Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
With nearly two decades at Blacks Real Estate, Peter Francis has built a reputation across Mackay for honest service, strong negotiation skills and consistent results. Joining the agency in 2008, Peter now serves as Director and Sales Consultant, helping vendors and buyers navigate the property market with a focus on professionalism and clear communication. Originally trained as a surveyor at the University of South Australia, Peter later transitioned into real estate, where he went on to achieve national and international recognition, including National Top 20 rankings on seven occasions and a Hall of Fame award during a previous role. Since moving to Mackay in 2004 with his wife Kylie and their family, Peter has become deeply involved in the local community, balancing a busy career with raising five children and contributing to school communities and the Mackay Chamber of Commerce. Known for his calm approach and ability to mediate between buyers and sellers, Peter said building trust with clients has always been central to his work. His long list of repeat clients and referrals reflects the strong relationships he has developed across the region over the years. Blacks Real Estate continues to operate from Wood Street in Mackay and Dysart Garden Plaza, servicing residential, commercial and rural clients across the region. CAPTION: Peter Francis, Director and Sales Consultant at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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We need to talk about something that happens far too often – black kittens are usually the last to be chosen. Yet they are often the very best companions. These kittens are not just “another kitten”. They are the ones who follow you from room to room like your shadow. Who climb into your lap and stay there. Who greet you at the door like a dog and want to be involved in everything you do. They don’t just live in your home – they become part of your everyday life. Our black kittens are incredibly affectionate – true lap cats who crave human connection. They are confident and curious, often the first to explore and investigate. Playful and cheeky, they are full of personality and mischief. They are also highly social. They will chat to you, respond to you and connect with you. Once they choose you, they are yours completely. And in real life, they are absolutely stunning – with glossy coats, striking eyes, and an elegant, sleek presence that photos simply don’t capture. If you have ever wanted a cat that truly bonds with you, that seeks you out and becomes your constant little companion, come and meet our black kittens. Because once you meet them, you will understand. To register your expression of interest, please contact foster carer Janet on 0423 768 805. Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
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There’s a type of exhaustion many women carry that doesn’t disappear with a good night’s sleep. It’s not just physical tiredness. It’s the constant mental juggling. Remembering school events, organising appointments, replying to messages, planning meals, checking homework, thinking ahead, caring for ageing parents, supporting friends, managing work deadlines, and somehow trying to look after yourself somewhere in between. Even during moments of “rest,” many women describe feeling like their brain never truly switches off. This invisible load is something women carry every day, and over time, the body often carries it too. As a women’s and pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who come in with symptoms like pelvic pain, bladder urgency, tension, leaking, headaches, jaw clenching, shallow breathing, or a feeling that their body is constantly tight or “on edge.” Many are surprised to learn that stress and nervous system overload can play a significant role in how the body feels and functions. When we’re stressed for long periods, the body naturally shifts into a protective state. Muscles tighten, breathing becomes shallow, sleep can be disrupted, and the nervous system stays on high alert. It’s a helpful response in short bursts, but when the body stays in that heightened state for weeks, months, or years, symptoms can begin to appear. And the pelvic floor is particularly influenced by this. Many people think the pelvic floor only matters during pregnancy or after birth, but these muscles respond closely to stress, posture, breathing, and tension patterns throughout the entire body. Some women unknowingly hold tension through their pelvic floor all day long, almost like clenching their jaw without realising. Over time, this can contribute to discomfort, urgency, constipation, pain, or difficulty fully relaxing the muscles. What’s important to understand is that this does not mean the body is “broken.” Often, it’s a body that has been coping, adapting, and carrying a great deal for a long time. And while exercise and movement are incredibly important, healing isn’t always about pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about creating moments where the body feels safe enough to soften and let go. That might look like slowing your breathing for a few minutes while sitting in the car before school pick-up. Going for a walk without turning it into another task to complete. Stretching before bed. Asking for help. Resting without guilt. Learning how to relax your pelvic floor, not just strengthen it. Small moments matter. Women are often exceptionally good at caring for everyone else while quietly ignoring their own symptoms. But tension, fatigue, and overwhelm are not simply things to “push through” forever. The body has a way of asking for attention eventually. If your body feels tight, tired, or not quite like itself, it may be worth listening with curiosity rather than criticism. Support can make a meaningful difference, whether that’s through movement, stress management, pelvic health physiotherapy, or simply giving yourself permission to slow down occasionally. Because women were never meant to carry everything alone, and the body shouldn’t have to either.
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Word of mouth is some of the most powerful marketing your business can get. It’s trusted, it’s personal + in regional areas especially, it carries a LOT of weight. Most businesses will proudly say, “Most of our work comes from word of mouth”. Which is awesome – but then they treat it like something that just magically happens. The truth is – the businesses getting the most word of mouth are usually doing a few things really well. People need a reason to talk about your business in the first place. And no, “good service” on its own usually isn’t enough anymore – that’s the baseline expectation from people! The businesses people tend to recommend are the ones that are memorable in some way. Maybe they communicate really well, make life easier, solve a specific problem, have a strong personality, do something unexpectedly fast or simply make people feel looked after. Another big one? Visibility. People are far more likely to recommend businesses they remember (I know – what a shocker lol). If someone hasn’t seen or heard from you in two years, you’re probably not top of mind when a friend asks for a recommendation. This is where consistent marketing does a lot of heavy lifting. Social media, email marketing, networking, community involvement, even signage – all of it helps reinforce who you are, what you do + why someone should choose you. Clarity matters too. If people can’t easily explain what your business does, who you help or what makes you different, referrals get weaker. The easier you are to describe, the easier you are to recommend!! One of the simplest things businesses can do is also be more specific when talking about the work they want. Instead of “let us know if you hear of anyone”, try “we’re looking for more commercial fitout work” or “we’d love more bookkeeping clients in construction”. Specific prompts help people connect the dots faster. People can’t recommend a business they forgot existed. Word of mouth doesn’t just come from doing good work – it comes from being remembered when someone needs what you do. Photo credit: Coffee + Hops
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In a powerful demonstration of community compassion, the Bowen Community Centre, led by Sally Roberts with support from Lauren Miller and Alison Byde of Abbot Point Operations, served 443 hot dogs to locals during a recent outreach event aimed at supporting people experiencing homelessness.
The event, on Tuesday 26 August, was made possible through the generous donation of produce by Andrew, manager of Woolworths, along with the enthusiastic participation of local businesses and schools. Each hot dog purchased helped fund backpacks, swags, and tents for vulnerable members of the Bowen community.
“This issue brings light to what I see every day,” said Sally Roberts, the Community Connect worker.
“Currently, 33 registered homeless individuals rely on our services. The need is urgent and growing.”
So far this year, Sally has raised approximately $2,500 to support essential programs. However, the lack of crisis accommodation remains a pressing concern.
“It’s heartbreaking,” said Stephanie, Executive Officer of the Centre. “We simply don’t have the facilities to house our homeless community. Offering a tent or backpack may seem inadequate, but it’s the only help we can provide.”
Kelly from Hillery Group added, “It’s a great cause, and we’re thrilled to have been part of it and to support the community.”
The Bowen Community Centre thanked the following organisations for contributing to the success of the event: Lowcocks Builders, Bowen Childcare, Hillery Group, Bowen Industrial Hire, Queens Beach State School, Rocks on Rock, Abbot Point Operations, Flexi School, Idea Placements, Uniting Church, Kylie’s Dental, and St Mary’s School.
The Centre offers a range of support services, including:
• Soup kitchen
• Food bank
• Shower facilities
• Laundry access
If you know someone experiencing homelessness, please contact the Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753. When in doubt, refer them to the Bowen Community Centre—where help and connection to the right services are always available.
Paddy may only be six months old, but this Bull Arab-x pup already has a heart full of love to give. Rescued from the pound alongside his brother, Paddy now finds himself on his own for the first time after his brother was adopted. While he’s still adjusting, this sweet boy is eager to find a forever family to call his own.
If ever there was a dog who deserves a happily-ever-after, it’s Paddy. With his gentle nature and playful spirit, he’s the perfect mix of sunshine and snuggles — happy to soak up the sun, play with his doggy pals, or simply enjoy human company.
What makes Paddy so special?
Paddy has already shown he has all the makings of a loyal and loving companion. Now, all he needs is someone willing to open their heart and home to him. Could that someone be you?
Email Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc. now at Bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com.
If there are two things every good tradie loves, it’s a bacon-and-egg brekkie and a yarn over a hot coffee. That’s exactly what’s on the menu when Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday hosts the next Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry Pop Up Chamber on Friday 12 September from 9am to 11am.
This free, drop-in event is all about bringing the Whitsundays business community together – no speeches, no fuss, just great food, fresh coffee from McMoon Coffee Van, a StarFM outdoor broadcast, and a chance to win raffle prizes. Whether you’re a tradie on the go, a small business owner, or just keen to check in with the Chamber team, this is your chance to catch up, connect, and have your say.
Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday is the perfect host. Since opening its Cannonvale store in 2002, the business has been keeping locals stocked with everything from nuts and bolts to full-scale building materials. Part of the Mitre 10 family since 2017, Porters is still proudly family-owned after more than 140 years. With its specialist paint store, Inspirations Paint Cannonvale, now open inside the store, it’s become a true one-stop shop for the region’s trades, DIY projects, and weekend warriors.
The Pop Up Chamber is open to everyone so bring your work crew, grab a coffee, and enjoy a BBQ brekkie on the house. Stick around for a chance to win some top prizes and meet other business owners who are shaping the Whitsundays.
What: Pop Up Chamber BBQ Brekkie, coffee, and prize draw
When: 9am–11am, Friday 12 September 2025
Where: Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday, 2 Carlo Drive, Cannonvale
The Whitsunday Business Conference held at TAFE Queensland Cannonvale Campus last Thursday, was a huge success.
Chamber President Allan Milostic said the event was sold out and feedback was outstanding.
“This year’s Conference was a sell-out, with 120 registrations representing 70 organisations across the Whitsundays. Feedback has been outstanding – more than 75% of attendees told us they loved the day, and everyone has walked away with actionable ideas to implement straight away,” he said.
“Delegates also reported stronger connections, fresh insights, and practical tips to improve efficiency and productivity.
“There’s clear support for making this an annual event, and we encourage businesses wanting to be part of the 2026 Conference to get in touch with the Chamber.”
Chamber President Allan Milostic also said the aim of the conference was simple; to provide a regular focal point for the Whitsundays business community and a chance to come together, learn from each other, and tackle the opportunities that lie ahead.
“The idea for the conference started pre-covid with the, then, Proserpine Chamber of Commerce. We returned to the idea in 2024 with the inaugural event held May 2024 with just over 55 people. The feedback we received was overwhelmingly positive, and it helped shape the program you’ll experience today. This year’s conference is truly a step forward, built by locals, for locals,” he said at the conference.
“I’d like to sincerely thank our sponsors, without whom this event would not be possible: Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, Tassal, Shiift, My Pathway, the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee, Mackay and Whitsunday Life, and TAFE Queensland. Your partnership over the 2024 and 2025 conferences has been critical in bringing this vision to life.
“Of course, events like this don’t happen without a lot of work behind the scenes. Our Conference Committee, chaired by Megan Taylor, has worked tirelessly alongside Jannah Baker of Scallywag Fabrication, Julia Wheway of TAFE Queensland, and Dr Julia Evans, our Chamber Liaison. Together with the support of our incredible volunteers, they’ve turned an idea into a program that’s ready to inspire and deliver value to every delegate here today. A big thank you to all of them.”
See more social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/2dghrcuk
Hello everyone!
After an incredible five weeks exploring the Northern Territory and Western Australia, Ruth2Reef is back!
There were so many unforgettable moments on my travels, but one that truly stands out was swimming with humpback whales on the Ningaloo Reef. I joined an eco tour and was lucky enough to get so close that one almost brushed me with its pectoral fin!
I’m excited to share stories, travel tips, and insights from my journey, along with the inspiring environmental initiatives I discovered on that side of the country.
In this weeks very exciting edition we have more on humpback whales, maori wrasse's, and the wonderful whale sharks!
Happy Reading!
Ruth
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The humpback whales have arrived to the Whitsundays on mass and the breeding season has begun.
A female who wants to mate will slap her pectoral fins on the surface and make a trumpeting noise to signal to the males.
Males in the Whitsundays are often in pods of 2 - 4 males. If they hear a female signaling, they will move very fast in her direction. Often multiple groups can be seen moving towards her at speed.
Once the males reach the female, they will chase her demonstrating their fitness and endurance, trying to be the fastest, the best singer and the most acrobatic. Their song lasts 30 minutes, but will repeat it over and over to show their fitness. They perform large breaches landing on their backs to appear bigger and gain attention. They will try to outrun the other males. They can be aggressive to other males below the surface and tail slap on the surface to try to warn the others off.
This is a heat run and can last over 24 hours.
One a female has selected a male they will swim together and move in motions like diving and rolling that resemble a playful courtship. It’s very gentle and tactile with the male gently caressing the female with his pectoral fins. It’s still up to the female if she actually mates with the male.
Once pregnant the female will return to the feeding ground to gain body condition. The male will remain in the breeding ground looking for other mating opportunities.
Whales are now being spotted on most boat tours, ferry trips and mainland vantage points and from balconies on islands like Hamilton Island.
To see photos and videos of recent sightings go to the Whales of the Whitsundays Facebook group.
Contributed by Kellie Leonard - Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays
Photo credit: Glen Bradford
There is no doubt, the Maori Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), is one of the most popular fish on the Great Barrier Reef. And for good reason.
It is renowned for its large size, striking colours and friendly personality. An encounter with a Maori Wrasse will make your day.
Maori Wrasse are so named for their distinct facial markings which resemble those seen on traditional Maori warriors in New Zealand. The males are most easily identified by their large size and large, prominent hump on its forehead.
This hump contains an air and oil combination which acts in part as a flotation device which counteracts the weight of their pronounced jaw.
A male Maori Wrasse can live up to 25 years, grow up to an impressive 2.3m and weigh up to 190kg.
The female Maori Wrasse normally grows to around 1m and can live up to 32 years of age, yet they have a very slow breeding rate as they do not mature until they are around 4 to 6 years old.
The Maori Wrasse are protogynous hermaphrodites: That basically means that most Maori Wrasse start life as a female but transform into a male at a specific point in their lifecycle.
Maori Wrasse have a varied diet of small fish, crustaceans and marine invertebrates. They have a noteworthy set of teeth known as “protractile” teeth, which means they can project outwards to better catch passing prey. The Maori Wrasse have very strong jaws that they use to crush shells, and they have even adopted the method of banging shells on rocks to crack the shells. They are also known for being one of the few predators of the sharp-spined, toxic crown-of-thorns starfish, which helps protect the Reef from this prodigious coral eater.
Due to past hunting pressure, the Maori Wrasse is a fully protected species on the Great Barrier Reef as they are a highly endangered species.
Contributed by Whitsunday Conservation Council.
Queensland is one of the few places on Earth where the extraordinary platypus can still be spotted in the wild. With its iconic duck-like bill, dense waterproof fur, and venomous spurs on its ankles, this enigmatic mammal is a living relic, one of the most evolutionarily distinct creatures on the planet. Yet, for all its unique adaptations, the platypus is highly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Once widespread across Eastern Australia, populations have been steadily declining, particularly in the Murray-Darling Basin. The catastrophic 2019–2020 bushfires wiped out thousands of animals along the East Coast, leaving rivers choked with ash and debris. These waterways, vital for hunting and shelter, became treacherous for platypus and other aquatic species.
Highly sensitive to their surroundings, platypus require clean rivers and secure burrows along riverbanks to feed, breed, and shelter. Alarmingly, research from the University of New South Wales shows that suitable platypus habitat has decreased by 22 per cent over the past 30 years.
Each decline is a stark reminder of how fragile Australia’s ecosystems are. Protecting waterways, restoring habitats, and raising awareness are vital to ensuring that this evolutionary marvel, continues to thrive in its ancestral home.
Fun Fact: Platypuses are smaller than you might think: males are around 50 cm long and weigh 1.5 kg, while females are usually 40 cm long and 1 kg.
A wild Platypus in Eungella National Park. Photo Credit: Ruth Puddefoot.
In the quiet backstreets of Jubilee Pocket, just minutes from the bustle of Airlie Beach, a grassroots movement is working tirelessly to keep the Whitsundays pristine. At Eco Barge HQ, visitors are invited to step inside the world of marine conservation and witness how one community is safeguarding the Great Barrier Reef.
The Eco HQ Experience Tour, held every Tuesday morning, offers more than a window into conservation; it immerses participants in the frontline of environmental action. Over 90 minutes, visitors trace the journey of discarded plastics and marine debris. Inside the Ocean Trash Recycle Shack, individuals are shown how bottles, ropes and fragments of plastic are transformed into new creations, from jewellery to artwork, and you can be at the heart of the action.
The tour also introduces visitors to the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, where sick and injured turtles are treated before being released back into the wild. While sightings depend on the condition of the patients in care, the story of each turtle offers a stark reminder of the threats facing marine life.
Eco Barge founder Libby Edge says the experience is about connection as much as education.
“What we’re doing at Eco HQ is incredible – from protecting our islands from marine debris to caring for sick and injured turtles. I wanted to open our doors so visitors and locals can see behind the scenes, learn about our programs, and discover just how much difference a community can make.” – Libby Edge, Founder, Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.
Set against the backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef, Eco HQ is more than an education centre; it is a call to action. By the end of the tour, visitors leave not only with knowledge, but with the understanding that every choice, every bottle, every bag carries weight in the ocean.
Book your tour today by heading to the Eco Barge Clean Sea’s website: https://www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au/tours/
What: Eco Barge Clean Seas Experience Tour
Where: Eco Barge HQ, Boatyard Rd, Jubilee Pocket, QLD
When: Every Tuesday at 10am (1.5 hours)
Price: $30 Adult | $20 Child
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The Mackay region’s ingenuity and resilience were on full display at the 2025 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards Gala Dinner, held Friday 22 August at the MECC. The black-tie celebration, hosted by Ed Kavalee and backed by live music from the Luke Miller Band, showcased the best of the mining equipment, technology and services (METS) and resources sector.
Seven awards recognised excellence across safety, culture, community, manufacturing, innovation and inclusion, with standout winners including FMS Group, Richglen, Gardian, IQ Solutions, M&P Services, North Queensland Bulk Ports, and Glencore’s Colin Hoyle.
RIN General Manager Dean Kirkwood praised the sector’s ability to adapt under global and economic pressures, while Chair Tim Magoffin highlighted the region’s role as a leader across industries from mining to renewables.
The night also carried moments of deep emotion, as Gardian Director Luke Phillips dedicated his community award to his late brother Peter, a driving force behind the company’s culture.
Award winners gathered on stage with Resource Industry Network Chair Tim Magoffin to celebrate excellence across the METS and resources sector. Photo credit: Liz Andrews
Amber’s fourth birthday was made extra special last week when Mackay Northern Beaches police paid her a surprise visit. The young fan, known for her love of all things police, was thrilled when officers stopped by to celebrate her big day.
During the visit, Amber had the chance to meet the officers, explore the police car, and even sit in the driver’s seat, beaming from ear to ear. The surprise brought smiles, laughter, and unforgettable memories for the birthday girl and her family.
Mackay Police shared their well-wishes for Amber, saying they hoped her birthday would be one she would always remember. The visit highlighted the strong connection between local police and the community, showing how even a small gesture can make a big impact.
For Amber and her family, the day was a perfect blend of fun, excitement, and community spirit – proof that sometimes, the best birthday gifts come with flashing lights and sirens.
This Sunday we celebrate Father’s Day – a chance to honour the dads and father figures who help shape our lives.
There’s so much weight carried on the shoulders of men. Often, the expectation is to be the breadwinner, yet many step up as incredible caregivers too. From fathers and uncles to grandfathers and mentors, men play a powerful role in raising children, teaching resilience and encouraging courage in everyday life.
I see this balance in my own family. While I hover nervously when our little one takes a risk, my husband is the steady voice saying, “brush it off” and urging him to get back up. That contrast – comfort and courage – is what helps children flourish.
Last year, when I was in the thick of chemotherapy, he played both mum and dad. Because I was cytotoxic, he took on every hands-on role – from baths to nappy changes – all while keeping our family running through my three-weekly chemo cycles. He really is the best dad, and this note is dedicated to him, and to all the father figures who step up with love, patience and strength.
Happy Father’s Day – and here’s one for the dads: Why don’t skeletons ever fight each other? Because they don’t have the guts.
Amanda
In a bid to ensure the safety of the region’s children, Queensland has drawn a line in the sand against predators, taking a landmark step with the introduction of Daniel’s Law to Parliament — the state’s first public child sex offender register.
Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, welcomed the landmark reform, saying it will put the rights of victims and families ahead of offenders by giving parents the tools they need to better protect their children.
“Nothing is more important than the safety of our kids,” Mr Dalton said.
“For too long, convicted predators have been able to hide in the shadows. Daniel’s Law will shine a light on repeat offenders and give parents the information they need to make informed decisions for their families.”
The Bill sets out a three-tiered disclosure framework, closely modelled on the proven West Australian system:
Tier 1: A publicly accessible website naming offenders who have failed to meet reporting obligations and whose whereabouts are unknown. Full name, photo and year of birth will be listed.
Tier 2: An online application allowing Queensland residents to view photographs of reportable offenders living in their area.
Tier 3: An application process enabling parents and guardians to confirm if a particular person with unsupervised access to their child is a registered offender.
Reportable offences include grooming a child under 16, indecent treatment of a child, and the production or distribution of child exploitation material.
The law honours Sunshine Coast teenager Daniel Morcombe, who was tragically killed in 2003, and reflects two decades of tireless advocacy by his parents through the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.
Mr Dalton said the reform demonstrates the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to child safety, delivering change within its first 10 months in office.
“Daniel’s Law is one of the most significant child safety reforms in Queensland’s history,” he said.
“This is about transparency, accountability, and protecting children who cannot protect themselves. As a father and as the Member for Mackay, I am proud to support this law.”
Safeguards will also be built into the framework, with new offences introduced to prevent the misuse of information, ensuring the register is used strictly for child protection and not for vigilantism.
Daniel’s Law will be reviewed by a Parliamentary Committee before returning to the House, with the Government committed to making it law before the end of the year.
Queensland has introduced Daniel’s Law, the state’s first public child sex offender register, in a landmark move to protect children and empower parents with vital information. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
It’s not every day you see police horses patrolling the town with their respected riders from Queensland Police Service. But that’s exactly what Mackay locals experienced this week, when two mounted officers from Brisbane arrived in town after completing patrols in Airlie Beach.
Children reached out to pat the horses, parents snapped photos, and plenty of locals were left starstruck at the sight of Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte with police horse Lance, and Constable Debbie Brunschlight with police horse Karma.
“We do all sorts of ceremonial work, like opening big shows with government officials, but the horses are also a strong presence in the community,” Constable Brunschlight said.
“They’re beautiful animals and people love coming up to meet them.”
The mounted officers are affectionately known as “peace-keepers,” using their elevated position in crowds to spot issues before they happen. Just last weekend they were on duty at the Australian March, ensuring community safety and keeping the event calm and family-friendly.
Sergeant Bassingthwaighte said Mackay’s response had been overwhelmingly positive, and crime noticeably quiet.
“It’s great to see how much people enjoy the horses. I think they appreciate the extra police presence, and in a bit of a different way. It’s been very popular,” he said.
“They are a combined one and a half tons of deterrence. Everyone’s been very well-behaved around them, which is part of their attraction, and they encourage good behaviour.”
Speaking about his own pathway into the mounted unit, Bassingthwaighte credited his rural upbringing.
“I grew up on a cattle property when I was younger, then worked in the city for a while. When I decided to join the mounted unit, I had to brush up on my riding skills and pass an assessment to get in.”
The Brisbane-based officers and their horses wrapped up their Mackay patrols on Wednesday, leaving behind plenty of smiles and lasting memories of Queensland Police’s unique four-legged peace-keepers.
Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte with his horse Lance and Constable Debbie Brunschlight with her horse Karma patrolled Mackay, delighting locals and providing a commanding, community-focused presence. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Dangerous Driving Charges Laid
Queensland Police have charged a 24-year-old man after a series of driving offences in Mackay earlier this month.
At around 6pm on 5 August, police responded to reports of a Ford Falcon being driven dangerously near Mackay Harbour. The vehicle was located with a blown rear tyre and subsequently seized for mechanical inspection.
It is alleged the man drove dangerously along the Mackay breakwater, overtaking vehicles, crossing unbroken lines, and performing dangerous acts at the end of the breakwater.
The 24-year-old man, from Walkerston, was arrested on 13 August and charged with multiple offences, including:
• Dangerous operation of a vehicle
• Offence relating to operating a vehicle during number plate confiscation
• Offence to remove, tamper with, or modify a number plate confiscation notice
• Driving on a P2 licence without green P plates
• Driving or parking a light vehicle on the road while defective
He is due to appear before Mackay Magistrates Court on 1 September.
The Ford Falcon involved in the incidents has been impounded.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Moranbah Man Charged Over Burglary And Property Damage
A 37-year-old Moranbah man has been arrested and charged following an alleged break-in and wilful damage incident on 27 August.
Police allege that at approximately 5:30pm, the man entered a dwelling on Shannon Drive, Moranbah, causing extensive damage to the property.
The man was scheduled to appear in Emerald Magistrates Court on 28 August.
Reference: QP2501521135
High-Speed Drink Driver Intercepted On Peak Downs Highway
Police have charged a man after he was allegedly caught driving at high speed while under the influence of alcohol in Coppabella on Friday, 22 August.
Shortly after 6pm, officers conducting patrols on Peak Downs Highway observed a Toyota Hilux ute travelling at excessive speed. It is alleged the 32-year-old man from Jimboomba was recorded driving at 148km/h in a 100km/h zone before being intercepted by police.
Further testing allegedly revealed the driver was over the legal alcohol limit, returning a breath analysis reading of 0.118.
The man has been issued with a Notice to Appear in Moranbah Magistrates Court on 18 September.
Police continue to remind motorists: if you plan to drink, plan not to drive.
Moranbah Man Charged With Assault
Police have charged a 28-year-old man following an alleged assault at a licensed premise in Moranbah on 17 August.
It is alleged that at around 12:30am, the man assaulted a 21-year-old at a venue on Griffin Street. The victim was taken to Moranbah Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The 28-year-old Moranbah man was arrested at a local address on 18 August and has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm.
He is scheduled to appear before Moranbah Magistrates Court on 18 September.
Reference: QP2501451397
Photo source: Queensland Police Service
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