The Importance Of Remembering Those Who Served

By Hannah McNamara

Last Monday marked the 106th anniversary of the armistice in 1918. On the 11th of November each year, we come together as a nation to remember and honour more than 103,000 names that remain imprinted on both the bronze panels in the Australian war memorial, and on the hearts of their loved ones. Known as the ultimate sacrifice, many young men and women were sent out to fight - for our country, for our communities, for our families, and ultimately, for our freedom. Though the years go by, let us never forget the imprint they’ve had on our lives, and let us be grateful that we now get to live a life that some veterans never got to live. Lest We Forget.

“It’s going to be young people who will be the ones to continue to tell these stories,” said Mr. Mike Goodwin OAM.

As the years go by and new generations arise, the call to remembrance has never been so urgent. Each year, veterans young and old, gather with fellow survivors of the war, each tarnished with memories of serving either in the field, in the Air Force or on a ship. Most under the age of eighteen, they were sent out to defend our country, entering with fear and the uncertainty of their return.

More than 416,000 Australians volunteered for service in World War I. 324,000 served overseas, more than 60,000 Australians died, 4,000 became POWs and more than 100,000 were wounded.

As veterans, families and community representatives gathered at Jubilee Park Cenotaph last Monday, honourable men and women adorned themselves in badges, suits and red poppies on the 11th of the 11th, in remembrance of the day in 1918, where World War I ceased.  

To fully grasp the relief and joy of knowing that the battle was over, mixed with feelings of overwhelming grief for their mates that didn’t make it out alive is something that, we - as civilians will never be able to comprehend.

Image the heavy guns…falling and hitting the ground, the skies no longer filled with smoke and debris, the sound of birds chirping, and the thought of coming home to their families. Though most were injured physically, the shockwaves of the emotional scarring remained for years to come.

As the years go by, and the last of the World War veterans grow old, their greatest wish is to share their stories with the upcoming generations in fear of their sacrifice being forgotten.

Mr. Mike Goodwin OAM is a history teacher, and was honoured to be a guest speaker at this year’s Remembrance Day ceremony. He reflected on the importance of educating the next generation.

“I’d like to take a few moments, if I could, to talk about using the positive ideals of the ANZAC legacy to celebrate our future, because as we know, our future is with young people.

“When I talk about the future, of course, I’m talking about young people and the role they play in our ANZAC legacy.”

Mr. Goodwin then shared a memorable experience from a school trip to Anzac Cove and the “beautiful” Ari Burnu Cemetery, where he aimed to bring the history of the ANZACs to life for his students.

“They were so connected,” he said.

“They didn’t want to leave.

“Just as we were about to leave, I noticed there was one student sitting at a grave…so I went over to get her, and I'll never forget the next few moments…

“She looked up at me, her eyes were full of tears and there were tears rolling down her cheeks, and she looked into my eyes and she just shook her head.

“And she said, ‘Sir’, And she looked back at the grave, she looked back up at me, she said, ‘Sir…he died on my birthday,’ she said, ‘now I'm going to have to live two lives.’

The audience was moved by the many touching anecdotes shared by Mr Goodwin.

Through continuously teaching the next generation, Mr Goodwin along with the RSL hopes to prolong the vitality of remembering those who laid down their life for our country.

Attending his first Remembrance Day Service, was the region’s newly appointed Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, who said the day was a “very emotional moment” for him.

“It’s a very emotional time, and there are no words of thanks that you can ever give to a youngster going off and fighting for our freedom… but I think the legacy we have here in Mackay is just wonderful.”

A Mackay Tiger Moth Museum flew past around 11:11am.

As the years pass, may we never forget the impact they’ve made on our lives, and remain grateful for the life we enjoy - one that some veterans never had the chance to experience.

Lest We Forget

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Veterans,their families and distinguished guests gathered at the Jubilee Park Cenotaphon the 11^th of the 11^th to remember the fallen andcommemorate those still standing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mayor of Mackay Greg Williamson, CEO Scott Owen, Deputy Mayor Karen May, and Councillor Heath Patton

Mayor Greg Williamson

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP and Mr Andrew Willcox MP Federal Member for Dawson

Student Musicians Kayla Lovern on the violin from Mackay State High School and Billy Hancroft on the trumpet from North View State School.

Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President and Vietnam Veteran, Ken Higgins

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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This week, we gathered in quiet reflection for Armistice Day on Monday, 11th November—a day that marks the end of the First World War in 1918. It was a moment to remember that, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns fell silent after four years of relentless warfare. It’s more than a date etched in history; it’s a solemn reminder of the price paid for our freedom—lives cut short, families forever changed, and dreams left unfulfilled.

Across our towns, people stood together in silence, united not just in grief but in gratitude. We remembered the men and women who gave everything in the hope that future generations would live without the shadow of war. It’s a powerful call for all of us to learn from the past, to understand the weight of those sacrifices, and to cherish the peace they fought so hard to secure. You can read more from our journalist Hannah about the ceremonies and reflections from our community on pages 4, 10, and 11.

Yet, remembrance is not only about looking back; it's about shaping a better tomorrow. It was heartening to see the newly sworn-in youth council stepping up, ready to carry the torch forward. These young leaders, featured on page 5, remind us that the future is in capable hands—hands that are eager to build a world worthy of the sacrifices of the past.

We do have a more clear and present danger upon us. With the dry conditions across our region, the threat of fires is on the rise. In recent weeks, we've seen multiple blazes, including one devastating fire that left a local family with nothing but the clothes on their backs (see page 12). This is a stark reminder of how quickly disaster can strike, turning lives upside down in a matter of moments. As we head into disaster season, it's crucial for all of us to stay vigilant, be prepared, and look out for one another. There’s more on what you can do to get ready for storm season on page 9.

As we remember those who sacrificed so much, we’re reminded that the responsibility for our future lies in our hands—shaped by the choices we make today, and the strength we draw from each other.

Amanda

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The North Mackay Bowls Club Ladies have shown a generous spirit by clearing out their former club uniform shirts to support those in need.

Since merging with the men's team and adopting a new club shirt, numerous high-quality garments - some never worn - have been left unused in closets. Rather than letting these shirts sit idle, the club decided to donate them to a third-world country, where they will be put to good use.

Helen Fleming, the club’s Ladies Secretary, expressed her amazement at the number of shirts collected, with many in pristine condition.

“It was unbelievable how many shirts came to light, some have never been worn,” she noted, grateful for the members' willingness to contribute to the project.

The initiative was brought to fruition with the help of Ladies President Lidia McCarthy, Vice President Hilary Jones-Rowan and Secretary Helen Fleming. Together, they organised the collection and arranged for the garments to be sent off. St Vincent de Paul generously agreed to ship the shirts, ensuring they reach their new home where they can make a real difference.

Through this donation, they are helping provide clothing to those in need, showing that even the smallest acts of kindness can mean the world to someone else.

How can you make a difference in somebody’s life today?

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Ladies President Lidia McCarthy, Vice President Hilary Jones-Rowan and Secretary Helen Fleming. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group recently achieved an unforgettable victory at DanceRites 2024, Australia’s premier national dance competition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups. Hosted at the iconic Sydney Opera House, this event brought together nearly 300 dancers from all over the country to showcase their culture, language, and heritage. For the Mackay group, it was their very first time entering the competition, and they brought home the win.

“Pretty much, we practiced all year around,” explained Frank Cook, a proud member of the group.

“We were preparing for NAIDOC events, Reconciliation Week, and other celebrations, so we kept practicing and perfecting our routine for DanceRites,” Frank said.

This dedication paid off, especially in the final round, where the group’s unique performance captivated the judges and audience alike.

Reflecting on what set them apart, Frank noted, “Our final performance was really special. It wasn’t something that had been done before.

“We used flag signals to represent the Mackay postcode which tied into the uniqueness of the song, and the dance was inspired by a captain using the environment around him with the winds and the tides.

The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural group’s win is not just a personal achievement for the dancers but a significant victory for the whole Mackay community. Frank shared that “we’re still trying to comprehend what happened it was such a spontaneous entry…There was eighteen groups all up, and we came out on top.”

Frank says the group represents a holistic approach to culture, including singing, dancing, language, and traditional practices like cooking and hunting.

“We’re not just a dance group,” Frank explained.

“We try to represent our heritage and identity in everything we do.”

He encourages the youth to go and sit down with their elders and get that cultural knowledge.

“There’s only a few elders left and once it’s gone that’s pretty much our walking library, so take that time to sit with the elders, get that story, get that language and get that history.”

The group extends their gratitude to all supporters, sponsors and community members who backed them all the way up to their victory with fundraisers and encouragement. Their victory is a shared achievement that honours the strength of culture. Next year, the group will return to DanceRites 2025 as honoured guests, leaving a lasting mark at the Sydney Opera House in 2024.

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The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group danced their way to victory at DanceRites 2024, celebrating culture, language, and heritage on the iconic stage of the Sydney Opera House! Photo credit: mkytsiculturalgroup (Instagram)

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Twelve young people from across Mackay were sworn in as Youth Councillors last month to represent local young people at Mackay Regional Council for the next 18 months.

At a ceremony held at the Mackay Regional Council chambers the 2024/2025 Youth Council became the second in the region to be sworn in, marking the beginning of their term in office.

More than 2000 young people aged 11 to 17 cast votes at 18 polling locations across the local government area in August to elect the 12 members.

Youth councillor Nate Ralph said the swearing in ceremony was a powerful event that begin the second term of the youth council, which can provide the youth of Mackay a voice.

“I am extremely privileged to speak on behalf of the young people of Mackay and give them a seat at the table,” Nate said.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said this program, now in its second year, gave youth a voice in shaping the community’s future.

“It's inspiring to witness such a diverse group of young leaders ready to make a difference.” he said.

“I had the privilege of swearing in our new Youth Council. The ceremony started with a meaningful smoking ceremony, setting the stage for positivity on this important journey.”

The Mackay Youth Council will serve an 18-month term in office from October 2024 to May 2026. They will have a $10,000 budget to deliver their priority agenda.

The Mackay Youth Council is part of a partnership between Mackay Regional Council and the Foundation for Young Australians, a pilot program being delivered with local councils in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

Meet the Mackay Youth Council

●Amelia Webber

●Elena Mathew

●Ethan Forde

●Lila Munt

●Lily Cheyne

●Logan Ivory

●Magenta Arthy

●Natacha McKay

●Nate Ralph

●Nathaniel Espartinez

●Soham Rana

●Zena Ali

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The 2024/2025 Mackay Youth Council, pictured with Mayor Greg Williamson, was sworn into office in October. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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Do you know what can go into our recycling bins?

This National Recycling Week (November 11 to 17), Mackay Regional Council is encouraging residents to check out the new sorting guide available on council’s website.

Recycle Mate is a web-based app which provides users with tailored information to ensure it is relevant to our Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).

Recycle Mate can be accessed on council’s website or directly via Recycle Mate’s website or mobile phone app.

Users can search or simply take a photo of the item they wish to dispose of and within seconds find out which bin it can go into – it’s that easy!

Mayor Greg Williamson said anything that council could do to assist residents in “recycling right” was a positive step forward.

“Council is committed to reducing our contamination levels. Contamination is simply putting the wrong item in the wrong bin,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Common contamination items we find at the MRF range from nappies and green waste to bottle top lids and soft plastics,” he said.

“Contamination is costly – council pays a fee to dispose of contaminated recycling to landfill, so anything we can do to reduce the rate of contamination, benefits not only our environment, but our ratepayers.

“We understand that it can be confusing, especially when what each council accepts as recycling can differ from region to region.

“Recycle Mate eliminates the confusion by ensuring the information is specific to each council and their recycling facility.”

With National Recycling Week kicking off on Monday, November 11, now is the time to get familiar with what can and can’t be recycled.

To find out more head to mackay.gov.au/sortmywaste

Recycle Mate is a nation-wide project led by the Australian recycling industry though strategic direction from the Austrian Council of Recycling (ACOR). Both state and federal governments have invested in the app as part of a joint waste management strategy.

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Council's new website feature is making recycling easier than ever

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has provided a $20,000 community grant to fund a new trailer fit out for the 131 Army Cadet Unit (ACU) Sarina, creating an off-grid headquarters for field training activities and community events.

Equipped with sustainable solar and battery technology, the trailer features communication device chargers, a refrigerator to keep vital supplies fresh, whiteboards, lighting, new signage and a dedicated first aid area.

For over 50 years the 131 ACU Sarina has provided a safe and challenging environment for local youth, teaching them essential life skills and playing a crucial role in youth development.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May emphasised that both Community Bank Sarina and 131 ACU Sarina share a commitment to nurturing future leaders in the region.

“We have previously supported the Sarina Cadet Unit with community investments for portable toilets and a sun safe marquee, and this trailer will further enhance the unit’s training capabilities, keeping cadets and volunteers safe and prepared in all environments,” Ms May said.

“The 131 ACU Sarina has produced cadets who have gone on to contribute significantly to our community, many of whom credit their experiences at cadets as significant to their growth and success.

“For many young people in Sarina, the 131 ACU is a space where they feel respected and supported, and we take great pride in backing such an important program for our community.”

Captain Amy Bradford, Officer Commanding 131 ACU Sarina, said the cadets had been “trying to get the trailer on the road for over two years” and was grateful for Community Bank Sarina’s support in bringing it to completion.

“We’re a not-or profit organisation that relies on fundraising to deliver this national youth development program, that proudly shares the character and values of the Australian Army,” Captain Bradford said.

“The trailer is a modern addition for us and will create interest in our program, encouraging new cadet recruitment and reinforcing our role in serving the Sarina community.”

For more information on applying for Community Bank Sarina Community Grants, please contact executive@communitybanksarina.com.au.

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Photo caption: Cadets at the 131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina stand proudly with their new trailer, provided with a Community Grant from Community Bank Sarina

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A fast-moving vegetation fire broke out in West Mackay on Thursday, November 7, blowing thick clouds of smoke across the area as emergency services from multiple agencies assisted on scene.

The fire ignited near the old cemetery on Cemetery Road around 12:30pm, rapidly spreading across dry grassland and threatening nearby businesses, including Meals on Wheels and the Mackay Women's Centre. Evacuations were quickly carried out as a precautionary measure.

Ten fire crews were dispatched to the scene, with police redirecting traffic and establishing roadblocks to ensure the safety of local residents. The blaze was fuelled by dry vegetation, making it difficult for heavy equipment to access the fire's core.

In response, fire crews conducted strategic backburns to contain the fire to the North and West. Aviation rescue crews remained on standby with long-range water cannons in case the fire spread.

The fire’s intensity was exacerbated by the dry conditions, with thick grass and high winds making containment a challenge. As smoke spread across the region, authorities issued advisories for residents to stay indoors, close windows and doors, and avoid driving through areas affected by smoke. While no properties were at risk, emergency services continued to monitor the situation closely.

Parts of Hume Street, Cemetery Road, Holland Street, and Shakespeare Street were closed to traffic to allow emergency crews to manage the fire safely.

By the end of the day, after several hours of firefighting efforts, all roads in the vicinity of West Mackay were reopened.

Though the fire was contained, authorities are now urging locals to exercise caution and “be very careful,” particularly smokers who may carelessly dispose of cigarette butts from their vehicles. With the scorching season approaching and the fire risk escalating, it is more important than ever to act responsibly and prevent further incidents.

Discover general safety guidelines and stay updated on future developments via www.fire.qld.gov.au.

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Multiple roads were closed to protect local businesses and residents as thick smoke billowed from a fast-moving vegetation fire in West Mackay on Thursday, November 7. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Year 6 students at Bucasia State School are putting their creativity and business skills to work, transforming old toys into renewed treasures to help raise funds for their school.

Inspired by a UK charity, students Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker have designed a fundraiser that transforms unwanted stuffed toys into “adoptable” gifts. Each toy will come with an adoption certificate and a hint of scented oil, offering a unique and affordable gift option for all at the school’s Christmas fair.

The project acts as both a fundraiser and a key component of a business and economics assessment, challenging the students to create a budget-conscious business plan. With a starting budget of just $20, they devised their idea in a group whilst taking into account factors such as cost management and marketing.

Mitchell’s mum, Nicole, praised the project, saying, “It’s a really good initiative for them… and they’re working very hard on it.”

“The boys’ idea is to reuse unwanted stuffed toys, clean them, put a little bit of nice-smelling oil on them, and then make up little adoption certificates… and ultimately adopt them out for gold coin donations at their school Christmas fair as gifts.”

The project has already drawn a multitude of community support around her neighbourhood after she pitched the idea to her neighbours in a community Facebook page. Since her call for donations, many locals have contributed their pre-loved toys to be restored, including a senior who generously donated her entire collection of cherished stuffed bears, knowing they would bring joy to the next generation.

“The little community here really gets in and behind projects like this,” Nicole added.

As Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker continue their preparations, they’re still welcoming more stuffed toy donations to expand their selection. The students hope their efforts inspire future classes to find creative ways to support their school and give back to the community.

The Bucasia State School Fair is an event that brings together students and families, and this year, with creative initiatives like the boys' adoption booth, it promises to be even more special. The fair will offer students across all grades a chance to enjoy festive shopping, games, and activities, all while supporting school resources.

If you would like to donate a stuffed toy to this cause, please contact nicoleandray2@gmail.com

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Through creativity, community support, and a touch of business savvy, Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker – who is absent from the photo - are turning unwanted stuffed toys into 'adoptable' gifts for their school Christmas fair. Photos supplied

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Council would like to advise residents in the Devereux Creek area that their bin collection day will be changing.

The change will take place on Monday, November 18, with both the general waste and recycling bins being collected on this day.

Collection day is required to change due to population growth in the area, and as such, needs to change to fit in with the schedule to ensure all bins are collected.

Reminder stickers have also been placed on residents’ bins advising of the change of collection day.

Residents are asked to place their bins on the kerb by 6am on Monday, November 18.

General waste bins will continue to be collected weekly and recycling bins will be collected fortnightly.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused. For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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By Hannah McNamara

Walkerston State School students recently paid tribute to Australia’s heroes with a vivid chalk art display in honour of Remembrance Day on Monday, November 11.

Covering a wall with colourful illustrations, they created intricate drawings of poppies - both red and purple - symbolising soldiers and the animals that served alongside them. Crosses, flags, and wreaths also added a meaningful touch to the artwork, reflecting a deeper understanding that radiated through their creative expressions.

Among the artists were Year 6 students Matilda Brand, Chloe Schatkowski, Heath Rogers, and Iyla Hill, each contributing their perspective to the artwork and explaining what the day meant to them.

Chloe shared, “It represents the soldiers who gave their lives as the ultimate sacrifice during all the conflicts that they served in trying to protect our country.”

Matilda reflected on the respect embodied by the tribute, saying, “It shows respect and that we are thankful that they served for our country for us.”

Heath emphasised the importance of freedom, remarking, “It’s to remember the people who died for our freedom.”

Iyla acknowledged not only the soldiers but also the animals that served, adding, “It’s to remember all the soldiers that have passed in the war and the animals that died during each and every war.”

The children’s tribute didn’t go unnoticed, as Walkerston RSL Sub Branch member and veteran Rod Francisco attended the event to engage with the students about the significance of Remembrance Day.

Francisco, a veteran with multiple medals for his service in Iraq, East Timor and the Middle East, shared his thoughts on the day.

"For a lot of veterans, the most important thing for us is our connection to community," he explained.

"It’s really important that we maintain that connection, and by doing that here with the school… it really is important for us that they connect back to the service and recognise the sacrifice that some people have made."

Francisco explained the significance of wearing medals over the heart in a tradition that honours the lives lost during service.

“On days like today, a lot of people put their hands over their medals… One of the medals are over your heart to symbolise that importance.

“Another tradition is to just shield your medals for those that made the ultimate sacrifice and didn't return.”

For Francisco and his fellow veterans, the students’ curiosity and respect are always touching.

“There’s a real strong and genuine interest in it… and it’s aways great to see.”

Walkerston State School hopes to make next year’s Remembrance Day an even bigger one, with a focus on bridging generations and preserving the memory of service and sacrifice.

By teaching the next generation through creativity and respect, the legacy of those who served will be remembered for decades to come.

Lest We Forget

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Year 6 students from Walkerston State School: Matilda Brand, Chloe Schatkowski, Heath Rogers, and Iyla Hill with Walkerston RSL Sub Branch member and veteran Rod Francisco. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A devastating house fire on Wednesday, November 6, has left a single mother and her five young children with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

Firefighters arrived at the Napier Street home just after 2pm to find it fully engulfed in flames. While the fire has left the house in ruins, it is believed to have been caused by a faulty electrical appliance.

Just an hour before her children were due to arrive home from school, the Mackay mother was alerted by the smoke alarms and managed to escape the house in time without obtaining serious burns or lung damage. Though treated for smoke inhalation at Mackay Base Hospital, she was not seriously injured.

In the wake of the fire, family have since reached out for help through a local Facebook page, asking the community for donations of clothing, food, and household items. The response was overwhelming as the comment section quickly flooded with offers of support, including donations of furniture, accommodation and food vouchers, all aimed at helping the family rebuild.

The mother expressed her gratitude in a sincere comment that read: "Thank you all. I don't have many words but thank God I was safe in this house today and my girls were at school.

“I thank God for some of the neighbours that helped, as well as the emergency crew. Our past just went up in flames, but thank God my car is okay.

“I just thank God my girls and I are okay at the end of the day and that we weren’t hurt."

The community's response has been nothing short of a blessing, with family members, friends and local residents offering their support in a magnitude of ways. While the mother is heartbroken over the loss of her family’s possessions, she is grateful for the outpouring of kindness from her community as they face the challenge ahead of rebuilding their lives.

With Christmas just around the corner, the timing of the fire only adds to the emotional and financial strain. However, despite the monumental task of replacing everything, the community is determined to get this mother and her children back on their feet. A GoFundMe page has been created by a family member to assist with the financial and emotional burden, offering hope that they can regain a touch of normality in time for Christmas.

“We will need support in this hard time, and thank you to those that are willing to help. It honestly means a lot,” said the mother.

For those willing to help, please consider donating at www.gofundme.com.

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A single 40-year-old mother to five has lost everything in a Napier Street house fire just weeks before Christmas

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The long-awaited transformation of North Wall Beach is one step closer to reality, with the final design officially revealed. North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb, who first announced the project back in April, confirmed that the design is now heading to tender for construction.

“We’re excited to announce the design for the North Wall Beach recreational area has been finalised,” Mr Webb said.

“Community engagement has been at the forefront of this project.

“We have worked closely with representatives from our key stakeholders such as Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation, Mackay and District Turtle Watch and members of NQBP’s Port of Mackay Community Reference Group (CRG) on the final design.

“We also received more than 60 submissions from the broader community through our online survey.”

Thanks to the great response and positive feedback received during the community consultation, some adjustments were made to the final design.

Key themes from the community consultation included the desire to maintain North Wall’s natural environment, improve accessibility and an increase of facilities such as parking, seating and shade.

Included in the updated design is an increase in the number of car parks, and an overflow area adjacent to the car park to address these concerns.

The project budget also increased, with the investment doubling in size to two million dollars.

Mr Webb said the project had been initiated to provide port community members with improved amenities.

“At NQBP, we share the passion the community has for safeguarding the local environment and are ensuring continued recreational access to North Wall Beach,” Mr Webb said.

“We’re looking forward to enhancing the area’s natural beauty while maintaining its unique and peaceful outlook for the community and future generations."

With a local office based in Mackay, Queensland-based landscape architects RPS leveraged its extensive experience in coastal landscape development to prepare and finalise the design.

RPS Principal Practice Leader Tim Connor said RPS was pleased to deliver this project for the Mackay community.

“Our goal was to deliver landscape design that met the community’s needs, and was true to the distinctive character, climate and culture of the North Wall site; I believe we’ve achieved this,” Mr Connor said.

Pending the tender process, construction is expected to begin in early 2025 and be completed in mid-2025.

Information on the project, including the final design is available on NQBP’s website.

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Aerial image of North Wall Beach recreational area as it currently stands

North Wall recreational area final design. Images supplied: NQBP

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Moranbah’s much-anticipated new hospital is nearing the finish line, with staff currently moving furniture and equipment into the modern facility. The hospital’s interior design features neutral tones of light blue, timber, and marble, creating a calm and welcoming environment for patients, visitors, and staff.

Outside, a newly constructed ambulance entry road leads directly to the Emergency Department, which now boasts four treating bays, a resuscitation bay, as well as procedure and plaster rooms, all in the final stages of fit-out.

Residents driving past the hospital on Mills Avenue will notice new entry and exit points, complete with updated facade signage. The exterior landscaping, road markings, and navigation signage have been completed to ensure smooth traffic flow and enhance safety for all visitors.

Inside, the hospital has been designed for efficiency, with three main reception and triage areas located at the main entrance, Mental Health wing, and Emergency Department. The Community Health wing is a highlight, featuring a large rehabilitation gym, consultation rooms, and spaces designed for group sessions such as the Best Beginnings program.

Each of the hospital’s 10 inpatient rooms now includes its own ensuite, with 8 rooms offering single-bed occupancy for added comfort and privacy.

With final preparations underway, the new Moranbah Hospital is on track to open its doors by the end of November, 2024, providing a significant boost to healthcare services in the region.

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Photos supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has reached the three-quarter point of the 2024 crushing season, with its eight North Queensland mills collectively processing 11.78 million tonnes of cane. This represents 77% of the estimated 15.34 million tonne crop for the season.

The Mackay Region, serviced by the Plane Creek mill, continues to crush towards Christmas with an average yield of approximately 86 tonnes per hectare. Fine weather has supported strong CCS (Commercial Cane Sugar) results, with the weekly average at 14.38 units and a season-to-date average of 14.06 units. Wilmar expects the Mackay Region to continue crushing into January, focusing on processing the entire crop before the season concludes.

Ian Davies, Wilmar’s General Manager of Cane Supply and Grower Relations, praised the consistent performance of the Mackay Region. "The Plane Creek mill is achieving excellent yields, and the team is doing a fantastic job to stay on track despite the challenges posed by weather fluctuations," he said.

Meanwhile, other regions are also progressing well. The Burdekin mills are set to finish before Christmas, with CCS levels hitting budgeted targets, while Proserpine is cutting above estimates at 103.6% of its original forecast. As the 2025 season planning begins, Wilmar encourages growers to update their farm maps on GrowerWeb for accurate crop predictions.

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