Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Shingley Beach Resort has been recognised among the best in Queensland’s tourism industry, earning a Silver award in the 3–3.5 Star Accommodation category at the 2025 Whitsundays Tourism Awards.
The honour marks a milestone moment for the Airlie Beach resort, believed to be Shingley’s first-ever award. While unable to attend Saturday night’s event, General Manager Geoff Canard said he is proud of the achievement and admiration for fellow winners.
“Congratulations to all winners, not only for their dedication and heart-warming efforts, but for highlighting our tourism potential in our beautiful part of the world,” he said.
“It means a lot to me to be part of it all, Airlie Beach is my home.”
They described the Silver accolade as a shared success among the resort’s community of owners and investors.
“A silver win is a gold win on behalf of every owner and investor here at Shingley, none more invested than me,” they said.
“I’m so thrilled to be able to deliver value and service to our market, and to have an amazing supportive committee as well helps.”
Shingley Beach Resort impresses guests with its friendly atmosphere and welcoming facilities that keep guests coming back year after year.
Geoff said almost everyone turns up hot, tired, or maybe even cranky, and providing a welcoming environment is something Shingley Beach Resort takes pride in.
Whilst winning the silver in the 3 – 3.5-star accommodation category, Geoff is proud to announce that the resort has been undergoing upgrades, with several apartments now achieving 4.5 to 5-star ratings.
Shingley Beach Resort wouldn’t be the resort it is without the team behind the scenes.
“I want to thank all my staff, past and present especially Tracey Tyler for her support over years. This win is a shared win in my eyes, so thank you so much Tracey, I wish her the very best for her family and future.”
The award cements Shingley Beach Resort’s growing reputation as one of Airlie Beach’s most welcoming and well-loved accommodation options, and the team are only looking onwards and upwards.
Whitsunday Regional Council is celebrating another tourism success, with the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal taking out Silver in the Attractions category at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Saturday night.
The award recognises the Terminal’s outstanding contribution to the visitor experience and its role as the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, welcoming hundreds of thousands of passengers each year.
Operated by Whitsunday Regional Council, the modern facility has become a cornerstone of the region’s tourism infrastructure, offering first-class amenities and a seamless connection between the mainland, island resorts and visiting cruise ships.
Mayor Ry Collins said the recognition was another proud moment for Council and the region’s thriving tourism industry.
“The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal is much more than a transport hub — it’s a stunning first impression of the Whitsundays,” Mayor Collins said.
“The facility has also become an increasingly popular arrival point for cruise ships, with thousands of passengers now disembarking directly at Shute Harbour to explore our region.
“Each visit brings an estimated 4,000 passengers, delivering a welcome boost to local businesses, tour operators and hospitality venues, and helping share the Whitsundays’ unique charm with new visitors from around the world.”
Council’s Director of Commercial Businesses, Craig Turner, said the award reflects the strength and quality of Council’s tourism assets, including the multi-award-winning Whitsunday Coast Airport, which achieved Hall of Fame status last year after multiple gold wins in the Retail, Hire and Services category.
“Our tourism infrastructure plays a critical role in supporting the $1.6 billion Whitsunday tourism economy,” Mr Turner said.
“The Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and Whitsunday Coast Airport are both world-class gateways that welcome visitors with professionalism, efficiency, and genuine Whitsunday hospitality.
“This recognition is a credit to our hardworking staff and to the strong partnerships we’ve built with the tourism industry to keep the Whitsundays shining on the world stage.”
Photo credit: R Jean Photography
Wings Sailing Charters Whitsundays has sailed to success, proudly taking home the Crewed Overnight Sailing Tourism Award at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards. The accolade recognises their exceptional liveaboard guest experience, five- star service, and their dedication to showcasing the breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef Whitsundays through immersive skippered sailing holidays.
The award is another chapter in the long-standing story of excellence for Wings Sailing, who were previously recognised for their achievements in Adventure Tourism and Marine Experiences in 2010, 2011 and 2012, earned a QLD Steve Irwin Eco Tourism Award in 2012, and then inducted into the Whitsunday Tourism Hall of Fame the following year. Operating these days as a much smaller sized business, our core crew including Simond & Maddie attended the awards night.
Owners Amy and Mike Keyte shared their excitement about the win:
"We pride ourselves on a much more personalised service and passion that the team pours into every overnight holiday charter.”
“We are so happy to receive this award. It’s a true reflection of the hard work and dedication the Wings team brings to every onboard guest experience.
Being recognised among the incredible tourism operators in our region is an honour, and we’re so proud to represent Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday region.”
The star of the show is the beautiful Wings III, a 60-foot luxe catamaran designed for comfort, privacy, and affordable adventure. Guests enjoy relaxed sailing, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, with all-inclusive catering included, leaving guests with more time to relax & enjoy their holiday.
Whether it's a family getaway or a romantic escape, Wings Sailing Charters delivers a private and personalised Whitsunday experience.
“We are still a locally owned and operated business coming up to 24 years in the
region!” Amy said.
“Together Mike and I custom built SV Wings III and have adapted the business over the years with varied tours and product offerings to suit the visiting market.” Alongside their signature 2–5-day overnight sailing holidays, Wings now also offers the popular Whitsunday Island Day Sail SUP & Snorkel Tour, and their newest addition, the Airlie Beach BYO Sunset Tour, designed for every type of holiday visitor.
The new award format this year provided a welcome opportunity for small operators like Wings to reflect on their evolution and resilience.
“As a smaller business, we all often wear many hats... The new awards format leads on from Best of Queensland results for outstanding product and services which provided a wonderful opportunity to showcase how we’ve evolved the business in the post-COVID Airlie Beach market. This highlights our innovations in private overnight sailing holidays and day tours, while we continue to adapt and thrive in a changing tourism landscape.”
They offered heartfelt thank you to their “incredible team, local suppliers and tourism partners”, and most importantly our “guests”, who continue to trust Wings Sailing for their Whitsunday experiences.
Winning this award inspires us to keep raising the bar. Our mission has always been to deliver unforgettable sailing & snorkelling adventures that leave guests with a deeper love for the ocean and the Whitsunday Islands.”
Photo credit: R Jean Photography
An afternoon of fun, laughter, and community spirit is on the way, with the Member for Mackay’s Trivia & Cent Sale Fundraiser set to take place on Sunday, 26 October 2025, at the 500 Pavilion, Mackay Showgrounds.
Hosted by Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, the event will raise vital funds for the Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group, which provides essential care and assistance to local women and families affected by breast cancer.
Guests can look forward to a friendly trivia competition, plenty of cent sale prizes, and the chance to connect with friends and neighbours — all while contributing to an important local cause during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Attendees are encouraged to gather a team, test their knowledge, and enjoy an afternoon filled with fun and purpose.
Scan the QR Code for more information
When it comes to enshrining important aspects of our history, you need look no further than Mackay street names to see what matters to us; the names range from revered local war heroes, world-renowned racehorses, significant Queensland political figures, rugby league legends, and Australian cricketing icons, through to … some old tractors.
The names of local war heroes, young men who bravely sacrificed their lives for us, are respectfully remembered with poppies on the street signs in West Mackay; among them Thorning, Field, Mogford and McGinn Sts.
Some of Queensland’s most-significant political figures are recorded in Rural View street names: witness Bjelke Court, named after former Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen. And Rudd St, named after Kevin Rudd, the former prime minister and current ambassador to the US who, rather unhelpfully for the current prime minister, called US President Donald Trump a “village idiot”.
Anyone with an interest in Australian horse racing will give a respectful nod to streets in Ooralea that acknowledge the revered status of Gunsynd, Makybe Diva, Kiwi, Tulloch, Carbine and the most-famous of them all, Phar Lap. It is well known that Phar Lap was killed by a dose of arsenic but a recent book argued strongly that Tulloch was also poisoned because he was too hard to beat.
Brisbane Broncos and Queensland stars Allan Langer and Glenn Lazarus are remembered in Eimeo with Langer Drive and Lazarus Court.
And some of this country’s most highly-regarded cricket legends are recorded in the streets of Glenella; Donald Bradman, Dennis Lillee, Alan Border, Ray Lindwall, Kim Hughes, the wicket keeper from Bundaberg, Don Tallon, are all recorded there. So is a more famous wicket keeper, Wally Grout.
Wally Grout’s name is also recorded in Aussie rhyming slang in a phrase once heard every day in pubs around the country and, sadly, heard less-often these days. For those too young to know, if you are ever in a shout with a group of friends at a pub and someone says: “It’s your Wally”, it means it’s your shout, your Wally Grout … but in a beautiful example of Aussie rhyming slang, you just say “it’s your Wally”.
There are other street names in suburbs and estates around Mackay that celebrate family history: Stuart Hindle Drive, Debbiesue Drive and Lois Street near Norris Road in Mount Pleasant are among the family names recorded and honoured by the Deguara family, significant cane farmers-turned-developers who are still shaping Mackay today.
But if you want to visit truly hallowed ground, the streets where the brand names of farm equipment are recorded and celebrated, you need to drive into Belmore Estate in Mount Pleasant.
Dexter Court, Albion Crescent, Chalmers Court and Bristol Court all take their names from tractors. And for those of you who are scoffing, thinking that is somehow funny or absurd, they are apparently damn good tractors.
Now I don’t know a lot about farm equipment generally or tractors specifically but I’ve done some research and I am willing to share some of the key insights I have uncovered about the tractors named in Belmore Estate.
Most of them have big wheels at the back and smaller ones at the front. Yep, rubber ones.
Although, Bristol produced those tractors that have a “caterpillar” track or rotating chain of interconnected plates instead of wheels, just like an armoured tank.
I imagine they were great in the wet season as they moved steadily through the slushy mud.
Anyway, those tractors are part of our story and take their place in the catalogue of names that say something about who we are, what got us here and what we celebrate.
It’s all very interesting but it’s a dry argument. Whose Wally is it?
The Mackay West Rotary Christmas Fair 2025 is back and ready to light up the Mackay Showgrounds on Friday, October 24, and Saturday, October 25. This family-friendly event is free to attend from 5:30pm each night and promises two evenings full of festive fun, laughter, and excitement.
From the moment you arrive, the fair is bursting with sights, sounds, and smells that capture the magic of the season. Rides and amusements will keep the kids entertained for hours, from the Giant Slide and Dodgem Cars to Laughing Clowns, a Mini-Ferris Wheel, and the Teacup Ride. Fans of classic fair games can test their luck at the Ham Wheel, Meat Tray Wheel, Cent Sale, and Bottle Stall while hoping to take home a prize.
Food stalls will tempt visitors with a delicious mix of burgers, hot chips, hot dogs, ice cream, and plenty of sweet treats, keeping everyone fuelled for the festivities. Live music from local school bands adds to the atmosphere, with Saint Patricks Cultural Ensemble performing on Friday, and Mackay Orchestra Inc. and Mackay State High School Bands taking the stage on Saturday, starting from 5:30pm both nights.
As night falls, all eyes will turn skyward for the Andergrove Lakes Fireworks Spectacular at 8:30pm, lighting up the evening with dazzling colours and sparkling patterns. Families can also wander into Santa’s Cave to snap a photo with the man in red himself.
All proceeds of this community celebration go directly to local charities and initiatives supported by Mackay West Rotary. Over 75 volunteers work tirelessly to make this event possible, with holiday cheer every year.
The event is proudly supported by the following sponsors:
• M.P. Curtin & Company – as Presenting Partner
• Andergrove Lakes (fireworks sponsor)
• Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd
• Hibble's Amusements
• Mackay Land Sales
• Beaconsfield Heights
• S.H. Tait & Co (Accountants)
• CJ Smith Homes
• WHF Constructions
• Rebetzke Homes
• DGH Engineering
• FMS Group
Rides, food, fireworks, and festive spirit await!
For more information, contact Ross Walker at rossandwendywalker@gmail.com or 0429 615 711.
Hi lovely readers,
Exciting news from my little garden… my rosemary has begun to sprout, along with tomatoes, chilis, and spring onions!
I planted the seeds in paper cups a few weeks ago, and every morning I’ve eagerly checked to make sure they’re still surviving (lol).
The tomatoes were first to sprout, then the chilis, followed by the spring onions… and now the rosemary. It’s small, simple progress, but it’s a little reminder that growth often takes great patience and care.
Seeing these tiny seedlings push through the soil has been so encouraging, and soon I’ll need to move them into bigger pots so they have space to continue growing.
It’s a bit like us humans – some days we struggle, some days we thrive, but each small step towards growth is just as important.
Last week, I saw the community come together at two wonderful events.
I attended the Seniors Expo last Tuesday, with a gallery of photos you’ll find on page 15, as well as the BMA CQ Rescue Family Day, with highlights on page 23, capturing families enjoying the day and front-line services showing children how it all works.
It’s safe to say that communities grow best when we support each other, celebrate the small wins, and stay connected!
Life, like gardening, requires patience, care, and a little faith; even when progress feels slow or uncertain, there’s always the chance to grow… sometimes all it takes is faith as small as a mustard seed!
Local organisations and community members rallied together in Mackay this week to make a meaningful impact during Anti-Poverty Week. The Neighbourhood Hub Mackay expressed its heartfelt appreciation for the support received throughout the campaign.
“We would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for today's Anti-Poverty Week Campaign and to the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce for their unwavering support. To CASA - Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc. for lending us your team members to assist in sorting donations,” the Hub said.
Generous contributions of non-perishable food items from a wide range of organisations ensured that families and individuals in need would receive essential support.
“A massive thank you to every organisation that generously donated non-perishable food items to the campaign. Your contributions are making a real difference in the lives of those in need,” organisers said.
The campaign also served as a reminder of the strength of community spirit.
“Together, we’re proving that when a community comes together, incredible things happen. Let’s continue to fight against poverty and build a brighter future for everyone.”
With the combined efforts of volunteers, businesses, and supporters, Mackay has shown that collaboration and compassion can create real, positive change in our region.
Photo source: The Neighbourhood Hub, and Goodstart Early Learning Rural View (Facebook)
The Mackay region is set to take centre stage in November as the Queensland Government brings its next Community Cabinet to town, giving locals the chance to speak directly with Premier David Crisafulli and his team of Ministers.
Scheduled for Saturday, the 2nd of November, the event will see government representatives meet with community members, business owners, and local leaders to discuss priorities, challenges, and opportunities for Mackay and the surrounding region.
The Premier said hosting Community Cabinet in Mackay was an important step in listening to regional Queenslanders and ensuring their needs are heard.
“It’s important we visit Mackay to listen, engage, and share ideas with the community, especially to hear their concerns,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“We’re committed to ensuring the needs of the Mackay community are not only met but are exceeded, particularly on issues relating to crime, health, housing, and cost of living.”
The Community Cabinet will provide locals with the opportunity to meet Ministers, raise local concerns, and help shape the region’s future through one-on-one deputations and a community afternoon tea.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the event would allow the region’s residents to directly contribute to the decision-making process.
“I look forward to seeing as many locals as possible take this opportunity to attend and have their voices heard on the issues that matter most to them and their families,” Mr Dalton said.
“The Crisafulli Government is looking forward to working together to make Mackay an even better place for future generations.”
The Government said Mackay continues to be a regional priority, with investment in frontline policing, health facilities, housing, small business support, and infrastructure to drive local jobs and long-term prosperity.
Previous Community Cabinets have been held this year in Cairns, Townsville, and Emerald, and Mackay’s event marks another step in the Government’s plan to strengthen engagement with regional Queenslanders.
Community members can now apply to attend the afternoon tea or request a meeting with a Minister to discuss local issues and ideas. For more information or to register interest, visit the Community Cabinet page on the Queensland Government website.
Premier David Crisafulli will be hosting a Community Cabinet in Mackay on November 2. Photo: Mackay and Whitsunday Life
Seniors Month Kicks Off In Style At Mackay Expo
The Mackay Seniors Expo was a resounding success on Tuesday, October 14, attracting around 2,000 community members to The Big Shed at Mackay Showgrounds.
Featuring over 80 exhibitors, the event offered seniors, carers, and families access to vital services, programs, and information to enhance quality of life and community connection.
As part of Queensland’s state-wide Seniors Month celebrations, the expo provided a vibrant platform for engagement, learning, and social interaction. Local businesses and service providers showcased facilities and resources designed specifically for older residents, while visitors enjoyed a welcoming and informative atmosphere.
The event demonstrated Mackay’s strong commitment to supporting seniors, fostering connections, and celebrating active, engaged community life.
Around 2,000 people attended the Mackay Seniors Expo on October 14, enjoying over 80 exhibitors, services, and activities celebrating Seniors Month. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Turtle season is officially underway along Mackay’s beaches, running from now until mid-January, with hatchlings expected to emerge from just before Christmas through to March. Volunteers with the Mackay and District Turtle Watch Association have been monitoring beaches since 1992, keeping a close eye on turtle activity to ensure these protected species remain safe.
Flatback turtles are the most common species nesting on Mackay’s mainland beaches. Unlike other turtles, flatbacks only live and breed in Australia, making their conservation particularly important. Occasionally, green turtles may also nest, but mostly on nearby islands rather than the mainland. Female turtles typically lay eggs every two to three years and only start nesting once they reach around 30 years of age. During the season, each turtle lays three clutches of eggs, burying billiard ball-sized eggs in the sand before returning to their feeding grounds.
Members of the Mackay and District Turtle Watch Association are trained and hold permits allowing them to safely monitor nests, track activity, and record vital information. They walk beaches early in the morning, noting turtle tracks, checking nests, and taking GPS readings to mark nest locations. This is essential because after around 50 days, wind and shifting sand often make nests difficult to identify. Hatchlings mostly emerge at night, and volunteers are ready to intervene only if hatchlings get stuck in the nest.
It’s important for the public to let nature take its course. Interfering with nesting turtles, nests, or hatchlings is against the law and can prevent turtles from laying their eggs successfully. Observers should keep a respectful distance from turtles coming ashore, avoid disturbing them, and ensure dogs, motorbikes, and vehicles remain off the beach and dunes during the season.
The Mackay and District Turtle Watch Association is passionate about protecting these remarkable animals and ensuring that future generations of turtles continue to thrive along Mackay’s coastline. The program relies on careful monitoring and community cooperation to safeguard the turtles’ nesting sites, giving hatchlings the best chance to reach the ocean safely.
For locals keen to support turtle conservation, simply giving turtles space, respecting nesting areas, and reporting sightings to trained volunteers goes a long way in protecting this vital part of Mackay’s natural heritage.
Turtle season has begun along Mackay’s beaches, and locals are reminded to give nesting turtles space, keep dogs and vehicles off the sand, and avoid disturbing nests or hatchlings. Photo credit: Mackay and District Turtle Watch Association
Fay Griffin, a long-standing member and communications officer of the Mackay and District Turtle Watch Association, has been involved since the group’s early days in the 1990s. Guided by her deep love for turtles, Fay and her late husband devoted countless early mornings volunteering along Mackay’s Northern Beaches, monitoring and protecting local turtle populations. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Sunset Bay Outriggers were back on the road from October 4 to 6, heading south of the North Queensland zone to compete on the stunning waters of Emu Park, near Yeppon.
While the racing program was limited, club paddlers were happy to double up on competition day, eager to test themselves on the challenging course. Unfortunately, the wind seemed to follow the club all year, and Saturday’s 11.5km races provided no mercy.
Despite the tough conditions, Sunset Bay crews showed real improvement, with commitment paying off in strong results:
• Master Women: Silver – 1hr
• Golden Master Mixed: Gold – 53mins
• Master Mixed: Silver – 54mins
The 17.5km downwinder brought very hot conditions and offered little wind assistance, making it a true test of endurance.
Kim Alloway and Nicole Reseck, paddlers of the day, tactically ‘hulied’ early in the race to stay cool, winning the Master Women OC2 with a time of 1hr 42mins and finishing 14th out of 28 crews. Meanwhile, Andrew Batterson, better known as AL, gave chase in a very strong OC1 field, completing the course in 1hr 49min.
Looking ahead, the club will now focus on sprint training in preparation for the Australian National Sprint Titles at Coomera on the Gold Coast, scheduled for November 14 to 16.
Sunset Bay Outriggers traveled to Emu Park from October 4 to 6, braving tough conditions to achieve strong results and now focus on sprint training for the Australian National Sprint Titles in November. Photos supplied
With the wet season fast approaching, now is the time to make sure our beaches are clear of harmful rubbish and debris.
Council has partnered with North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) and Save Our Northwall community group to host a beach clean up this Saturday, October 18.
The event is part of the Great Barrier Reef Clean Up, coordinated by Tangaroa Blue.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said we all had a part to play in protecting the marine environment.
“Clean ups like this are a critical way of intercepting rubbish, like plastics, fishing line and other items before they enter waterways and pose a threat to wildlife,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Marine debris is recognised as a major threat to the health of the Great Barrier Reef, with microplastics a significant concern.
“In fact, a recent report found that microplastics have been detected in coral tissues.
“It’s fantastic to have North Queensland Bulk Ports supporting our clean up this year.
“They do an incredible job in maintaining public spaces like the recreation area North Wall for residents and we thank them for their involvement.”
North Queensland Bulk Ports CEO, Brendan Webb, said environmental stewardship was a key focus for the organisation.
“North Wall Beach is much loved by the community – from surfers to beach walkers and we take a great deal of pride in our role protecting the neighbouring recreational area,” Mr Webb said.
“With the recent upgrades to facilities at the North Wall recreational area, we expect more people than ever will be visiting the beach, so events like the Great Barrier Reef Clean Up ensure its pristine nature can be maintained for years to come.”
Anyone wanting to be part of the North Wall clean up simply needs to turn up on Saturday between 2.00pm and 4.00pm, with hats, gloves and sunscreen.
NQBP has kindly donated the use of tables and shade marquees as other items for participants.
_Residents who can’t make this event are encouraged to organise their own clean up at https://tangaroablue.org/gbrcu _
Join Mackay Council and partners for a beach clean up at North Wall Beach this Saturday, October 18, to help protect the Great Barrier Reef. Photos supplied
Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Mr Andrew Willcox MP, said farmers across Dawson have had an enormous win after Labor retreated on its poorly conceived, reckless, and cruel plan to tax unrealised gains on farms held in self-managed super funds (SMSFs).
Mr Willcox said Labor had been embarrassingly forced to give in after The Coalition and industry groups campaigned strongly against the plan, and the government faced a backlash from farming families across Dawson.
“Labor’s plan to punish Australia’s hardest workers and attack their unrealised gains in superannuation was shocking from the start and never should have happened,” Mr Willcox said.
He said many farming families across Dawson, including the region’s sugar cane growers, had set up SMSFs as part of their retirement and succession planning, unaware Labor could attempt to tax their assets on paper every single year.
“Labor could never even tell us how many primary producers, small and family business owners would have been impacted. In what parallel universe does a government think it’s okay to tax on-paper, unrealised gains?” Mr Willcox said.
Mr Willcox said the plan would have forced some farmers to sell their land instead of passing it on to the next generation, and that such uncertainty had caused unnecessary anxiety in regional communities.
“Farmers in Dawson deserve certainty, not shifting goalposts from a government that doesn’t understand regional Australia. This backflip is a win for common sense and for the families who have worked hard to build something for the next generation,” he said.
He said The Coalition had taken a strong stand to protect regional communities and hold Labor accountable, ensuring the concerns of rural Australians were heard loud and clear.
“The Coalition led the charge against this unfair policy because we knew what was at stake. This was never just about tax — it was about livelihoods, retirement security, and keeping family farms in family hands,” Mr Willcox said.
While welcoming Labor’s retreat, Mr Willcox warned the government not to revisit similar measures in the future.
“While Labor’s backdown is welcome, it’s also a warning. Every time this government looks for revenue, it seems they reach for regional Australia first. We’ll keep holding them to account to make sure they don’t try to sneak this or similar measures back in through the back door,” he said.
Mr Willcox said Labor should apologise to the farming community for the stress and uncertainty they caused.
“Our farmers who produce the nation’s food and fibre — from sugar to beef — must be protected from Labor’s tax grabs.
“The Coalition will always stand up for our farmers, their families, and the future of regional Australia.”
Andrew Willcox says The Coalition will always back Aussie farmers, defending family farms from unfair taxes and supporting a strong future for regional industries. Photo supplied
Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, billboards, newspapers, paid advertising or organic posting - today’s small business owners have a million and one opportunities to reach their audience.
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You don’t need to be everywhere. You only need to be where your audience is. And to know that, you need to know who they are and the biggest problems they have. Start there.
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Then, identify one or two key platforms where your audience actually spends time. Include Google Ads for high-intent searches - those people are already halfway sold.
Do not be scared of paid ads. It is an investment that brings in high ROI when done right.
Shift your focus from doing more to measuring better. Instead of chasing likes and reach, track what truly matters: calls, form submissions, bookings, and sales. Even simple tracking can reveal what’s actually moving the needle.
Marketing doesn’t have to feel like chaos. With the right strategy and structure, you can replace guesswork with focus and start seeing steady, measurable progress.
At Glow Sphere Marketing, we help small businesses do exactly that, simplify their strategy, align their message, and finally see what’s working (and what’s not). If you’re ready to get out of the overwhelm and take back control of your marketing, let’s start with a quick review of your current channels and goals. Sometimes all it takes is a fresh perspective to turn confusion into clarity and clarity into growth.
Marketing, Sales & Business Coach from Glow Sphere Marketing
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