A new program aimed at achieving better health outcomes in our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community was launched this week at Mackay Base Hospital.

The Better Medication Access program will give Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients across the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) access to any prescribed medications at no cost.

Uncle Gary Mooney provided the Welcome to Country and spoke about the hospital working with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to develop programs such as these to improve health and wellbeing outcomes. Pastor Henry Kennell delivered the Torres Strait Islander blessing and spoke of the importance of health equity and closing the gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Mackay HHS Executive Director of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Kerry Maley officially launched the program.

“We know that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience a disproportionate incidence of acute and chronic diseases resulting in increased disability and poor health outcomes,” she said.

“Significantly greater and more complex and chronic diseases, requires management with expensive medications. This is a financial barrier preventing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from accessing the preventative health care they need.”

The event was attended by Mackay HHS Acting Chief Executive Nick Steele, Executive Director of Operations Jenny Farley, the Mackay Health Equity Advisory Group, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Unit and the Mackay Base Hospital pharmacy.

The Better Medication Access Program provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with access to free medication at the Mackay Base Hospital Pharmacy following discharge from the Emergency Department, inpatient unit or following an outpatient appointment with a hospital prescription.

‍

Attendees at the launch of the Better Medication Access program, including key figures from Mackay Hospital and Health Service, local community leaders, and health equity advocates, gathered to celebrate the initiative aimed at improving health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients. Photo credit: MHHS

‍

While the community came together to fundraise at the Annual BMA CQ Rescue Gala Ball, the dedicated crew were hard at work, showcasing their life-saving skills. The new AW139 helicopter, which only arrived in Mackay last week, has already been put to the test, flying to Collinsville, then to Hamilton Island via Proserpine, and the following day to Bowen Hospital to assist a patient.

In another mission, the helicopter was dispatched to Cape Palmerston after a motorbike accident along the beach. The man involved was swiftly transported to Mackay for further treatment.

Christine Schmidt was at Cape Hillsborough when the accident occurred and praised the CQ Rescue team for their swift response, saying they did an amazing job.

With the arrival of the new AW139 helicopters, BMA CQ Rescue can now fly faster and further, ensuring that when time is of the essence, more lives will be saved.

View photos from the charity gala ball on page 28

‍

BMA CQ Rescue's new AW139 helicopter arrives at Cape Palmerston after a motorbike accident, swiftly transporting the injured rider to Mackay for urgent treatment. Photo supplied: CQ Rescue

‍

At around 11pm on Thursday, August 29, a man entered a business on Nebo Road in West Mackay and allegedly committed an armed robbery.

The suspect initially placed an item from a shelf onto the counter as if intending to purchase it. However, he then produced a knife and demanded money from the staff member. After taking cash from the till, the man fled the scene on foot, heading north.

Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident. The suspect is described as approximately 170 centimetres tall with a tanned complexion.

Police are urging anyone with information related to the robbery to come forward. If you can assist, please contact the police immediately.

The reference for this case is QP2401488336.

Tobacco Stolen From Farleigh Business

At about 3:10am on August 31 someone has broken into a business situated on the Bruce Highway at Farleigh.

Entry was gained into the business by damaging the front glass entry door. A search conducted throughout has resulted in tobacco products being stolen.

Anyone who might have information about the matter is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible.

Police report number QP2401497084.

‍

Mackay Regional Council is partnering with local organisations to provide two potentially lifesaving events for R U OK? Day.

On R U OK? Day (Thursday, September 12) council’s Sarina Neighbourhood Centre is partnering with OrangeSky to deliver a Conversations and Cupcakes event from 9am to 11am.

Mackay Regional Council Libraries are partnering with Grapevine Group to offer special R U OK? Day SafeTALK Suicide Prevention Training at Dudley Denny City Library on Saturday, September 14, from 9.30am to 12.30pm.

OrangeSky has invited services to host information and interactive stalls at the Conversations and Cupcakes event while they offer their laundry service at the wash pods located behind the Sarina Neighbourhood Centre and Sarina Library building.

Support services currently participating include Centrelink, selectability, Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre, Nurse Next Door, Office of Fair Trading, Footprints Community - Care Finder, and Housing Older Women's Support Service.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the event would be offering free cupcakes to encourage everyone to stay for a chat.

“Both events are about having vital conversions with those who might not seem themselves,” Mayor Williamson said.

“If someone seems like they are not okay, then having a simple conversation with them can make a huge difference to their mental wellbeing,” he said.

“Suicide is all too often a silent killer in our community, but its impacts are far-reaching.

“One in two young people are impacted by suicide by the time they turn 25 and more than 3000 deaths by suicide occur each year in Australia.”

Grapevine Group President Debbie Knight said that it was vital that the community had on hand the local list of suicide prevention services.

“The list appears on the help-a-mate cards and within Grapevine Group’s free phone app and grapevinegroup.org.au,” Ms Knight said.

“Knowing where to find your local services gives people an opportunity to connect to life-saving support when it is needed,” she said.

To book your spot in the Grapevine Group’s SafeTALK training, head to https://bit.ly/4e3Lu3R or download the Mackay Libraries app.

Sites are still available for additional services to participate in the Conversations and Cupcakes event.
For more information, please contact Sarina Neighbourhood Centre on 4961 9290 or sarinaneighbourhoodcentre@mackay.qld.gov.au.

‍

With Dr. Bob Wong

In today’s fast-paced world, chronic pain has become a widespread issue, affecting millions of people and diminishing their quality of life. While modern medicine often prescribes painkillers and invasive procedures, many are turning to the time-honoured practices of acupuncture and Chinese medicine for a more holistic and long-lasting solution.

Acupuncture, a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), has been practiced for thousands of years. It involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body. This ancient technique is not only effective in alleviating pain but also promotes overall well-being by addressing the root causes of discomfort rather than just masking the symptoms.

Scientific studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and release endorphins—the body’s natural painkillers. This makes it a powerful tool in treating chronic pain conditions such as neuralgia, migraines, fibromyalgia, and lower back pain. Unlike pharmaceutical interventions, acupuncture offers a natural approach with minimal side effects, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more sustainable path to pain relief.

Chinese herbal medicine complements acupuncture by providing individualised treatments tailored to each patient’s unique constitution and condition. These natural remedies work in harmony with the body, enhancing its ability to heal itself and maintain balance.

At our acupuncture clinic, we combine these ancient techniques with modern understanding to provide personalised care for each patient. We believe in treating the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—so that our patients not only find relief from pain but also achieve greater overall health.

If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic pain, consider exploring the benefits of acupuncture and Chinese medicine. Experience the wisdom of the past to find relief in the present.

WE HAVE MOVED!

Align Health Co Shop 4,
6 Discovery Lane,
Mount Pleasant

artofacupuncture.com.au

‍

Calling all students and teachers! You’re encouraged to attend an inspiring film night for just $5 per student!

On Friday, September 13th, at 7:30pm, the CQ University Conservatorium of Music will host a screening of Divertimento. This French drama, with English subtitles, tells the remarkable story of how classical symphonic music is everything for 17-year-old Zahia Ziouani and her twin sister, Fettouma.

Nevertheless, living in underprivileged Parisian suburbs in 1995 with their Algerian background, they struggle arduously to approach their dreams – becoming an orchestra conductor and a cellist. Driven by determination, passion, and courage, they create their own orchestra, Divertimento. It will be a game-changer. DIVERTIMENTO is inspired by the life of Zahia Ziouani, one of the few worldwide renowned female conductors.

Students are invited to immerse themselves in this powerful story of music, perseverance and breaking barriers.

Tickets are available for $5 through trybooking.com

‍

It’s a story about David Bowie, David Boon and David Fisher. In truth, the least-famous of those Davids was a mere observer and is now telling a story that’s a reminder that in real estate, and life, you can’t rest until the job is done.
When I was 15, I was picked as the youngster in an ACT representative team to play in an Under 19 Australasian cricket competition in Christchurch, New Zealand.
There were quite a few emerging stars there that year, none of whom were from Canberra. Cricket fans among you will recognise the names of Queenslanders Carl Rackemann and Greg Ritchie and the Tasmanian, David Boon.
Even at the Under 19 level, those three players had already emerged as talented cricketers who had been earmarked for future success on the national stage.
But this story is about the day we came up against Tasmania. We boys from Canberra had heard of David Boon, who at that stage in his career was already in the Tasmania men’s squad and was tipped as a future opening batsman for Australia.
We knew we had no chance if Boonie got “his eye in”.
Tasmania batted first, with Boonie opening the batting, and in the surprise of tournament we got him out for just four runs.  Tasmania ended up getting a pretty average score and we felt at least we were in a position not to get absolutely smashed.
Our innings went pretty well but we were still chasing 20 or 30 runs when the 9th wicket fell and our last two batsmen were in. (They weren’t called “batters” in those politically incorrect days.)
But the runs kept ticking over … 15 runs to go, nine to go and then just four runs to win  at the change of over.
That’s when David Bowie came into it.  While the change of over was happening and with victory in sight, our two batsmen came together in the middle of the pitch.
Instead of chatting about strategy, remaining focused and keeping their heads, one of our batsmen started singing the David Bowie song, Heroes, to the other batsman.
“Oh, we can beat them, for ever and ever. Then we could be heroes, just for one day.”
Apparently it was an excellent rendition of the recent Bowie hit but it wasn’t included in the “what to do” section of the cricket textbook for when the last two batsmen are chasing four runs to win.
First ball of the next over and the Bowie fan was bowled, middle stump. All out. Game over. Later that evening the other batsman told us about the Heroes rendition in the middle of the pitch.
The sporting lesson of not counting your chickens before they hatch was pretty obvious. But seeing the job through is also a big part of selling real estate.
It’s great to get a good offer on a property but the job is not done at that stage. You still have to get the deal done, contract signed and then manage the period up to settlement.
There’s a building and pest clause and finance approval to get through before the property is actually sold.
Doing high-fives when a property goes under contract is premature. There is still work to do, potential issues to manage and a deal to be kept together.
Sometimes contracts sail through with no issues but often the building and pest report brings up issues that can potentially crash a contract.
The agent needs to be in contact with the buyer, understand any concerns, communicate everything to the seller and be the calm intermediary who hopefully keeps the deal together.
When the contract goes unconditional it’s time for another Bowie classic, Let’s Dance.

‍

Founder of one of the community's newest markets, 'Trash & Treasure,' and owner of Healthy Clean & Green, Wendy Steindl, has just been recognised for her honourable environmental conservation efforts.

Last Thursday on August 29, she won the Mackay Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Award for the 2024 "It’s Not Easy Being Green Environmental & Sustainability Award."

Reflecting on this milestone, Wendy shared that she was "mind blown and extremely chuffed" by the recognition.

“It was super nice to be nominated for the award, to know that my efforts are actually being seen and then to actually win was just so amazing,” Wendy remarked.

Healthy Clean & Green is an online shop and market stall business that focuses on encouraging people to make sustainable choices by replacing everyday items with reusable or home-compostable alternatives.

Beyond retail, a significant part of her work involves educating the community on why making sustainable choices is essential and how to implement these changes.

Wendy notes that many people are unaware of the environmental, health and financial damage caused by their everyday products, however, once they become aware, they often think switching to sustainable alternatives is too difficult, expensive or time-consuming. That’s why Wendy’s goal is to make the transition as easy as possible by sourcing better-choice products, offering delivery and pick-up options and keeping prices accessible.

This approach saves her customers both time and money, while also benefiting the planet.

In 2023, Wendy expanded Healthy Clean & Green by launching two markets under the business banners of Sweet Repeats and Trash & Treasure. These biannual markets focus solely on second-hand items, with Sweet Repeats dedicated to wardrobe items like clothes, shoes and accessories.

With a goal to promote a circular economy and reduce waste, these markets don’t contain single-use items like coffee cups and water bottles for purchase. Instead, attendees are encouraged to bring their own reusable items and waste stations are set up to separate compostable and recyclable materials.

Save your wallet and the planet some damage by marking your calendars for the upcoming Sweet Repeats Pre-Loved Clothing Market held on Sunday, September 15 from 8am-12pm at the CQ University Mackay City campus!

What: Sweet Repeats Pre-Loved Clothing Market
When: Sunday, September 15 8am-12pm
Where: CQ University Mackay City campus

‍

Feeling stressed after a long Tuesday or Wednesday? Skip the hassle of cooking and head to The Dispensary, where their irresistible deals will turn your tough day into a delicious one!

Every Tuesday: Pasta Night

Pasta Night is your go-to on Tuesdays! For just $40, choose from a variety of creamy pasta dishes, complete with homemade bread and a glass of wine to top off the evening. Whether you're seeking rich flavours or a refined dining experience, The Dispensary is the place to be!

Every Wednesday: Hump Day Rump Day

Prefer a steak? On Wednesday nights, it's all about Hump Day Rump Day! From 3pm, enjoy a succulent 300g Black Angus Rump steak served with house-cut fries, a fresh Dispensary salad and a glass of house red or white wine, all for just $40. It's the ultimate midweek treat for steak lovers!

Whether you’re savouring the juicy Black Angus Rump on Hump Day or indulging in an al dente pasta on Pasta Night, The Dispensary offers the ideal setting to enjoy great food and cherished company. 

These irresistible deals are perfect for a night out, so scrap your plans and enjoy exceptional service and delectable cuisine at one of Mackay’s favourite spots for relaxation and fine dining!

‍

1  Rice Paper Rolls: Delight in light, refreshing rolls that burst with vibrant flavours and textures – the perfect choice for parties and gatherings!

2  Tempura Tofu: Crispy, golden-brown tofu, lightly crumbed in potato starch and fried to perfection, paired with a house-made sauce featuring soy, chili oil and crispy shallots.

3     Vietnamese Pork Hok - Tender and crispy pork hock served with delicious steamed rice, salad and home style sauce.

4  Crispy Pancake - Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancake) - Rice flour, coconut and turmeric is perfectly blended to make a crispy pancake stuffed with bean shoots with a choice of pork, bbq chicken, tofu or mushrooms.

5  Spicy Special Fried Rice with BBQ Chicken: This spicy special fried rice is infused with lemongrass, ginger, kaffir lime leaves, and a sweet mix of tomato, mushroom, and corn, all complemented by juicy BBQ chicken.

For Takeaway orders or reservations call (07) 4881 0209 or visit https://flavoursofvietnam.info/ today!

⁠

‍

As the festive season approaches, bookings at Laffos Bar & Pizzeria are coming in thicker and faster than a Tasmanian snowstorm!

With Christmas right around the corner, the jolly man in red will soon be making his appearance, and there’s no better place to celebrate than at Mackay’s legendary Bar & Pizzeria at Caneland Central.

Laffos, renowned for its famous pizzas and cold drinks by the river, offers the perfect setting for Christmas parties and festive gatherings. The spacious venue, with its charismatic atmosphere, is ideal for sharing ‘laffs’ and creating memorable moments with friends, family and colleagues.

Avoid the holiday rush and secure your spot at the town’s most vibrant dining spot by booking your Christmas party or function now!

Whether you're celebrating with a large group or a small gathering, Laffos ensures a festive celebration filled with good food, great company and a lively atmosphere that will leave everyone with laffable moments to share!

By dining at this exceptional venue, you’re not only enjoying delicious food and drinks, but you’re also supporting a local business that actively gives back to their cherished community.

Visit Laffos for all your seasonal celebrations and make your next dining experience one to remember!

‍

Looking to kickstart your busy day on a high note? Ocean International offers an unparalleled early morning experience tailored for busy professionals and early risers!

With exceptional breakfast options and inviting dining areas designed for relaxation, it's the perfect spot to savour a revitalising meal before diving into your hectic schedule.

Picture yourself beginning your morning with a delightful selection of breakfast options, from sweet fluffy pancakes to a savory smashed avocado, all paired with expertly crafted coffee.

Nestled by the serene outdoor pool, Ocean International offers a calming escape from the day-to-day hustle and bustle, enhanced by the gentle ocean breeze.

With breakfast open daily from 6am to 11am, the venue features a rotating breaky menu with specials that offer both variety and exceptional value.

Whether you're grabbing a quick coffee or indulging in a relaxed breakfast either solo or with colleagues, Ocean International’s blend of high-quality food, attentive service and picturesque setting makes it a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike.

Elevate your morning routine and experience a breakfast that will put a spring in your step as you start your day on a high note at Ocean International!

Open 7 Days A Week!
Breakfast: 6:00am to 11:00am.
Lunch: 11:30am to 2:30pm.
Dinner: 5:00pm to 8:30pm.
Bar: Open all day!

‍

As domestic and family violence statistics continue to increase, so does the support from organisations such as Broken Ballerina Inc, who remain persistent in their mission to become a living hope for those most vulnerable in the region.

Local QPS domestic and family violence representative, Tamara Cook spoke on the rising issue and said that community charities such as Broken ballerina are making the changes that are needed to help women and children at risk of domestic violence.

Constable Cook said, “Domestic Violence is no longer a behind closed doors issue, it’s a major social issue but we’ve all got a part to play, and police can no longer do it on our own.

“I encourage every one of us to stand up against domestic violence…we have a role to play in ending domestic violence, whether it’s speaking out when we see something is wrong, supporting victims and survivors or educating others about the signs of abuse.”

Broken Ballerina committee members agreed and emphasised that an influx of women and children within the region are crying out for support, and that “Broken Ballerina is one of the only organisations helping these victims out.”

A spokesperson from the committee said, “We support vulnerable women and children within the region as a small agency and our income is solely just fundraising and donations.

“We don’t get grants or funding from the government so any businesses or agencies that can jump on board and support us is greatly appreciated.”

To shed light on this troubling issue, Broken Ballerinas highly anticipated Annual Charity Ball fundraiser is just around the corner and is set for the 21st of September at the Mackay Turf Club, from 5pm.  

Tickets are $160/person or $1500 for a table of 10 and include a drink on arrival as well as a delicious 2 course alt drop of entrees and mains…plus, surprise desserts, raffles, auctions and an epic night of fun to be had where attendees can dance the night away to the Lady Gaga & Pink Tribute show!

“We want this ball to be a fun night out so bring your friends along and get ready for some great raffle prizes and dance the night away to the live tribute performance from Lady Gaga and P!nk!”

Come and enjoy a fun evening whilst raising crucial funds to help local DV Victims in the region!

‍

Fusion128 lives up to its name by offering a culinary experience that is truly fusion by both name and nature. This vibrant restaurant brings together a diverse array of flavours from around the globe, seamlessly blending Asian and French influences with the unique taste of Australian bush herbs. Each dish on the menu is a celebration of cultural diversity, yet unified by a common theme: they are all hearty, delicious, and crafted with genuine care.
The chefs at Fusion128 take pride in creating meals that satisfy the soul as much as the stomach. Among the popular favourites are the succulent pork ribs with vegetables, the perfectly cooked sirloin steak with king prawns, the rich and tender duck, and the aromatic Thai chicken curry. Whether you're enjoying these crowd-pleasers or exploring other options, you can be sure that every bite has been thoughtfully prepared.
Despite the sophisticated fusion of flavours, Fusion128 maintains a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s friendly staff and inviting ambience make it the perfect place to enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is creative. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the experience at Fusion128 is bound to leave you feeling satisfied and eager to return for more of their filling, flavourful dishes, all made with love.

‍

With World Suicide Awareness Day fast approaching, Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network has been raising awareness with a variety of initiatives right across the region.

From the recent Memorial Service and plaque unveiling held in Airlie Beach last week to the sunflower sale at Stackelroth Farm where over $500 was raised for the cause.

Starting a conversation about suicide awareness is considered the most effective way to normalise such a stigmatised issue and encourage those living with mental health issues to connect with the community.

Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network volunteer Megan Mattingley and Belinda Williams from Stackelroth Farm sold sunflowers to raise awareness for suicide prevention over the weekend. Photo supplied

Colourful Community Support
For Suicide Prevention Group

Many members of the community called into Stackelroth Farms in Bowen on the weekend to purchase a bunch of bright yellow sunflowers to show their support for suicide prevention.

At initiative of Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) the event was hosted by volunteer Megan Mattingley and made possible through the kindness of Belinda Williams and Michelle O’Regan from Stackelroth Farms.

A total of $250 worth of sunflowers was donated to WSPN and a further $500 was raised for the community organisation, but Michelle O’Regan said the outcome was worth more than money.

“It was so much more than the donation of money and flowers,” she said.

“Starting a conversation was the most important part of the day for us. It was great to meet so many people and thank you to everyone who volunteered their time.”

There are several other suicide prevention events taking place this week, turn to page 4 to see which one you could attend.

Andrew Willcox Federal Member For Dawson with young WSPN volunteer Jordyn and Belinda Williams from Stackelroth Farm. Photo supplied

‍