An Interview with the College Principal, Mrs Kylie Langshore

Why are teachers so important to society, and how do they make a real difference in our community?

Teachers make other professions possible. They lay the foundation for every other profession, nurturing the minds and hearts that will shape the future. They don’t just teach lessons; they impart wisdom, values and inspiration, making them pillars of our community.  

What makes the teachers at Whitsunday Christian College different, and what qualities make them so special?

The teachers at Whitsunday Christian College possess a genuine combination of faith, commitment, and love for both education and their students. They hold a deep sense of calling in what they do and go above and beyond to nurture not only the academic growth, but also the personal and spiritual development of each child. They partner with families and are driven by a desire to see each student discover their God-given purpose and potential. They seek to reflect Christ in what they do.

Whitsunday Christian College teaches a broad range of ages; how do the teaching styles change for the different ages? What is unique about the primary school and the secondary?

Across all age levels, the deep relationships our teachers build with students are central to the learning experience, allowing for individual guidance. In our Primary School, teachers use warmth, structure, and hands-on learning to engage younger children, building strong foundational skills. The focus is on nurturing curiosity, a love for learning and a sense of safety, as students begin their educational journey.
As students grow and enter Secondary School, the teaching approach shifts to foster greater independence, critical thinking, and responsibility. Secondary teachers mentor students through the complexities of adolescence, helping them connect their learning to real-world challenges and their personal faith.

How do the teachers at Whitsunday Christian College intertwine the school’s values into the curriculum?

Our college mission is to 'Educate for Eternity, Equip for Life.’ We provide a values-based education where faith, character, excellence, community, and service guide every aspect of learning, both inside and outside the classroom. Whether it's exploring historical figures of faith, encouraging acts of service, building a sense of community, strengthening character, or fostering excellence through academic challenges, our teachers are dedicated to nurturing students through a Christ-centred worldview.

It is World Teachers’ Month; what would you like to say to your teachers to congratulate them?

To all our incredible teachers at Whitsunday Christian College, I would like to thank you and honour you for all you give, both the seen and unseen. You are more than educators; you are mentors, role models, and shepherds to our students. Your tireless efforts, creativity, and deep care for each child makes a difference. I see how you pour your energy, love, and faith into your classrooms each day, and I am deeply grateful.

While you may not always see the full fruit of your labour, you are planting seeds that will grow for a lifetime and into eternity. Your dedication and influence reach far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of your students, families and wider community. Thank you for answering the call!

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Almost 50 people attended a special court ceremonial sitting in Bowen on Monday, marking the 150th anniversary of the supreme court in Bowen.

Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Queensland Helen Bowskill facilitated the event.

“This is a special ceremonial sitting of the supreme court together with the district court and the magistrates court,” Mrs Bowskill said.

“We hold this ceremonial sitting to mark and celebrate the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the supreme court here at Bowen.”

President of the Queensland Law Society Rebecca Fogerty also spoke on the events significance.

“Queensland, unfortunately, is not known for its enthusiastic preservation of historic buildings, I am grateful that this courthouse, perhaps one of the more charming in Queensland remains,” she said.

“More visitors to the town centre can miss its commanding presence.

“In a literal sense many of us here today have spent our careers in and around courtrooms, more importantly, for many others in this community the course of their lives have been shaped significantly by decisions made within these walls.

“This courthouse announces itself on the street scape to its presence and design as is a common feature of classical revival style, the straight lines and striking curves are symbolic of the hierarchs’ orders of the state reinforcing the legitimacy of its power.

“The use of concrete and stone connotes stability, discipline, social order, this is significant in a coastal location where most buildings from this era were made of wood.”

Mrs Bowskill concluded the ceremony by thanking everyone in attendance.

“Thank you all again for coming along to this important occasion I hope that the collegiality of traditionary on display here is evident to all of you. I’m always, on any trip outside of Brisbane, warmed by the collegiality of the profession that is on display, more so than ever here in a true generational sense.”

“I hope the lawyers take the opportunity meet with some of the not so young lawyers because it’s a rare feat for you to meet some of the people who have plotted the course up here in the northern part of Queensland.”

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Court in session
Smoking ceremony conducted by Randal Ross
Marking the 150th anniversary of the Supreme Court at Bowen

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Whitsunday Regional Council will be informing Whitsunday locals how to prepare for the upcoming disaster season at their annual Get Cyclone Ready.

Storm season starts on November 1 and the Whitsunday Regional Council want to encourage people to come to their events in Airlie Beach, Bowen, Proserpine and Collinsville to learn how to prepare for cyclone season.

   • Airlie Beach Markets
   • Bowen Markets
   • Proserpine
   • Collinsville

The events in Airlie Beach and Bowen will be live streamed.

At the events people will be able to ask various emergency services questions in order to get ready.

Whitsunday Regional Council Disaster Management will also be giving out resources on the day.

Most excitingly, people that fill out a community resilience survey go in a draw to win a generator.

How To Be Ready
Know your risk
Make a Plan
Pack supplies
Prepare an EVAC kit
Make sure you’re covered

More information about how to prepare for upcoming disaster season can be explored at any of the events by the Whitsunday Regional Council, or via their website, and or Queensland Government.

What: Get Cyclone Ready
Where: Airlie Markets
When: Saturday 26 October 9am – 12pm

What: Get Cyclone Ready
Where: Bowen Markets
When: Sunday 27 October 9am – 12pm

Proserpine Get Cyclone Ready event will be on Sunday 8 December, Collinsville event information to come.

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Cyclone Debbie in 2017 was a devastating cyclone to the Whitsunday community, Get Ready this season, Photo sourced

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Little boy Sprocky is nearly 11 months old now and is fully vetted. He's a Cocker Spaniel x Blue Heeler and is full of beans!

Sprocky is one smart puppy! He picks up training with ease and would do well in almost every family dynamic- couples, singles, empty nesters, families with kids.

He's a beautiful natured, inquisitive funny chap that's looking for a home with good fences and another dog on the property.  

Sprocket weighs 10 kgs and will be a small medium. He will definitely need a daily walk or swim at the beach and would shine brightly if he underwent more training.

He hasn't been tested with cats or chooks but we think he'd be fine once trained up.

If you'd like to adopt Sprocky email: bowencollinsville@gmail.com with your contact number and email address.

Rehoming fee: $650
Age: 11 months
Sex: Male
Breed: Cocker Spaniel x Blue Heeler
Other dogs: yes
Cats: untested
Fences: 5ft

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Have you ever had a hankering to learn to fly, join the RAAF or fly an airliner?
Following the success of last year’s Aviation Promotion Day, the Whitsunday Aero Club Inc (WAC Inc) is planning another information day for locals to learn about flying training requirements and opportunities, to be held on Sunday, 27 October 2024 from 9am at the Whitsunday Aero Club’s clubhouse, Lascelles Avenue, Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) Airport (look for the building with the green roof).
With interest shown at last year’s promotion day, Mackay-based Wrighton Aviation established a satellite flying school, based in the Whitsundays, using the facilities of the WAC Inc clubhouse, with several Whitsundays-based students enrolled.
A representative from Wrighton Aviation will be attending this year’s promotion day to ascertain if there is further interest in learning to fly amongst Whitsunday locals. If this is you, please come along!
During the day, instructor Nick Wright will be available to conduct Trial Introductory Flights, which allow those interested, the opportunity to fly the aircraft with the instructor. Contact Nick on 0459 588 810 to book a flight.  A sausage sizzle will be available between 11.00 am and 1.00pm.
The Aeroclub’s Annual General Meeting will follow at 1.30 pm. All members are invited to attend the sausage sizzle and the meeting.
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For further information contact:
Alan Midgley (WAC Inc):  0428 746 716

WHAT: Aviation Promotion Day
WHEN: Sunday 27th October
WHERE: Whitsunday Aero Club’s clubhouse, Lascelles Avenue, Whitsunday Coast (Proserpine) Airport

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Aero Club

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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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