Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
There are new things to consider when buying real estate in Australia. Up until last month, people buying real estate in Sydney really only considered the capital growth they were expecting to create within just a few years of making their purchase. Paying $1.2 million for an inner-city two-bedroom apartment didn’t matter so much if it was going to be worth $1.5 million two years later. It didn’t really matter that the crap rental returns you got for that price didn’t go anywhere near covering the mortgage because the old negative gearing benefit meant you could claim the losses on your tax. Things have changed. Negative gearing has gone and prices are dropping in Sydney … so that $1.2 million apartment doesn’t look so enticing any more, even though it’s now $1.1 million. Other cities have also been hit hard. Melbourne is now one of the cheapest cities in Australia to buy real estate. Although there are special Victorian reasons that come into play in that state. Victorians were bullied during COVID in a way that impacted small businesses in a disastrous way. The state’s debt is exorbitant, and no one seems to know how it gets paid back. Tobacco shops keep getting blown up by some underworld gang thing that the Government can’t control. They have metal boxes where people can hand in their machetes and that doesn’t appear to instil peace of mind in anyone. Terrible Governments end up having an impact and it definitely has had one on property prices in Victoria. A quick scan of on-line property sites shows you that you can pick up a decent two-bedroom unit in an inner-city suburbs like St Kilda and Collingwood in the $400,000s. I saw a three-bedder in St Kilda advertised in the $500,000s. While those prices might seem like great value, there are reasons the market is so low. People don’t trust the state Government and its management of the economy and the obvious concern would be that even though the prices might be low, there is no guarantee of capital growth. Capital growth has offered a warm embrace for investors in Australian real estate over many years. There has been an expectation that prices will go up. Obviously they will go up again but the questions is: Where will they go up, when and by how much? Unfortunately I don’t have the answer to that but I do find that when things get a bit blurry and uncertain, it’s good to stick to what you know … which, for me, is Mackay. We have several advantages over many other markets. Our median price for houses, in the $600,000s, is a lot lower than bigger cities so more affordable for local people who, by the way, still need somewhere to live. And, with the end of negative gearing and the banning of borrowing for property out of self-managed super funds, lower prices and strong rental returns should become a key factor in real estate investment. Yes, investors want capital growth but I feel the focus will probably shift more to rental yield and the monthly return on investment. Mackay’s rental returns are good and the purchase prices relatively low compared to other markets so there seems to me a good chance that our market will continue to be buoyed by those wanting to take advantage of that. Meanwhile the Mackay economy seems to be going well, driven by that crucial resource that is dug out of the ground and exported to countries that make steel. I got strong offers on three properties this week so there is a feeling that while there has certainly been a change driven by national political factors, our market is moving through it, adjusting to the new information and still bubbling along. The only thing I would say is that if any of you bump into David Crisafulli tell him to dump those high-level coal royalties.
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Queensland’s top real estate professionals and agencies are being called to step into the spotlight, with nominations now open for the Real Estate Institute of Queensland’s (REIQ) 2026 Awards for Excellence. REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the awards remained the state’s highest professional recognition in real estate and continued to adapt alongside the profession itself. “The REIQ Awards for Excellence are the pinnacle of professional recognition in Queensland real estate, and each year we ensure the program remains contemporary, inclusive and reflective of the full scope of our profession,” Ms Mercorella said. “This year, we’re delighted to add a new Multi-Office Network of the Year category, recognising real estate agencies that operate as a unified multi-office network. “It’s a category our members asked for, and it’s a great example of how the awards continue to evolve alongside the structure and sophistication of Queensland real estate businesses.” Ms Mercorella said there was even more incentive for members to nominate this year, with a pathway from the outset to national recognition in eligible categories through the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s (REIA) National Awards for Excellence (NAFE). The REIQ Awards for Excellence span individual and agency categories, with some split into regional and SEQ areas, across residential and commercial sales, property management, buyer’s agency, auctioneering, business broking, multimedia, innovation and community contribution. Ms Mercorella said real estate professionals throughout Queensland could now start preparing and polishing their award nominations with the clock now ticking down. It’s time to shine! Nominations close on Sunday 12th July 2026, with the winners announced at a spectacular awards gala on Saturday 31st October 2026 at The Star Brisbane. Nominate now via awards.reiq.com
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Makayla Groves and Bianca O'Brien are part of the commercial property team at Blacks Real Estate, supporting landlords, tenants and business owners across the Mackay region. Working as Commercial Property Managers, Makayla and Bianca assist with the day-to-day management of commercial properties, helping clients navigate leasing and property management requirements across retail, office and industrial spaces. Based at the agency’s Wood Street office, the pair work closely with business clients throughout the region as part of Blacks Real Estate’s commercial division. Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525. CAPTION: Bianca O'Brien works with Blacks Real Estate as a Commercial Property Manager. Photo supplied Makayla Groves works as a Commercial Property Manager with Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
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The Coalition has pledged to make the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) a permanent institution, arguing the move would provide long-term certainty for regional investment, infrastructure and jobs across Northern Australia, including Mackay. The announcement follows the Federal Government's decision to extend the NAIF for a further 10 years, rather than permanently removing its sunset clause. Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said while the Coalition would support Labor's legislation, it believed the independent review's recommendation to make the facility permanent should be adopted. “The Developing Northern Australia is a proud LNP achievement,” Senator Canavan said. “Despite naysayers at the time, Northern Australia has remained on the agenda ever since. I am personally proud to have introduced the original Northern Australia legislation in 2016, with the policy built on the work that was done by LNP Members of Parliaments such as former Senator Ian Macdonald and former MP Warren Entsch. “Unfortunately, Labor is now kicking the can down the road. Northern Australia shouldn’t have to fight every decade to prove it is worthy of investment. “The independent review recommended making the NAIF permanent because it works. The Coalition established the NAIF in 2016, and we will make it permanent because Northern Australia should have long-term certainty for investment, jobs and economic growth.” Since its creation, the NAIF has supported 33 projects with $4.3 billion in finance commitments, helping deliver more than 18,000 jobs and an estimated $33 billion in public benefit across Northern Australia. Those investments include upgrades to airports in Darwin, Alice Springs, Townsville, Cairns and Mackay, along with projects supporting agriculture, mining and manufacturing. Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Senator Susan McDonald said permanent funding would continue to drive regional development. “Labor talks about Northern Australia, but the Coalition backs it with lasting investment,” Senator McDonald said. “The NAIF has transformed communities, unlocked private investment and created jobs across the North. Making it permanent sends a clear message that the Coalition believes in Northern Australia’s future and won’t treat its development as a temporary priority.” “Governments come and go, but Northern Australia’s importance will never diminish,” she said.
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Spanish-born hospitality professional Joan arrived in Airlie Beach in early 2024, and he hasn’t looked back since.
“I was travelling with my girlfriend, we decided to do all the East Coast with the van, and we stopped in Airlie Beach, and I fell in love with the place,” he said.
“We decided to spend the rest of the visa here looking for a job.”
Joan is now the restaurant manager at The Garden Bar at Coral Sea Marina and he brings more than a decade of experience in hospitality, including roles in hotels and restaurants all over the world but Joan has found his calling in hospitality.
“I can enjoy more time with the customers, I am closer with the customers here”.
Joan also said at The Garden Bar, the staff have created a family atmosphere which he thinks guests can sense and be apart of.
“The atmosphere is really important, and I think from the owners to all the staff, we have a good team, a great atmosphere” said Joan.
“I believe we are one of the best restaurants and function spaces in Airlie Beach”
“We have a good balance in the restaurant, from the food to the service. We take care of our customers and that’s one of our strongest attributes.”
The Garden Bar draws both locals and tourists, around 50/50 and Joan said he is proud to have locals and returning customers to The Garden Bar. The extensive cocktail list is another reason Joan thinks keeps customers returning. He said The Garden Bar is the best place to get a cocktail in Airlie Beach.
The International Menu at The Garden Bar is another way people keep returning for more.
Their Seafood Platter for Two dazzles with oysters, prawns, scallops, calamari, and reef fish ceviche, while the Garden Bar Share Platter piles chicken wings, calamari, fish tacos, salad, and garlic bread.
Mains cater to every taste bud and craving, and includes the Classic Cheese Burger, Fresh Fish Tacos with pineapple salsa, Spanish Mackerel, or Port Lincoln mussels in white wine and chilli. Vegetarians and vegans can enjoy Mediterranean Fettuccine or Roast Cauliflower & Vegetable Curry with coconut rice and naan.
Above all what sets The Garden Bar apart from every other restaurant in Airlie Beach, is the Marina setting, view, and stunning sunsets.
Joan recalls thinking “Oh my goodness, we are working right now, I work here!” Whilst watching a sunset at work.
With their welcoming team, signature cocktails, and unbeatable sunset views The Garden Bar has become a standout dining destinations. Blending local charm with tourists, the restaurant continues to offer a warm, relaxed atmosphere that keeps both visitors and locals coming back time and again.
Joan Civera from The Garden Bar. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
For more than 15 years, Executive Chef Zibby Deca has been crafting dishes across pubs, clubs, fine dining restaurants, and private events. But for the past nine months, he’s been calling Club Whitsunday home, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a passion for food that goes beyond the plate.
Originally from Poland, he arrived in Australia 16 years ago, first settling in Brisbane before moving north to Airlie Beach, a move that quickly became permanent.
“I loved it here and decided to stay,” he said.
The dry-aged Tomahawk has become an attraction of Club Whitsunday. Aged for up to six weeks and weighing up to two kilograms, the Tomahawk has become a favourite for sharing, with diners returning regularly to experience it again.
“The bigger cuts are about sharing, but they’ve become very popular,” said Zibby.
He also said the most rewarding part of the job is the customer feedback.
“My most favourite is the smile on customers’ faces at the end, when they walk out, wave to me and say thank you,” he said.
Zibby doesn’t actually have a favourite dish to cook or eat, instead he said the joy on customer's faces is the real joy in cooking.
“Every chef should strive for the happiness of their customer,” he added.
Club Whitsunday also runs daily specials, which change regularly and give diners the chance to try something new.
While the Tomahawk may be stealing the spotlight, Zibby says diners can expect much more in the months ahead. The club is preparing to launch a revised seasonal menu that will feature new dishes alongside updated favourites. Though he keeps the details close to his chest, he promises the menu will cater to the tastes of the Whitsunday community while offering something fresh and surprising.
Bookings for Club Whitsunday’s bistro can be made via the club’s website.
Executive Chef Zibby Deca and the dry ager at Club Whitsunday
Club Whitsunday specialise in their dry aged Tomahawk steak
Friday 3 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)
Saturday 4 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Dirty Deeds (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)
Sunday 5 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Dirty Deeds (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Jazz on the Deck with Nick Di Gregorio & Simon Lamb (2pm - 5pm)
Grand View Hotel: Nathan Marks (4pm - 8pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)
Monday 6 October
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Coralene Beach Club (2pm - 6pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Tim Hibberd (from 8pm)
Tuesday 7 October
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Wednesday 8 October
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Thursday 9 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
October
3 Rugby Viking Cup, Whitsunday Sportspark, 12pm - 8pm
5 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
6 King’s Birthday
7 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
8 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am
10 Minions Rise of Gru, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm
12 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
14 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am
15 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.
16 Morning Melodies - Wonder, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am
18 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, 5:30pm - late
19 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
21 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
23 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am
24 Halloween Special: Hotel Transylvania, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm
25 Life Publishing Group: Enchanted Garden Fundraiser, Elementa, 5.30pm-11pm, $330
26 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
28 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am
29 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.
November
2 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
5 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am
7 Rango followed by Drop Dead Fred, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm
9 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
11 Remembrance Day
11 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am
12 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.
16 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
20 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am
21 Babe, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm
23 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
25 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
25 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am
26 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.
30 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
The Airlie Beach Hotel will host a wild Oktoberfest Weekender overflowing with showstopping live music and good old classic German traditions to celebrate one of the world’s most beer-loved holidays in style.
Much to the delight of the community and beyond, the Airlie Beach Hotel unveiled the one and only NOASIS tribute show will headline on both Saturday the 11th and Sunday the 12th of October from 2pm to 5:30pm for two free, unmissable performances to remember!
Renown for their skilled performances on stages across the globe, NOASIS are internationally recognised and respected as the best OASIS tribute show to ever rock an audience! Drawing from his rich 90’s musical background as Liam Gallagher, Darren Spiby leads the band as the head vocalist to deliver the “Wall of Sound” to match the same undeniable vibes of the infamous Gallagher Boys.
“Top band, top bunch of lads,” said original OASIS guitarist, Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs after hearing the true NOASIS sound in concert.
Selling out venues across the world, Darren is joined on stage by Tom Spiby on vocals, rhythm and lead guitar, Daniel Spiby on bass guitar, Mike Dann on guitars and Josh Dunstan on the drums.
“The vocals, the musicianship and the performance was immaculate,” wrote the Little Gig Review.
“They clearly care and love what they are doing, and that was so evident in generating a superb atmosphere throughout the evening.”
With the internationally treasured band officially back together and touring the globe, NOASIS will surely rock the roof of the Airlie Beach Hotel right off whilst paying tribute to the classic OASIS sound by performing massive hits like Wonderwall, Don’t Look Back In Anger, Champagne Supernova, Little By Little, Supersonic and more!
Currently touring the United Kingdom, NOASIS will touch back down on Aussie soil and jump straight up on stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel for a double set of sellout performances like never before!
Additional details and table booking information are available online at airliebeachhotel.com.au/events/noasis or via the Airlie Beach Hotel’s social media pages.
WHAT: Oktoberfest Weekender & NOASIS
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: 11th & 12th of October, 2pm to 5:30pm
Introducing the handsome Rex – a one-year-old Staffy x Greyhound with a big heart and plenty of love to give. Despite a rough start in life, Rex is full of energy, potential, and resilience, and he’s now searching for a foster or forever home where he can truly thrive.
Rex is a strong boy who would benefit from an experienced carer able to provide the structure, patience, and training he needs. While he’s best suited to a calm, child-free home, he’s eager to learn and ready to blossom with the right guidance. His interactions with other dogs and cats are still untested, but his sweet nature shines through every day in care.
This loyal and affectionate pup is looking for someone who can give him the safe, supportive environment he deserves – in return, Rex will reward his person with unconditional love and plenty of wagging-tail moments.
Adoption Details:
If you’re looking for a loyal companion and have the patience and love to help Rex thrive, he could be the perfect fit for your home - submit an adoption enquiry form at: https://www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms
By Ruth Puddefoot
Rasputin, a large adult male green sea turtle, has been released back into the ocean at Snow’s Beach, Shute Harbour. Rescued after becoming entangled in fishing line, Rasputin received expert care from the Turtle Team at Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc, and has now made a full recovery, swimming free once again in his natural habitat.
The successful release was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the Turtle Care Team, the support of Eco Barge, and the commitment of volunteers who captured beautiful photos and videos of Rasputin’s return to the sea. These images helped share the excitement of the moment with the wider community.
Many supporters gathered to bid Rasputin farewell, demonstrating the strong community involvement that makes rescues and rehabilitations like this possible. Their ongoing support plays a crucial role in protecting marine turtles and raising awareness about the challenges these creatures face.
Those interested in learning more about Rasputin and other turtles currently in care can book an Eco HQ tour through the organisation’s website. The tours provide a unique opportunity to see firsthand the important conservation work underway to help marine turtles thrive.
Rasputin’s journey serves as a hopeful example of how dedicated care and community support can make a real difference for the survival of marine wildlife.
Photo source: Tailored Lifestyle Connections.
Spanning over 13 million hectares of protected land and forest estates, the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) is the state’s largest land manager. With that vast responsibility comes a major challenge, managing invasive pests that pose a serious threat to Queensland’s unique wildlife and natural landscapes.
Invasive species, whether they’re pest plants (weeds) or feral animals like pigs, cats, foxes and wild dogs, can cause significant harm. These pests can damage ecosystems, outcompete native species, spread disease, and impact everything from the environment to cultural heritage and local economies.
To tackle the issue, QPWS relies on a comprehensive Pest Management System. This system supports strategic planning across entire parks and helps prioritise on-ground actions. The focus is clear: protect threatened species such as the bilby and the bridled nailtail wallaby, stop the spread of invasive plants and animals, and work closely with First Nations communities, local councils, neighbouring landholders and other agencies to deliver coordinated pest control efforts.
Importantly, visitors also play a key role in helping keep pests at bay. You can make a difference by sticking to designated tracks, cleaning your boots, gear and vehicles before entering a park, only bringing clean, milled firewood for campfires, and avoiding any unnecessary disturbance to plants, soil or native habitats.
By working together, we can reduce the impact of invasive species and ensure Queensland’s national parks remain a safe haven for our precious native wildlife.
To find out more, visit parks.des.qld.gov.au.
Cane Toad. Photo sourced.
When we visit the Great Barrier Reef, most of us spend all our time looking down under the water, gazing at the marine life. Next time you are out on the water, try looking up and admire the bird life overhead.
The Reef is home to 22 species of seabird and 32 species of shorebird. And, yes, there are differences between seabirds and shorebirds.
Seabirds are pelagic and spend most of their life at sea. They move towards coastal areas generally to breed and raise young for a minimal amount of time. They have more feathers than other types of birds for more insulation and waterproofing, and most have webbed feet for swimming. Seabirds even have an incredible internal desalination system where their glands excrete excess salt from ingested seawater, so they don't need to find fresh water to survive.
Some of the common seabirds include; terns, boobies, shearwaters, petrels and noddies. Shorebirds on the other hand are largely migratory. While they may cross vast distances, they stay close to shore when feeding and breeding. Their long legs, separated toes, and pointed beaks make it easy to search for food in the wetlands, marshes, and beaches they frequent.
Some of the more common shorebirds include; oystercatchers, curlews, sandpipers and plovers.
Birds play an important role in the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem. They are major consumers of marine organisms such as fish and invertebrates, and form an integral part of the marine food web. Birds are also an important part of the nutrient cycle by linking reef, pelagic and island ecosystems. They enrich island soils by depositing guano and carrion, and influence the growth of plants on coral cays. Birds also transport seeds from the mainland to offshore islands, which contribute to the establishment of island plant communities.
The birds of the Reef, particularly the seabirds, are some of the world’s most threatened species. According to a study published by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, there has been a rapid decline in multiple species’ populations due to plastics, oil and other pollutants and the climate crisis’ impact on ocean environment. As the crisis continues to escalate, the successful breeding of seabirds will continue to decline. When seabirds detect an increase in the temperature of sea surfaces (resulting in increased difficulty in food foraging) they are more likely to abstain from participation in breeding season.
It is important to note that all birds within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park are protected.
Mackay Airport is about to enter an exciting new chapter, with nearly $60 million set to transform the region’s gateway. From a revitalised terminal and upgraded runway to expanded car parking and major commercial developments at the Milton Precinct, the airport is preparing to meet the needs of a growing region and future visitors.
Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the works are designed to enhance passenger experience while strengthening critical infrastructure.
“Our region is growing, and with the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on the horizon, there has never been a better time for a major investment in our facilities,” he said.
The terminal will feature modern furnishings, an upgraded observation deck, and extra space for travellers, while 190 new car parks will open ahead of this year’s Christmas school holidays.
Mackay Airport is preparing for take-off into a new era, with almost $60 million set to transform the region’s gateway through sweeping upgrades, including a revitalised terminal, runway improvements, expanded car parking, and major commercial development at the Milton Precinct.
Mackay Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the widespread, rolling works package was aimed at improving passengers’ experience, while also fortifying critical infrastructure to futureproof and enhance connectivity to the region.
“Our region is growing, and with the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on the horizon, there has never been a better time for a major investment in our facilities, for the benefit of both locals and visitors,” he said.
“Our terminal will be a vibrant new space, with more room for passengers, a remodelled observation deck, upgraded bathrooms and modern furnishings. A further 190 public car parks will be available ahead of this year’s Christmas school holidays.
“The first stage of Milton Precinct is now complete, and we look forward to making more exciting announcements soon, as we welcome new tenants and services.”
Preliminary works have commenced on a number of the new projects, with the terminal upgrade to commence in January 2026.
Construction will occur within Mackay Airport’s existing footprint, providing a cost-effective solution and minimising disruption for customers and stakeholders. It comes off the back of a suite of recent customer-focused check-in upgrades, including enhanced security screening technology and implementation of automatic bag drop facilities.
Portions of the major infrastructure package, including the runway works and Milton Precinct development, are supported by a loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF).
“To be eligible for NAIF finance, projects must demonstrate a clear public benefit to the economy and local communities, including job creation, regional economic growth and improved liveability,” Mr Barker said.
“We are grateful for this support from NAIF, which recognises Mackay Airport as a vital contributor to our region and community. Projects like the runway overlay, for example, are critical for ensuring our region’s ongoing connectivity and resilience.”
Assistant Minister for Northern Australia, Senator Nita Green, said, "I've had the opportunity to see these upgrades firsthand and they are impressive. They will transform the airport and provide the type of economic development desperately needed in Mackay."
Mackay Airport’s $60 million upgrade, supported by NAIF, will transform the terminal, expand parking, develop the Milton Precinct, and boost regional connectivity and economic growth. Hannah McNamara
These upgrades to Mackay Airport will modernise the terminal, expand parking, improve the runway, and boost regional connectivity. Images supplied
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Hi everyone, it’s me again!
Usually, I’m here when Amanda, our former editor, is on holidays, but now I’ll be stepping up into the hot seat and I'm excited for what's ahead!
This is my first week without Amanda's guidance, and while I’m sad to see her go, it’s surprisingly not as scary as I expected!
I’ve had a few regular contributors reach out with congratulations and kind words of encouragement, which has been so lovely to receive.
I’ve always loved the saying, “when one door closes, another door opens.”
While life can be a rollercoaster at times, it’s important to stay positive, have faith, and remember there’s always a bigger plan – even in tough or uncertain times.
As I step into this new role, I hope you’ll give me a little grace as I learn the reins. I’ve been part of the Life Publishing Group for almost two years, and while media in general can get stressful at times, the most rewarding part is sharing your stories and hearing the wonderful feedback from our community.
If you have a wholesome, community-focused story you’d like to share, please reach out.
While my plate is often full, I promise I’ll get to you as soon as I can.
A few fun facts about me:
Hope to see you around! Have a blessed week :)
—Hannah
Last week, Chances House Mackay received a welcome boost, with funds raised through the M&P Services – Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day handed over to support its work in the community.
Chances House Mackay provides a safe and supportive home environment for people at risk of homelessness. Alongside secure accommodation, the organisation offers guidance, life skills, and opportunities that empower residents to build brighter, more independent futures.
In a statement shared on social media, M&P Services said, “Last week we were honoured to hand over Chances House Mackay’s share of the funds raised from the M&P Services – Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day.”
The announcement also expressed appreciation for the organisation’s ongoing contribution to the region, noting, “A heartfelt thank you to the team at Chances House Mackay for the compassion, care and encouragement you provide every day in our community.”
Funds raised will go directly towards vital programs and services delivered by Chances House, ensuring individuals in need are given real opportunities to thrive.
The charity golf day brought together local businesses and community members, highlighting the power of collaboration in driving positive change. Events like these not only raise money but also awareness of the challenges faced by those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
The support will assist Chances House in continuing its mission to provide stability, encouragement, and pathways towards a better future for some of the most vulnerable in Mackay.
The Mackay Public Health Unit has confirmed a case of measles in the Mackay health service region and issued an alert for potential exposure.
The individual, who was unknowingly infectious, attended several public places between 12 and 18 September. These include Middlemount Gym on Burns Street (12–14 and 17–18 September, 6.30pm–8pm) and Middlemount Shopping Centre, specifically Middlemount IGA and Middlemount Pharmacy, on 17 September between 9.30am and 10.30am.
Anyone who visited these sites at the listed times should be alert for symptoms for up to three weeks after exposure. Measles is highly contagious and spreads through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with secretions.
Symptoms
Early symptoms usually begin 7–10 days after exposure and include fever, tiredness, runny nose, moist cough, and sore red eyes. A few days later, a blotchy red rash often appears on the face before spreading across the body.
What To Do
Residents who develop symptoms are urged to call their GP or 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice and avoid public spaces. It is important to phone ahead before visiting medical services so precautions can be taken.
Immunisations
Immunisation is the best protection. People born during or after 1966 should ensure they have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine. Children are scheduled to receive the MMR vaccine at 12 months and the MMRV vaccine at 18 months under the National Immunisation Program. The vaccine is free at GPs and participating pharmacies.
For more information about measles, call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) or go to the Queensland Health website.
Emergency crews were called to the Paget Waste Transfer Facility last Friday morning after reports of a fire just before 9am.
The incident prompted an urgent public warning from Mackay Regional Council, advising residents to stay away from the site until further notice. Staff at the facility requested that no members of the public attend while firefighters worked to bring the situation under control.
For a short time, access to the facility was restricted as thick smoke and flames were managed by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) crews. Council emphasised the importance of keeping the public clear of the area to allow emergency teams to safely complete their work.
By 10.49am, the fire had been fully extinguished and the site declared safe. The facility was reopened to the public shortly after, with council confirming normal operations could resume.
Details of the cause remained limited at the time of print.
Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo source: Queensland Fire Department
By Hannah McNamara
Not all veterans wore their service on their sleeves, nor did their names make headlines, yet many acted as the quiet glue that held peace together. These are the silent achievers of Australia’s story, men and women who worked under the radar but whose contribution was no less vital.
Among them stands Rod Francisco – Mackay veteran, President of the Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch, and Mackay’s 2024 Man of the Year. A man with a great heart for people and a tireless advocate for recognising the service and sacrifice of our nation’s peacekeepers. His voice reminds us why it matters to honour those who served in ways often overlooked, but deeply instrumental in keeping communities – both at home and abroad – connected and safe.
“It’s pretty important for me. I was in a peacekeeping force in East Timor… one of the early units that deployed, so for me that’s a pretty significant day to recognise the efforts that I personally put in, and the people within the unit I served with,” he said.
“Lots of my peers, and mates, have served on peacekeeping operations so it’s important to them as well.”
Rod marked the day by reconnecting with fellow veterans.
“I caught up with a few friends that I served with overseas… a couple of mates of mine that have served in different places where they had some pretty bad experiences. So, you tap in just to make sure everybody’s okay.”
“We get a bit nostalgic about some things, but it’s also really beneficial to talk about the good times and have a little laugh.”
Peacekeeping, he explains, comes with very real risks that are often overlooked.
“Quite often you are quite literally the person in the middle between two opposing forces… unarmed.”
“What a lot of people don’t know, is that it took a long time for those people that were killed or died on peacekeeping operations for their names to go up on the honour wall at the Australian War Memorial.
“It’s there now, but it took a long time… because I think a lot of people don’t realise how dangerous these operations were, or can be.”
Rod adds that Australia has been peacekeeping since 1947 without interruption, and it’s something he and many veterans are proud of.
“We’ve been doing it continuously… and that’s something we’re quite proud of.”
Reflecting on his service, he admits there were moments of uncertainty.
“You’re trained, you’re prepared, you’re briefed, but also the circumstances can be quite dynamic or unexpected and so there’s a level of anxiety that comes with it… not one day is the same as the next.”
Today, Rod advocates for wider recognition of all who serve, particularly younger servicemen and female veterans.
“Often we don’t look at veterans in their 20s and 30s as veterans because we always just think of older people,” he says.
“Women are always asked if the medal is their husbands, or their fathers… when they’re just wearing their hard-earned medals with pride.”
“We need to recognise that veterans come in all shapes and sizes, all genders and all ages… I’d really like to see them be recognised for the hard yards they’ve done as well.”
From his service as a peacekeeper to his ongoing work across the Mackay region, Rod embodies what it means to serve with both courage and compassion. With a heart that beats for his community, he reminds us that peacekeeping is not only about standing between opposing forces, but also about standing up for recognition, respect, and remembrance for all.
Mackay veteran, President of the Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch, and Mackay’s 2024 Man of the Year Rod Francisco honours the quiet courage of Australia’s peacekeepers. Photos supplied
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