World Suicide Prevention Day is on the 10 September every year and earlier this week the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) held a memorial service in Proserpine and Bowen.

Almost 20 people came along to the event in Proserpine and WSPN President Matt Stokes said it was wonderful to connect.

“Today is an opportunity for people to come but it can be difficult, especially if it is still raw in their life,” said Matt.

“People have to work through a grieving process to then reach a point where they're happy to talk and be in an open environment like this.”

WSPN hosted several other events for World Suicide Prevention Day, including a memorial service in Bowen on Sunday 8 September, and were pleased to announce that attendees are now creating their own bereavement group.

“They all have so many of the same emotions and feelings, so being able to feel like they're not isolated in their thoughts is a big thing,” said Matt.

“If we can be the catalyst for those groups to form then that's really good.”

WSPN say every day for them is world suicide prevention day, but the actual date is highly important and their year revolves around it.

“What we want to do is to raise awareness of the help that's out there, so the people that really need it are not lost but have a clear go to,” said Matt.

“Instead of feeling like they are hopeless, and they don't know what to do or who to turn to.”

WSPN understand working with other organisations can achieve more traction and on the morning of 10 September they were also present in Bowen where they joined forces with Real Mates Talk hosting a World Suicide Prevention Day Barbecue Breakfast.

“There is a real change in the Whitsundays at the moment, and it’s that there is great collaboration amongst amazing providers. There are so many people that care,” said Matt.

There 65,000 suicide attempts per year in Australia and more than nine people per day pass away due to suicide in Australia.

Matt said suicide prevention is an extremely difficult thing to measure in terms of success of preventing, but likes to believe that every suicide is preventable, but how?

“What we can do is look out for each other, talk to each other, be kind to each other, teach our children how to be kind, and they are just the fundamentals,” said Matt.

If this article has been a trigger for you, remember help is available. Call Lifeline on 131114 or scan the QR code to see how WSPN can help you.

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WSPN President Matt Stokes, Renee Martin, Gill Graham, WSPN Rob Murphy, WSPN Mel Turner, WSPN Di Fleetwood, Proserpine Lions - Sharon Little & Joe Little and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

WSPN volunteers and others at the World Suicide Prevention Day in Bowen on Sunday with a special service held at Queens Beach. Photo sourced: Facebook

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The team is back in The Whitsundays after a trip to Brisbane for Experience Queensland—Southeast Asia and India. Organised by Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ) and held at the new Star in Brisbane, it was a fantastic chance to connect with and learn from key trade partners from India, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia. The event brought 45 decision-makers together, allowing us to share and educate them on our region and key product. As part of the program, key buyers visited The Whitsundays to experience our region firsthand. 

While we were there, our team attended a strategic update from TEQ, joined by Cruise Whitsundays and Ocean Rafting. Senior industry leaders talked about the achievements, challenges, and opportunities in Queensland's tourism and events sector, with a special focus on the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Key updates were heard from TEQ’s Chair, Grant Hunt A.M., Tourism Minister Michael Healy and TEQ CEO Patricia O'Callaghan.  

Looking forward, we’re planning for Tourism Australia’s G’Day Australia in Perth next month which is a combined training workshop, networking and familiarisation attended by 300 retail outlets, key wholesalers and tour operators from Tourism Australia’s key markets.  

Contributed by Cait Fleming, Industry Development & Trade Manager, Tourism Whitsundays  

Photos supplied

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Jade and Crystal from Tourism Whitsundays enjoyed a spectacular day trip with Iconic Whitsunday Adventures aboard their sleek vessel, Viper. It was Crystal's first encounter with the Whitsundays' iconic sights, and there was a real excitement to share the beauty of these incredible destinations. 
  
One of the tour’s standout features is its ability to visit three of the Whitsundays’ most iconic spots—Hill Inlet, Whitehaven Beach, and the Outer Great Barrier Reef—in a single day. The adventure begins with a thrilling high-speed ride on the Viper. This luxury vessel isn’t just the fastest; it’s designed to minimize travel time while maximizing comfort, so passengers can spend more time enjoying the sights. 
  
The first stop is Hill Inlet, where the crew expertly time the visit to catch the most spectacular tides. Next, Jade and Crystal cruised to Whitehaven Beach, where they relaxed on the soft sands and cooled off in the clear waters. Lunch onboard was a gourmet treat, perfect for refuelling before snorkelling at the Great Barrier Reef. The highlight was hearing the hauntingly beautiful sounds of whales underwater. 
  
A huge shoutout to the exceptional crew from Iconic Whitsunday Adventures for making the day feel so relaxed and unrushed. With plenty of time to savour each destination, this tour is a first-class experience for both first timers and seasoned travellers.
  
 
 
Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive, Tourism Whitsundays

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Photo supplied  
 
 

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Tossing and turning at night? While an occasional sleepless night isn't catastrophic, problems can start when it becomes a regular occurrence.
Around half of the Australian population suffers from sleep problems. Here are some tips on securing a better night sleep:

   1. And breathe...
Stress can significantly impact your sleep quality, therefore it is essential to create a calming environment before bed.
Get rid of any light and turn off your phone and any screens an hour before sleep and engage in relaxing activities such as reading a book or taking a warm bath instead.

   2. Sleep routine
Having a sleep routine, not only helps children and babies to drift off, but adults too. Schedule your bedtime and put in place some relaxing rituals.
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   3.  Try not to look at the clock
Checking the clock anxiously can actually disrupt your sleep. Try to avoid looking at it—hide it if needed—to reduce worry and improve rest.
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   4. Keep fit, get active and avoid unhealthy foods
Eating healthy foods before bed and exercising throughout the day is vital to improving sleep quality. Swap the evening wine for a glass of water.

   5. Avoid having lots of liquids before bed!
A drink before bed can be relaxing, but too much liquid might cause nighttime bathroom trips and disrupt your sleep. To rest better, limit your evening fluid intake.
If sleep problems persist, consult a specialist like Restore Sleep in the Whitsundays for expert help and support.
restoresleep.com.au

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Are you interested in exploring the diverse roles available in the Navy, Army and Air Force? Or are you considering a career in the Australian Defence Force (ADF)?

Next Wednesday in front of the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) and next Thursday at Whitsunday PCYC, the ADF are hosting a Mobile ADF Careers Centre (MACC) where you can chat with current serving members about job roles, further study opportunities, or flexible part-time commitment.

This is a great opportunity to ask any questions you have about ADF careers and opportunities.

The MACC is a mobile ADF Careers Centre, extending defence career opportunities to regional and remote areas of Australia. Visiting the MACC provides a chance to learn how the Navy, Army or Air Force can offer more than just a job.

Current serving members who understand the Defence application process will be on board to answer any questions your job seekers and students may have.

Learn more about the roles on offer by visiting the ADF Careers website.

What: Mobile ADF Careers Centre - Proserpine
When: 10:00 - 4:00pm, Wednesday 18th & Thursday 19th September
Where: Main Street, in front of Proserpine Entertainment Centre

What: Mobile ADF Careers Centre – Airlie Beach
When: 5:00 - 6:30pm, Wednesday 18th September
Where: Whitsunday PCYC

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There are moments in life when words fail, when the reality of what people endure is so shocking that it stops you in your tracks. One of those moments came for me while watching heart-wrenching videos shared at the Touch of Teal Soiree. A wife recounted the final hours of her husband’s life—denied pain medication as he lay dying because of concerns over addiction. Let that sink in. A man in his final moments, suffering beyond words, and his comfort was compromised in the name of addiction prevention. It’s almost too outrageous to believe, but it happened right here, in our community.
This man, who deserved peace, who deserved dignity, was failed. And it’s not an isolated case. The lack of proper palliative care in Mackay is leaving families shattered, forced to watch their loved ones pass in unbearable pain. As Trudy Crowley Foundation ambassador Earl Neilsen pointed out, a local radio DJ’s dogs received more humane treatment in their final hours than some of the cancer patients in our region. That comparison, while brutal, speaks volumes. It is unacceptable.
I won’t lie, watching these videos broke me. Keeping it together was a challenge. The grief, the helplessness, the unimaginable suffering these families have faced—how can we, as a society, allow this to continue? Over the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing these stories with you. They are raw, emotional, and, yes, incredibly difficult to hear. But they are important. These stories need to be told if we are to change the future of palliative care in this region, just as Trudy Crowley intended.
In this edition, we share the celebratory moments of this year’s Touch of Teal Soiree on pages 6-7.
No one should face the end of their life in pain.
No family should have to witness their loved one suffering because the care they need isn’t available.
It’s time for a change, and it’s time we demand better.
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Amanda

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Barbra and her husband Don Hargreaves from Carlisle Gardens in Mackay, had parked their car and headed into Andergrove Woolworths to quickly grab some groceries when a gentleman was coming out with what Barbra describes as “the most beautiful dog.”

When they approached the entrance, Barba greeted the man and complimented the dog of Dutch breed on how beautiful it was and the gentleman said “thank you” before noticing that Don was blind and using a mobility cane. The gentleman then moved closer to Don so that he could pat the dog and while he was doing that, he handed Barbra a bunch of flowers and said, “You have a beautiful smile and here are some flowers for a beautiful lady.”

“He handed me a lovely bouquet of flowers and it made my day, it did,” Barbra said.

Barbra is in her late 70’s and Donald is in his early 80’s. Barbra says the kind gentleman was around their age.

Still in shock by the generous act, Barbra and Don are beyond grateful for the encounter and she said “he was a lovely chap and he had a lovely smiley face.

“I’m just so overwhelmed and it’s such a lovely gesture that I’m still admiring the flowers now, I have them sitting up here on the bench.”

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The bouquet of flowers that were kindly gifted to Barbra from a kind stranger at Andergrove supermarket. Photo supplied

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People Seen Fleeing Into Cane Fields From Car Fire
Police are appealing for assistance following a suspicious car fire in Glenella on Saturday, September 7.
Just before 8am, emergency services were called to Glendaragh Road following reports a white Ford Focus was on fire.
Upon police arrival, three people were seen running from the scene into surrounding cane fields.
The fire was extinguished, however, the vehicle sustained significant damage.
Investigations into the registration of the vehicle are ongoing.
Police are appealing to anyone with information, or relevant dashcam or CCTV vision, to come forward. Reference number QP2401539271.

Stolen Vehicle Halts Coal Transportation
A Sarina resident was woken by the sound of their dog barking at around 2:15 am on September 10, followed by the noise of a car being driven away quickly from their Cemetery Road home. Upon investigation, it was discovered that a silver 2012 Nissan Patrol, registration 402 KX6, had been stolen from the front footpath of the property.
The stolen vehicle was located later that morning, abandoned across a railway track on the Bruce Highway near Koumala. The Nissan sustained damage to the undercarriage and tyres.
As a result of the vehicle's positioning, the Central Queensland Coal Network was temporarily shut down after the car was found on the rail line near Yukan, south of Sarina. Authorities are seeking information about the circumstances surrounding the theft and abandonment of the vehicle.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the police, referencing case number QP2401554883.

Assault, Theft And Nuisance
A 36-year-old man who resides in East Mackay has been arrested and charged with multiple offences following an alleged incident at a shopping complex on Bridge Road in West Mackay on September 7.
It's alleged that the man has entered a business at the shopping complex and stolen items from inside.
It's further alleged that the man has walked out of the business and then poured orange juice over another person before pushing them to the ground.
It's further alleged that the man has then flipped over a table which was set up for charity sales, he has then left the area on foot.
It's alleged that patrolling officers found the man walking nearby and he was arrested.
The 36-year-old man has been charged with the serious assault of a person over 60, stealing and committing a public nuisance.

Fisherman Tries To Hook Cell Phone
At approximately 8:20 am on September 7, a person walking through the intersection of Gordon Street and Wood Street in Mackay was the victim of an alleged theft. According to reports, a man walking nearby lunged at the victim, snatching a mobile phone from their shirt pocket before attempting to flee the scene.
The victim briefly chased after the man, who then threw the stolen phone into a nearby gutter, causing it to break and become inoperable.
The suspect is described as a Caucasian male, aged between 40 and 50, approximately six feet tall, with stubble. He was wearing a fishing hat, shorts, and a t-shirt at the time of the incident.
Police are encouraging anyone with information related to this matter to come forward. Please reference police report number QP2401540454.

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Opinion Piece

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox says the zero emissions ideology of the Labor, Greens and Teals has local business like Blue River Ice at boiling point because of power price hikes.

“When power bills skyrocket from $10,000 per month to $25,000 per month – I am not a mathematician, but I sure know you can’t pass this onto consumers and businesses can’t absorb this hike,” Mr Willcox said.

Owner of Blue River Ice, Francis Vigliante does not know what the future will hold.

“How are any businesses expected to cover that I’m not sure,” he said.

“We have increased prices but that only goes a certain way to covering all other costs that have gone up.

“We feel we are being forced to sell our business to large ice companies who are able to contract lower prices from power suppliers based on overall demand.”

Mr Willcox added, “All I keep seeing from this Government is personal attacks on the leader, but it’s about time they start producing some answers and a plan for our businesses.

“Due to the Labor created cost of living crisis our country is facing, this Government is not giving Australians hope.”

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox met with Owner of Blue River Ice, Francis Vigliante last week to discuss the issues that local businesses are currently facing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is demanding immediate action from the state and federal governments to fix the Bruce Highway as safety concerns pile up.

“According to RACQ data, head-on crashes account for 50 per cent of fatalities on the Bruce Highway, and motorists are five times more likely to be injured or killed while travelling the Bruce than they are if they were travelling from Sydney to Melbourne,” Mr Willcox said.

“It is deeply concerning that these statistics are being ignored by the state government who are in charge of fixing and maintaining our roads.

“This is a matter of life and death, and the Prime Minister needs to be held accountable. The original funding model must be reinstated back to the 80:20 contribution split, and works to the highway need to start immediately.

“As someone who travels between Mackay and Townsville regularly, I have seen firsthand what tragedies can occur and how devastating they are, which is why I launched my petition to Back Our Bruce, Back Our People.”

Mr Willcox said in the month since this petition was launched, he has received 1,000 signatures and has heard from members of the community who have witnessed horrific accidents and fatalities.

“That’s 1,000 signatures, 1,000 stories, and 1,000 more reasons to fix our Bruce Highway,” he said.

“Just last week we saw the horrible explosion which shut the road for three days. This cut off supplies, it cut life off to towns and again, another life of loss, that just should not have happened.

“It feels like every day just about, there is an accident on the Bruce, but they are avoidable.”

Chair of the Road Accident Action Group, Rod Erwin, confirmed that AusRAP crash data shows upgrades and the dual carriageways on the Hume and Pacific almost eliminated head on crashes.

Mr Erwin is passionate about reducing fatigue related incidents and crashes in the Bowen Basin area and said that RAAG is focusing on the need to build a formal truck stop facility to give our essential services somewhere to rest as they drive on the worst highway in our state, and they deserve somewhere safe to rest with clean facilities.  

“The lives of the people who live, work, and travel throughout the electorate and through this section of the Bruce Highway are just as important as those living in capital cities, and we deserve to be able to confidently travel on our roads and arrive at our destination, or home to our families, safely,” Mr Willcox said.

To sign the petition, visit www.andrewwillcox.com.au/back-our-bruce

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, met with members of the Road Accident Action Group to hear their concerns on the condition of local roads. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

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Last Friday, Mackay’s beloved Touch of Teal soirée took on a picturesque form as a Long Lunch by the Sea, bringing the community together in honour of a cause close to many hearts. The event, which sold out in just two weeks, raised vital funds for the Trudy Crowley Foundation, ensuring the continuation of its vital work supporting local cancer patients and their families.
The foundation, named after Mackay local Trudy Crowley, who sadly lost her courageous battle with ovarian cancer in 2018, has been a shining light of compassion in the region ever since. Trudy’s legacy of strength and resilience continues to inspire, with the foundation now employing two dedicated ovarian cancer nurses and running a support centre on Alfred Street—a haven for those affected by cancer. But this year’s soirée brought a sobering focus to the urgent need for more palliative care options in Mackay.
Two local families bravely shared their heartbreaking stories of watching loved ones endure immense suffering in their final moments, without access to adequate palliative care. Their emotional accounts delivered a raw reality of what it means to lose someone to cancer, where palliative care services are scarce. Tears filled the room as they recounted the unbearable pain their loved ones faced in their final days. The absence of a proper facility to ease this suffering was made painfully clear, and it solidified the foundation's commitment to creating a sanctuary for palliative patients—one where they can receive the compassionate, expert care needed to pass peacefully, and with dignity.
The Trudy Crowley Foundation’s vision of this sanctuary aims to provide a place where patients and their families can find peace in the most challenging moments, where no one should suffer unnecessarily. The stories shared at the soirée were a powerful reminder that while cancer takes a physical toll, the emotional burden on families is immense.
As the community gathered to show their support, the day also highlighted the bravery of two local women, Chelsea and Robyn, who shared their personal journeys through breast cancer. In front of a captivated audience, the women spoke with raw courage, recounting the challenges of their diagnoses, the emotional strain, and the fight for survival. Their stories were ones of resilience and grace—lives interrupted, but not defeated, by cancer. Their words resonated deeply, reminding everyone of the importance of knowing their bodies and understanding their normal, a key message echoed by the foundation.
Amid the powerful speeches, the event retained its signature warmth and unity, a celebration of life, survival, and the importance of community in the face of hardship. Emcee Kim Skubris kept the day moving with infectious energy, ensuring the focus remained on raising awareness and funds. The presence of Daly Bay, the major sponsor, added a sense of corporate community spirit, with CEO Steve Ray officially opening the event and praising the foundation’s enduring impact.
A special moment came when Levi Crowley, Trudy's son, was introduced as the newest board director of the foundation. Levi spoke with pride and emotion about continuing his mother’s work, vowing to keep fighting for better care and resources for cancer patients in the region. His appointment marked a poignant passing of the torch, symbolising that Trudy’s vision lives on through her family, community, and all those touched by her legacy.
The Touch of Teal soirée once again demonstrated the incredible unity of Mackay’s residents in the fight against cancer. With all proceeds staying within the region, the funds raised will continue to support the foundation's programs and help make Trudy’s dream of a dedicated palliative care sanctuary a reality.
The event was not just a fundraiser but a tribute—a heartfelt expression of love, hope, and a shared determination to ensure no one faces cancer alone, and no family endures the pain of loss without the support they need. Mackay’s community came together, inspired by Trudy’s legacy, with a renewed commitment to making a difference, one step at a time.

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Attendees, dressed in elegant white with subtle touches of teal, shared an unforgettable afternoon at the Touch of Teal Soiree, united in raising crucial funds for the Trudy Crowley Foundation. Photo credit: Liz Andrews Photography

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A HONDA CRV will help deliver the Neighbourhood Hub’s Community Services Program in Mackay.
The vehicle is on loan to the organisation for 12 months as part of the Honda Hero Foundation for use in its community service programs.
General manager Nicolette Ffrost said the organisation was incredibly grateful for this generous loan vehicle.
“It will greatly enhance our ability to serve the community and ensure that we can reach those in need more efficiently. This support is invaluable to our vision, and we look forward to putting it to good use.”
The car was awarded as part of Honda Hero Foundation to help empower organisations that are focused on helping others.
A spokesperson from the donors said “We are proud to support The Neighbourhood Hub.
“Their dedication to responding to the needs of our community through compassion and connection is truly inspiring, and we are pleased to contribute to their continued success.”

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Lyla, Zoe Sloan, Kym Breadsell, Brooklyn Jones, Nicolette Ffrost, Mercedes Catalan, Wasinee Hodder, Nana Stevens and Toni-Marie Ernst welcome a new loan car for the Neighbourhood Hub. Photo supplied

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The Neighbourhood Hub was honoured as the Highly Commended recipient of the Multicultural Queensland Awards 2024, Diversity and Inclusion Champion in Brisbane.
Based in George St and Shakespeare St, The Neighbourhood Hub has been operating since 1989 and is the largest locally owned community organisation in Mackay, with 19 staff and 35 volunteers.
Along with multicultural advice, it provides information and referral to all who need support.
The award recognises an organisation which has gone above and beyond to break down barriers for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, creating ways to help people find a sense of belonging in Queensland.
Multicultural Affairs Queensland presented the award at a ceremony held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The Neighbourhood Hub general manager Nicolette Ffrost said the organisation was truly honoured to receive this award.
“It is a reflection of the collective efforts of our vibrant community.
“We are grateful for this recognition and remain committed to continuing our work and working towards an inclusive multicultural Queensland.”
Ela Maglente, CAMS Multicultural Program Coordinator, has been overseeing the program for the last five years.
She attended the award ceremony along with finance coordinator Kym Breadsell and management committee secretary Rhonda Payne.
Ela said the award exemplifies the work across the Mackay region and the organisation’s efforts in fostering cross cultural dialogue, advancing multicultural education and training and leading community initiatives that celebrate diversity.

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Julie Nielsen, Sahaj Ahmed, Nicolette Ffrost, Kym Breadsell, Wasinee Hodder and Lyla with the multicultural award. Photo supplied

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Back by popular demand, council’s Discover Mackay Treasure Trail is getting ready to hoist sails this weekend.

After a successful launch last year and more than 1000 entry forms received, the campaign encourages residents to explore the hidden gems in their own backyard.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the 2023 treasure trail received rave reviews, with many asking to weigh anchor again in 2024.

“This year’s treasure trail will have all new locations and even more challenging clues to solve,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The pirate-themed trail will include 11 mystery locations across the region and residents will find their next destination by solving a series of riddles and clues on council’s website,” he said.

“We’re encouraging residents to have a bit of fun, dress up in costume and explore the trail from Saturday, September 14, to Sunday, September 29.

“Each treasure trail location will have a large poster or corflute on display and treasure hunters need to find the sign, scan the QR code and complete any challenges that pop up on each online form.

“Challenges could include taking a photo or video of something (or someone) at the location, answering a trivia question or finding something special.”

Harvey Norman Computers Mackay have jumped on board again as a major sponsor for the epic adventure and are supplying one of the major prizes, plus some smaller prizes.

Three major prizes will be randomly drawn from any crews who bravely conquer the whole trail.

The first-place major prize-winning team will receive a Go Pro Hero 12 Black Creator Edition and two Ilford PIXI-D digital cameras, second place will receive a $500 Visa gift card and third place a $300 Sarina Sugar Shed hamper.

The first 40 teams to finish will receive a Discover Mackay gift pack with Discover Mackay towel, two sunglasses, football rocket, bag and puzzle.

The first team to complete the trail will also win a Sugar Shed hamper and a Mackay Isaac Tourism coffee mug set valued at $300, and the best dressed team will win a Sugar Shed hamper.

Small rocks painted with the council logo will be hidden at four of the 11 locations with daily prizes up for grabs.

Anyone who finds one of the rocks and hands it in at the location will win an instant prize.

To find out more, or to register for council’s treasure trail, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/trail.

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Mayor Greg Williamson met with Jay and Dave from Triple M to discuss the excitement surrounding the Council's Treasure Trail as it returns this weekend with all new locations, encouraging locals to explore Mackay’s hidden gems while enjoying pirate-themed fun and the chance to win great prizes! Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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More than $6.2 million in manufacturing grants delivering 22 projects across Mackay were announced by the state government earlier this month, when Manufacturing Minister, Glenn Butcher, launched Queensland’s second Manufacturing Month at Mackay manufacturer, High Amp Maintenance.

The month-long celebration showcases the achievements of the state’s incredible manufacturing industry which contributes around $20 billion a year to Queensland’s economy and employs around 180,000 Queenslanders.

Leading Mackay welding and fabrication business, High Amp Maintenance has received more than $176,000 in grant funding as part of the state government’s Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program. It is enabling the business to purchase and install CNC fibre laser cutter and integrated management system.

The new equipment and systems will help the business increase production capacity and competitiveness and will see 10 new full-time jobs created.

The State Government has invested more than $240 million in supporting manufacturers across the State, including through Made in Queensland Grants, Manufacturing Hub Grants and the establishment of six Manufacturing Hubs across Queensland, including in Mackay.

Minister Butcher said, “Queensland’s first inaugural Manufacturing Month held in 2023 was so successful we have brought it back!

“High Amp Maintenance are a fantastic example of manufacturers getting to the next level with the support of Government grants. 

“We are doing what matters for Queenslanders like backing our incredible manufacturing businesses and Manufacturing Month is an opportunity to highlight just how amazing this state’s manufacturing sector is.”

ALP Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan, said she’s looking forward to Mackay manufacturers demonstrating their incredible capabilities during Manufacturing Month.

High Amp Maintenance Director, Lachlan Nielsen said, “We are driven to ensure we’re delivering high quality, proudly Queensland-made products for our customers across the country.
“Having the support of the Queensland Government through the Manufacturing Hub Grants Program has made the purchase and installation of our new 6KW Tube and Sheet laser seamless. This has helped elevate our business and expand our services.
“Not only are we expanding our manufacturing capabilities on the factory floor and creating significant efficiencies, but we’re set to expand our services, workforce, and the skills of our existing staff.”
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During Manufacturing Month, the Queensland Government hosts a range of events and opportunities to showcase the Queensland manufacturing sector’s capabilities, and educate business owners to connect and grow their business. This includes:

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Inside Advanced Manufacturing: 27 advanced manufacturers across Queensland have opened their doors, to fellow Queensland manufacturers and students to explain how Industry 4.0 technology and techniques have grown their business and career opportunities available in manufacturing.

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Queensland Manufacturing Industry Showcase at Parliament House: Almost 40 exhibitors will demonstrate and display their products and capabilities as part of a manufacturing showcase at Queensland’s Parliament House, on 10 September, to an audience of about 300 invited guests.

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Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher with ALP Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan, High Amp Maintenance Director Lachlan Nielsen and Brittney Nielsen. Photo supplied

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