Repairs to the decking boards on a section of the Pioneer Promenade commenced earlier this week, with work expected to continue until Friday, September 27. The repairs are focused on the stretch between Macalister and Wood streets.
During this time, the affected section of the promenade will remain closed to the public, with pedestrians being directed to use the footpath along River Street as a temporary bypass.
Council has apologized for any inconvenience caused by the closure, noting that the maintenance is essential for safety and upkeep. The public is encouraged to remain patient as repairs progress.

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In a startling revelation, only one in 30 Australians donate blood, despite one in three requiring blood products at some point in their lifetime.

To meet the country's growing demand, a blood donation is needed every 18 seconds and Lifeblood requires roughly 33,000 donations every week. With demand on the rise, Australia is calling on its communities to help fill this “life-saving” gap.

Despite the common assumption that most donated blood goes to trauma victims, it's cancer patients and those with chronic illnesses who benefit the most.

Lifeblood spokesperson Gwendolyne Camaret emphasised this, saying, "Thirty four per cent of blood donations go to assist with cancer treatment and blood diseases, while road accidents and trauma only represent two per cent.

“Unfortunately, we are not fully aware of how important blood products are and it’s amazing that one donation can save up to three lives so it’s vital to spread awareness about this growing need.”

Mackay Regional Council has been leading by example, participating in the annual Australian Red Cross Lifeblood Local Government Blood Drive.

So far, the council has reached an impressive 55 donations in 2024, already surpassing last year's total of 42, with several weeks still left to donate. Mayor Greg Williamson is set to make his contribution at Lifeblood’s Mackay Donor Centre on September 3, continuing to inspire others to give back.

"Community spirit runs strong in the Mackay region and in our council," said Mayor Williamson.

“Giving back is something that comes naturally to our staff - it's in our veins.

“Giving blood is quick, easy, and relatively painless…I strongly encourage others to donate, it truly does save lives.”

Gwendolyne praised their dedication, saying, “We know Mackay Regional Council staff are incredibly generous donors, and we’re excited to see their tally climbing.

“Every drop counts.”

Explore Property Mackay is also a strong advocate for blood donations, with their team regularly contributing at the Mackay Donor Centre.
A representative from Explore Property shared, "There’s no greater feeling than knowing our donations can save lives and make a real impact in our community.
“Every donation matters, and together, we can help ensure that hospitals have the blood they need."
As the population increases, so does the demand for blood products. Regular donors are often sidelined by seasonal illnesses, which makes it even more critical for new donors to step up.

“Whether you work for a local government organisation, volunteer, or simply live in the community, your blood donation could save lives,” Gwendolyne added.

“It’s quite painless, it’s just a little prick but it’s life-saving.”

To make an appointment, call 13 14 95 or visit www.donateblood.com.au. Mackay Donor Centre is open Monday to Saturday at 143 Sydney St. The Local Government Blood Drive runs until September 30.

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Mayor Greg Williamson’s blood donation at the Mackay Donor Centre with Lifeblood spokesperson Gwendolyne Camaret. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

Marie Williams has spent decades weaving her compassion into the fabric of the Mackay community, using her remarkable knitting talent to bring awareness and raise funds for causes close to her heart.

Handcrafting delicate pink and teal flowers—pink for breast cancer and teal for ovarian cancer—with sparkling bling in the centre, Marie is on a mission to spread awareness and raise money for the Trudy Crowley Foundation. Her latest goal is to raise enough funds to purchase a defibrillator for the foundation, continuing her legacy of selfless giving.

A long-time volunteer with Mackay’s Scope Club, Marie was part of the team that donated a defibrillator to the Neighbourhood Hub.

Her contributions are sprinkled across the region, leaving “touches of Marie” wherever you go. One such mark is Marie’s Corner at the Trudy Crowley Cancer Care Centre, named in her honour after raising money to purchase a large, comfortable couch to provide comfort to those battling cancer.

Her handiwork can also be seen at the Memorial Pool, where knitted poppies adorn the space, a lasting tribute to her dedication to veterans. Previously, Marie knitted hundreds of poppies that decorated a wall at Mackay Base Hospital for ANZAC Day, raising funds for Legacy, a charity supporting veterans and their families. She also donates poppies to a local school, helping students fund their journeys to Gallipoli for ANZAC Day commemorations.

Despite a car accident four years ago that left her with a brain injury, Marie’s commitment never wavered. While she was unable to drive for some time, she regained her license in May and is determined to make the most of it before an upcoming surgery puts her back on the sidelines for a while. But even with these challenges, Marie’s nimble fingers continue to raise thousands of dollars for cancer patients, children, and veterans.

Her latest efforts also serve as a reminder of the importance of increasing awareness of ovarian cancer, a cause that doesn’t receive the attention it deserves. And with October marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Marie’s beautiful pink flowers are a timely symbol of support and hope for those affected by cancer.

From veterans to cancer patients, Marie’s kindness and knitting needles have touched countless lives, and her spirit continues to inspire the Mackay community.

To purchase one of Marie’s flowers for charity, you can find her this weekend at Caneland Central on Friday and Saturday (September 20 and 21) near the Reject Shop and Coles, while on Sunday she will be set up at Bunnings Paget.

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Marie Williams standing beside the cozy couch she donated to the Trudy Crowley Cancer Care Centre, the space affectionately known as 'Marie's Corner.' Photos supplied

Marie spends hours every week knitting flowers for charity

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By Hannah McNamara

In recognition of the hardworking, down-to-earth, and selfless men in our region, several celebrations will honour those blokes who have consistently put the needs of their families, friends, and communities ahead of their own.

As International Men’s Day approaches on Tuesday, 19th November, Shed Happens Mackay, sponsored by DGH Engineering and Daly Bay, will host three activities over the next four months. These include an Art Show at the Jubilee Community Centre (JCC), the Mackay Man of the Year Award (sponsored by Minds Aligned), and a corporate Breakfast at Souths Leagues Club.

These events aim to shine a light on the quiet acts of kindness, leadership and integrity that has made a lasting impact in the lives of those they serve.

The International Men’s Day Mackay, in partnership with the Mackay Art Society, is organising an art show themed “Celebrating Men’s Positive Contributions to Society.” The opening night will be held at the Jubilee Community Centre on Friday, 20th September 2024, from 6pm to 8.30pm, with the Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm MP, attending for the award presentation. The exhibition will be open to the public from Saturday, 21st September to Friday, 27th September 2024, from 10am to 4pm.

Frank Cowell, the Founder of Shed Happens Mackay, initiated the organisation as a monthly gathering for men to support one another and discuss the good, bad, and sad aspects of manhood.

“It started off as just a breakfast…and now it’s a breakfast, an art show, a Man of the Year event, and an International Men’s Day celebration,” Frank shared.

The Man of the Year is chosen by a panel consisting of one woman and three men.

According to Frank, the judges, “Look for qualities that reflect a man who sets a positive example, not just for his family, but also for his neighbours and his community.”

“The Man of the Year is usually someone who’s not well known…because they’re too busy with their head down doing the job,” Frank said.

“Most of the blokes nominated are average, ordinary men who serve their family and community well.”

He encourages men of all ages to move past their mistakes.

“Don’t dwell on the past…forgive the things you’ve done wrong, deal with them, and move on.

“Every bloke is a champion, even if we don’t believe it.”

Nominations for Mackay Man of the Year are open throughout September, with entry forms available through the Mackay Shed Happens Facebook page.

The final event will feature breakfast at Souths Leagues Club, an interview with the 2023 Mackay Man of the Year, Phil Hall, raffles, a roundtable discussion on the theme, an auction of the winning piece from the Art Show and the presentation of the IMD 2024 Mackay Man of the Year.

Visit www.imdmi.com.au, or contact Frank Cowell via 0434 908 968 or mackayshedhappens@gmail.com for further information.

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Frank Cowell, founder of Shed Happens Mackay, looks forward to celebrating Mackay’s noble men at the upcoming International Men’s Day events. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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By Amanda Wright

As the Greater Whitsunday region’s mayors launched their passionate campaign for essential road upgrades, their efforts are being bolstered by federal members who share their frustration. The dangerous condition of the Bruce Highway continues to draw national attention, with alarming new statistics shedding light on the urgency of the situation.

The Bruce Highway, particularly in the Capricornia region, has unfortunately claimed the title of Australia's most dangerous crash hotspot. According to AAMI’s Decade of Driving report, eight out of the ten most common crash locations are on the notorious Bruce Highway.

Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, has voiced her deep concern, pointing out that drivers on the Bruce Highway are five times more likely to be injured or killed compared to those on the Hume Highway. Despite this grim reality, the federal government has recently reduced funding from an 80:20 to a 50:50 split, a move Ms Landry criticises as not only illogical but dangerously short-sighted.

“With more than twenty lives lost this year alone, and a substantial contribution of $18.1 billion in royalties from the Fitzroy region, it’s unacceptable that this revenue is diverted to cover cost blowouts in metropolitan areas while our roads suffer.”

The Capricorn region’s roading deficiencies include only two overtaking lanes every 100 kilometres, 31 narrow bridges, and over 230 road defects. Ms Landry stresses that cuts to essential road funding have direct, fatal consequences, as necessary upgrades are delayed or cancelled, putting more lives at risk.

In a related effort, Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has been rallying for immediate action through his petition, "Back Our Bruce, Back Our People." The petition, which has garnered 1,000 signatures in just one month, reflects the community’s demand for a reinstatement of the original 80:20 funding split and immediate roadworks.

Mr Willcox, who frequently travels between Mackay and Townsville, has witnessed the tragic results of inadequate infrastructure and is calling for accountability from both state and federal governments.

“This is a matter of life and death, and the Prime Minister must address this crisis with urgency,” Mr Willcox said.

Rod Erwin, Chair of the Road Accident Action Group (RAAG), further stresses the dire need for enhanced road safety measures.

“The escalating number and severity of road crashes across the region is alarming. Despite some upgrades to the Bruce and Peak Downs Highways, these improvements have not kept pace with the increasing road usage and demand.”

With 21 fatal crashes, 545 injury crashes, and 291 non-injury crashes reported in the Greater Whitsunday region in 2023 alone, the call for action is clear.

The region’s busy roads, crucial for transporting wide loads and supporting local industries, need significant infrastructure and maintenance upgrades to match growing demand.

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Vehicles are frequently forced onto the opposite side of the road on the Bruce Highway to avoid large areas of surface damage which often remain for months without repair. Photo source: Michelle Landry

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The rollout of 42 new RentConnect officers across Queensland, including 25 in regional areas, aims to improve access to rental support services. Additionally, a new online platform is being launched to further assist renters.
This initiative is part of the Queensland Government's Homes for Queenslanders plan, which also includes measures such as rent bidding bans, a code of conduct for property management, and portable bond loans.
Nearly 10,000 Queensland households have already benefited from rental support through this plan, including 451 households in Mackay.
Labor Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan said, “I’ve fought hard to make sure that not only are we building new homes in our community, but that renters can get help when it comes to cost of living or finding a rental.
“Our investment in RentConnect officers will be helping Queenslanders find and keep a safe place to stay.”
Frontline RentConnect staff worked with more than 2,500 households in need, while more than 3,000 bond loans, more than 1,000 rental grants and more than 500 rental security subsidies were provided.
It adds to a raft of reforms introduced by the government to help the one third of Queensland households who rent.
Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said,“One in three Queensland households rent, which is why our Homes for Queenslanders plan makes supporting renters a key pillar.
“Since we launched our Homes for Queenslanders plan, new CoreLogic data shows we’re starting to see the rental market ease, and we won’t let up when it comes to making sure people can get the cost of living help they need.”
Just recently, the government passed legislation to ban rent bidding, establish a code of conduct and start work on a portable bond scheme to allow renters to move their bond from one place to the next.
It also gives renters a fee-free option to pay rent, requiring evidence for any bond claims, limiting reletting costs and further protecting renters’ privacies by requiring 48 hours entry notice and a prescribed form for rental applications.
Employment Minister Lance McCallum said, “Access to secure housing is critical for employment stability.
“By investing in programs like RentConnect, we’re not just helping renters access housing, we’re also making sure that people can keep their homes, focus on their work, and contribute to their local communities.”
To find out more about rental support for Queenslanders head to: https://www.housing.qld.gov.au/homesforqueenslanders
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Labor Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan, and Employment Minister Lance McCallum met with local renter Cecily Macdonald to discuss the challenges faced by renters in the region and how the RentConnect program is helping individuals access affordable housing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
62,217
548,224
Average bin weight
3.92
3.88
CCS
14.42
13.53
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
26.3
14.73
Q253
14.1
14.14
Q240
10.6
14.59
Q138
7.2
13.63
Q208
17.6
14.89
SRA9
9.5
14.12
KQ228
2.4
14.80
Q242
3.2
13.15
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just over 62,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to more than 548,000 tonnes.
Average CCS fell by 0.03 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.42 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 13.53 units.
Standover cane made up seven per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honours were shared between a rake of Q253 first ratoon cane from the Dawlish productivity area and a rake of SRA 9 plant cane from the West Hill productivity area. Both had a CCS of 16.70 units.
This coming week, there will be a 12-hour planned maintenance stop on Thursday, 19 September.
With school holidays under way, parents and guardians are asked to warn their children of the dangers of playing near cane railway lines.
Locomotive drivers have reported three near misses in the past week at level and passive crossings. Please give way to cane trains and a reminder that a fully loaded cane train can take up to one kilometre to stop.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Being safe around overhead powerlines is a safety message that will feature in the 2025 Farm safety calendar, as illustrated by a local Mackay region student from Homebush State School.

Madison Agius in Grade 6 drew a John Deere tractor underneath powerlines, with the safety message, “Overhead powerlines are dangerous. Don’t play, park equipment, operate machinery, or plant trees or crops under them”.

Twelve children from across Queensland were selected as winners in this year’s calendar competition including winning entries from Mount Isa School of the Air and Cairns School of Distance Education as well as other small schools in regional Queensland areas.

There were more than 1500 entries received this year and there now have been more than 12,000 entries received over the lifetime of the competition.

Each of the winning students receives $250 and $500 goes to their school. Children were encouraged to submit entries under the themes of electrical safety, animal safety, tractor and machinery safety, water safety, health and wellbeing and quad bike safety.

The winners were judged by industry representatives from AgForce and Queensland Farmers’ Federation and representatives from the Office of Industrial Relations.

The competition aligns to the Australian Curriculum General capability: Literacy and the Health and Physical Education learning area.

Minister for Industrial Relations Grace Grace said she was pleased to announce the winners whose creative artworks will feature in the 2025 Farm safety calendar. 

“It's always a pleasure to see the effort and thought that has gone into making these artworks,” Minister Grace said.

“This competition is an engaging way to educate young Queenslanders on the very real safety risks associated with farming, while sharing safety messages across the state.

“These calendars will take pride of place on family fridges and in classrooms around Queensland.”

There are now 30,000 free 2025 calendars available to order online at https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/resources/campaigns/farm-safety-calendar-competition/order-your-farm-safety-calendar

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Madison’s winning illustration will feature in the 2025 Farm Safety calendar

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In a decisive turn of events, the long-standing and contentious pay dispute between Wilmar Sugar and its employees has finally reached a resolution, paving the way for significant wage increases and bonuses. Growers can now breathe a sigh of relief, as the resolution ensures that the threat of disruptive industrial action will no longer jeopardise their crucial crops.

A majority of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables employees has voted in favour of a new enterprise agreement (EA) offering an upfront $2,500 bonus and 16 per cent in wage rises. Fifty-five per cent of eligible employees who participated in the ballot voted in favour of the company’s three-year offer.

The two-day ballot closed at 3pm last Friday, September 13. The majority yes vote means more than 1,320 employees will receive the bonus and a 12 per cent increase in pay by Christmas, with a further 4 per cent increase next December.

A company spokesman said the positive ballot result brings to a close a challenging and long-running negotiation and associated disruptive industrial action.

“We thank everybody who participated in the ballot, particularly those who voted to accept the company offer,” he said.

“It draws a line under a period that impacted not only our business and our people but also the growers and harvesting operators who are so critical to the sugar supply chain.

“The focus now is on getting this year’s crop harvested and producing high-quality sugar for customers in domestic and export markets.”

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens has urged Queensland’s sugarcane industry to pull together, following the resolution of the long-running pay dispute between Wilmar Sugar and three unions representing mill workers.
 
“It’s great to have this issue finally resolved in a way that is acceptable to both the workers and the mill,” Mr Menkens said. 
 
“It has dragged on for far too long, has delayed cane crushing across half of the industry, and caused great anxiety to growers and harvesting contractors, so to see an agreement finally in place is a tremendous relief.
 
“Now it’s time to put it behind us, and for the entire industry to come together, support our mill workers and our contractors, and put our shoulders to the wheel so we can make the 2024 season a success.
 
“Let’s crush it between now and December.”

As of September 13, Wilmar’s eight factories have processed about 6.3M tonnes of sugarcane, representing about 40 per cent of the estimated crop.

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By Amanda Wright

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Alexis Versaci is turning heads in the Mackay community, combining her passion for modelling with a heart full of purpose as she prepares to take the pageant stage for the first time. As a rising star in her third year with Brooke Lee Modelling, Alexis is not only perfecting her runway walk but also making a statement with her dedication to philanthropy. Balancing grace with grit, she’s preparing for her next big move: competing in the Miss Diamond International and Miss Photogenic pageant double-header, where her passion for fashion meets her heart for giving back.
The Miss Diamond International pageant supports the #LoveYourOvaries campaign, which advocates for early detection of ovarian cancer and funds vital research. Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed too late, making it a deadly disease that affects thousands of women each year. Alexis, through her involvement, is helping to drive forward the campaign's goal to develop a much-needed early detection test.
Alexis has spent countless hours fundraising and volunteering. Inspired by her mother, Lisa, who has been a volunteer for many years, Alexis has embraced the spirit of giving from a young age. Together with Lisa, she regularly helps out at local charities, including Chances Café, where she recently donated much-needed food to support the growing homeless population.
She is also a dedicated volunteer with Orange Sky, serving breakfast to the less fortunate and taking part in the Sudsy Challenge for the third year in a row, a campaign where participants wear the same outfit for three days to raise awareness for homelessness.
She also filled a suitcase of essentials for the Hope in a Suitcase project, an initiative that supports children entering foster care by providing them with items that bring comfort and a sense of belonging.
Beyond her charity work, Alexis has been busy preparing for the pageant, balancing her Year 8 studies with her part-time job at her mother’s businesses, Cheeky Little Monkeys, Party Central and Harper Bee, which are part of ‘The Hive’ collective on Wood Street.
As a Tiny Tots teacher with Brooke Lee Modelling, Alexis has found a passion for mentoring younger children, helping them build confidence through fun and learning. This aligns perfectly with her own goals of stepping outside her comfort zone and trying something new.
"This is my first pageant, and I’m so excited about the opportunity.
“I can't wait to meet new people, and I think it will be a great experience," Alexis said.
"It’s completely different from anything I’ve done before, but that’s what makes it exciting."
The competition will take Alexis on an adventure to the Gold Coast.
“I think it’s going to be so much fun, and I’m really looking forward to meeting other girls my age and just enjoying the whole experience,” Alexis said.
With a heart as big as her ambitions, Alexis is proving that even the youngest members of our community can make a significant impact, one act of kindness at a time.
For those wanting to support Alexis in the Sudsy Challenge, donations can be made by visiting: www.thesudsychallenge.com.au/fundraisers/alexisversaci/24-four.

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By Hannah McNamara

Rosemarry Waldon, a 14-year-old from Mackay, is strutting her way to pageantry stardom, leaving a trail of glitter and grace with Brooke Lee Modelling & Deportment School.

Her journey began with a dream and a leap into the world of pageantry, competing in Mini Miss Tasmania last year, fuelled by her desire for personal growth and confidence. Starting out a little shy, she was introduced to the spotlight by her modelling teacher Ruby with the help of an insightful seminar, which soon developed Ms Waldon’s passion and purpose for the stage.

Recently, Ms Waldon competed against a diverse group of contestants at a Modelling Competition in Melbourne, where she won the Miss Junior of Australia 2024 title. She was also honoured as a member of the Royal Court for Australia’s Royalty Pageant and earned side awards for Best Social Media, Taxi Design Ambassador and Runner-Up in Popularity and Print Model, showcasing her extreme versatility and appeal.

Although Ms Waldon shines in the world of modelling, she also whole-heartedly values the connections she makes and treasures the friends around her.

“I really enjoy the different people you meet along the journey and the friendships that are formed from just participating in the events.

“I’ve made some wonderful friends and everyone supports each other,” she shares.

Ms Waldon has embraced her unique style, even incorporating balloons into her dress design to spread joy.

“My family has nicknamed me Random Rosemarry because I tinker with my outfits for weeks.

“I even put balloons onto one of my dresses just because I like balloons and how they make people smile.

“The outcome I believe was fantastic…very random me!”

With a humble heart, she recalls some of her most memorable moments, which includes fundraising for the Cancer Council and engaging with local communities.

“I was invited to travel up to Townsville and meet patients in the Cancer Council Queensland Gluyas Rotary Lodge.

“I absolutely loved the feeling of being able to help and support others in time of need.”

These experiences, such as creating origami daffodils for elderly residents, have left her with some remarkable memories, all while addressing the importance of giving back and connecting with others.

“I really hope that others can follow my pageantry journey and then become inspired to try new things in life.”

Ms Waldon’s future plans include representing Australia in the Universal International Miss Title competition in America and pursuing a career as a veterinarian.

“I adore animals and would use my caring nature to help animals when they are unwell.”

Her involvement with Brooke Lee Modelling & Deportment School has not only surpassed her modelling skills but also strengthened her confidence and resilience.

“I aim to inspire others that no matter where you come from or your background, if you are passionate and committed, great things can be achieved.”

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14-year-old Rosemarry Waldon is excelling in the world of pageantry, showcasing remarkable confidence and talent as she inspires and encourages others to do the same. Photos supplied

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By Amanda Wright

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At just 16 years old, Emersen Lamb is already taking the pageant world by storm. Crowned Miss Teen of Australia at the prestigious Australia’s Royalty Pageant in Melbourne, Emersen’s rise to the top is a dazzling mix of hard work, resilience, and undeniable charm. From winning her first major pageant in 2022 to visiting New York, Milan, and Paris for Fashion Week, this young model is proving that she’s more than ready for the international spotlight.
“Winning feels surreal, It’s a mix of overwhelming joy, pride, and gratitude,” Ms Lamb said.
“Standing there as the winner felt like a dream come true. It’s not just about the title—it’s about the journey, the growth.
“Personally, it’s a symbol of resilience, growth, and believing in myself.”
Ms Lamb’s modelling journey began four years ago with Brooke Lee Modelling, where she first fell in love with the world of fashion and pageantry. Her debut competition came in 2022 when she entered the Miss Diamond International Pageant and won the Junior Teen division. That victory sparked a passion for the stage, pushing her to pursue even bigger dreams.
Last year, Ms Lamb’s talents took her overseas with Australian designer Belle Le Chic, where she walked in the iconic Fashion Weeks of New York, Milan, and Paris.
“Walking in those cities was beyond incredible,” Ms Lamb said.
“I even had the surreal experience of seeing myself on billboards in New York. It was a month-long trip, and we also visited Greece and Venice. It was truly life-changing.”
Ms Lamb’s dedication to the Miss Teen of Australia pageant began last November. For nine months, she balanced community involvement, fundraising, and intense competition preparation.
“It was a strong nine months of commitment,” Ms Lamb explained.
“One of my highlights was organising a charity golf day, where we raised over $3,000 for several causes, including the Starlight Children’s Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charity Mackay.”
Throughout the three-day pageant, Ms Lamb impressed judges in every category, from the Preliminary Interview to the Fun Fashion and Evening Gown rounds. She also delivered a powerful onstage speech during the Spokesmodel segment. In addition to her national title, she collected six side awards, including Miss Rising Star and Australia’s Runway Model.
“Winning felt like the culmination of all the hard work and growth I’ve experienced,” Ms Lamb said.
“It’s a reminder that when you work hard and stay true to who you are, incredible things can happen.”
Brooke Hargrave, Director of Brooke Lee Modelling, expressed her pride in Emersen’s success.
“Watching Emersen exude so much grace on stage fills me with pride,” Ms Hargrave said.
“She has always shown immense potential, and it’s rewarding to see her rise to these heights.”
Looking ahead, Ms Lamb is set to represent Australia at the Ultimate International Miss competition in Virginia, USA, next August.
“I’m filled with so much pride and honour,” she said.
“To be the first Mackay Teen to win Miss Teen of Australia and now compete internationally is a dream come true. I absolutely can’t wait for this next chapter of my journey.”

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A Mackay student was recently honoured for her inventive talent at the Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) Excellence in Art and Design Awards.  

Year 11 student, Ernestine Hankin from Kutta Mulla Gorinna School in Mackay was recognised with an Award of Excellence in the First Nations category for her artwork, titled Leaving the Nest.

Art and Design Awards reviewer Donna Hensen recognised the creativity behind the artwork and said that Ernestine’s piece stood out.

“The piece contains amazing representation of the difficulties of growing up and navigating others,” Donna said.

The judges praised Ernestine along with Art Teacher Melissa Larsen who noted “what a great achievement it is,” hoping that “it is an encouragement for her to pursue her career goal of becoming an artist,” a spokesperson from Kutta Mulla Gorinna School said.

The presentation was held at the Queensland Multicultural Centre in Brisbane, where Awardees’ artworks were displayed in an exhibition and recipients were presented with certificates and a cash prize.

The annual Art Awards was established in 1994 to promote and encourage artistic students and celebrate their flair for creativity.

A First Nations category was first introduced in 2017 to provide specific recognition to First Nations entrants and their custodianship of the land.

IEU-QNT Branch Secretary Terry Burke said the reviewers were wowed by the quality of the over 600 submissions across all age groups in response to the 2024 theme of ‘Growing Up’.

“The reviewers commented on the high standard of entries and the varied and creative interpretations that entrants brought to this year’s theme,” Mr Burke said.

“Our union established the Awards to promote and encourage artistic students and celebrate their flair for creativity.

“Art is a very important area of learning in schools, and IEU-QNT is proud to support the artistic talent of students and staff in the Queensland and Northern Territory non-government sector,” he said.

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Ernestine Hankin with Art Teacher Melissa Larsen from Kutta Mulla Gorinna School in Mackay won the Award of Excellence in the First Nations category for her masterpiece titled ‘Leaving the Nest’. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

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From the tiny rural community of Septimus, where his school once had only three students in a class, local author Earl Neilsen has crafted a magical story that captures the heart of his childhood. His debut children's book is not just a blend of fun and rhyme, but a celebration of embracing uniqueness and resilience—a reflection of the country upbringing that shaped him.
Growing up in the Pioneer Valley, Earl fondly recalls a community where larrikins were the storytellers, and everyone had a legendary nickname.
"Pumpkin, Plugger—everyone had one. Embracing being a country bumkin became a big part of who I am," Earl said.
That country spirit inspired his persona, Bumkin, the beloved children's entertainer and songwriter who delighted young audiences for more than 20 years.
Earl's love for entertainment started early, in the country school too small to even form a cricket team.
"We had to do it all. One day we'd be playing rugby league, and the next, we'd be doing gymnastics. Boys would pirouette, and girls would run with the footy," he laughed, noting how the blended curriculum nurtured talents like his for song and dance.
It wasn't until he took part in a dance school production of Grease that Earl truly caught the performing bug.
"That adrenalin rush of being on stage—it never goes away," he said.
After graduating from Mirani State High where he was the school captain, Earl's passion for performing took him across the globe, where he entertained children at summer camps in the U.S. and met his wife, Stephanie, during a time of uncertainty following the 9/11 attacks.
Earl vividly remembers the day the world changed. He was set to leave for a Contiki tour in the UK when the tragic events of 9/11 unfolded.
"I was stuck in Chicago, and it was surreal. Cars were lining up at petrol stations, and no one knew what would happen next," he recalled.
Flights were grounded, leaving Earl with no choice but to return to the summer camp where he had been performing. It was during this unexpected extension of his stay that he grew closer to Stephanie, the camp leader who would later become his wife. What could have been a harrowing time turned into a life-changing chapter for the couple.
He returned to Australia and knew it was where he wanted to continue his life with Stephanie.
"Traveling to different parts of the world made me appreciate the Pioneer Valley even more. It's where I knew I wanted to start my family," Earl said.
Today, from his home near Teemburra Dam, he channels his childhood memories and love for the arts into his storytelling, the culmination of which is his new book, a heartwarming tale about a dancing barramundi called Barrarina.
The story, brimming with humour, resilience, and even a touch of fish biology, follows a young male barramundi who is teased for his love of dance. Earl weaves a tale as intricate as the dance the barra performs on the end of a fishing line, flipping and twirling in a way that mirrors the grace of a ballet. Each movement of the fish is like a pirouette, as it glides through the water with a rhythm only nature can provide.
Barrarina’s journey is about more than just dance—it's about resilience, embracing uniqueness, and turning what makes you different into your greatest strength. Taunted for his love of dance, Barrarina finds wisdom in the advice of an old platypus, who encourages him to embrace his talent. In the end, this very talent saves his life, transforming him into a legend of the pond.
"Own your difference," Earl said. "It doesn't matter what it is that makes you unique, own it." This powerful message is the heart of the book, and one Earl hopes will resonate with readers of all ages.
The book, filled with Earl’s signature watercolour illustrations and clever local references which adults will also enjoy, has been praised for its positive messages for children and adults alike.
“It’s for everyone who needs a reminder to embrace who they are,” he said.
Barrarina is available locally at the Badila Art and Craft Centre in Pinnacle, Let the Children Play toy shop in Mackay, and online at ejneilsen.com.au
Earl's story is one for all to enjoy, dedicated to his sons, Eli and Ewan, and supported by his wife, Stephanie.
With a mantra like "Keep on dancing," his message is clear—embrace the dance of life, no matter how different your steps may be.

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Barrarina possibly became the ‘highest’ selling children’s book when Earl’s friend took it to the top of Mt Dalrymple. Photos supplied
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Author Earl Neilsen with his sons, Eli and Ewan with Earl’s first children’s book, Barrarina

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The Trudy Crowley Foundation has further cemented their legacy for cancer support and care in the Mackay community, by announcing Levi Crowley as a newly appointed director at the recent Touch of Teal Soiree.

Founded in 2018 by Jacquie and Charles Camilleri, the Trudy Crowley Foundation was named in honour of local Mackay Mum Trudy Crowley, who was diagnosed in 2016 with ovarian cancer.

When Trudy passed in 2018, the Foundation had just commenced – with Trudy’s husband Damian as one of the directors since 2019.

Founder Jacquie Camilleri said that announcing Levi’s appointment to the Board at their biggest event of the year “gave us even more reason to celebrate”.

“Levi worked as a volunteer for the Foundation, before his appointment to the Board, and is a dedicated, committed and energetic young man – so much like his Mum,” Ms Camilleri said.

“Establishing the Trudy Crowley Community Cancer Support Centre was a massive milestone for us, and bringing Levi onto the Board is another step in ensuring Trudy’s legacy is felt in our Mackay community for many years to come.

“Trudy always said that she didn’t want anyone experiencing cancer to walk the journey alone, and we are committed to making sure her dream comes true now, and into the future.”

The 2024 Touch of Teal Soiree was attended by over 300 people, and raised $78,419.08 in net profit.

Like all donations and fundraising for the Foundation, the funds will be invested locally in the Mackay and Greater Whitsundays communities to benefit any person undergoing cancer treatment, and their families. As part of this commitment, no Trudy Crowley Foundation Board member receives remuneration – it is 100 per cent volunteer-based.

“All the money we raise and everything that is donated to us goes to supporting local people who are going through cancer. Thanks to our community and, of course, our gorgeous Trudes – no one in Mackay needs to go through cancer alone.”

To find out more about the Trudy Crowley Foundation or donate, visit www.trudycrowleyfoundation.com.au.

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Levi Crowley was announced as a newly appointed director of the Trudy Crowley Foundation at the 2024 Touch of Teal Soiree. Photo credit: Liz Andrews Photography

Levi Crowley holds one of the popular auction items which contributed to more than $78,000 in net profit being raised at this year’s fundraising event

The late Trudy Crowley’s husband Damian has been a director of the Trudy Crowley Foundation since 2019

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