time.
Let’s be crystal clear about what is happening here: Council is using a blunt rating tool that literally singles out canefarming. While ALL OTHER rural industries- even intensive ones- fall under a more sensible 'Other Rural' bracket, cane farming is taxed double that amount. In fact, the cents-in-the-dollar rate applied to our cane lands is comparable to industrial sites or shopping complexes- actual Canelands…
This latest impost arrives at the worst possible time for growers already navigating a bruising season of low sugar prices, reduced crop tonnages, and soaring fuel and fertiliser costs. To pile a higher rates burden atop of skyrocketing production costs is completely unsustainable, compounding challenges.
For three successive budgets, Mackay Canegrowers has sat at the table with council. We have patiently laid out the hard economic realities of our industry. We have explained the delicate tether linking farm viability, the preservation of cane land, and the long-term survival of our sugar mills.
We—like every resident and business of our regional community—have ridden successive rates rises by the current council, alongside a shadow rates rise in the form of rubbery cuts to early payment discounts. Council needs to get its own house in order. The answer can’t just be to raise taxes every time it needs to balance the budget.
The council is happy to use cane imagery in glossy brochures, invoke our heritage, and boast about the 'Sugar City' when it suits public relations. But when it comes to practical support, their actions speak louder than words. Slugging farming families—remembering always that a cane farm is also a family home—is a profound betrayal.
While the mayor may argue this rise only applies to the general rates line, the hard truth for growers remains: the bottom line of their rates bill has ballooned again. We acknowledge that some changes to the levy structure have offset the general rates increase for some growers. However, absorbing various levies into general rates has not hidden the fact that agricultural properties with high land valuations inflated by urban creep, are bearing an unfair weight. We are polling our membership: even lower valuations in further flung localities are seeing bottom line increasesbeyond residential rises.
Mackay Canegrowers will not stand by and watch our community squeezed dry by a town-centric council that views the bush and the paddock as an endless cash cow. We call on Council to listen to the unified voice of Canegrowers and Mackay Sugar, and urgently review these punitive agricultural rating tiers.
Our region’s economic future hangs in the balance. If the council truly believes sugar is a pillar of this community, it is time they started treating farmers with the equity, fairness, and respect we deserve.
Photo source: Andrew Willcox MP (Facebook)
Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox MP has highlighted the strength of Australia’s agricultural sector after attending a National Farmers’ Federation celebration in Parliament this week on Tuesday 25th August, marking the industry reaching $100 billion in farm-gate output four years ahead of its 2030 target.
Mr Willcox said the milestone provided an opportunity to recognise the contribution of primary producers and connect with industry leaders, including representatives from the Queensland Farmers’ Federation, CANEGROWERS, CropLife and Jet Zero Australia.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our country, feeding and clothing millions of people across Australia and around the globe,” Mr Willcox said.
He said the milestone had been achieved despite increasing pressures facing farmers and regional businesses.
“As Opposition Leader Angus Taylor MP highlighted in his speech, this success comes despite mounting pressure on primary producers,” Mr Willcox said.
Mr Willcox pointed to regulatory requirements and increasing red and green tape as challenges facing the agricultural sector, saying regional businesses needed greater certainty and practical support.
“From restrictive EPBC Act regulations to red tape & green tape, our regional businesses need certainty and practical support, not endless overregulation,” he said.
The Dawson MP said the Federal Opposition would continue advocating for rural and regional communities, highlighting the importance of agriculture to Australia’s economy and communities.
“Our team will always back our rural and regional communities,” Mr Willcox said.
The $100 billion farm-gate output milestone comes as the agricultural sector continues to navigate regulatory, economic and environmental pressures, with Mr Willcox using the occasion to reinforce his support for producers across regional Australia.
By Cr Peter Sheedy
Planning is one of the most important issues I see across the broad range of services delivered by Mackay Regional Council through its Corporate Plan.
Development planning is a critical part of council's work because it helps ensure future growth is sustainable in every sense of the word and does not have a detrimental impact on existing residents, businesses, clubs and community activities across the region.
Council invests significant resources in establishing and maintaining a planning scheme that guides development and helps ensure applications meet appropriate standards. Whether the proposal is for residential development, a retirement village or a business, it is important that developments can be supported by safe access, water supply, sewerage, waste disposal, power and communications infrastructure.
Council must also consider State Government planning policies, including the protection of good-quality agricultural land. I believe these policies exist for good reason. They reflect lessons learned from development across Australia and other parts of the world, where productive agricultural land has often been lost to other uses. Protecting our ability to produce food and fibre remains important for both economic and community wellbeing.
In our region, the sugar industry has a significant footprint and is supported by extensive infrastructure. Mills, cane rail networks and transport systems all play an important role in ensuring the annual crop can be harvested, processed and delivered to domestic and international markets. In my opinion, this interconnected system highlights the need for careful long-term planning.
One of council's biggest challenges is balancing the interests of different stakeholders. There are often competing priorities and council must consider the broader community benefit while ensuring essential services can continue to operateeffectively.
Council's 2016 Planning Scheme is now approaching 10 years of operation and is due for review. As we begin that process, I believe we should focus on aligning our planning policies with the long-term outcomes we want for the region.
Our primary production areas supporting the sugar cane industry form the foundation of an important annual crop that relies on a wide range of supporting services and infrastructure beyond the mills themselves, highlighting the need for careful alignment in planning and policy.
While communities evolve over time, I believe we should align policies and planning to ensure we don’t make the mistakes of the past and unnecessarily fragmenting precious agricultural land when other suitable land is available for uses such as residential development.
Planning, rating and other council policies should work together to support the long-term preservation of our valuable agricultural land for future generations.
The Seaforth Esplanade Splash Pad will temporarily close from 24th August to 18th September while essential maintenance and improvement works are completed. Photo supplied
Families planning a visit to the Seaforth Esplanade Splash Pad are advised the popular facility will temporarily close for several weeks while essential maintenance works are completed.
The splash pad will be closed from Monday 24th August to Friday 18th September, with works aimed at extending the life of the facility and ensuring it remains safe and enjoyable for the community.
Maintenance will include resealing the splash pad surface and expansion joints, replacinga access pit lids, treating rust on the shade structure and removing debris from around the water tanks.
The facility will also receive a fresh new look, with family-oriented stencil artworks to be installed as part of the works.
While the splash pad itself will be unavailable, visitors will still be able to access the surrounding picnic tables, amenity blocks and playground equipment throughout the closure.
Council has thanked residents and visitors for their patience while the maintenance is undertaken and apologised for any inconvenience.
Community and not-for-profit groups across the Mackay region are being encouraged to take advantage of a new round of council grants, with funding available for everything from small equipment purchases to major community assets.
Mackay Regional Council’s Community Grants program offers three funding categories designed to help local organisations deliver projects, improve facilities and continue supporting the wider community.
Small Equipment Grants of up to $1,500 are currently open and can help groups purchase items such as computers, office equipment and kitchen appliances.
For larger projects, Community Impact Grants provide up to $10,000 towards initiatives including health and safety improvements, community programs, maintenance projects and the establishment of new fundraising events.
Local organisations can also apply for up to $30,000 through the Infrastructure and Assets category. Funding can support infrastructure projects and concept development, as well as larger equipment purchases such as vehicles.
The grants provide an opportunity for local clubs, associations and not-for-profit organisations to secure additional financial support for projects that may otherwise be difficult to fund.
Community groups interested in the Community Impact Grants will need to act quickly, with applications closing on Sunday 6th September.
Applications for Infrastructure and Assets grants close on Sunday 4th October, while Small Equipment Grant applications are already open.
Groups are encouraged to review the full eligibility requirements and grant guidelines before submitting an application.
Applications and further information are available through Mackay Regional Council’s online SmartyGrants portal via mackay.smartygrants.com.au.
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