Mackay Festival’s Wild Wedding Kickoff

For fans of weddings with a twist – and a touch of scandal – Confetti and Chaos promises a night of laughter and unexpected drama. This sharp comedy dinner event will headline the opening week of the Mackay Festival of Arts, starting June 27.

The audience becomes the guests caught in the crossfire at Stacey and Will’s surprise wedding reception, a highly immersive and highly improvised comedy.

Audience members can enjoy a three-course meal while they laugh until their sides hurt at this show that has been selling out festivals all around Australia.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Confetti and Chaos would be held at four different venues, sharing the fun of the festival around our region.

“Confetti and Chaos certainly promises to be hilarious – billed as the worst wedding reception you’ll ever go to,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Take your pick of venues, enjoy a three-course meal and laugh until your sides hurt,” he said.

“It’s fantastic to see different events during our festival running all around the region.

“The 2025 Festival of Arts is bigger and better than ever and truly has something for everyone.”

Audiences can catch Confetti and Chaos at the Seaforth Bowls Club on July 2, MECC North Foyer on July 3, Western Suburbs Leagues Club, Walkerston, on July 4 and at the Eimeo Pacific Hotel on July 5.

But, be quick as RSVPs are closing in the coming week, so book a seat today.

Also featured in the Mackay Festival of Arts opening weeks is Tin Can Radio, a family-friendly pop-up radio station.

Festivals and Events Coordinator Phoebe Short said kids aged seven and above and their favourite older person could join the fun at Foodspace Mackay.

“Kids can take over the airways at the fun and playful event for the young and young-at-heart, with the support of experienced facilitators,” Ms Short said.

“They can come along and sign up on the day as a roving reporter, submit top tips and interview questions or simply just enjoy the live radio experience with a meal or snack from Foodspace,” she said.

Tin Can Radio will be on Wednesday, July 2 to Friday, July 4 – during the school holidays – from 8am to 12pm.

Highlights from the first week of the Mackay Festival of Arts include:

On June 27 to 28, Country Fest QLD will feature country music, market stalls, food trucks and a PBR bull ride at the Dittmann Bull Pit, Bloomsbury.

From June 28 to August 3, 'The Brae' in Netherdale will be home to a number of events including an extraordinary exhibition featuring local artists and a series of hands-on workshops for all ages.

From June 28 to July 2 at Mackay State High School is Necklace: an autobiographical tale – an intimate and participatory performance exploring the experience of being treated as a burden on the medical system.

From July 5, Artspace Mackay will feature the 2025 Libris Awards: The Australian artists book prize. The competition culminates in an exhibition of more than 50 finalists’ works in three categories with a total prize pool of $21,000.

For more details and to book for any Mackay Festival of Arts event, visit themecc.com.au/festivals

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Local Author Captures The Untold Stories Of Instrumental Regional Women

With a historian’s lens and storyteller’s soul, local author Kaaren Sephton shines a light on Mackay’s unsung heroines in her self-published book, Shining a Light: Women of Mackay.

Spanning over 160 years, the book celebrates 37 remarkable women who shaped the Mackay region from the 1860s to 2023. From settlers and midwives to artists, entrepreneurs, and a former convict, the collection reveals the evolving roles of women in regional Queensland.

“This book is about visibility,” Dr Sephton said. “So many women played vital roles, yet without documentation, their stories risk being lost. It felt as if they were invisible.”

The project began when Yvonne, a key member of the Pioneer Valley Museum, invited Dr Sephton to explore historical posters. What started as a nod to archives became a passionate, years-long labour of love to preserve local women’s legacies.

Using research from the Pioneer Valley Museum and Mackay Family History Society, along with death certificates, oral histories, and interviews, Dr Sephton uncovered stories of Indigenous women, farmers, educators, and a Jamaican-born trailblazer who founded an early private school.

“I grew up here, so I knew some of these women personally or through community,” she said.

“That connection made it important to get their stories right.”

Available through www.inspiringbookshop.com, the book is a vivid tribute to the women who helped build Mackay, inviting readers to reconnect with the past and honour their legacy.

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CQUniversity Australia has officially launched its new micro-credential course, "Decarbonisation and Gas Emissions Scopes."  This free, online course aims to equip local small and medium businesses with the essential skills and knowledge needed to tackle the challenges of decarbonisation.

The course is designed to empower small and medium enterprise (SME) owners, managers, and employees with the foundational knowledge required to begin their decarbonisation journey.  It offers timely, practical support for businesses looking to future-proof operations amidst increasing climate pressures and evolving industries.

Developed with funding from BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) and delivered through the Chair of Automation and Future Work Skills in collaboration with Greater Whitsunday Alliance, the course provides a practical first step for businesses to understand how to measure and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Professor Rob Brown, BMA Chair in Automation and Future Work Skills at CQUniversity, stated the course is "free, short, and designed specifically for busy professionals—particularly those in regional industries."  He added that CQUniversity is delighted to be involved in an educational project that links the mutual interests of the Greater Whitsunday Alliance, BMA, and the region on this important topic.

Participants will explore different scopes of greenhouse gas emissions, climate impacts, and real-world decarbonisation, from daily business decisions to long-term strategy.  The course takes approximately two hours to complete and includes a digital badge and Certificate of Completion.

Sonia Winter, BMA General Manager, Planning Technical & Environment, expressed enthusiasm for their participation in the new micro-credential course, stating, "We are delighted to participate [in] the development of this important decarbonisation course which will assist and encourage SME businesses to start their decarbonisation journey."

The launch of this course signifies a broader shift in the Greater Whitsunday region, where decarbonisation is increasingly viewed as a unique opportunity rather than solely a challenge.

Ms. Kylie Porter, Chief Executive Officer of Greater Whitsunday Alliance, emphasized that decarbonisation is not just about reducing emissions but also about "securing the future viability of our traditional sectors and creating opportunities in emerging industries."  She added that "every action we take today can contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous tomorrow for our region,"  and that "whether you're in agribusiness, tourism, resources or tech—your role in the low-carbon economy of the future matters."

Ms. Porter noted that the course is about "demystifying those first steps," requiring willingness to start rather than expertise.

This micro-credential course is part of GW3's Decarbonisation Accelerated program, which has been working with local businesses and stakeholders in the decarbonisation space for the past two years. This course complements Decarbonisation Accelerated by offering accessible, self-paced education for individuals across all industries. Ms. Porter concluded, "We want our region to be recognised globally for our leadership in lower greenhouse gas emissions growth. The businesses that take this step today will be the success stories of tomorrow."

The "Decarbonisation and Gas Emissions Scopes" micro-credential course will be discussed in detail at the Resource Industry Network's June Industry Briefing Breakfast on June 13.

Key Course Information:

Title: Decarbonisation and Greenhouse Gas Emissions Scopes
Mode: Online, self-paced
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Cost: Free
Target Audience: SME owners, managers, and employees (across all industries)
Enrol Now: CQUniversity Course Page

This micro-credential is part of CQUniversity's expanding library of short courses focused on future skills, innovation, and sustainable development, supporting regional goals and addressing national and global climate commitments, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

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Community Spirit Shines Through In Relocation Of Vital Outreach Services

Local community advocate Lisa Jamieson has praised Mackay’s incredible spirit, following a successful grassroots effort to relocate essential outreach services in a true example of community collaboration.

“What a great community we have in Mackay,” Ms Jamieson said.

“As I head off on holidays, I have to share how blessed we are living in a community like Mackay. People care and want to make a difference.

“Sometimes it only takes just letting it be known that you need help.”

The recent transition of Orange Sky and food services from St Vincent de Paul on Juliet Street to the Mackay City Girl Guides, just across the road, has helped maintain consistency for those who rely on the support.

“The community that was at St Vinnies in Juliet St with the food services that helped support the laundry provide meaningful connections and conversations for many regular friends,” she said.

“It is so great to see that the friends are keen to keep coming, having a conversation and connected with the move across the road to the Girl Guides.”

Ms Jamieson acknowledged that change can be difficult, but familiar faces and routines make a difference.

“Change can be unsettling but the constant of knowing that you are welcomed, familiar faces and being able to take up a conversation where you left off all bring surety.”

She stressed the importance of reliability in building trust.

“Reliability certainly builds positive connections. Along with the routine it brings, it signifies the importance of being there, of turning up, and the difference you can make in someone’s life.

“The gratitude is heartfelt as the connection is genuine.

“The Mackay City Girl Guides have been so welcoming as we continue to connect at the new location,” she added.

“It has been a great collaborative community effort to bring about the move across Juliet St, and to keep it as consistent for all who connect with the community whether it is for food, conversation, or laundry.

“Every connection is important as there are people who need to be seen, to be connected and be part of a welcoming community.”

Ms Jamieson also thanked the Rotary Club of Mackay West and local contractors for their support.

“The Rotary Club of Mackay West have been awesome with the support they have provided... they have been men of action and helped out where they could.”

She also noted the vital contributions of all involved.

“The area around the Guide Hut has certainly been a hive of activity lately. Thanks to Helen Anderson from the Mackay City Guides, District Manager, for all the time she has offered to let contractors in and see the transformation of the site into what will be a great community place for connections and collaboration.”

Local advocate Lisa Jamieson has praised Mackay’s spirit of collaboration after the successful relocation of outreach services to the Mackay City Girl Guides, highlighting the power of community, consistency, and connection. Photos supplied

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A Colourful Tribute To Community Heritage

A cherished piece of Mirani’s public art has been given a vibrant new life, with the completion of an updated mural at the Mirani Swimming Centre — a striking tribute to the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

The original mural, which graced the entrance of the Swim Centre since the early 1990s, was commissioned by then-pool manager Lesley Kelly and painted by local artists Lesley Kane and Maxine Bradshaw of the Pioneer Valley Art Society. The duo fondly recall bringing the valley’s iconic fauna to life using paint donated by Mackay Regional Council.

Now, more than three decades later, the Mirani Swimming Club recognised the fading mural’s historical significance and took action to preserve this piece of community creativity.

In January 2025, the Club applied for a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grant, receiving funding in April to support the mural’s revitalisation.

Renowned muralist Joel Fergie, known as “The Zookeeper,” was commissioned to lead the project. Celebrated for his bold, community-centric murals across Queensland, Fergie welcomed the chance to engage with the Mirani community — including a meaningful reunion with the original artists during the creative process.

“I love coming to the Mackay Region to paint,” Fergie said.

“It’s always inspiring to learn about the people and stories behind a place — and this one has such a great history.”

The new mural is a vivid tapestry of colour, heart, and local identity. It showcases scenes that encapsulate the essence of the Pioneer Valley — from joyful moments at Platypus Beach, where native fauna curiously observe, to the enduring symbol of the region’s sugar industry, with a cane train crossing the bridge. Naturally, the platypus retains its pride of place in the artwork.

The refreshed mural has already garnered admiration from locals and visitors alike, praised for restoring warmth and vibrancy to the community hub.

“This mural has always been a part of our town’s story,” said original artist Lesley Kane.

“It’s just so wonderful to see it come alive again.”

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The updated mural at the Mirani Swimming Centre breathes new life into a much-loved local landmark — a vibrant tribute to the Pioneer Valley’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Photo supplied

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After 581 days in Mackay Base Hospital, 45-year-old Dan Honnery was discharged on June 6 to cheers and applause. Diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder that causes paralysis, Dan spent over nine months in ICU and a year in the F0 rehabilitation ward.

Hospital staff formed a guard of honour to farewell one of their longest-staying patients, honouring his resilience and remarkable recovery.

A Mackay Hospital and Health Service representative said Dan now begins a new chapter at home in Collinsville, requiring ongoing support and rehabilitation.

“All the very best wishes for your future, Dan!”

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

In the current economy, one of the major challenges facing all industries is finding suitably skilled workforce to complete the required tasks for day-to-day operations.

The sugar industry is, likewise, not immune to this scenario. All sectors of the supply chain must work extremely hard - and think outside the square- to compete with other Industries to find the human resources required to operate and function, particularly in the crush season.

The factories require operational and maintenance staff, cane train operators as well as numerous other positions.  On top of this are associated supply chain sectors servicing the sugarcane growing industry. For example: mechanics, repairs and maintenance contractors, tyre fitters, fuel suppliers, trucking companies, agronomic and a multitude of other businesses which require extra staffing across the busy harvest season.

Of course, it then goes without saying that the growing and harvesting sector also require large numbers of extra and seasonal staff during this period, which presents its own challenges.  Haulout and harvester operators, as well as general farm workers are in high demand throughout the crush season.  We are fortunate that there are many employees who love their jobs in the sugar industry and continue to come back year after year, to complete the various tasks required of them but new people are always required to fill all available positions.

We see grey nomads, backpackers as well as locals who seasonally will climb into a haul out and experience the harvesting season.  To help facilitate this filling of vacancies in the harvesting sector, CANEGROWERS Mackay conduct two fully funded Cane Haul-out driver training courses in May every year. In the past, it had been one course, but thanks to support from Queensland Agricultural Workforce Network (QAWN) CQ Officer funding for a second course and demonstrating the need for more places, it has since been two courses delivering 20 workers to industry. The course is funded through the Queensland Government Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative. CANEGROWERS is proud to be recognised and funded under the program as a community-based organisation delivering quality training.

These courses have been fully-subscribed for many years: putting forward a new injection of talent in the sector and is invaluable in providing the required skills to new employees to the sector.  As well as this, CANEGROWERS Mackay have advertised for workers nationally and internationally across digital platforms to help mitigate the shortfall in these areas with a varying degree of success. There is competition not just across all ag sectors, but across all industries.

And we need to see full employment across the entire supply chain, from paddock to port, to see our product successfully off to market. It’s also important for our regional economy, with every one dollar spent in the sugar industry multiplying to $6.10 across the Mackay-Isaac regional economy.

As this goes to print and all things going well, all four factories across Mackay/Plane Creek milling areas will have begun crushing for the 2025 crush season.  Sarina’s Plane Creek Mill was the first to kick off. However, it was delayed a few days by an unpredicted rainfall event across the mill area. Falls of up to 40mm across already moist paddocks resulted in a Saturday commencement of crushing, then experiencing a shaky start with limited cane supply owing to continued wet paddock conditions and some start-up issues.  In Mackay area, Farleigh was first to fire up, with first cane through the rollers at 10 am on 10 June.

Let us hope that the weather is kind to us throughout the harvest season to attempt to maximise the prime harvesting period and combined with hopefully improved and more consistent factory performance to help make the most out of the harvest season for all areas of our industry.

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2025 Haulout driver training, Course Two. Photo credit: Chris Finlay.

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RUNNING

Over 30 Mackay Road Runners embraced a frosty start for the Club Championship 5km, 15km, and 30km event at Northview Park on Sunday morning.

Club President Paul Tilse extended his thanks to the ever-reliable Andrew Short, who not only set the technically challenging course in the cold and dark but also completed the 15km run before collecting all signage and hydration stations from the route. His herculean efforts were supported by Vice President Len Howarth, Andrew Wallace, registrar and BBQ chef Julie Whibley, and the ever-efficient timekeeper Rohan Miles. Rohan’s calm, consistent dedication throughout the season continues to be greatly appreciated, with results posted online.

In the 5km race, Teresa Hackney claimed victory ahead of Millie Bishop, Judy Zahn and Kayla Waugh. The 15km event saw John Rae lead from the front, finishing ahead of Roscoe McDonnell, Alan Zamparutti, Andrew Wallace, Andrew Short and Len Howarth.

The 30km runners started 15 minutes early to tackle the endurance test. Mick Vivian dominated the field, setting a blistering pace and securing a comfortable win by more than 20 minutes, collecting maximum championship points. Joe Grech narrowly edged out a charging Hamish Donnollan by just five seconds to secure second place.

In the women’s 30km, Rhian Massey’s impressive run earned her top honours, finishing four minutes ahead of Jose Short. Emily Hayles took third place, followed closely by Carmel Mahon in fourth.
Gratitude was extended to course marshals Jo Hughes and Stuart Sprott for manning the water stops, ensuring a smooth and safe event.

Looking ahead, this Sunday marks the prestigious Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial Shield and 10km Club Championship event at Queens Park. The race, which honours the late Shawn Claydon – a champion athlete and respected colleague – also serves as a fundraiser for Pancare, supporting pancreatic cancer awareness and research. Entry is $10 for all runners, with 100% of fees donated.

The event will feature a 100-number raffle board with prizes from Bottletops & Brushes, Officeworks, Sabai Kaya Massage, local cafés, and Harrup Park. A coffee van, sausage sizzle, and birthday cake will also be on site to celebrate Shawn’s May birthday.

The 5km and 10km races start at 7am sharp; all participants must register by 6:50am. Everyone is welcome.

Also, don't forget Wednesday track training at the ARC from 5:30pm with Club Captain Jim Ford – entry $4.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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It’s Not About Doing More – It’s About Doing What Works

We almost did a big thing recently.

My partner and I were tossing up whether to buy the block next to the one we’d already bought – combining the two, building a big “home” for Rebel (and ourselves), and moving the business there. It would’ve been a huge project (and a huge investment). But after a lot of consideration – and insight from some very trusted peeps – we’ve decided to stick with just one block, and keep it as our home, not home and business.

It doesn’t happen often, but for once – not taking the big leap feels right.

It sounded bold. Ambitious. Scary in that “but what if it’s brilliant” kind of way. And honestly, saying no to something that looks like a golden opportunity can be harder than jumping in. Especially in business, where the unspoken rule seems to be: bigger = better.

Which got me thinking about how often we treat marketing the same way. There’s so much pressure to do all the things – more content, more platforms, more ads, more trends. You should be on XYZ. Have you tried ABC? I know I should be doing blah blah… There’s a lot of “shoulding” – and I see it stop people from doing anything at all.

But sometimes your biggest win isn’t doing more – it’s doing less, with intention. Cutting the fluff. Focusing on what actually works. Saying no to campaigns that sound exciting but don’t fit your goals. Choosing one or two platforms strategically and doing them really well, rather than half-committing to five.

You don’t have to master every element of marketing all at once. You just have to start with what fits you – your business, your season, your goals. Even the most well-meaning supporters don’t know your business like you do. No one does.

Which is why I’m keeping Rebel put, for now. In business, usually the goal is to grow out of the backyard. Our “big opportunity” actually felt like it would be a step backwards. Turns out, saying no is still moving forward.

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A $174,902 funding boost is fuelling fresh momentum for ten Mackay charities and community groups, following the Mackay Community Foundation’s 2025 grant round. The funding supports a wide range of grassroots initiatives aimed at strengthening health, safety, resilience and social connection across the region. Several recipients received grants to purchase vehicles, helping frontline teams reach more people in need. From youth support and homelessness outreach to disability arts and community gardens, the projects reflect the region’s diverse needs. With a generous donor now matching future contributions dollar-for-dollar, the long-term impact of this support is set to grow even further.

Foundation Grants Drive Regional Support

Ten local charities and community groups are moving forward with renewed momentum thanks to $174,902 in funding delivered through the Mackay Community Foundation’s 2025 grant round.

The funding will support a diverse range of projects aimed at enhancing community health, resilience, social connection and safety, with three of the ten recipients receiving grants to purchase much-needed vehicles.

Mackay Community Foundation Chair Frances Easton said the funding would go a long way in strengthening grassroots support services across the region.

“Every grant is meaningful but funding three cars for this round was additionally exciting,” Ms Easton said.

“The outreach that these organisations will be able to achieve thanks to having these vehicles on hand will create a broader impact.”

Among the recipients was the Australian Street Aid Project (ASAP), which supports people experiencing homelessness with services that go beyond a warm meal. The vehicle will help ASAP transport clients to vital medical, Centrelink and housing appointments.

“This grant means more than just a vehicle – it means dignity, connection and support,” said ASAP Director Kayleigh Brewster.

Mackay Women’s Services also received vehicle funding to replace an ageing car and extend their reach across the region.

CEO Belinda Berg said, “The new vehicle will keep our team mobile – supporting survivors of domestic and family violence, attending court, meeting agencies, and maintaining a strong presence in the community.”

Other recipients included Crossroads Arts, Kidney Support Network, Orange Sky, Clontarf Foundation, and Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia.

A new anonymous donor has also committed to continue the foundation’s matching donations program for 2025/26. For every $5,000 donated, the donor will match it – doubling the impact for grassroots programs.

To support local organisations, visit www.mackaycommunityfoundation.com.

2025 Mackay Community Foundation Grant Recipients:

• Clontarf Foundation – $8,522 for the Mackay L2P's Initiative
• Engedi – $18,655 for an Accessible Community Garden
• Australian Street Aid Project – $19,685 for Medical Appointment Transport for People Experiencing Homelessness
• One Life NQ – $9,836 for Myrtles Place Furniture Replacement
• Orange Sky – $10,000 for Mackay Laundry Pod Relocation
• Crossroads Arts – $18,000 for SCOPE – I can – I dream – I uncover
• Mackay Women’s Services – $44,031 for Mobilising Mackay Women's Services & Technical Surveillance Counter Measures
• Kidney Support Network – $29,133 for Renal Patient Transport Service
• Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia – $14,000 for the Ronald McDonald Learning Program
• One Stop Youth Shop Inc – $3,040 for Strength 2 Strength & Free 2 Be Me Youth Development Programs

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Ten local charities have received $174,902 in grants to boost services, including three vehicles to expand community outreach. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

A $174,902 funding boost is driving vital change across Mackay, with ten local charities receiving support to expand their impact and reach more people in need. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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While locals have long voiced concerns over parking challenges at Mackay Base Hospital, the wait for a solution has reached a new turning point — with the community now invited to have their say on plans for a multi-storey car park and helipad.

The proposed development marks a major milestone in the Mackay Hospital Expansion Project (MHEP), and the start of a formal public consultation process offers residents the opportunity to help shape a project that aims to improve access, patient transfer, and overall hospital experience.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon said the month-long consultation phase was a significant step forward.

“Visitors to Mackay Base Hospital may notice signage around the campus which explains that we are now in a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) consultation process,” Ms Gannon said.

“This process is managed by the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and it enables anyone with an interest in the development to provide feedback.

“Our staff, patients and visitors are aware of the parking pressures we face at Mackay Base Hospital during peak periods, and I know that we are all looking forward to the new multi-storey car park which will provide a total of about 1100 parking spaces, which is an additional 550 spaces on our current capacity.

“The car park will also feature a rooftop helipad which will allow for smoother transfer of patients into the emergency department.

“Work is also progressing well on the other components of MHEP; site preparation for a new wing of the hospital, and on determining a location for an off-site birth centre.”

Temporary carparking arrangements will be put in place during the car park construction period, and work is underway to determine a preferred location.

The MID consultation process is in place from 13 June to 14 July 2025.

Submissions can be made on or before 14 July 2025 to the Infrastructure Designation team via www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/mid-consultations, by email to infrastructuredesignation@dsdilgp.qld.gov.au or via post to PO Box 15009, City East, QLD 4002

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After years of frustration, Mackay Base Hospital opens public consultation on a new multi-storey car park and helipad to ease parking complications. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay State High School is set to receive $1.8 million in upgrades under the Crisafulli Government, with works to improve disability access, redesign pathways, and construct a new car park to create a safer and more accessible learning environment.

The improvements will ensure students with disability can easily navigate their school grounds, with safer pathways connecting seven school blocks and a junior school covered area.

As part of the significant works new ramps and handrails were installed, along with a new elevator, yellow pedestrian crossing lines, and wider doorways.

Mackay State High School, one of Queensland’s oldest state high schools, first opened its doors in 1912.

Mackay State High School Principal Felicity Roberts welcomed the upgrades, which will benefit students, staff and the school community.

“The accessibility projects are necessary for students and community members who require additional accessibility around the school grounds,” Ms Roberts said.

Vice Captain Kayla Woods said the opportunity for students to be heard was crucial.

“We’ve been invited to the state budget meeting in Brisbane to see how parliament works and to share our opinions,” she said.

“It’s important to have people our age listened to because it really does affect us.

“Accessibility, like elevators, is important so everyone can feel included and take pride in our school.”

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Mackay State High School will undergo $1.8 million in upgrades to improve accessibility, safety, and infrastructure, enhancing the school experience for all students, especially those with disability. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Two CQUniversity TAFE-trained apprentices have been recognised among the nation’s top emerging tradespeople, earning Medallions of Excellence at the 2025 WorldSkills National Championships in Brisbane.

Layth McGee and Ashley Cassar showcased their talents during the prestigious event, held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from June 12 to 15, where Australia’s best apprentices competed in a series of rigorous skill-based challenges.

Layth and Ashley were part of a group of six CQU TAFE-trained apprentices who represented Central Queensland in the categories of Construction Steel Work, Electrical Control, Electrical Installation, Heavy Vehicle Mechanics, Plumbing, and Welding.

Layth, of Reed Plumbing in Mackay received a medallion of excellence in the category of Plumbing & Heating.

“It’s a pretty good feeling – it’s definitely something to be proud of,” he said.

Layth said he found the tasks challenging.

“It definitely tested me,” he said.

“I want to give a big appreciation to my trainers for going out of their way to help me prepare.”

Ashley of Gladstone Ports Corporation was awarded the medallion of excellence in the Electrical Control category.

“Competing at a national level was tricky for sure, but I really enjoyed the challenge, as well as meeting new people,” he said.

“It tested my knowledge and determination to get my project done in a high quality and timely manner. I could not have made it this far without the support of GPC, my workplace, as well as Colin Sandland’s mentoring.

“Winning a medallion of excellence really makes me feel like everyone’s support paid off and I couldn’t be happier to bring it home to my family and workplace.”

CQU Peter Heilbuth congratulated Layth and Ashley on their awards and highlighted the efforts of their fellow competitors Sean Keetch (Construction Steel Work), Saxon Smith (Electrical Installation), Corey Burfield (Heavy Vehicle Mechanics) and Billy Vale (Welding).

“We are extremely proud of Ashley and Layth’s achievements. To come out of such a strong competition – against the best in Australia – with medallions is testament to their dedication and skills,” Mr Heilbuth said.

“Their success is also testament to CQU TAFE’s trainers and their partnerships with Ashley and Layth’s employers, Gladstone Ports Corporation and Reed Plumbing.

“All the competitors should feel proud to have made it to the WorldSkills Nationals.”

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Layth McGee from Reed Plumbing in Mackay

Ashley Cassar of Gladstone Ports Corporation. Photos supplied

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As Queenslanders edge closer to the new financial year, it’s the perfect time to take stock of money matters and map out a clearer financial direction for the months ahead.

Whether the aim is to pay off debt, grow savings, or plan for a significant purchase, financial advisers say even small, consistent changes can lead to stronger financial health.

Here are a few practical steps to get started:

Reflect on the past year
Take a close look at where your money went — which habits helped, and which ones hurt. Understanding past spending patterns is key to setting realistic goals.

Set SMART goals
Make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of “save more,” aim to “save $5,000 by next June for a home deposit or holiday.”

Break down big goals
Large amounts can feel daunting. Convert them into weekly or monthly targets — such as $100 per week — to make progress feel more achievable.

Prioritise what matters
Decide which goals are most urgent. Clearing high-interest debt often takes priority over discretionary spending or long-term investments.

Track progress regularly
Whether through apps, spreadsheets, or pen and paper, keeping tabs on your goals helps you stay accountable and adjust when needed.

Build an emergency buffer
Life is unpredictable. Even saving $10–$20 a week into an emergency fund can safeguard your broader goals.

Celebrate milestones
Progress — even small wins — deserves recognition. Hitting savings targets or paying off a credit card can be a powerful motivator to keep going.

Financial planning experts say the EOFY is more than a tax deadline — it’s an ideal opportunity to reset, refocus, and build toward a more confident financial future.

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The recent Super Story Time event at Mackay Regional Council Libraries brought together local families for a morning of storytelling, imagination, and fun, celebrating young readers and their grown-ups alike.

The library remains a welcoming space where knowledge thrives and all individuals are encouraged to explore, learn, and grow together.

With a diverse calendar of activities and programs on offer, residents are invited to visit the library website or download the Mackay Libraries app to discover upcoming events and make the most of these valuable community resources.

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