The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal has been re-open since 2021, offering a Licensed Café with off premise, resort connections services, a multitude of marine tourism products and fuelling facilities.  At the heart of its offerings is the stunning penthouse style function room, perfect for hosting your next event.

Located on the second floor, the 344m2 private event and function space provides breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of Shute Harbour and accommodates 120 seated guests or 250 guests for a cocktail-style event.

Manager Aviation, Tourism and Marine Shaun Cawood said the event space can host a broad range of events.

“The airconditioned space has been extremely well received and we’ve previously hosted events such as school formals, networking cocktail functions, Christmas parties, conferences, product launches, long lunches and more,” said Shaun

“It truly is a versatile venue that can be tailored to suit any event,” he said.

The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal recently won silver at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards in the Tourism Retail, Hire and Service award, and Shaun expresses his thanks.

“The award is a testament to the dedicated small but amazing team at Shute Harbour, who always strive to deliver a world class experience for all guests and visitors of the marina and terminal.

“Special thanks also to all Shute Harbour Marine Terminal tenants and cruise industry who have assisted with the ongoing success of the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.”

Kevin Collins from Fish D’Vine recently hosted an event at the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and praised the venue’s setting.

“We did a wonderful lunch for a conference group who had to cancel a Whitehaven event due to poor weather,” he said.

“The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal is without doubt the best large facility in the region featuring stunning views, modern fully air-conditioned space for 120 guests seated, ease of either bus transfers or ample parking and limited impact of noise for entertainment.  

“We have a number of events and functions already in our system for this wonderful venue,  and Fish D’Vine is capable of doing buffet, banquet or a plated day menu.”

Whether you're planning a business event, a celebration, or a special occasion, the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal offers an exceptional venue that combines stunning views, modern facilities, and a highly experienced team dedicated to making your event a success.

The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal is open now for your next function. To book visit shuteharbourmarine.com.au/function-room

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The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal has been open since 2021
Host your next function at the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal with stunning ocean views

Photos supplied

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On Thursday 17 October 500 attendees comprising parents, carers, staff, and community members gathered to honour 190 students from years 7-12 for their outstanding achievements in 2024. 

Official guests included P&C President Brett McNee, Whitsunday Regional Mayor Ry Collins, and Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, with apologies from Dale Last, Member for Burdekin. 

The school concert band performed, followed by keynote speeches. Mr Harris Principal's Address emphasis was placed on the collaborative effort behind the students' success, acknowledging the dedication of learners, educators, and the community. 

The school extended gratitude to parents, students, and local supporters. 

Congratulations were extended to all award recipients, with upcoming celebrations to include the Sport Awards on November 8th and Senior Industry Awards on November 13th.

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Cannonvale State School was buzzing with excitement on Sunday, October 20, as it hosted the inaugural Healthy Kids Expo. The event, aimed at "inspiring, educating, and elevating" children and their families to lead healthier and happier lives, was a resounding success. Around 150 attendees were treated to a full day of interactive activities, workshops, and educational exhibits from a diverse range of health and wellness professionals.

The Expo brought together experts from various fields, including nutrition, naturopathy, chiropractic care, physiotherapy, podiatry, psychology, fitness, yoga, and sustainability. Each exhibit provided hands-on demonstrations and practical advice for families on how to integrate healthier habits into their daily routines. From learning the importance of balanced nutrition to discovering fun and engaging ways to stay active, there was something for everyone.

Parents were particularly impressed by the array of activities designed to educate children in an interactive and engaging way. Kids were able to participate in yoga sessions, try out fitness challenges, and even explore the world of sustainable living through eco-friendly workshops.

Guest speakers delivered talks on topics ranging from strategies to limit social media  to the benefits of proper posture and the importance of healthy nutrition. Local businesses and health professionals also used the opportunity to connect with the community, offering free consultations and advice.

Organiser of the expo, Tim Oberg from Healthy Kids Project, said “With such positive feedback and high turnout, I’m hopeful this will become an annual event, continuing to inspire healthier living for years to come.”

Photos supplied

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The Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce held its highly anticipated Annual General Meeting (AGM) last Thursday (3 October) at Harrup Park, with over 80 local business people attending. The luncheon was filled with excitement and community spirit, as attendees, including Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson and Deputy Mayor Karen May, came together to reflect on the Chamber’s achievements over the past year and look ahead to a bright future.
The luncheon included an overview of the Chambers's accomplishments and growth as well as the challenging task of electing the new committee. The contested election had 14 outstanding nominees vying for the vacant positions.
“The strong field of candidates is a testament to the high level of engagement and dedication within the local business community,” said current Chamber president, Geoff O’Connor.
“It is wonderful to see so many keen to contribute to shaping Mackay’s economic future.”
In his Presidents Report, Mr O’Connor acknowledged the outgoing committee members for their dedication and hard work, thanking the four departing members for their valuable contributions over the past year.
Communications manager, Ellen Madden, said, "The number of nominees this year is a clear sign of how enthusiastic our business community is about continuing to build a strong, thriving Mackay.
“We are proud to see so many leaders stepping up to make a difference.”
With the new committee in place, the Chamber looks forward to continuing its mission of supporting local businesses, advocating for the region, and driving positive change.

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Ben Dolphin (Hello World) and Maree Frannetovich (Community Bank Sarina). Photo credit: Coffee and Hops Photography

David Tranter (TranTech Computers) and Scott Hession (Torrisi’s Garage/Volt Car Rentals)

Newly Elected Committee. L-R: Elizabeth Dent (DGL Accountants), Brendan Hughes (Enlightened Financial Solutions), Deb Rae (Deb Rae Solutions), Geoff O’Connor (SBB Partners), Berta Collins (Mount Pleasant Centre), Dannielle Woodward (Wallace and Wallace), Grier Williamson (Mackay Regional Council), Vicki Smith (CoolChain Mackay), Maree Sturdy (Treadwell Tyre Service)

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Last Friday evening, we had the absolute pleasure of celebrating 13 years of Core Magazine and over four years of Mackay and Whitsunday Life at Ocean International. It was a wonderful night filled with laughter, connection, and an overwhelming sense of community. We were incredibly grateful to have the support of local leaders like Mayor Greg Williamson and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, both of whom shared such heartfelt encouragement for our publications. Their belief in the importance of local stories and the role we play in keeping the region connected was incredibly humbling.
Mayor Williamson took a moment to reflect on our journey, highlighting the important role Mackay and Whitsunday Life plays in keeping our community informed, while also commending the resilience and commitment we’ve shown. Andrew Willcox shared similar sentiments, speaking about the strength of local media in uniting the region and ensuring that the stories that matter most to locals are told.
For me, the night was particularly meaningful. It was a chance to celebrate before heading into chemotherapy treatment number six (which, by the time you read this, will have been yesterday). The past few months have been challenging, but your ongoing support and kindness keep me going—and I couldn’t be more grateful for that.
There were so many highlights from the evening, but one of my favourite moments was sharing a little joke with the room: What’s black and white and 'read' all over? Mackay Life! It’s a simple reminder of how far we've come since those early days in 2020 when we launched the newspaper with a commitment to our community.
The journey we’ve been on with Core and Mackay and Whitsunday Life is built on that very foundation—supporting locals and telling the stories that matter. We’ve come a long way, but we wouldn't be here without you, our readers. Whether you pick up our paper every week or have been with us since day one, you are the reason we continue to do what we do.
Thank you for being part of this journey and for believing in the power of local news. Here's to many more years of sharing your stories and supporting the community we all love.
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Amanda

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In the past three months, 224 individuals have accessed Chances House for meals, healthcare and essential support.

As a crucial resource for those experiencing homelessness in Mackay, Chances House provides fresh meals and takeaway packs for weekends, ensuring those in need have access to food.

However, without the community's support, the organisation wouldn't be able to make such a meaningful difference in assisting the vulnerable.

As part of Anti-Poverty Week, Mackay Christian Family Church (MCF) recently donated 10 hampers for homeless individuals and families facing hardship. The team from Act for Kids played an essential role in delivering the much-needed hampers.

Chances House extends its gratitude to everyone involved in these contributions, recognising that together, they are making a meaningful difference in the lives of many.

A spokesperson from Chances House said “We’re proud to be a vital resource for people experiencing homelessness in Mackay, providing fresh meals and take-away packs for the weekends.

“Thank you to everyone who supports our work - you’re helping make a real difference.”

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Mackay Christian Family Church (MCF) donated 10 hampers to Chances House for homeless individuals and families facing hardship. Photo source: Chances House and Mackay Christian Family Church (Facebook).

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Last week, Vicki Blackburn and Chloë McCardel made a significant impact on local schools by holding presentations aimed at raising awareness about domestic and family violence (DFV). The duo engaged with students at Holy Spirit College Mackay, Catherine McAuley College and Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School (KMG), where they shared their powerful stories in hopes of encouraging others to speak out and flee from domestic violence.

After the tragic murder of her daughter, Shandee Blackburn, Vicki Blackburn has devoted her life to advocacy. In response to this heartbreaking loss, she has become a voice for countless individuals whose stories frequently remain untold.

Through her recent presentations, Vicki seeks to educate young people about the signs of DFV, emphasising the need to recognise these warning signs early on to prevent further violence.

Guest speaker Chloë McCardel, a world-renowned marathon swimmer with multiple world records, has also faced the harrowing reality of domestic violence. Despite her outstanding achievements in the sport, Chloë’s journey has been marked by personal hardship.

Her presentation began with a reflection on her upbringing, where she often felt like an outsider in her family. Swimming became her escape - a place where she thrived despite the doubts of others. This determination drove her to accomplish extraordinary feats, including swimming the English Channel 44 times, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest ultra-marathon swimmers in history.

While pursuing her swimming career, Chloë endured a toxic relationship that led to severe physical and emotional abuse. Despite the trauma, she eventually escaped and now draws from her experience to raise awareness about domestic violence, specifically the narcissistic traits often presented by abusive individuals.

In addition to her remarkable swimming career, Chloë has coached over 150 people to successfully cross the English Channel and has become a passionate advocate for domestic violence victims. As an international keynote speaker, she strives to empower others to share their stories and seek the help they deserve.

“I left that relationship in 2018, i kept swimming...i got through the process of healing in those difficult years and now part of my healing is sharing my story and making a positive impact in the community by talking to schools,” shared Chloë.

Vicki said, “We must remember that the victim is never responsible for abuse.

“Shandee’s death lies purely at the foot of the person who attacked her and absolutely no one else.

“I’m here with Chloë to hopefully give the students an idea on how to recognise behaviours that are not appropriate and not acceptable and provide some information on where they can find support to get the help they need.”

Together, Vicki and Chloë are fostering a culture of awareness and support within the community. Their presentations focus on critical themes such as DFV awareness, prevention and available support services, emphasising the importance of recognising abuse and providing pathways to help. By informing younger generations, they aim to lessen the likelihood of domestic violence and empower victims to break the silence and seek assistance.

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If you need support regarding this issue, please reach out to the following numbers:
Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
1800 RESPECT - 1800 737 732
13 YARN - 13 92 76

Through their heartfelt talks, Vicki Blackburn and Chloë McCardel aim to raise awareness, educate youth on the signs of abuse, and inspire the next generation to break the cycle of silence and seek help. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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On Thursday 24th October, the Mackay Hospital Foundation will rally the community for its fourth annual Giving Day, a powerful event that turns generosity into life-changing support for local hospitals. From 8am to 8pm, every dollar donated will be doubled, thanks to the generosity of matched donors, ensuring that contributions go twice as far in enhancing healthcare across Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions.
This isn’t just about raising funds—it's about keeping families close during their most vulnerable moments, supporting the hospitals that care for our loved ones when they need it most.
Prior to the day, Matched Donors are sourced with each Matched Donor contributing a minimum of $10,000. These donors enable donations made on Giving Day to be matched. If someone in our community donates $50 on Giving Day, it will be matched by one of the Matched Donors, taking the total donation to $100.
Current Matched Donors include Abbot Point Operations, Anglo American, Isaac Regional Council, MEU Lodges (Goonyella Riverside and Peak Downs), Pembroke Olive Downs and Whitsunday Regional Council. Donations have also been received from Gilmour Space Technologies and Tassal Australia
Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate said, “This year our Giving Day ambassadors were selected from within Mackay Hospital and Health Service from departments who have benefitted from funding sourced through Mackay Hospital Foundation.
“In the last financial year, Mackay Hospital Foundation has funded or sourced funding for medical equipment, projects and training valued at $558,734 for hospitals in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Regions.”
Giving Day is one of Mackay Hospital Foundation’s most successful fundraising avenues with each Giving Day event consistently resulting in over $100,000 in support.
“At Mackay Hospital Foundation we aim to do what it takes to keep more people in this region, close to their family networks, rather than have to travel away for treatment.
We can only do this with your support and Giving Day is the perfect opportunity to support your local hospitals,” Ms Algate said.
Give a little, help a lot and donate on Giving Day, 24 October at www.charidy.com/mhf.

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World Polio Day, observed on October 24, holds special significance for three members of the Souths Cricket Club. Second-grade players Paul Anderson and Shane Barford both have family members who were affected by the poliovirus, while Sanjay Patel is himself a polio survivor, having been struck by the disease as a six-month-old in Khanpur, India.
Poliomyelitis, or polio, is a highly infectious disease that primarily affects children under the age of five. The virus spreads from person to person, typically through contaminated water, and can attack the nervous system, potentially leading to paralysis. While there is no cure, there is a safe and effective vaccine, which Rotary and its partners have used to immunise over 2.5 billion children worldwide. Today, only Afghanistan and Pakistan remain endemic with wild polio, while the rest of the world has been declared free of wild polio since 2020. Australia began routinely vaccinating against polio in 1956, with the last polio epidemic occurring in 1961–1962, the last locally acquired case in 1972, and the nation officially declared polio-free in 2000.
For Paul Anderson, the fight against polio is deeply personal. His mother, Dawn, contracted the disease as a 21-month-old during one of Australia’s worst polio epidemics between 1945 and 1954.
Paul recalls, "Growing up, I knew mum had a ‘smaller’ leg because of polio, but it never worried her or stopped her from being involved in anything.
“I remember her chasing me around the backyard with a jug cord when I misbehaved as a 10-year-old, so it certainly didn’t slow her down.
“Mum grew up like most children of her time—riding bikes, fishing, and playing with her friends—despite spending years receiving treatment for polio at Montrose in Brisbane, a facility for children with polio and other disabilities.
“As mum got older, her mobility was more affected due to polio’s impact on her joints and muscles. It's only in the last 40 years that I’ve really understood the toll polio can take. But despite her challenges, Mum never complained. She counted herself fortunate, even though she didn’t have it easy."
Shane Barford’s late grandfather, Jack, had a similar story. Jack contracted polio in London at the age of 10 and was told he would never walk unaided again after the disease affected his left calf and thigh muscles. However, Jack proved many wrong, becoming an accomplished athlete, playing high-level soccer where he represented Warwick, cricket, squash, and A-grade hockey in Brisbane.
He was also a lifesaver at North Burleigh, and there is even a legendary story of him wrestling a shark from the water. Despite the limitations of the disease and its long-term effects, Jack remained active throughout his life. Like Paul’s mother, Jack never had access to a vaccine, as the first polio vaccines were not developed until the mid-1950s.
Sanjay Patel contracted polio as a baby, just six months old, in an area of India where vaccination was not yet readily available. The disease manifested with fevers followed by seizures and paralysis in his right leg.
Sanjay underwent extensive rehabilitation, including massage, heat therapy, and surgeries to restore movement in his joints. His treatment also involved wearing plaster casts for over two months. Despite these early challenges, Sanjay remains positive, attributing his resilience to the support of family, friends, and others. Today, he is a leading run-scorer for his club this season, smashing the ball to all parts of the ground, demonstrating that polio hasn’t held him back from excelling on the sporting field.
Globally, polio was first documented in 1894, and thanks to widespread vaccination programs, cases have been reduced by 99% since 1988. However, until polio is eradicated, every child remains at risk. World Polio Day serves as a reminder of the progress made in the fight against polio and the continued efforts needed to end the disease for good.
To learn more about World Polio Day and how you can support the cause, visit www.endpolio.org.

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Paul Anderson, Shane Barford, and Sanjay Patel, all members of Souths Cricket Club, share a personal connection to polio. Paul and Shane have family members affected by the poliovirus, while Sanjay is a polio survivor himself. Photos supplied
Sanjay Patel, a member of Souths Cricket Club and a polio survivor, was struck by the disease at just six months old. Despite the challenges he faced, Sanjay has demonstrated resilience and determination, excelling as a leading run scorer for Souths

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Women in Mackay are set to experience a significant enhancement in maternity care, thanks to an election announcement from the Queensland Labor Party. A $20 million investment will establish a state-of-the-art birthing centre, ensuring that families in the region receive the highest quality of care during pregnancy and childbirth.
The Mackay Birth Centre will provide a welcoming, home-like environment for women with uncomplicated pregnancies, allowing them to give birth with the support of dedicated midwives.
“We want to empower women with more choices when it comes to their birthing experience,” says Belinda Hassan, Labor Candidate for Mackay.
“We know the mental health and wellbeing of both new and expectant mothers is crucial during the perinatal period.”
Strategically located near the hospital, the new centre will feature modern birthing suites, family and community spaces, and educational workshops. This design aims to create a tranquil atmosphere that is still close to medical facilities, ensuring that women can receive immediate care if needed. The former Mackay Birth Centre facility needed to be removed to make way for the development of an additional wing of the hospital. Birth Centre clients will continue to receive care with their midwives in a dedicated space within the Women’s Health Unit, until a new birth centre is constructed.
Labor said it is collaborating closely with the Mackay Hospital and Health Service and local community groups to ensure the new facility meets the specific needs of the region’s residents.
In addition to the birthing centre, Mackay will benefit from four new mother and baby mental health beds as part of a broader $39 million investment to deliver 30 perinatal mental health beds across Queensland.
“That’s why we will build a new birthing centre in Mackay in partnership with the health service and local community and deliver four new mother and baby beds in Mackay,” Ms Hassan explained.
This initiative will provide crucial support for mothers, allowing them to receive care in a familiar environment close to their support networks.
The announcement was welcomed by Friends of the Mackay Birth Centre, a community organisation that supports the midwives who work at the Birth Centre and the families that birth there.
These advancements in maternity care come alongside the $250 million expansion of Mackay Base Hospital, which will introduce new birth suites, additional beds, and dedicated women’s and children’s health units. Currently, Queensland has only 12 public perinatal mental health inpatient beds located in the southeast, making the new investments particularly vital.
“Midwives have built strong relationships with mothers-to-be, and this new birth centre will be a continuation of that tradition,” Ms Hassan added.
“The Mackay community deserves these enhancements in maternity and mental health services, and we are committed to delivering that.”
To ‘Start a Life with a Midwife’ please contact the Mackay Birth Centre on 07 4885 6933.

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Local mothers, Friends of the Mackay Birth Centre representative Nakia Watters and Labor candidate for Mackay Belinda Hassan welcomed the announcement to fund a new birthing centre in Mackay. Photo supplied

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A groundbreaking study by CQUniversity has revealed the promising antioxidant and cancer-fighting properties of Gumbi Gumbi (Pittosporum angustifolium), a native Australian plant used for generations in First Nations healthcare. This study, funded by the CQUniversity BHP Chair in Indigenous Engagement, showcases how modern science is backing up traditional medicine.
Led by Dr. Mani Naiker from the Bioactive and Functional Foods Research Group, the project was conducted in collaboration with Ghungalu Elder Uncle Steve Kemp. Uncle Steve provided Gumbi Gumbi samples from across Ghungalu Traditional Lands in Woorabinda, a key part of the research. The results, presented at a CQUniversity workshop in June 2024, highlighted the chemical makeup of Gumbi Gumbi leaves and fruit, showcasing potent antioxidants and promising cytotoxicity against cancer cells.
For Uncle Steve, Gumbi Gumbi has been a lifelong part of his culture and heritage. “I first learned about the plant from my father. These findings are going to benefit everyone: people who could use these treatments, and the community at Woorabinda, knowing this knowledge comes from our People,” Uncle Steve shared.
Traditionally used to treat a range of ailments, from cancer and high blood pressure to diabetes and dandruff, Gumbi Gumbi has long been regarded for its medicinal qualities by Indigenous Australians. Now, thanks to CQUniversity’s research, the plant’s potential for wider medical use is gaining attention.
Dr. Naiker explained that CQUniversity’s new native plant hub, based at the Central Queensland Innovation and Research Precinct, is continuing research into the benefits of Gumbi Gumbi. Future clinical trials will explore its cancer-fighting potential, alongside ongoing analysis of sugar content and glycaemic response for potential natural blood sugar control.
The research also delves into how the plant's potency is affected by factors such as harvest time and drying methods. "This study brings both scientific validation and commercial potential to Gumbi Gumbi and other native foods," said Dr. Naiker.
The workshop attracted growers, investors, and locals interested in Indigenous plant resources, underscoring the potential for these native foods to benefit not only First Nations communities but the broader Australian population as well.
CQUniversity researchers are also investigating other native plants, including Australian ginger and Burdekin plums, further advancing knowledge on the commercial and health benefits of native Australian flora.

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Uncle Steve Kemp (centre) with Uncle Milton Lawton and Melanie Kemp, of Yarbun Creations. Photo source: CQUniversity

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Muller Park playground, located at Boundary Road in Ooralea, is scheduled for renewal.
Community consultation will be taking place shortly and residents will be invited to share their ideas for the design of a new playground.

The existing playground will be removed in the coming weeks for the community’s safety.
Both the combination unit and swings are 25 years old and in poor condition. Recent testing has also shown that the softfall no longer meets current Australian safety standards.

The other amenities in the park will remain open for use including the public toilets, barbecues and seating.

Stay informed on the upcoming community engagement session and subscribe to project update emails by visiting connectingmackay.com.au/muller-park-playground.

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The LNP has pledged a total of $5.9 million to improve key community facilities in Mackay, including $1.6 million for shaded netball courts, $3 million for upgrades at local high schools, $500,000 for an all-weather bowling green at Northern Beaches Bowls Club, and $800,000 for expanded parking at Mackay Football Park.

The Mackay Netball Association will benefit from safer shaded courts if the LNP is elected on October 26, with a $1.6 million investment to build shade protection over four courts. This will support the 1,600 players from the 14 teams that regularly use Mackay’s netball courts.

LNP Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and LNP candidate for Mackay Nigel Dalton made the announcement, emphasising the need for covered courts in Mackay due to high UV levels and wet weather.

“Mackay Netball Association has been doing their own fundraising, but it’s a hard slog, getting the funding needed to cover their court,” said Ms Camm.

Mr Dalton added, “With this announcement, Mackay netball players will be able to shoot for success and play safely, even under our harsh sun.”

In addition to netball, the LNP announced $3 million in funding for Mackay State High School and Mackay North State High School. The funding will support a new assembly hall with air-conditioning at Mackay State High School and a new tuckshop at Mackay North State High School.

Mr Dalton highlighted that the 1,200 students at Mackay State High School currently meet in a cramped, un-air-conditioned assembly hall.

“Queenslanders need a fresh start, and this funding commitment of $3 million is part of restoring a government that educates young Queenslanders, boosts our skills training facilities and puts more teachers in our schools.

“I’ve spent the last 20 years interacting with students in our high schools and I know they need far more attention than they are getting,” Mr Dalton said.

The LNP also committed $500,000 to fund an all-weather bowling green shade structure at the Northern Beaches Bowls Club, which supports over 30 community and sporting groups.

Club Manager Doug Dalley welcomed the announcement, saying, “Having an all-weather bowling green will enable the club to offer more playing hours, on more playing days and also allow the club to become more inclusive and offer more school bowling programs.”

Further, the LNP promised to upgrade the car park at Mackay Football Park, home to junior football in Glenella, with an $800,000 investment. Dalton pointed out that the facility’s 24 fields are used by all four junior football clubs in the area, but the current parking situation is inadequate and unsafe.

Mr Dalton said, “This is something that Football Queensland Whitsunday Coast has been concerned about and they’ve worked with Mackay Regional Council to get the approvals in place so that they can expand their car park.”

“Only the LNP stands ready to deliver a fresh start for Queensland.”

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The LNP has committed $5.9 million to boost Mackay’s community facilities, with $1.6 million for shaded netball courts, $3 million for school upgrades, $500,000 for an all-weather bowling green, and $800,000 for expanded parking at Mackay Football Park. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mater Private Hospital Mackay midwife Sarah Fordyce has proven it takes a dedicated team to ensure patients in the region receive access to high-quality healthcare.

The former accountant-turned-midwife was recognised as a “dedicated leader” at the annual Mater People Awards event held in South Brisbane on Friday 11 October.

Each year, Mater recognises the outstanding achievements of Mater People across the Health, Education, Research and Foundation ministries at the Mater People Awards.

The Midwifery Nurse Unit Manager won the Mater Early Career Excellence Award for achievements including collaborating with local educators to upskill team members and enhancing the maternity ward’s ability to support services during peak periods. 

Ms Fordyce, 35, said she had always wanted to be an accountant when she was growing up, but in her final year of high school had a change of mind after talking to a midwife.

“I decided that midwifery was my calling,” Ms Fordyce said.

“After completing one year as a Registered Midwife (RM), although I loved the profession, I still had the feeling that I should have completed my accounting.”

Ms Fordyce worked as a RM while completing a Master of Professional Accounting and said although her career trajectory had not been straightforward, she found a profession where both her passion for midwifery and management aligned.

“My accounting experience was in risk management and is utilised on a daily basis in my role as Nurse Unit Manager,” she said.

“Here at Mater Mackay, our consumers have access to the same high-quality healthcare that is provided in South-East Queensland.

“For example, our Teladoc service allows sick neonates access to a specialised neonatology team in the Neonatal Critical Care Unit in South-East Queensland.

“Being a part of a large health care organisation means that we have access to world-class specialists and nursing staff, and innovative research and education to ensure here in Mackay we provide excellence in care.”

Ms Fordyce said receiving a Mater People Award was an amazing experience.

“To have the recognition for the hard work and perseverance over the last 12 months means a lot,” she said.

“I will endeavour to continue the work I have started here in Mater Mackay, improve the consumer experience and ensure that every patient receives high-quality, safe and compassionate health care.”   

General Manager Karen Wade said Ms Fordyce had gained the respect of staff, patients and the community, while demonstrating exceptional leadership skills.

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Sarah Fordyce, Midwifery Nurse Unit Manager at Mater Mackay, was honoured with the Mater Early Career Excellence Award for her outstanding leadership and dedication to enhancing maternity care in the region. Photos supplied

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By Amanda Wright

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In a bold call to action, Mackay's top business and community leaders gathered last week at Harrup Park, voicing their mounting frustration over the continued lack of substantial funding commitments for the region in the Queensland State Election campaign. With just 15 days left until election day, the message was clear: Mackay has been overlooked for far too long, and it's time for that to change.
Despite the Mackay region's significant contribution to Queensland's economic output, local leaders expressed their dissatisfaction with the major parties' failure to address critical infrastructure, economic investment, and community projects that the region desperately needs. Instead, campaign discussions have largely focused on state-wide issues like health, housing, and crime, leaving Mackay to fall through the cracks.
Speaking at the meeting, Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park, highlighted the glaring disparity in sporting infrastructure funding between Mackay and other regional centres like Cairns, Townsville, and Rockhampton. Of nearly $580 million committed or spent in those four regions, Mackay has received a paltry $23.3 million — just 4% of the total.
"The numbers are shocking," Mr Young stated.
"While Townsville secures 54 per cent of the funding at $312 million, Mackay’s share is minuscule. Projects like the Great Barrier Reef Arena Stage 2, which are crucial to Mackay’s growth and legacy, are left unfunded.
“We are an Olympic nation now, and Mackay deserves its place in that future.”
The lack of investment in Mackay’s sporting infrastructure could have long-lasting consequences, especially as the 2032 Brisbane Olympics loom large, potentially offering significant opportunities for regional development. Yet Mackay leaders feel the region is missing out on the chance to build infrastructure that will benefit future generations.
But the issues don’t stop at sport. Scott Owen, CEO of Mackay Regional Council, raised alarms about the broader funding inequalities seen in the state budget.
“Mackay-Whitsunday was allocated just $623.4 million in the 2023-24 state budget," Mr Owen revealed, "a staggering $1.3 billion less than Central Queensland.
“Meanwhile, Far North Queensland received $2 billion, and even North Queensland got over $1.18 billion. This leaves us in a very difficult position to achieve the growth targets we’ve set for our region.”
The funding disparity isn't just limited to major infrastructure, but also affects youth programs, another area where Mackay has been left behind. Greater Whitsunday Communities CEO Carol Norris spoke to the group about the critical need for investment in the younger generation.
"Our youth are our future," Ms Norris said, “But when you look at the funding committed to programs for young people in regions like Central Queensland and Townsville compared to what Mackay gets, the imbalance is startling.

“If we don’t invest in our young people now, we risk losing them to regions that offer better opportunities."
Adrian Miles, Mackay Airport’s Head of Operations, shared further concerns about the region’s aviation infrastructure, which is essential for both economic growth and healthcare. He outlined two major projects that have been identified as vital for the region’s future: a common-user aeromedical facility and a common-user freight facility, estimated to cost $6 million and $14 million, respectively.
"These projects are essential not just for economic development but for safeguarding the health of our region," Mr Miles explained.
"An aeromedical facility would drastically improve response times for critical health emergencies, and the freight facility would unlock more opportunities for export and growth in industries like agriculture and mining."
The meeting also touched on the critical need for road improvements in Mackay, as outlined by Road Accident Action Group President, Rod Erwin, who highlighted the often devastating cost of road accidents in the region. Despite tireless advocacy, many critical road projects remain underfunded, leaving Mackay's residents at continued risk.
"The work we do is not just about fixing roads; it’s about saving lives," Mr Erwin said.
"Every delay in road funding puts more lives at risk. How many more accidents do we need to see before action is taken?"
Mackay’s leaders have grown increasingly frustrated with the lack of reinvestment into a region that continues to be an economic powerhouse for Queensland. Recent signature projects like the Resources Centre of Excellence, the Great Barrier Reef Arena, and the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails are proof that Mackay has the vision and capability to turn projects into reality. The question now is: why isn’t the region being supported with the funding it deserves?
In a unified message, the group called on state election candidates and political leaders in the Mackay, Whitsunday, and Mirani electorates to commit to addressing the region’s unique priorities before election day, and to ensure that these commitments are carried through in the next four years of government.
"We’re done missing out on our fair share," one business leader declared, summarising the sentiment in the room.
"Mackay has done more than its part for Queensland, and now it’s time for Queensland to do its part for Mackay."
As the meeting concluded, it was clear that Mackay’s business and community leaders are ready to hold the state’s political leaders accountable. They are demanding action — not just promises — that will secure the region's future, strengthen its infrastructure, and ensure that Mackay is no longer an afterthought in Queensland’s funding allocations.
With less than two weeks left in the campaign, the message to the candidates was unmistakable: Mackay has waited long enough.
Now, it’s time for those in power to step up and deliver.

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Mackay business and community leaders gather at Harrup Park, urging political candidates to address funding inequalities and prioritise the region’s future. Photos supplied

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