Australia’s place in the US $20 billion global banana market has been safeguarded, according to the federal government, with a new genetically modified banana being granted approval for commercial release and consumption.

The QCAV-4 variety of the Cavendish banana has been developed by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) to counteract the effects of Panama Disease or Tropical Race 4 (TR4), a fungal disease that starves bananas of their nutrients eventually killing the plant.

Following 20 years of development and rigorous scientific assessment to ensure it is safe for consumption, QCAV-4 received final regulatory approval from Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) earlier this year.

The approval comes at an important time as the disease impacts banana industries across the world, including here in Australia which consumes around five million bananas per day.

With TR4 estimated to have the potential to impact 80 per cent of global banana production, Australian researchers have made a world-first breakthrough to protect local banana farms and secure our food production systems.

While there is no immediate demand locally to bring QCAV-4 to market due to our biosecurity system successfully keeping Panama Disease from devastating the Australian banana industry, there are a number of countries with an increasing need to find a sustainable, long-term solution to the ravages of TR4.  

Genetically modified labelling provisions would apply to food derived from QCAV-4, so consumers can make informed choices should the banana be commercially produced and sold.

The team behind its creation are now turning their attention to developing a non-genetically modified, gene-edited version of the product that can resist TR4 and other diseases, continuing to future-proof one of the world’s favourite fruits.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said this is an important milestone for researchers at QUT and a significant development in the fight against potential threats to Australian biosecurity.

“Panama disease has caused havoc in the Philippines and China, spreading quickly in South-East and south Asia, parts of Africa and now South America,” Minister Collins said.

“This has been a long process for the scientists at QUT, and the final approval is vindication of their work, skill and patience.

“This is a major Australian achievement worth celebrating.”

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CANEGROWERS is calling on Wilmar Sugar and unions representing mill workers to prove they are serious about resolving their long-running pay dispute by getting out of the way and letting the independent umpire decide a fair and reasonable outcome.
 
“After many months of fruitless and increasingly bitter negotiations, it’s time for both parties to step aside and let the Fair Work Commission decide,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.
 
“It’s clear that the parties involved are either unable or reluctant to reach an agreement, despite the damage it’s doing to farming families, the sugarcane industry, or their own communities,” Mr Menkens said.
 
“We have said repeatedly that workers deserve to be represented and achieve a fair pay deal and milling companies must be financially viable. But this dispute has become increasingly hostile and there is no sign of a compromise on the horizon.
 
Mr Menkins said that CANEGROWERS has taken strong action.

“Our representatives have had several meetings with Wilmar officials and union senior officials.
 
“What we’re saying is, you’ve had your chance to reach a compromise acceptable to both sides and you’ve failed. This can’t continue indefinitely. It’s impacting the harvest, it’s impacting growers and contractors, it’s impacting families, it’s impacting the industry, and it’s impacting communities. 
 
“It’s time to admit you’ve reached an intractable stalemate, step aside and let an independent third party decide the issue.”
  
Mr Menkins added that the current rolling stoppages at Wilmar mills, which crush about fifty per cent of Queensland’s sugarcane, have already cost growers and contractors dearly, not just financially but also in terms of the stress and anxiety they’re experiencing.

“It’s already a difficult season, and if we’re to have any chance of success we need to start pulling in the same direction, working together to make up ground, not continuing to be hampered by strike action.
 
“For everyone’s sake, either do a deal now, or engage the Fair Work Commission.

“Let’s get this crop off and try to make the 2024 season a success.”

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
50,817
427,811
Average bin weight
3.92
3.86
CCS
14.09
13.27
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
31.9
13.85
Q253
16.2
14.22
Q240
10.4
14.72
SP80
4.8
13.78
Q208
13.2
14.30
SRA9
6.5
13.76
KQ228
6.6
14.72
Q252
3.9
13.67
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just over 50,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to just under 428,000 tonnes.
The Plane Creek crop continues to cut above the original estimate. As a result, we have revised the Plane Creek crop estimate upwards by 130,000 tonnes to 1.45 million tonnes.
Average CCS rose by 0.13 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.09 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 13.27 units.
Standover cane made up 12 per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 Plant cane from the Dawlish productivity area with a CCS of 16.5 units.
Please keep your train brain switched on. Be alert, stay clear of our rail network and always give way to cane trains.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Australian agriculture is set to benefit this financial year, as the gross value of agricultural production is forecast to increase by 4 per cent.
The ABARES Agricultural Commodities and Crop Reports show significant growth in the sector, from $82.5 billion in 2023-24 to $86.2 billion in 2024-25.
Executive Director of ABARES, Dr Jared Greenville, said this forecast shows value of production across agriculture, fisheries and forestry reaching $92.1 billion in 2024-25.
“We have seen more favourable seasonal conditions across large parts of the country, easing input prices, and higher livestock prices supporting farm incomes,” Dr Greenville said.
“Crop production across Australia has been driven by New South Wales and Queensland, and better than expected seasonal conditions in Western Australia.
“But unfavourable conditions in north and western Victoria and most of South Australia following below average winter rainfall have resulted in lower-than-expected crop production.”
“The value of agricultural exports is forecast to be $68.5 billion in 2024-25, or $72.6 billion when including fisheries and forestry,” Dr Greenville said.
This year has seen less carry-over stocks of grain available for export in comparison to the past two record-breaking years which is driving a slight fall in export value, despite production is still sitting comfortably as the third highest on record.
Australian exports continue to be in strong demand in key markets.
“Red meat exports are performing well in the US and Middle East,” Dr Greenville said.
“We’re expecting to see the price for cattle and sheep increase compared to last year, leading to this significant improvement in farm incomes,” Dr Greenville said.
“The horticulture industry is continuing to showcase its resilience as it maintains its forecast of record-breaking production values.”

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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!

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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!

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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!

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