Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Most small business owners I speak to are not short on ideas, if anything, they have too many. They are trying to keep up with social media, update their website, understand Google, run ads, write emails, serve clients, follow up leads and still actually do the work they are known for. No wonder marketing starts to feel overwhelming. And here is the thing. The problem is not always that you are doing nothing. Sometimes the problem is that you are doing a lot, but without a clear direction. You post because you feel like you should. You boost something because business feels quiet. You update your website because someone told you it might help. You try another platform because everyone else seems to be there. But without a strategy behind it, it can start to feel like you are throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping something sticks. This is where stepping back can make a huge difference. In most cases, you do not need another platform, another content idea or another person telling you to “just be consistent.” Sometimes, you need to look at the bigger picture. What are you actually trying to sell? Who are you trying to reach? What is working already? What is wasting your time? What should you focus on first? A clear conversation can often save weeks or even months of guessing. Marketing coaching can be helpful for this reason. It gives you space to untangle the mess, ask the right questions and create a plan that feels realistic for your actual business. At Glow Sphere Marketing, this is something I help small business owners with through short, practical coaching sessions, including a 2-hour option for those who want clarity without ongoing support. Marketing does not have to feel so messy. Sometimes you just need someone to help you sort through it.
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Some rescue stories stay with you, and Ahsoka and Johnny Cash’s journey is one of survival, strength and an unbreakable bond. Ahsoka was found as the smallest of a litter of six kittens, cold, weak and barely responsive after losing her siblings. Thanks to the dedication of an incredible foster carer who provided round-the-clock care, she defied the odds and pulled through. She is still being monitored for an injured eye but continues to grow stronger every day. Johnny Cash, affectionately known as the “Man in Black”, was found alone at just two weeks old. After being placed alongside Ahsoka in an incubator, the pair quickly became inseparable. While Ahsoka is gentle and resilient, Johnny is bold, curious and full of playful mischief. Together, they have helped each other heal and formed a bond too special to break. These two little survivors are now ready to find their forever home — but only together. If you can offer Ahsoka and Johnny Cash the loving indoor home they deserve, contact Ros on 0403 814 318 and share a little about yourself, your family and why you could be their perfect match.
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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay Each year when the Mackay Show comes around, our community is reminded that sugarcane is more than just a crop in this district. We are the sugar city, and cane is part of who we are. The cane competition at the Mackay Show is one of the proudest expressions of that connection, bringing together growers, families, schools, volunteers, industry people and showgoers to celebrate the skill, care and persistence behind every stick of cane. This competition is much more than ribbons and prizes. It is a living display of our region’s agricultural heritage, and a reminder of the generations of cane farming families who have shaped the Mackay landscape, economy and community. Mackay’s place in Queensland’s sugar story is well known. Cane was first grown commercially in this district in the 1860s, and from those early efforts the industry quickly grew to become one of the pillars of our region. In 1926, growers from across Queensland met in Mackay to form the organisation that became CANEGROWERS, recognising then what remains true today: growers are strongest when they stand together. The Mackay Show cane competition carries that same spirit of unity, pride and shared purpose. For many growers, preparing an entry is a labour of love. Cane must be selected, cut, stripped, presented and delivered with care. Good entries do not happen by accident. They reflect the season just gone, the grower’s knowledge of varieties, soil, nutrition, pests, weather and timing, and the pride taken in producing a crop that represents their farm and district. Behind each exhibit is a year of decisions, setbacks and effort. The competition also gives the broader public a rare chance to see sugarcane up close and appreciate the professionalism of modern cane farming. Many people drive past cane paddocks every day, but may not see the science, machinery, environmental management and business decisions behind them. The sugarcane pavilion helps tell that story in a practical and visual way, starting conversations between growers, families, students, industry experts and the next generation. That is why the Sweetest School Cane Competition is especially important. It connects young people with agriculture and shows them that sugar is not simply something on a supermarket shelf. It begins in the paddock, with people, land, rainfall, research, hard work and community knowledge. If agriculture is to have a strong future, we must keep creating opportunities for students to learn, participate and feel proud of local industries. Of course, none of this happens without volunteers. The competition depends on people who quietly give their time before, during and after show week. They organise schedules, answer enquiries, set up the pavilion, receive entries, arrange judging, prepare displays, clean up, and solve problems most visitors never see. Their contribution is often behind the scenes, but it is central to the success of the event. Acknowledgement must go to the stewards, committee members, judges, school supporters, sponsors, show staff and industry organisations that work together to keep the competition going. In a busy farming district, where time is always short and seasons are never predictable, volunteering is a genuine act of service. It deserves our thanks and our respect. Most importantly, thank you to the exhibitors. Year after year, growers continue to turn up with entries, even when the season has been difficult, workloads are heavy, or harvest preparations are underway. Without exhibitors there is no competition. Their willingness to participate keeps a long-standing tradition alive and allows the wider community to see the quality of cane grown across Mackay and surrounding districts. It is also fitting that in this celebratory year, that a multigenerational exhibitor has taken out the highest award, that being the McLennan Family, and particularly their newest generation of grower, Lachlan. The Mackay Show cane competition is not just about looking back, but history does matter. It reminds us that our industry was built by families and communities prepared to work together, innovate and persevere. It also points forward, showing that sugarcane remains a dynamic industry with opportunities in food, fibre, energy, bio-products and regional employment. At its heart, the competition celebrates pride in place. It says that farming matters, local knowledge matters, and community traditions are worth protecting. To every volunteer, exhibitor and supporter who has helped build and sustain the Mackay Show cane competition, thank you. You are preserving more than a show event. You are preserving a proud part of Mackay’s identity. Pic 1 - The inaugural Sweetest Schools Charlie McLennan Memorial Trophy was won by St Johns Catholic Primary School. Charlie McLennan was a pioneer of Schools cane competitions at Mackay Show, often saying "The kids are the industry's future!" Pic 2 - 2026 Champion Exhibitor of Show Lachlan McLennan accepts the trophy from Ian Dodd of Walterscheid_IMG_4249. Photos supplied
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Jasmin Lewis Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices With the sugar production season now in full swing across North Queensland, now is the time to focus on the nutrition of your 2027 crop. Applying Bio Dunder immediately after the harvester is an effective way to begin replacing nutrients removed during harvest while returning valuable organic matter to the soil. As part of a balanced nutrition program, Bio Dunder can help improve soil fertility, support soil biology, and create a stronger foundation for healthy crop establishment. Following the harvester also means you don’t lose valuable growing time, and enables you to stay on top of your fertilising schedule. Early nutrient application allows paddocks to begin recovering sooner, maximising the opportunity for strong early crop growth. The decisions you make today will influence the performance of your next crop. By following the harvester with Bio Dunder and other essential nutrients, you can keep your soils productive and give your 2027 crop the best possible start. Our sales agronomists Drew McGilchrist and Marc Tanizar are available to provide tailored agronomy advice for your crop nutrition needs. To confirm pricing and supply, call us on 1800 881 957. Alternatively, email AgServices@Wilmar.com.au Caption: AgServices sales agronomists Drew McGilchrist and Marc Tanizar on farm with Mackay grower Rowan Westcott, who’s beginning fertiliser application on his 2027 crop now. Photo supplied: Wilmar
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Bowen Summergarden Cinema will celebrate World Space Week 2025 with a children and youth poster competition and screenings of To The Stars – Beginning, a feature documentary about the early years of Gilmour Space Technologies.
Both events are officially registered Australian activities for World Space Week, which runs from October 4–10 each year. The 2025 theme is Living In Space.
Cinema owner Ben DeLuca said the poster competition invites entrants to pick a planet or planetary moon within the solar system, then design a way to reach it and live there.
“We now have the Bowen Orbital Spaceport so it might get local kids thinking of careers in space and the space industry,” he said.
Entries can be dropped into the cinema until October 1. All posters will be displayed in the foyer during World Space Week, with a ballot to determine the winner on October 5, just before the final screening of To The Stars – Beginning at 7pm. The winner will receive a Bowen Cinema family pass of six tickets and a DVD of the documentary.
“Entries can then be picked up at the conclusion of World Space Week 2025 after October 10th,” Mr DeLuca said. He added that patrons will also have the chance to vote for the best entries, with two small prizes awarded to the top primary and high school posters.
The screenings mark a belated premiere for To The Stars – Beginning, produced by Queensland independent filmmaker Robin Williams of RP Williams Films. The documentary covers the origins of Gilmour Space Technologies, founded by brothers Adam and James Gilmour.
“Like many people my age I was a space nerd and grew up during the Apollo Moon Missions,” Ms Williams said. Filming began in 2017, before Australia had its own Space Agency. The Gilmour footage was completed in 2019, but post-production was delayed by COVID.
“Because of so much uncertainty with lockdowns we entered a few festivals – that resulted in a Best Feature Documentary win at the 2021 Sanctuary Film Festival – held a Cast and Crew screening and one theatrical screening in Brisbane then followed professional advise and ‘put it on the shelf’ until things returned to normal,” she said.
The Bowen screenings have been timed to coincide with Gilmour’s major milestone, the Eris 1 launch attempt.
“So I guess you could call these Bowen screenings a belated official Premiere of To The Stars – Beginning,” Ms Williams said.
Mr DeLuca said the cinema is proud to host the film.
“This is a true story of inspiration about Australian brothers who have already made Australian history and it’s made by independent Australian documentary makers,” he said.
Adam Gilmour said, “Not many people know this about our company, but before Eris there was a much smaller suborbital rocket called One Vision. It was a simpler time back then, but fraught with its own challenges.”
James Gilmour, now based in Bowen, said he has always loved space.
“How can you not look up at the night sky and wonder?”
Key talent and creative at a private cast and crew screening of To The Stars- Beginning, Paul Williams, Adam Gilmour, James Gilmour, and Robin Williams
Ben DeLuca outside his iconic Bowen Cinema
Photos supplied
Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has confirmed that after more than 12 years of lobbying, the Bowen Boat Harbour Master Plan is finally moving forward.
The Master Plan was an election commitment during the October 2024 election, and with funding recently allocated by the Crisafulli Government, the focus turned to timing.
Mr Last said that, following a commitment from the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, work would begin soon.
“Less than two years ago, the former government put the Master Plan project on hold for at least five years,” Mr Last said. “After lobbying the Minister directly, we have secured another win with work on the Master Plan to get underway this year.”
“The Master Plan is the missing piece when it comes to the Bowen foreshore precinct. It is absolutely essential that the redevelopment of the jetty and upgrades of the foreshore tie into any redevelopment at the harbour, and vice versa, so we end up with the best result possible.
“A mismatched series of developments along the foreshore would be a disaster for Bowen from both a tourism point of view and for locals. Getting it right the first time not only improves value for money for taxpayers, it means we get the facilities we need much quicker.
“This is an opportunity to transform the entire foreshore area into an oasis for locals and tourists alike, less than one kilometre from the Bowen CBD. It’s about realising Bowen’s potential when it comes to economic development and job creation.
“The reality is that the Master Plan should have been completed years ago. Whenever they have been asked to, the Bowen community has engaged fully in the planning process but, despite that, nothing has been delivered.”
Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, said the Crisafulli Government was committed to listening to the community and unlocking Bowen’s potential.
“With sailing events on Bowen’s doorstep during the 2032 Olympics, we have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to promote Bowen as a tourism destination and a place to invest,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“I thank the local member’s advocacy on behalf of his community, and I look forward to seeing the planning and engagement process progressing this year. One of the key parts of any development is community engagement, because that ensures opportunities to share ideas or raise concerns to ensure the foreshore precinct brings benefits to the entire town.
“While the previous Labor government was happy to leave Bowen in a holding pattern, we recognise the impact that the Harbour Master Plan will have on Bowen’s growth and economy.”
Contributed with thanks to Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP
Australians love big things and nine in 10 people are said to embrace the oversized landmarks as a part of their great Aussie road trip.
For 72% of Aussies, visiting one is more than just a detour, it adds purpose to their trip.
Following overwhelming demand for the first collection, Australia Post has released its latest $1 coin collection in partnership with the Royal Australian Mint, celebrating Australia’s iconic roadside attractions.
The ‘Aussie Big Things 2’ collection features 10 of Australia’s favourite Big Things
including The Big Strawberry, The Big Merino, The Big Prawn, and Bowen’s own The Big Mango.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said everyone was very excited to have the Big Mango featured on a $1 coin.
“Everyone loves the Big Mango, and we feel honoured that it has been chosen as part of this new coin collection.
“Aussie Big Things capture some quirky and wonderful aspects of Australia, and more and more people are making sure they include all the Big Things on their road trips.
“The coins are available at Australia Post outlets, including the Bowen Post Office, but we will also be selling them soon at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.
“Our release date will be October 7 when we will have a limited amount for sale but there will be no pre-orders.”
The Big Mango represents the Kensington Pride variety of Mango as Bowen is the birthplace of that variety.
The Big Mango was named the Best Big Thing in our state at the Queensland Day awards in May.
On the shoreline of Bowen’s Rose Bay, a boutique caravan park has been winning over visitors with its relaxed coastal charm and a surprising healthy twist.
Tony Dente and Bernie Mackie opened the Rose Bay Beach Caravan Park just over 18 months ago, creating a welcoming escape with only 24 sites. Their goal was to provide a smaller, quieter alternative where guests could enjoy a friendly community atmosphere in a stunning beachside setting.
“It’s a small, boutique park – more like a little community than a big, overwhelming caravan park,” Bernie said.
“People love that it’s peaceful, pet-friendly and set in such a beautiful part of Bowen.”
Along with access to hiking trails and an off-lead dog beach right across the road, the park offers guests everything they need without leaving Rose Bay. That includes the Caravan Park's newest venture – Earth Bar Café. A café and health food store that has become a hit with both locals and travellers.
Serving gluten-free treats, smoothie bowls, frozen acai, and even classic scooped ice cream, Earth Bar combines seaside relaxation with modern food choices.
Bernie expects that people became more health focussed after COVID, and she saw this as a chance to fill a gap in the market in Bowen.
“Our visitors from down south, are normally from Victoria and South Australia, and they’re used to the city vibe where they have health food options at their doorstep,” explained Bernie.
“There was an opportunity to come offer that to people, and the community has been amazing with the health food, saying there's nothing like this in Bowen.”
Earthbar Cafe at Rose Bay Beach Caravan Park. Photo sourced: Facebook
After years of building a successful career on the Gold Coast, local real estate agent Kath Barker has returned to the Whitsundays with a fresh perspective on the industry choosing to go out on her own and offer something a little different, Compass Realty Whitsundays.
Having first lived in the region in the late 1980s and early 90s, Kath has strong ties to the area.
“My dad lived here for many years, and when my husband suggested moving back, at first I thought he was crazy. But once we made the move, it just felt right.”
With a background in both construction and real estate, she has combined her knowledge of property with her desire to provide a more personalised service. Instead of handling dozens of listings at once, she has deliberately positioned herself as a boutique, independent agent.
“I only take on a small number of listings at any one time,” she explained.
“Clients of mine get a really good, personalised service.
“I'm there. I answer the phone. I go and meet with them. I'm the one who does the open homes. I'm the one who answers all their inquiries, and I am the direct link between them and their buyer.”
Kath has sold lots of properties over the years, and understands that it is a stressful and emotional process.
Her career in real estate began on the Gold Coast, where she worked for LJ Hooker, one of the region’s largest agencies. The fast-paced environment gave her valuable experience but also left her burnt out. “At one point I had 20 listings and hundreds of inquiries coming in every day, it was full on,” she said.
In the 18 months since launching her independent business, Kath has steadily grown her Compass Realty Whitsundays clientele through word of mouth and networking. From helping local families to selling property remotely for interstate clients she’s never even met in person, she has proven that a smaller, more personalised approach can thrive in a competitive market.
“I’m not trying to compete with the big agencies—they have their place in the market she said.
Compass Realty Whitsundays approach is more direct, but allows Kath to care for and better understand her clients or potential buyers.
Kath Barker from Compass Realty Whitsundays. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
Separation and divorce can be emotional and complicated. Property, parenting, support - it’s a lot. That’s why we focus on clear, calm advice that helps you understand your rights and your options. No pressure. No scare tactics. Just practical legal support.
We’ll help you find a path forward that protects your interests (and hopefully keeps things civil).
Whitsunday Law – Practical support through life’s messier moments.
Kimberley Jamieson
Kimberley Jamieson, a Proserpine local, joined the team at Accountancy Plus in May 2008. Since then, Kim has completed a business degree majoring in accounting, has married and now has two beautiful daughters who keep her extremely busy. Kim is a senior Manager and Partner of the firm. She specialises in business advisory and management, cash flow projections, tax planning, and benchmarking. In her spare time, Kim enjoys spending time with her family.
Karen Miller
Karen Miller completed a Bachelor of Commerce from Griffith University in 1990. She has since gained a Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) qualification and is a senior Accountant for Accountancy Plus Whitsunday (APW). Karen has worked in public practice for many years, and had a lifestyle change in 2012 when she moved with her husband from the Gold Coast to the Whitsundays.
With over $1.5 billion in property sales and more than 40 years of combined experience across Hamilton Island and the Whitsundays, the Sotheby’s team—Wayne, Lynn, and Joe—offer an unmatched level of local knowledge, professionalism, and proven results.
Backed by the global prestige of Sotheby’s International Realty, we provide full-service coverage from both Hamilton Island and the mainland—ensuring no enquiry is missed and every opportunity is maximised.
We live and invest locally, and we’re committed to securing the best outcomes for our community.
Thinking of selling? Let’s talk.
Call us today to book your no-obligation appraisal. Wayne – 0416 024 168, Lynn – 0415 039 060, Joe – 0415 070 114
In July, Eastwoods Dining transformed into a haven for food and wine lovers, with their highly anticipated event, a Wine Dinner.
Held on Thursday 24 July the event promised a curated experience—pairing thoughtfully crafted dishes with exceptional wines for an unforgettable evening.
At a time when quick dining is commonplace, Eastwoods Dinning Wine Dinners offer something different, an evening to slow down, connect, and truly savour.
Executive Chef and Owner Jack Mason had crafted a nine-course menu that celebrated the best of the season. Each dish was thoughtfully paired with a wine designed to enhance flavours and enrich the dining journey.
July’s feature was South Australia’s Emmalene, the story of two Adelaide Hills families: the Bartsch family, who grow the fruit, and the Bulman family, who bring the wine to life. Their philosophy is simple yet powerful: grow fruit that reflects the land, and make wine that reflects the fruit.
“Events like these not only highlight delicious dishes & fine wine, it is also the opportunity for us to showcase our hospitality by creating memorable & meaningful dining experiences we love to share,” said Executive Chef and Owner Jack Mason.
Eastwoods Dining are set to continue the popular Wine Dinners in the future, but seats will be limited and once announced, booking early is recommended.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply curious, these evenings are about enjoying food and wine as they were meant to be experienced - together.
The Emmalene Wine Dinner was an unforgettable evening. Photos supplied
Ruia, a striking two to three-year-old Bull Arab cross, is looking for a second chance at life and a family to call her own. With her gentle nature and happy personality, this young dog has quickly won the hearts of everyone who meets her.
Believed to have a touch of Boxer in her mix, Ruia is described as affectionate, easy-going, and great with other dogs. She loves nothing more than spending time with people, sharing tummy rubs, and soaking up attention. Despite a difficult start, her loving spirit remains strong, and she’s ready to blossom in a safe and caring home.
Ruia’s Best Qualities:
• Friendly & affectionate
• Loves tummy rubs and human company
• Good with other dogs
• Happy, easy-going personality
• Will blossom with love and security
Ruia’s adoption package includes desexing, microchipping, vaccinations, and full flea, tick, and worm treatments. Her adoption fee is $650.
If you think Ruia could be the perfect addition to your family, message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc on Facebook with your name and contact number to learn more or to arrange a meet-and-greet.
Hello everyone,
I hope you're having a great week and are ready to dive into some wonderful stories from our incredible Great Barrier Reef.
I'm always keen to hear what you've been up to. Whether it's a small environmental project you're kicking off or a large-scale organisation making waves, I'd love to hear from you. Please feel free to email me at ruth@lifepublishinggroup.com.
Happy reading!
Ruth
"To leave the world better than you found it, sometimes you have to pick up other people’s trash.” —Bill Nye
Fun Fact: Potato cod is a giant fish that can weigh up to 100 kg and grow up to 2 meters long
The Great Barrier Reef is undoubtedly the jewel in the crown of coral reefs worldwide. But like all coral reefs today, it faces a very uncertain future, primarily because of the impacts of climate change.
This has been highlighted in the recently released Federal Government’s National Climate Risk Assessment report. The report noted that the world is moving too slowly to reduce carbon emissions, the main driver of climate change. Currently, we are on track to reach a 2.7 degree increase in temperature by 2100, far above the 1.5 degree increase which is needed to keep coral reefs alive.
The impacts of climate change on the Reef have become very clear over the past two decades. Best known would be coral bleaching which is caused by marine heatwaves. The Reef has suffered through 5 mass bleaching events over the past 8 years.
The Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) reported the most recent bleaching event (2024) was responsible for the largest ever loss of coral across the Reef. Compared to the 2024 levels, coral cover in the northern region dropped by a quarter (from 39.8% to 30%), the central region by 13.9% (from 33.2% to 28.6%), and the southern region by almost one-third (from 38.9% to 26.9%).
Another serious, but more subtle impact of climate change is ocean acidification. The ocean absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The more carbon dioxide we pump into the atmosphere, the more the ocean absorbs. This causes the ocean to become more acidic.
Many marine animals, including corals, build their skeletons from calcium carbonate. A more acidic environment slows down the building of skeletons as well as weakens the skeleton. This makes animals more prone to damage by severe weather events like cyclones.
Speaking of cyclones, climate change will not necessarily increase the number of cyclones each year, but will likely increase the intensity of cyclones; more category 4’s and 5’s which will lead to more reef destruction.
Another well-known impact of climate change is sea level rise. This is not good news for our low-lying seaside communities. But sea level rise will also impact our intertidal environment, mangrove forests and seagrass meadows, which are very important nursery grounds for many fish species. Mangrove forests also help stabilise and protect our coastline from storm damage.
The future of our Great Barrier Reef does look bleak. But the Reef’s destiny is not written in stone. At least not yet. To give the Reef a fighting chance, we must rapidly reduce our carbon emissions.
Our Federal Government has just released their new carbon reduction target of 62-70% by 2035 (compared to 2005 levels). This is an improvement from the previous target of 43%, but considered timid and will not save the Reef. We need to continue pushing for more.
Most scientists agree that nett zero by 2035 is the only way to give the Reef a fighting chance to survive.
The Great Barrier Reef is worth fighting for.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council.
Photo supplied.
By Ruth Puddefoot
Did you know that excessive artificial lighting at night is affecting Australia's native wildlife?
Many nocturnal animals rely on natural darkness for vital behaviours such as foraging, hunting and migrating. These species have evolved over thousands of years to live and thrive in the dark. However, increasing levels of light pollution are disrupting their natural patterns, making it harder for them to survive and affecting the balance of entire ecosystems.
From bright city streets to over-lit backyards, artificial light can confuse navigation, alter feeding habits and even interfere with reproduction in animals that depend on the night.
The good news is that there are simple actions you can take at home to help reduce light pollution. According to Queensland Government, the best ways to take action are:
• Only light areas that genuinely need it, and consider whether the light serves a clear purpose
• Use non-reflective, dark-coloured surfaces near outdoor lighting to limit glare and light spread
• Avoid white or cool-toned lights. Choose amber-coloured bulbs that emit minimal blue light, which is less disruptive to wildlife
By being more thoughtful about how we use light at night, we can help protect our environment. These small changes not only preserve the natural beauty of the night sky but also support the survival of countless native species.
Protecting the night is a step toward protecting the natural world. Let’s keep the night dark for those who need it most.
By Amanda Wright
In a major step forward in the fight against homelessness, the first sod has been turned on a new $5.2 million St Vincent de Paul Society Community Support Centre in Mackay.
The project will bring housing and wraparound services under one roof for some of the region’s most vulnerable people. Six new social housing units — including one accessible ground-floor apartment — will sit alongside a purpose-built centre featuring welfare, youth and housing offices, interview rooms, and a discreet family waiting area.
Ground has broken on a new Community Support Centre and six social housing units in Mackay, the latest milestone in St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland’s 500 Homes initiative.
At the sod-turning last week, key spokespeople travelled to Mackay to mark the occasion: Joe Duskovic (Acting CEO, St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland), Sharon Shearsmith (CEO, Vinnies Housing), Peter Dougherty (President, Rockhampton Diocesan Central Council), and Patricia McMahon (Queensland State President).
St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland Acting CEO Joe Duskovic said the redevelopment would transform support for those in need.
“This transformative project will deliver a vibrant new space for the community, providing a better experience for people accessing a range of support services, along with providing a much needed modern office space for workers in our housing, homelessness, youth and other programs.”
He added that the design reflects the Society’s integrated approach.
“The integrated housing and support design will provide that holistic wraparound support for the people living here as well as supporting the community.”
The six homes will include two one-bedroom units, three two-bedroom units, and a wheelchair-accessible ground-floor unit.
Sharon Shearsmith, CEO of Vinnies Housing, said the project would help ease housing pressure in the region.
“Quite often our housing is full or we have low vacancies, so to be able to create a new project that's bringing new stock into the market to help people in need is tremendously exciting.”
Queensland State President Patricia McMahon said the centre’s doors will be open to all.
“The idea is that everyone can get support, because these days there are so many struggling and the homelessness is horrendous.”
Peter Dougherty highlighted the project’s community-led planning.
“We’re very grateful for the input from locals along the way,” he said, noting the design had been revised multiple times to fit local need.
“This kind of integrated service and accommodation model is the first of its kind in Queensland and is set to be completed by the end of 2026.”
The centre will also include a community pantry, youth program office, Home Assist Secure program, meeting rooms with dual exits for safety, an outdoor terrace with BBQ facilities, and vehicle accommodation for a community bus service.
Funded through $5.2 million from the Queensland Government’s Resources Community Infrastructure Fund — alongside St Vincent de Paul Society’s own contribution — the development will address housing insecurity in a region where property prices have risen 19 per cent in the past year.
Mr Duskovic said the project was only possible through strong partnerships.
“We saw the opportunity to include six homes for people experiencing housing insecurity, as part of the redevelopment. These six homes will help us in our mission to provide more than 500 new homes across the state.
"Combining housing with wrap-around support and services is a practical and effective approach to helping people find a sustainable pathway out of homelessness and housing insecurity.”
“We are enormously grateful for the generosity of our wider community,” he added.
The Mackay development follows new builds in Nerang and Toowoomba, with more projects set to break ground across Queensland in coming months.
L–R: Joe Duskovic (Acting CEO, St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland), Peter Dougherty (President, Rockhampton Diocesan Central Council), Patricia McMahon (Queensland State President, St Vincent de Paul Society), Sharon Shearsmith (CEO, Vinnies Housing), and Dennis Innes (Chair, Vinnies Housing and Vice President, St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland) at the sod-turning ceremony for Mackay’s new Community Support Centre. Photo credit: Amanda Wright
St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland Acting CEO Joe Duskovic addresses guests at the sod-turning ceremony in Mackay. Photo supplied
Work is now underway on Mackay’s new Community Support Centre and six social housing units, due for completion in late 2026
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It’s a strange thing to write your own full stop. After five years, countless deadlines, and more alliteration than even I care to admit, this is my last edition of Mackay Life. A paper born out of Covid uncertainty, built on a promise to connect, uplift, and inform — and somehow, against all odds, we made it something pretty special.
What a ride it’s been. We had an advert go globally viral, scooped “Best Free Newspaper in Queensland,” collected a shiny Gold Wonkley, and even launched two more regional papers on invitation from their communities. I've covered NRL games, interviewed Strassman one-on-one, taken selfies with the Prime Minister and I was humbled to become a Patron of the Trudy Crowley Foundation. And through it all, you, our readers, have been right there with me.
You’ve seen my personal chapters unfold too: building a house mid-Covid, navigating IVF, finally celebrating the birth of my son, then facing a cancer diagnosis just after his first birthday. I typed stories during chemo, rang the all-clear bell in time for Christmas, and now I find myself here, typing the hardest words of all: goodbye.
Of course, none of this would’ve happened without a cast of incredible characters. To Bec Douthwaite, our fearless publisher — thank you for taking a chance on a Kiwi freelancer you’d never met, until you saw me fly off a banana boat near Daydream Island. That chaotic splash turned into the start of something extraordinary, and the ride since has been every bit as exhilarating. Thank you for trusting me, for handing me opportunities I never imagined, and for the adventure of a lifetime.
To Rach, my editorial twin flame, we’ve launched papers side by side, navigated storms, and cheered each other on through every deadline crunch. Your grit, warmth and wit have been the anchor and the sail. I know you’ll keep steering these publications to even greater heights.
To my Mackay team, Jess and Hannah — Mackay's heart beats stronger because of your dedication and care. Jess, your commitment to our advertising clients made every edition stronger. Hannah, your compassion and sharp eye for people’s stories have already left their mark. You’re both colleagues, friends, and confidantes, and I’ll miss our banter as much as our bylines.
To my wider team — from Hinchinbrook to Mackay — you’re more than colleagues, you’re family.
I'm proud to see Hannah step up into a senior editorial role to fill my shoes. Reading what she, Rach, and Bec wrote in a farewell to me on page 7 moved me to tears, the kind of tears that remind you how lucky you are to have been part of something so meaningful.
My words won’t be in print anymore, but will soon echo in Parliament, working alongside our Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox. I’ll swap newsroom banter for national debate — and maybe even slip in some more alliteration.
So, this is it. My last headline, my last deadline. It’s never too late to re-write your own story, thank you for reading mine.
Here’s to the next chapter.
Amanda
From my little family to yours, farewell. Photo credit: Michelle Munro
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