The Government have announced a $1 million project to construct women’s changerooms for the Rugby League Mackay & District playing fields in an aim to support the next generation of female players in the region amid an increasing demand for participation. The commitment to deliver the changerooms comes after local MP Nigel Dalton petitioned for the investment and was backed by more than 300 community members. The changerooms will also be adjacent to BB Print Stadium, the home of the Mackay Cutters, which is used by a range of other sports including rugby union and soccer for major fixtures. The project will be jointly funded by the state government and Mackay Regional Council and will include two fully-serviced changerooms with dedicated female amenities. Premier David Crisafulli said the new changerooms would provide greater dignity for women and girls wanting to play rugby league. “Every Queenslander who plays sport, regardless of their gender, age or ability, deserves to have access to changerooms and facilities,” Premier Crisafulli said. “Mackay is one of Queensland’s greatest rugby league nurseries and the growth of the women’s game in the region has been outstanding. “It’s imperative women and girls who play the game are made to feel as welcome as possible, and these new changerooms will make rugby league even more inclusive for the Mackay community. “This upgrade is overdue and our government is delivering the infrastructure local sporting clubs need to thrive, while creating more opportunities for women and girls to get involved in sport.” Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the new changerooms were a gamechanger for sport in the region. “Having the right infrastructure in place will attract more women and girls to want to play rugby league, and that is a huge win for Mackay,” Mr Dalton said. “This project is a direct result of listening to our local sporting clubs and the wider community over the past year. Time and again, people told me they wanted better facilities to support the growth of women's sport, and I'm proud we have been able to deliver on that feedback. “Having the new changerooms adjacent to BB Print Stadium means female participants using that venue, whether it be for rugby league, rugby union or soccer, will also be catered for. “This is a fantastic outcome for our community and for Mackay sport, and it's another example of what can be achieved when we listen to local people and deliver on their priorities.” Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the project was a significant win for local sport. “We’re seeing strong participation in women’s sport right across Mackay, and these new changerooms will make it easier for more women and girls to get involved and stay involved in sport,” Mayor Williamson said. “The Mackay Regional Council is pleased to partner with the Crisafulli Government on a project that will deliver benefits for local clubs and the wider community for years to come.” Mackay Cutters Board Member Emma Coburn said the upgrades would allow female players access to safe, modern and inclusive facilities that support their participation in the game. “We’ve seen incredible growth in women’s rugby league across Mackay, and having modern, dedicated female facilities is essential to supporting that growth,” Ms Coburn said. “This investment will help strengthen the pathway from grassroots participation through to representative rugby league and ensure the next generation of female talent can continue to thrive right here in our region.”
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A notorious Bruce Highway intersection long considered one of the region’s most dangerous blackspots is set for a major safety overhaul, with Premier David Crisafulli announcing plans to upgrade the Habana Road junction. The project forms part of the joint State and Federal Government’s $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program and will include a reconfigured intersection and road widening to improve safety and heavy vehicle access. Notorious intersection to be upgraded as part of Bruce Highway upgrades Premier David Crisafulli has announced a major safety upgrade to the notorious Bruce Highway intersection blackspot at Habana Road. The Premier visited the site on the morning of June 9th to share plans for the project, which will be funded by the $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program jointly delivered by the state and federal Governments. The intersection will be reconfigured to improve safety and boost capacity, with the road widened to improve safe heavy vehicle access. The site is a known crash hotspot, with four hospitalisations following serious incidents in the past decade, and many more accidents reported. Planning and design will now commence for the upgrade, with construction expected to commence in 2027. “We are delivering the safer Bruce Highway that regional Queensland has demanded and waited too long for,” Premier Crisafulli said. “This is about getting Queenslanders home sooner and safer, starting with the worst blackspots to boost safety on the Bruce.” According to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm: “The Bruce Highway and Farleigh Habana Road intersection is notoriously dangerous, and these overdue upgrades for our community will deliver a major boost to safety,” “In addition to saving lives, this investment is ensuring we have the regional connectivity to support our tourism, mining and agricultural industries.” Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said he was proud to be part of a government delivering for regional communities. “These upgrades to the Bruce Highway are something the community has been calling for and now thanks to the Government securing a $9 billion program, it’s getting the critical upgrades it needs,” Mr Dalton said.
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A Commemorative Ceremony marking the 83rd anniversary of Australia worst air disaster was conducted at the Bakers Creek memorial on Sunday 7th June. The B-17c Flying Fortress, a former bomber which had been converted to a transport aircraft, carrying 41 American military personnel back to ‘Maple’ (Port Morsby following their rest and relaxation leave in Mackay, crashed shortly after taking off from the Mackay airport before sunrise, at 6.02am, on the morning of 14th June 1943, in the area now occupied by the abattoir. There was only one survivor. The memorial which is located at the Bakers Creek Community Hall, less than a kilometre from the crash site, was unveiled and dedicated on 11th May 1992, and remembrance services have been conducted annually since that date. Following the arrival of special guests by WW2 Jeeps, American, Australian and 24 ‘Home State’ flags (representing the casualties) were marched on, with music provided by a band comprised of primary school students from several schools. A contingent of No.105 (City of Mackay) Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) followed the flags, and a guard of cadets was mounted at the corners of the memorial. The ceremony commenced with the Australian National Anthem and the American National Anthem, and an address by Mr. Greg Williamson, Mayor of Mackay Regional Council. An aerial tribute was provided by a Fly Past and ‘Dipping of Wings’ by a Tiger Moth aircraft from The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum. Piper Isaac Williamson, a member of the Mackay and District Pipe Band, played a lament as flowers of remembrance were being laid, and the last, representing the sole survivor by a staff member of the Dundula State Primary School. Taps and The Last Post were sounded by the Bugler, and the Ode to the Fallen recited following a minutes silence, after which Rouse was sounded. The ceremony concluded with a march past of the AAFC.
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After its busiest year on record and more than 300 missions already completed in 2026, BMA CQ Rescue is calling on Mackay and surrounding communities to help ensure the region's rescue helicopter service remains ready for the next emergency. The community-funded organisation this week launched its 2026 Annual Appeal, aiming to raise $280,000 to help offset rising operational costs and maintain its around-the-clock rescue capability. Based in Mackay, BMA CQ Rescue provides critical aeromedical, search and rescue, and emergency response services across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Demand for the service continues to grow. In 2025, crews responded to a record 778 missions and flew more than 339,000 kilometres across Central and North Queensland. So far this year, they have already completed more than 300 lifesaving flights. Chief Executive Officer Tim Healee said every mission represented a family facing one of the most challenging moments of their lives. “For 30 years, our crews have answered the call without hesitation, no matter the time, weather, or how remote the location,” Mr Healee said. “But every mission relies on the strength of our community. There will always be another accident, another medical emergency, another family needing help fast. And when that call comes, we must be ready.” While government funding supports part of the service, BMA CQ Rescue must still raise almost $7 million from the community each year to continue operating. The 2026 appeal centres on the story of 13-year-old Tallis Anderson, who suffered critical injuries in a serious motorbike accident near Moranbah. When the emergency call came through, BMA CQ Rescue crews responded rapidly, providing urgent medical care before transporting Tallis to Mackay for specialist treatment. For his family, the helicopter's arrival was a moment they will never forget. “You don't realise how precious they are until something like that happens,” Tallis' father Ryan said. Today, Tallis continues his recovery surrounded by family, something his parents believe may not have been possible without the quick response of the rescue crew. Mr Healee said Tallis' story highlighted why community support remains so important. “The people who need us tomorrow don't know it yet, but when that moment comes, our communities support means we can be there,” he said. This year's appeal also marks 30 years of service for the rescue organisation, which has become a vital lifeline for regional communities where distance can often mean the difference between life and death. Operating 365 days a year, the service now flies further and faster than ever before, thanks to its fleet of AW139 rescue helicopters. However, officials say continued community support remains essential to ensuring crews can respond whenever the next call for help comes. Community members can support the appeal by donating through the BMA CQ Rescue website via www.cqrescue.org.au. CAPTION: To help keep this vital service in the sky, residents are encouraged to support the 2026 Annual Appeal. Every dollar counts and could be the difference in someone’s life. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue
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Last Tuesday, Mackay State High School marked the expansion of the Inclusion Series Day, following the event’s successful launch in 2024 at North Rockhampton State High School, which included all neighbouring special schools. In 2025, the program extended to other Central Queensland areas, such asLongreach, Mt Isa, Emerald, Mackay, and Gladstone, and involved local inclusion staff and PE teachers for professional development in inclusive education.
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Decluttering doesn’t have to mean hauling boxes or dedicating your weekend to chaos control. With a few clever five-minute fixes, you can free up space and breathe easier in your home.
Start with the kitchen drawers. Toss duplicate utensils or that extra stash of takeaway cutlery. Suddenly, there’s room for what you actually use. In the wardrobe, grab five hangers and remove anything you haven’t worn in a year – instant breathing room and no hard decisions required.
For the bathroom, streamline by combining half-used lotions into one container and recycling the empties. You’ll be surprised at how much space you win back on the vanity. In the living room, use a stylish basket to scoop up remotes, magazines and stray cords – clutter hidden in plain sight.
Don’t forget the entryway drop zone. A wall hook or slim shelf keeps keys and bags off the table, making it easier to find what you need on your way out the door.
Decluttering isn’t about a complete overhaul; it’s about these micro-shifts that free your surfaces, drawers and shelves. Five minutes here and there adds up to a home that feels lighter, calmer, and easier to live in.

I’ve always said Mackay punches well above its weight when it comes to things to do, and last weekend really proved the point. The RIN Awards kicked things off on Friday night, hosted by none other than Ed Kavalee. It also happened to be my husband’s birthday, so I figured, why not blend work with celebration? We’re big Ed fans from Have You Been Paying Attention?, so that was my cheeky sales pitch for working on his big day.
From there it was straight into Rhythm and the Reef on Saturday, then international cricket on Sunday where Australia went record-breaking crazy — highest ever one-day score on Aussie soil and the opening three batsmen all notching centuries, something never seen before. Honestly, it was three epic days stacked back-to-back, all just after returning from New Zealand. There will be an extended feature on the RIN awards in next week's edition.
Speaking of NZ, for those who remember me saying I’d take my son to see snow — let’s just say our ski field day was more blizzard than postcard. His cousins embraced it by tobogganing down the learner’s slope with snow blasting their faces taking my little one for rides. Mine? Let's just say he's a Queensland baby through-and-through. We now joke he has snow-induced trauma.
And because life loves a quick turnaround, the very next day after returning home was his daycare’s Book Week parade. I missed the group memo that everyone from his class was going as Alice in Wonderland characters, so my little one marched as the Gruffalo. I use the term 'costume' loosely, if I'm honest, it was a t-shirt. Stranger still, he wasn’t the only Gruffalo in a group of Queens, Cats and Mad Hatters. You can see some truly amazing Book Week costumes in this edition on pages 14-15.
Maybe next year I’ll channel my mum and whip up an elaborate handmade costume… but let’s be honest, probably not.
Amanda

A local mum has shared heartfelt appreciation for the emergency department (ED) team, highlighting the compassion and professionalism of staff during a recent visit.
“We were there Monday afternoon, sent via GP (tried to avoid) and they were so busy but the triage nurses were amazing, calm and thorough,” she said.
The mum, who attended with her three children, described the challenges of the waiting area.
“It took me an hour to even get through triage, but I could see how thorough the cares were for each individual that came through the door,” she explained.
Despite a difficult environment, including disruptive behaviour from other patients, she was struck by the way staff managed the situation.
“A special appreciation to the AIN who came out before security to de-escalate, you are amazing, brave and noticed! And the extra senior staff that came out to ensure public safety, thank you!”
She praised the nurses for their thoughtful support during the long wait.
“The nurses kept us up to date, brought things out to my kids to keep us going, and apologised for the wait. Well done ED nurses for making the wait a little more bearable for us.
“As a mum I appreciated it.”
Her message carried an important reminder to the community.
“Please be kind to our ED department staff, they are constantly under the pump and doing a really amazing job xx.”

Election day for the Mackay Regional Council by-election is this Saturday 30 August but unlike recent council elections in Mackay, there is no in-person voting at polling booths on Saturday.
“All Mackay voters have been sent ballot materials in the post,” Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said.
“Please follow the instruction on your postal ballot envelope and on the ballot paper carefully to ensure your vote counts. This includes signing the declaration envelope and making sure the envelope is also signed by a witness.”
So far, the Returning Officer has scrutinised and accepted 37,599 postal ballot envelopes. The most common reason for not accepting a sealed ballot envelope is not having the voter’s or witness’s signatures on the declaration envelope.
Election staff will begin counting ballot papers at 6pm this Saturday. The ECQ website will be updated as the count progresses.
Voters have until 6pm on Saturday to complete their vote.
“For your vote to count, we must receive your completed postal vote by 5pm on Tuesday 9 September 2025,” Mr Vidgen said.
“We encourage voters to return their ballot as soon as possible. The earlier the votes are in; the sooner we can declare an outcome.”
A declaration of the elected candidate will only occur once the outcome is certain and may extend to after the 9 September cut-off.
Mr Vidgen reminded the approximately 90,500 enrolled voters living in Mackay Regional Council area that voting is compulsory and failure to vote can attract a $166 fine.
The Mackay Regional Council by-election results from the resignation of Councillor George Christensen on 30 May 2025.
Keep up-dated on the Mackay Regional Council by-election at the ECQ’s website or on social media @electoralcommissionqld. If you have any enquiries, please call the ECQ on 1300 881 665.

Mackay residents are being urged to roll up their sleeves and help save lives, with Lifeblood and Mayor Greg Williamson highlighting the importance of blood and plasma donations.
Lifeblood spokeswoman Gwendolyne Camaret said the impact of a single donation could be profound.
“One donation can save up to three lives. Our recipients include cancer patients, people undergoing surgery, car accident victims and more,” she said.
Camaret said while Mackay’s donor centre had been kept busy, there was always a pressing need to encourage more donations, particularly plasma.
“Our centre has been very busy with donations, and plasma especially has been very popular for a long time,” she said.
“We need to build a platform for plasma in Australia, so we always recommend that people donate plasma to help keep up with the needs of hospitals.”
She said the process to become a donor was straightforward, and the rewards were immeasurable.
“A blood donation can save lives, so that is just amazing. People can register online as a blood donor and come visit us – it’s a very simple process.”
Mayor Greg Williamson put words into action this week, rolling up his sleeve at Mackay’s Red Cross Lifeblood centre as part of a national local government campaign to promote awareness.
“You never know when you might need a blood transfusion – car accidents are high on that list. As Australians, this is one of the things we can do to guarantee there are blood supplies for all the trauma that happens,” Mr Williamson said.
“Right now, this is part of a local government, Australia-wide campaign to focus attention on the importance of blood donations. Here in Mackay, we’ve got a fantastic opportunity to do that through the Red Cross, and everybody can do it.”
The Mayor acknowledged that many people feel too busy to fit in a donation but stressed that making the time could make a life-saving difference.
“We’re all busy, but you just don’t know when you might be in a circumstance where you need a blood transfusion. Unless we’ve got the stocks here, that’s not going to happen.
“If you have the time, if you’re well enough, if you can spend an hour of your day giving blood, then it’s a great thing to do.”
For those unsure or hesitant about the process, Mr Williamson offered reassurance.
“Some people are scared of needles, but it’s actually quite easy. They really look after you here. It’s relaxing – you can watch TV while you’re doing it. It’s painless when the needle goes in, and at the end you even get some nice food before heading back into your day.”
With every donation carrying the potential to save lives, both Lifeblood and the Mayor are calling on Mackay residents to step forward and be part of the lifesaving effort.
Mackay, roll up your sleeves - one blood or plasma donation could save up to three lives! Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

VIEW (Voice, Interests, and Education of Women) is dedicated to friendship, fun, and making a difference. Members enjoy regular social gatherings, engaging guest speakers, and the opportunity to support The Smith Family’s mission of helping Australian children experiencing disadvantage.
Recently, Mackay VIEW Club members attended the Farmers’ Market, where they met with locals and shared information about the club’s activities.
The club meets on the third Wednesday of every month at the Mackay Surf Club. Community members interested in learning more are invited to visit the Facebook page VIEW Club – Mackay, Queensland or contact the President at mackay.viewclub@gmail.com.

Mackay Hospital and Health Board Chair Helen Darch announced today that Chief Executive Susan Gannon has resigned from her position with Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS).
Ms Darch paid tribute to Ms Gannon for her hard work and dedication in leading the health service.
“Susan has steered Mackay HHS through a significant period of recovery and renewal over the past two and a half years and we have been grateful to have someone with her depth of experience in the role,” Ms Darch said.
“We received strong external validation of our progress during the recent accreditation process conducted by the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) assessors. Their positive feedback highlights the results of the team’s hard work under Susan’s leadership.”
Ms Gannon said she had not been actively seeking to leave Mackay.
“I was approached about a career opportunity in Victoria, where my family is based,” Ms Gannon said.
“I have been working interstate for the past 10 years and this presents a chance for me to return home.
“However, the true strength of this health service lies in its team.
“There are more than 3,500 dedicated staff members at Mackay HHS who are committed to delivering safe and accessible healthcare across our region and it has been a privilege to lead such a passionate and skilled team.”
Ms Gannon said she was proud of the achievements of the health service during her time in the role.
“Since I began in June 2023, Mackay HHS has opened two new hospitals in Sarina and Moranbah,” she said.
“We’ve launched several initiatives to improve patient care, including the Transit Care Hub, the PODSS rapid access service, and the Safe Harbour crisis support service.
“We’ve also seen growth in medical research, in fields such as falls prevention, diabetes, coeliac disease, and mental health.
“Looking ahead, exciting developments include the expansion of Mackay Base Hospital to add more beds, a multi-storey car park with a rooftop helipad, and an offsite birth centre.”
Ms Darch confirmed that interim arrangements would be put in place to fill the Chief Executive role following Ms Gannon’s departure on 3 October.
“We are grateful to Susan for her contributions and commitment to Mackay HHS and wish her all the best in this next chapter,” Ms Darch said.
Chief Executive Susan Gannon has resigned from Mackay Hospital and Health Service after leading a period of recovery and growth, with interim leadership arrangements to follow her departure on October 3. Photo source: Mackay HHS

More than three years in government, and Labor still doesn’t have any real plans to positively grow the economy.
Last week, a hand-picked group of government, union, business and industry figures gathered for a three-day economic forum to supposedly chart a course for Australia's economic future. It was billed as a big deal, a national conversation. But even before it began, the chaos was showing. When Treasurer Jim Chalmers launched the forum, he declared “everything was on the table” and all ideas were welcome. Days later, the Prime Minister walked that back, pouring cold water on expectations and adding caveats. Right up to the day of the event, invitees were unsure of their role or what was actually going to be discussed.
And what was the outcome? From where I’m standing, not much. Or at least, not much that will help the average Australian.
Across Dawson, people are telling me every day that rising power bills, increased taxes, and climbing cost of living expenses are biting hard. Locals are feeling the pressure. While Labor’s economic forum in Canberra went around in circles, families and businesses in North Queensland need real action.
The reality is, that since Labor took office in 2022, our economy has been sliding. Inflation is still eating into every household budget, productivity is falling, debt is ballooning, and a wave of quiet tax hikes is washing over us. Government spending remains out of control, and there is more waste than a sewage treatment plant. Instead of leading with vision and responsibility, Labor seems out of ideas only months into their second term.
And when they’re out of ideas, they reach for one thing. The Australian wallet.
We've already seen it. A proposed new tax on super and unrealised gains. A luxury car tax that somehow includes utes, not exactly your average status symbol. And of course, the fuel excise is back on the rise. Oh, the forum did, however, come up with the idea of a road user’s charge.
This government doesn’t have a revenue problem. It has a spending problem.
Raising taxes doesn’t grow the economy; it shrinks it. If we want true tax reform that drives productivity and prosperity, we need to be cutting taxes, not increasing them. More money in people’s pockets means more spending on goods and services.
This drives business growth, job creation, and yes, ultimately higher tax receipts from a larger, more active economy.
When the treasurer announced the outcomes of the forum, not one word was mentioned about energy; not one word was mentioned about small business; not one word was mentioned on driving down uncontrolled immigration; and not one word was mentioned on reducing taxes, only creating them.
The current government does not care about the Australian household budget. They only care about headlines that will deliver them the votes to keep their jobs.
Australia doesn’t need more forums. It needs leadership with a serious plan for economic growth.
Andrew Willcox
Federal Member for Dawson, Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

One year after thirty purpose-designed Habitat Reef Modules were installed off Mackay, new underwater footage is revealing encouraging signs of success.
Monitoring has recorded at least 22 fish species now using the modules – a remarkable increase from just three species recorded before deployment.
These include key recreational, commercial and indigenous fishery species such as red emperor, large-mouth nannygai, gold-spot cod and grassy sweetlip, along with small-bodied reef fish like wrasse, blennies, chromis and coralfish.
Matt Moore, Fisheries Ecologist at Catchment Solutions said the footage also showed the modules covered in soft coral growth.
He said hard corals were expected to establish over a longer timeframe.
“This early colonisation is a positive sign that the structures are functioning as intended, supporting marine life and enhancing reef habitat,” Mr Moore said.
“We’ve designed these modules to mimic the ecological function of natural reef bommies,” he said.
“From surface texture to internal shelter spaces for juvenile fish, every part of the design has a role in enhancing habitat quality and increasing the resilience of reef communities.
“These are ‘set-and-forget’ structures – they provide favourable attachment conditions away from sediment, encouraging natural colonisation by reef-building organisms.”
Co-chair of council’s Sustainability Advisory Committee Cr Alison Jones said it was incredibly rewarding to see such strong results in just 12 months.
“This project shows how local partnerships can deliver practical solutions that support both our environment and our community,” Cr Jones said.
Cr Jones said the installation of Habitat Reef Modules in shallow waters off Mackay Harbour was delivering benefits well beyond ecological restoration – it was opening up new opportunities for recreational fishing close to shore.
“Being that the modules are in just 12 metres of water, they are easily accessible to families, children, tourists and local fishers,” she said.
“Their proximity to shore creates a rare opportunity to catch popular, great-tasting reef species such as red emperor and nannygai, all from a world-class, sustainably managed fishery.”
Kellie Best, Project Officer at Reef Catchments NRM said the structures offered critical nursery habitats for juvenile fish.
“Each module includes ‘hidey holes’ leading to a central internal chamber designed to provide shelter from predators,” Ms Best said.
“By offering safe spaces during early life stages, the modules support fish survival, allowing more juveniles to reach maturity and contribute to reef fish populations,” she said.
“Juvenile fish are most vulnerable when they’re small, so by providing dedicated refuge, these modules give them a better chance of surviving, growing and eventually reproducing.”
One year on from the installation of thirty purpose-designed Habitat Reef Modules off Mackay, the transformation is clear. What began as bare concrete structures now teems with life, with monitoring revealing at least 22 fish species compared to just three recorded before deployment. Photo credit: Catchment Solutions

In 2022 a statue of “Joe” the international canecutter was unveiled in Albert Lloyd Park at Marian. Joe commemorates those of any nationality or ethnic group who worked to promote the sugar industry in and around Marian.
The sugar industry actually began in Marian over 140 years ago in 1883, when a company was formed with British and industrialist money to establish a sugar mill in the Mackay district. Messrs Smith, McEachran and McKenzie were the key figures in raising the necessary funds. The chosen site was about three miles west of Pleystowe on the Pioneer River, and it became known as Marian. Operations commenced in 1883 and continued until 1892, when the factory closed.
Early pioneer families of the area included Markey, Grosskreutz, Farley, Coyne, Langford, McHardie, Rick, Walz, Erickson and Vickers.
The men responsible for erecting the mill were McEachran and McKenzie.
After the closure in 1892, a grower-owned mill was erected in 1895 by local farmers who mortgaged their properties to secure funds from the Queensland Government. This mill laid the foundation for an industry that has stood the test of time and continues to flourish today.
On August 3, a plaque was placed in Albert Lloyd Park to acknowledge the contribution of these men to the founding of the sugar industry in the Marian area.
Contributed by Joan Vickers
Inspecting the plaque are members of the Erickson [1880], Doyle [1900] and the Vickers [1889] families who are the fourth and fifth generation of farmers who are still farming at Marian in 2025
Peter Doyle, Anne Leeson [Erickson], and Wayne Vickers
Bobby Scriha and his sons Robert and Christopher. Photos supplied

A graduation ceremony at Mackay Base Hospital for seven Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students has marked the next big step in turning their healthcare career dreams into reality.
The teens have completed an 18-month traineeship across various departments at the hospital as part of the Budyubari Bidyiri Kebi Stapal – or Big Dream, Small Steps – Program.
In a ceremony at the hospital on Friday, 22 August, the students celebrated with their families and were presented with their Certificate III qualifications in either Health Services Assistance or Allied Health Assistance.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Chief Executive Susan Gannon congratulated the 2025 graduates, who began their traineeships early last year.
“Each trainee has gained valuable skills, insight and experience in the healthcare industry while still at high school and working in various units across the Mackay Base Hospital,” she said.
“The aim of the program is to build the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce to better reflect the community we care for.”
Mackay HHS Executive Director People and Culture, Peta-Maree France, said the traineeship gave the students on-the-job experience and helped them develop foundational skills, knowledge and practical experience in the health sector.
“Today we congratulate these graduates for their incredible courage and commitment as they transition from high school students to the next generation of our healthcare workforce,” she said.
Mackay HHS First Nations healthcare staff also congratulated the students, encouraging them to:
“Be proud of yourself for following in the footsteps of our elders and being a lighthouse to help light the way for the next generation of First Nations healthcare workers.”
St Patrick’s College student Maleek Brennan said the traineeship had cemented his decision to study and eventually work as a nurse practitioner.
“I’ve had great support from the staff during my traineeship and I have now started the Assistant in Nursing (AIN) program while I am working in G2 at the Base Hospital,” Maleek said.
“I intend to apply for a Bachelor of Nursing and Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) at QUT and eventually hope to work in mental health.”
Holy Spirit College Year 12 student Grace Ridge said she enjoyed working in the Women’s Health Unit for six months as part of her traineeship and was fortunate to witness two babies being born.
She also gained valuable experience working with geriatric and bariatric patients on G2, helping to feed and bathe them, as well as working in the Green Zone and Short Stay Unit in the Mackay Base Hospital Emergency Department (ED).
“It’s really been eye-opening and a unique experience, giving us good insight into the profession; the staff here have been very welcoming,” Grace said.
2025 Big Dream, Small Steps Graduating Trainees
Maleek Brennan – Certificate III Allied Health Assistance
Isabella Coe – Certificate III Health Services Assistance
Olivia Jones – Certificate III Health Services Assistance
Grace Ridge – Certificate III Health Services Assistance
Joni Thompson – Certificate III Health Services Assistance
Madison Tatow – Certificate III Health Services Assistance
Imogen Joseph – Certificate III Health Services Assistance
Big Dreams Small Steps graduates Madison Tatow, Joni Thompson, Imogen Joseph, Isabella Coe, Maleek Brennan, Grace Ridge and Oliva Jones. Photo supplied

The Mackay Disability Expo opens its doors today, with over 70 exhibitors on display at the Mackay Showgrounds Big Shed.
Running from 9am to noon, the free event will showcase a wide range of services and supports for people with disability, their families, and carers. Exhibitors will include both local providers and visiting specialists, with displays covering prosthetics, physiotherapy, mobility aids, accessible housing, all-abilities sports, and inclusive fitness options.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the expo would offer the opportunity for those living with a disability and their carers to connect with these specialists.
“It’s essential that our community is aware of what is available to them and that the services are there for them to access,” Mayor Williamson said.
“There will also be some fantastic displays by our local groups, including CrossRoad Arts ROAR Program and Groove Movers interpretive dance, who are always on the lookout for new members,” he said.
Mayor Williamson said that in Australia, about one in six people are living with disability, which is roughly 4.4 million people.
“When you include people with temporary disabilities resulting from injury or illness, together with friends, families and carers, the number of people who value accessibility and use disability support services and aids is greater still,” he said.
“Events like this are a tremendous way for council to link the community with information, services and products that support them while also providing opportunities for our local clubs and organisations to network and upskill their volunteers and staff on the importance of accessibility.”
For more information on the Mackay Disability Expo, head to council’s website.
The Mackay Disability Expo is on today from 9am to noon at the Showgrounds Big Shed, showcasing more than 70 exhibitors with services and supports for people with disability, their families, and carers. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

The businesses that stand out are those brave enough to own their differences and back them with a unique marketing strategy. After nearly thirty years, redhotblue has worked with clients across almost every industry, and one thing remains consistent - no two businesses are the same. Every business has its own fingerprint, a unique identity that sets it apart from competitors, which is why cookie-cutter marketing falls short. What works for one business won’t necessarily work for another, so trying to replicate someone else’s approach will result in a business being overlooked in a crowded market.
It’s widely understood that businesses should dedicate around 5-10% of their turnover to marketing. Smaller brands often balk at that figure, while larger ones continue to adhere to it. The difference is perspective. Bigger brands understand that marketing is not so much an expense as it is an investment in future growth. When industry leaders with household recognition are dedicating significant resources to marketing, it’s unrealistic for smaller businesses to expect to survive without doing the same.
Investment alone isn’t enough. Throwing money at marketing without a strategy is futile. A strategy is the framework that ensures every dollar spent is accounted for and directed towards a clear outcome. Without it, campaigns become activity for activity’s sake. A strategy answers the hard questions many businesses neglect to ask. Who are we speaking to? Why are we speaking to this audience? What action do we want them to take? How will we motivate them to take that action? And crucially, what does the audience want from the business? When businesses fail to ask these questions, they run the risk of broadcasting irrelevant messages directed at the wrong audience, while burning precious budget.
Too many businesses try to play it safe by copying their competitors and the latest trends. The result is an industry crowded by clones that blur together in the minds of customers. Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a brand’s point of difference. A brand that hides from its unique identity due to a lack of confidence or fear is both short-sighted and unsustainable. Consumers can spot inauthenticity a mile away, and employees will burn out trying to maintain a façade. The only way forward is to embrace what makes a brand different and own it.
The rise of templates and trends has made it dangerously easy for businesses to believe that marketing is just a ‘plug and play’ exercise. But templated solutions will always deliver templated results. They dilute a business’s message, strip away individuality, and place a brand firmly in the middle of the pack. At redhotblue, we’ve never worked from templates because we know one-size doesn’t fit all. Our team’s knowledge, skills, and experience mean that we can create and implement marketing strategies that set brands apart, without replicating what’s already in the market.
The businesses that truly thrive are those bold enough to invest in marketing, stay unapologetically authentic, and trust experts to craft their unique strategy. Without marketing, owners are relying on hope and crossing their fingers; done right, it’s a driving force behind growth.

Mackay’s future is on show, with Mackay Regional Council launching its latest Investment Prospectus under the banner “Opportunity at Work,” spotlighting the region’s strong economy, enviable lifestyle and exciting prospects for growth.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay was positioning itself as a powerhouse of regional investment across a range of industries.
“From emerging industries like biofutures to established sectors such as agribusiness, mining services and tourism, we have so many opportunities for investors to establish, expand and succeed in this region,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The key now is to get this prospectus out into the business world so we can share those opportunities with potential investors.”
Mayor Williamson said the region’s momentum is undeniable.
“We’re not just growing – we’re evolving,” he said. “Mackay is where innovation meets lifestyle, and where businesses can thrive with the support of a connected, forward-thinking community.”
Key highlights from the prospectus include:
• Seven compelling reasons why businesses are choosing Mackay, including its skilled workforce, strategic location and robust infrastructure.
• A spotlight on emerging industries and innovation hubs that are shaping the region’s economic future.
• Clear pathways for investors, with support from council and local networks to turn ideas into action.
• Relevant testimonials and success stories from local entrepreneurs, innovators and industry leaders.
The Invest Mackay Investment Prospectus invites investors, entrepreneurs and innovators to explore the region firsthand and discover why Mackay is more than just a place to do business – it’s a place to belong.
To view the full Investment Prospectus, visit the Mackay Regional Council website.