As we gear up for a special day this weekend, it’s a time to honour the fathers, step-dads, granddads, and all the father figures who have a special knack for dodgy dance moves, overused catchphrases, and, of course, those legendary dad jokes that somehow never get old. Father’s Day is a day to celebrate the wisdom, the patience, and the endless love these people bring into our lives—often served with a side of wit and a penchant for reminding us to 'check the oil.'
This Sunday, the region is buzzing with activities tailor-made for the dads in our lives. Head over to Dad's Day in the Valley, where an array of cars and machinery will be on display, accompanied by delicious food stalls—because we all know the way to a dad’s heart is through his stomach. For those with a love of nostalgia and locomotion, the miniature trains will be chugging along at Ooralea, offering a delightful day out for young and old alike. Meanwhile, Jazz in the Park promises smooth tunes in the sunshine, and for the more active dads, the River to Reef cycling challenge is back with a heap of great events, testing pedals and perseverance across the weekend.
As we raise a glass (or a wrench) to the father figures who’ve shaped us, remember this: "A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow." I’m exceptionally lucky to have a wonderful husband who has had to step up even more as a dad this year in ways he never would have pictured a year ago. When I’ve been in hospital countless times for surgery and chemotherapy, he’s been the one taking time off work to look after our son. Thank you, Hamish, you’re one in a million.
And in the spirit of the day, here’s a little something to keep the tradition alive: Why do fathers take an extra pair of socks when they go golfing? In case they get a hole in one!
Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads out there—you’re simply the best!
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Amanda

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The community is inching closer to completing the highly anticipated Pioneer Valley Rail Trail (PVRT), thanks to the generous efforts of volunteers and cycling enthusiasts.

With residents and volunteers from all walks of life contributing to its success, this project has been one driven by the community - for the community.

Brothers Ryan and Evan Corry, who own the local bike shop Corry Cycles, are among the treasured names of many who have supported the rail trail from the very beginning.

Ryan Corry, continuously donates his time and equipment to clear the trail and has been instrumental in bringing the project to fruition. With the support of his machines, the once-overgrown path is now well on its way to becoming a fully accessible rail trail, ready for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.

Councillor Alison Jones has rooted for the project since its inception and is thrilled to have seen the trails come this far with the help of the communities “quiet achievers.”

Cr Jones emphasised the crucial impact that the Corry brothers along with numerous volunteers have had in the lead up to the opening of the trails and said that, "Everyone has played a part, and we couldn't have achieved what we have without them.

“Out of all the volunteers that we have in our community, most of them are quiet achievers and that’s how things get done.

"They have done an enormous amount and we’re eternally grateful for the volunteering and time that they have given.”

Before and after photos of the trail, cleared thanks to Ryan Corry, who generously donated his time and equipment to advance the rail trail project for the community. Photo source: Pioneer Valley Rail Trail

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Last week marked a proud moment for Mackay as 21 eager candidates gathered at the historic Mackay River Wharfs, eager to shape the future of their community. These student participants in the groundbreaking Young Mayors Program, have undergone a transformative election process with nearly 2,500 of their peers casting votes. The result: 12 driven individuals were selected to form the next Mackay Youth Council.

First introduced in 2023, the Mackay Regional Council pioneered this initiative, aimed at empowering the region's youth and giving them a formal platform to voice their concerns and ideas. This year’s election is a testament to the program’s continued success, offering these bright minds an unparalleled opportunity to effect change in the issues that matter most to today’s youth.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson expressed his admiration for the candidates and the impact this initiative has already had on the region.

"It's inspiring to see so many young people stepping up to serve their community,” Mayor Williamson said.

“These students aren’t just the future leaders of Mackay; they're showing us that they are leaders right now."

Outgoing Youth Mayor Bridget Wright, having served her term with enthusiasm, had some encouraging advice for the incoming council.

"Don’t lose focus, bring your unique voice into your new role, and never get discouraged,” Ms Wright said.

“Creating change is possible."

As the torch passes, Mayor Williamson was quick to acknowledge Bridget’s leadership:

"Bridget’s time as Youth Mayor was marked by passion, dedication, and tangible results. She set the bar high, but I’m confident the new team will rise to the occasion."

The newly appointed Youth Council members are:
   • Amelia Webber
   • Elena Mathew
   • Ethan Forde
   • Lila Munt
   • Lily Cheyne
   • Logan Ivory
   • Magenta Arthy
   • Natacha McKay
   • Nate Ralph
   • Nathaniel Espartinez
   • Soham Rana
   • Zena Ali

As they prepare to elect their new Youth Mayor and start working on initiatives, the future looks bright for the young voices of Mackay.

Mayor Williamson summed it up best: "Our future is in great hands with these young leaders."

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Mayor Greg Williamson with nine of the newly elected members of the Mackay Youth Council, as they prepare to bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the region's future. Photo supplied

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Last Friday, the region took a significant step towards economic diversification with the launch of A Revenue Diversification Strategy Report from The Greater Whitsunday METS Sector.

This strategy proves to be a crucial component of the Decarbonisation Accelerated Project and was developed under the leadership of Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCoE).

The launch held at Field Mining Services Group in Paget, brought together key industry leaders and stakeholders to discuss the region's future.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance Chief Executive Officer Kylie Porter emphasised the importance of the strategy in leveraging the region's vast Mining Equipment, Technology and Services (METS) sector.

“We know that this region has the biggest density of METS businesses in the southern hemisphere,” Porter said.

“What it really demonstrates to us is that there are many new emerging industries that are ideally aligned to our regional strengths and capabilities."

The report identified seven industries primed for growth, including critical minerals, renewables, bioenergy, biomanufacturing and aerospace. These sectors present opportunities for METS businesses to diversify their revenue streams and secure their futures as global demand for sustainable solutions increases.

Field Mining Services Group General Manager, Tony Liddelow, expressed his excitement about the region's potential.

"Our unique selling point has been our desire to take the risk away from our customers," Liddelow said.

"It’s really exciting to see what’s happening in our backyard and it’s given our directors a lot of confidence to invest."

Dean Kirkwood, General Manager of Resource Industry Network (RIN), backed these statements by commenting on the importance of the strategy for the region's prosperity.

"We see it as something absolutely necessary for us to thrive and ensure that we remain prosperous into the future," Kirkwood stated.

With over 40 stakeholders involved in its development, the strategy sets a clear path for the Greater Whitsunday region to embrace economic opportunities, power its workforce and champion change for generations to come.

Visit www.greaterwhitsundayalliance.com.au for further information.

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Key industry leaders and stakeholders gathered at Field Mining Services Group in Paget last Friday for the launch of the Greater Whitsunday METS Sector - A Revenue Diversification Strategy. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Acknowledging 30 years since the Commonwealth Government officially recognised South Sea Islanders as a distinct cultural group in 1994, the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the unique health challenges faced by Australian South Sea Islanders.

Most Australian South Sea Islanders are direct descendants of approximately 50,000 people brought from the Pacific Islands to Australia to work as indentured labourers between 1863 and 1904.

QAS Chief Operating Officer Steven Zsombok and Central Region Assistant Commissioner Robbie Medlin met with Elders from the South Sea Islander community to discuss the ongoing health inequities experienced by the community and expressed their continued support in addressing these concerns.

The QAS Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan was developed to ensure an inclusive and culturally appropriate focus for the organisation. These community partnerships have played a crucial role in providing equitable healthcare in culturally safe environments.

A recent initiative by the QAS to promote culturally safe care involved introducing a South Sea Islander identification question for paramedics when completing a patient’s electronic Ambulance Report Form. The QAS also maintained its focus on Australian South Sea Islanders through the Multiculturalism Project, with Chief Operating Officer Steven Zsombok serving as the Executive Champion.

South Sea Islanders have forged a unique identity from a tumultuous history, contributing significantly to many aspects of Queensland, including the ambulance service.

The ceremony provided an opportunity to formally recognise nearly 100 years of service from the Fatnowna family, including Clacy, Noel and Norman Fatnowna, whose affiliation dates back to the days of the Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade (QATB).

President of the South Sea Islander United Australia Association Clacy Fatnowna expressed his appreciation to the Queensland Ambulance Service and honoured those who have supported his vision of introducing a dedicated medical check box for the Australian South Sea Islander community, aimed at addressing their specific healthcare needs.

“It’s a start of a journey that I hope I can repeat numerous times across government departments with regards to engaging and challenging their department to get on board to support Australian South Sea Islanders.

“Thank you to the Queensland Ambulance service,” Mr Fatnowna said.

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Queensland Ambulance Service met with Clacy Fatnowna, President of the South Sea Islander United Australia Association, and the South Sea Islander community last Friday to reaffirm their commitment to improving health outcomes, marking the 30th anniversary of Commonwealth recognition. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Queensland Ambulance Service

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Police Call For Witnesses For Pedestrian Injury In Andergrove

Police are appealing for witnesses after a pedestrian was critically injured in a serious traffic crash at Andergrove last week.

Initial investigations indicate at approximately 8am on Friday, August 23, a blue dodge RAM struck a pedestrian on Bedford Road near a roundabout along Oak Street and Celeber Drive in Andergrove.

The 66-year-old male pedestrian sustained extensive injuries and was transported to Mackay Base Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville Hospital.

The driver of the vehicle, a 53-year-old man, was not physically injured.

Investigators are appealing for witnesses, or anyone with dashcam footage between 8am and 9am along Bedford Road and Oak Street in Andergrove on August 23, to come forward.

Investigations are ongoing, please quote reference number QP2401425993.

TWO HIGH-SPEED DRIVERS CAUGHT IN ONE TRIP

On August 24 the Highway Patrol officer from Moranbah station was scheduled to travel on the Peak Downs Highway to Mackay to collect IT equipment and then return.

Mobile speed enforcement was conducted on the journey resulting in the issuing of 17 infringement notices for varied offences, the majority of which were speed related - two speeds were notable.

A 39-year-old man who resides in Moranbah was stopped at 4:14pm on the Peak Downs Highway at Nebo for the alleged speed of 140 kilometres an hour in a 100-kilometre-an-hour speed zone. He was travelling in a Holden Cruze sedan at the time.

This driver was issued with an infringement notice to the value of $1,209 resulting in the loss of 6 demerit points.

A 35-year-old man who resides in Edmonton was stopped at 8:18pm on the Peak Downs Highway also in Nebo for the alleged speed of 163 kilometres an hour in a 100-kilometre-an-hour speed zone. He was travelling in a Toyota Kluger wagon at the time.

The driver was issued with an infringement notice to the value of $1,854 resulting in the loss of 8 demerit points and their driver's licence will be suspended for a period of 6 months.

Regardless of the time of day or location, drivers should expect to witness police conducting speed enforcement patrols

"The speeds that we continue to detect in our enforcement patrols are an ongoing concern," Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards, Officer in Charge of the Highway Patrol Group said.

"All motorists should expect to see police conducting speed enforcement patrols on their journeys, regardless of the time of day or location. Speeding drivers are a risk to themselves and other motorists," Senior Sergeant Edwards added.

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The Mackay North High School Z Club recently presented a generous donation to the Mackay Days for Girls team.
This donation was collected by Z Club members solely for Days for Girls in Mackay, to assist the local volunteer team in their efforts to produce sanitary kits for women and girls in developing countries.
The Zonta Club of Mackay was first chartered in October 1992, and at present, it consists of around 30 active members.
One of the many ways Zonta Club supports the community is by sponsoring Z Clubs in high schools across the Mackay District.
A High School Z Club is led by a voluntary teacher, with participation from students that are primarily female, though with a few male members as well. Meetings are typically held weekly or monthly, often during lunchtime where a representative from the Mackay Zonta Club serves as the contact person for all Z Clubs in the region.
Z Club student members are given resources, information and guidance to help them make a positive impact on the world around them. Together, they plan, organise, and participate in activities that offer them opportunities to improve the lives of others, both locally and internationally.
The club is made up of an enthusiastic and diverse group of women which reflects a cross-section of the Mackay community. Despite differences in age, careers, lifestyles, backgrounds and experience, the compassionate group includes a blend of young professionals, business owners and retirees that all share a love for their community.
Zonta International remains a leading global organisation that empowers women worldwide through service and advocacy, with a focus on visualising a world in which women’s rights are acknowledged and every woman is able to achieve her full potential.
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Zonta Mackay representative Gail Clark with MNSHS teacher Deb Sellars and Mackay North High Z Club members Ella-Grace Newsome, Miley Capron, Georgia Bickford, Taylor Fisher, Charlotte McGuinness and Ailey Matheson at the recent presentation
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Days for Girls – Mackay team members Cathy Davis & Bente McDonald, with Mackay North High Z Club members Charlotte McGuinness and Ailey Matheson at the recent presentation to Days for Girls by Mackay North High Z Club. Photos supplied

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The mining community is in mourning following the tragic death of another worker at the Byerwen Mine site, located west of Glenden.

Emergency services were called to the site at approximately 1.10 pm on Thursday, August 22nd, where they discovered a man believed to be in his mid 50s suffering from critical injuries.

Bundaberg man, John Linwood (56), was fatally injured at the Byerwen mine site and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The incident involved a collision between a haul truck and a light vehicle, and the details surrounding the accident remain under investigation. It is understood that a loaded dump truck was ascending a ramp leading out of the pit at low speed when the light vehicle approached from behind and collided with it.

Macmahon, the company operating at the mine, has expressed deep sadness over the incident.

Michael Finnegan, Managing Director and CEO of Macmahon, said, "This is a tragic and sad incident which has impacted our whole team.

“We continue to support our people, especially friends and family of our deceased colleague, as well as the dump truck operator."

RSHQ CEO Rob Djukic said that as of Tuesday afternoon (27th August), Byerwen coal mine is able to resume activities provided it can maintain a safe operating environment.

“The RSHQ inspector who issued the directive to suspend the use of heavy vehicles is satisfied the requirements have been met,” Mr Djukic said.

“Our investigation into the incident that caused the fatality on Thursday 22 August is ongoing.

“We can also confirm that the incident involved an interaction between a light vehicle and a haul truck.
“Our investigation will look at what caused this interaction.”

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Photo source: Macmahon

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Whitsunday Anglican School’s 2024 Academic School Captain, Rohit Vaidya, was one of only
fifteen students in the State, and the only student from the Mackay and Whitsunday region, to
receive a Peter Doherty Award for Excellence in STEM Education, where he was celebrated for
his outstanding and innovative contribution to STEM education in Queensland.

Marking 21 years of the Peter Doherty Awards for Excellence in STEM Education, the awards
recognise students, teachers, support officers, schools and education partners who demonstrate
their commitment to excellence in STEM education for their schools and communities.

Named after Professor Peter Doherty, a Brisbane-born Nobel Prize-winning scientist, the award
and scholarship program assists students in their continued pursuit of STEM education.

Attending the ceremony with his family, including his older brother Raj, an alumni of Whitsunday
Anglican School and previous Peter Doherty Award winner, Rohit said that he was humbled by
the award.

Rohit has been an advocate for STEM within the Whitsunday Anglican School community and
has embraced the countless opportunities provided by the school, and in the newly-opened
state-of-the-art STEAM Centre.

“It is truly an honour to be one of the fifteen students to have received this prestigious award,”
he said.

“I am looking forward to pursuing a career in medicine after school and continuing in the footsteps
of my older brother Raj and my father in specialising in cardiology.

“I really want to work in a rural or remote community because I believe that these areas require more specialist interventions and I want to strive to be the best doctor I can be.”

Principal, Mr Andrew Wheaton, said Rohit is an outstanding student, excelling in his academic
studies, particularly in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

“Rohit is a tremendous role model to our school community, and we are immensely proud of
his achievements. He is the embodiment of our school values, and as academic captain,
where he generously supports students from the Preparatory Year to Year 12 in their academic
studies.

“Since joining Whitsunday Anglican School in 2014, Rohit has proven himself as an impressive
young man with a bright future, immersing himself in every opportunity to advance a balanced
education, that has been accentuated by a passion for STEAM – Science, Technology,
Engineering, Arts (critical thinking, literature and The Arts) and Mathematics.”

Rohit’s contributions to STEM education are significant, including the JCU Heroes in Health
program, Australian Mathematics Competitions completed with Distinction in 2023, Opti-MINDS,
Science Olympiads, and he was awarded a scholarship for the Lions Medical Research
Foundation SPARQ-ed (Students Performing Advanced Research Queensland) program.

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Whitsunday Anglican School Deputy Principal (Teaching and Leaning) Natalie Sunner with award winning student Rohit Vaidya. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Rohit Vaidya receiving his award with Di Farmer MP, Minister for Education and Minister for Youth Justice and Michael De’Ath, Director-General, Department of Education. Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook)

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Mackay Writers is hosting a special Memoir Writing Workshop with esteemed Queensland writer Edwina Shaw on Saturday, August 31, and Sunday, September 1, at the Seabreeze Hotel, Lamberts Beach. Shaw, known for her fiction, memoir, and screenwriting, brings a wealth of experience to the event. Her novel Thrill Seekers was shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s Award for New Writing, and she has over 40 stories published internationally. With years of teaching under her belt, including at the University of Queensland and Queensland Writers Centre, Shaw is eager to guide participants through the craft of memoir writing.
The workshop will feature four sessions across the weekend. On Saturday, participants will explore their personal stories and delve into the art of character and dialogue. Sunday’s sessions will focus on developing a plot and navigating the publishing process. It’s an opportunity for both aspiring and seasoned writers to refine their skills and explore new storytelling techniques.
Complimentary morning and afternoon teas will be provided, and Saturday evening will include wine and nibblies courtesy of DBCT. Participants can also enjoy a 10 per cent discount on rooms at Seabreeze Hotel, perfect for those wanting to make a weekend of it.
Supported by the Mackay Regional Council and the Queensland Government, this event is made possible through the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF). Mackay Writers, going strong after 35 years, welcomes new members. For registration forms, email Mackay Writers at mkywriters@gmail.com.

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Mackay Regional Council has ordered a new half pipe for the Brewers Road Skatepark in Sarina to replace the existing unit, which has become structurally unsafe due to vandalism and misuse.
The equipment in the skatepark is designed for skateboards, scooters, roller blades and bicycles but there have been reports of motorbikes using the facility.
Unfortunately, the replacement unit is not expected to arrive until December.

In the meantime, the vandalised equipment has been cordoned off for safety reasons and will be removed. However, the rest of the skatepark is open and available to be used by the community.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was disappointing to see the recent spike in vandalism of public facilities across the region.

“Over the last month we’ve had almost $20,000 in damages inflicted on public property,” Mayor Williamson said.

“In Sarina, two sets of public toilets have been damaged and the Sarina Museum has had the windows smashed in and the exterior vandalised,” he said.

“The shade sails in Apex Park in Sarina have also been slashed and we have been quoted more than $10,000 to replace them.

“Meanwhile in Woodlands District Park in Andergrove, the barbecues have been repeatedly covered in burnt plastic.

“Not only do ratepayers have to foot the bill for these repairs, but it means a number of our public facilities are now out of action.”

Council has been consulting with local authorities about these matters.

Residents are being asked to report any suspicious activity in public areas to the police immediately.

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The vandalised equipment at the Brewers Road Skatepark has been cordoned off for safety reasons and will be removed, however, the rest of the skatepark is open and available to be used by the community

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Mackay is piping excited for another Scottish party against the beautiful blue backdrop of the Pioneer River as the annual Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling swings into full motion this weekend!

The Bluewater Fling is a free, outdoor, family-friendly community event sponsored by the Mackay Regional Council that celebrates Mackay’s Scottish heritage. The event showcases local and visiting performers, featuring pipe bands from across Queensland, Celtic rock and Folk bands, soloists, and Highland dancers.

A number of stalls selling Scottish wares and foods and an on-site licenced venue will also keep the crowds entertained.

Official Entertainment will commence at 1.30pm on Saturday 31st August and will finish around 4.30pm at the Bluewater Quay. Performers and supporters will then move to a local indoor venue for the free ‘Fling Afterparty Ceilidh’ where live music and Ceilidh dancing will get the party started until late evening.

One of the highlights of the Bluewater Fling’s programme is the massed bands parade across the Forgan Smith Bridge starting at 2pm which spans the iconic Pioneer River.

The annual event is an opportunity for pipe bands from North and Central Queensland to come together and share their passion for the pipes and drums.

For the first time in nearly 100 years, bagpipes bought by the people in Mackay in 1916 and played on the Western Front during WWI will be on display. These bagpipes were recently located in America and have been purchased by the Mackay RSL Sub Branch.

Mayor Greg Williamson advises locals to “get in early.”

“This is a great celebration for the whole family…to have seven bands of pipes and drums represented here and of course the special guests this time around, the pipes and drums of the Police Juvenile Band… we’re very excited to welcome them to Mackay!”

Since its inception in 2016, the event has continued to grow each year and has expanded to include additional free events over the course of the Scottish Festival weekend, including a meet-and-greet on Friday night the 30th August at Goanna Microbrewery, 2 Victoria Street and a rambunctious ceilidh on the Saturday night at Goosies Sport and Recreation Club, 74 Malcomson Street.

For more details on the event, head to www.bluewaterfling.com.  

What: Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling
When: Saturday 31 August
Where: Bluewater Quay

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Massed pipe bands will march across the Forgan Bridge at 2pm Saturday 31 August 2024
Piper Derek Martin with Piper and event emcee Ian Dean, Mayor Greg Williamson and Piper and event coordinator Deb Orr. Photos supplied

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A stellar trade performance over the past 12 months is the icing on the cake for the Port of Mackay as it celebrates 85 years since its official opening.
Total trade through the port reached 3.58 million tonnes in 2023-24, compared to 3.51 million tonnes for the same period last year and just shy of the record 3.59 million tonnes in 2021-22.
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb said the buoyant trade performance highlighted how the publicly owned port is powering into the future.
“Since the start, the Port of Mackay has been a pivotal hub for trade in North Queensland, and this year is no exception,” Mr Webb said.
“In 2023-24 petroleum, the top traded commodity, saw its highest-ever volume at 1.85 million tonnes, surpassing the 1.84 million tonnes of 2021-22.
“Agricultural commodities continued to trade strongly, with sugar (1.04 million tonnes), and grain (334,729 tonnes) amongst the top three trades.”
The official opening of Mackay Harbour by the Honourable W. Forgan Smith, the then Premier and Member for Mackay, on 26 August 1939 was a pivotal point in the region’s development. The Port of Mackay is poised to once again play a pioneering role in the region’s prosperity.
“The Port of Mackay has been there every step of the way as our region has established itself as a cornerstone for mining and trade in Northern Queensland,” Mr Webb said.
“Looking to the future, the Port of Mackay will be key to enabling the development of projects critical to the State Government’s decarbonisaiton targets and the Energy and Jobs Plan.
“There is a suite of proposed renewable energy projects slated for development across the region that will require imports through the Port of Mackay to come to life.
“We stand ready to embrace the development of renewable energy as the next big economic cornerstone that will drive prosperity for our region and Queensland as a whole.”
The consistent strong results in throughput is a testament to the dedication and hard work of NQBP’s people and port partners who keep trade flowing safely and efficiently.
NQBP is a Queensland Government-owned corporation responsible for the ports of Mackay, Abbot Point, Hay Point, and Weipa in far north Queensland. Overall trade across NQBP’s ports remained strong at 151.82 million tonnes (Hay Point 96.24 million tonnes, Mackay 3.58 million tonnes Abbot Point 34.66 million tonnes and Weipa 17.34 million tonnes). For further information on tonnage volumes, visit NQBP’s website.

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The Port of Mackay
The opening of the Port of Mackay in 1939 as printed in the Sydney Star

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Work is commencing on a major commercial precinct adjacent to Mackay Airport.

Vacant land bordering Milton Street will be transformed into a purpose-built business, retail and mixed-use service hub, offering an array of new industry opportunities and injecting millions of dollars into the local economy each year.

Mackay Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the long-term project, titled ‘Milton Precinct’, was strategically located near existing and emerging growth areas, maximising its potential.

“Milton Precinct is being developed at a highly visible location between the Mackay CBD and Bakers Creek emerging community zone, less than 1km from the Mackay Airport terminal and less than 5km from CQ University,” he said.

“It is also accessible to both the Bruce Highway and Peak Downs Highway, and the rail line.

“We expect this valuable, central proximity to drive long-term supply and demand opportunities for a range of businesses and services, positioning Milton Precinct as a catalyst for new industry and employment.”

A range of businesses are expected to operate from Milton Precinct when construction is complete, including retail, food and beverage offerings, short-term worker accommodation, health care and other service providers and light industrial. Expressions of interest are now being received from interest parties.

Milton Precinct is estimated to provide $134.1 million to the local economy in the first 10 years of operation and new businesses at the site are expected to generate $42.5 million in output per year.

The development is supported by a loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF).

NAIF Chief Executive Officer Craig Doyle said, “We are delighted to support the Milton Precinct project.

“Efficient and modern airport precincts are vital for promoting tourism, facilitating business, and enhancing the movement of goods, all of which contribute to regional economic growth and public benefit.”

Milton Precinct will follow a staged, long-term development schedule, with the first phase now underway to establish a new road and civil services, opening 25,000 square metres (sqm) of serviced lots.

Local family business Vassallo Constructions has been engaged to deliver the first tranche of works.

Operations Manager Damian Vassallo said it was fantastic to be involved in a project that would bring significant benefit to Mackay.

“We live and work locally and our business success is driven by the community, so it’s meaningful to be part of a major project like Milton Precinct which will produce so many opportunities across our region,” he said.

“The work we are doing at Milton Precinct is not expected to cause any notable disruptions to residents or the general public.

“Construction will occur only during daylight hours and public access to Mackay Airport will not be impacted.”

Further information about Milton Precinct is available at miltonprecinct.com.au.

MILTON PRECINCT – KEY FACTS
• Stage 1 construction due for completion in 2025, cost of $9.7 million
• First tenancies expected to open in 2026
• Further development throughout 2026, 2027, 2028
• All commercial operators to come online across 10-year period
• Precinct estimated to provide $134.1 million to the local economy in first 10 years
• New businesses expected to generate $42.5 million in output per year
• More than 200 jobs created during overall construction phase
• Businesses at Milton Precinct estimated to support additional 280 onsite jobs.

Artist impression of the ‘Milton Precinct’. Images supplied

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The importance of strong biosecurity is being emphasised to the next generation of agricultural industry leaders, with 40 high school students given the opportunity to join the 2024 Biosecurity Youth Summit.

Fostering an understanding among our upcoming generation of the importance of biosecurity in everybody’s lives is critical to safeguarding Queensland’s economy, environment and way of life.
The Youth Summit is part of the Miles Government’s $21.7 million funding for biosecurity preparedness, with this week’s event supported through a $50,000 sponsorship.

National Biosecurity Week emphasises the significance of biosecurity in the protection of our environment, food supply and economy, and is an opportunity to highlight the collaborative efforts of government, industry and the community in raising biosecurity awareness and promoting biosecurity practices.

Another key initiative being announced as part of the week is the expansion of the Biosecurity Mates Ambassador program.

The three new ambassadors bring unique skillsets and experience and will build on the work of the existing 6 ambassadors by driving community awareness of biosecurity.

The three newly appointed Biosecurity Mates ambassadors are; Kayvan Etebari, Senior Lecturer, Entomology and Insect Molecular Biology, University of Queensland; Brigid Price, Business Manager, Price Cattle Company and Andrew Williams, Invasive Animal Officer, Gold Coast City Council.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said it was only fitting that the flagship event of the inaugural National Biosecurity Week is being held in Queensland – Australia’s powerhouse of agriculture and the front lines of the nation’s biosecurity efforts.

“With the inaugural Biosecurity Youth Summit at the Gold Coast we’re highlighting the importance of biosecurity to the next generation,” he said.

Dr Samantha Allan, CEO Animal Health Australia said, “We’re excited to be partnering with Biosecurity Queensland on the inaugural Youth Summit.

“We know that biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility, so this year’s summit is about welcoming the next generation into our Biosecurity Collective fold, and hearing their fresh ideas.

 “The inaugural 2024 Biosecurity Youth Summit will provide the opportunity to listen, inform and include young people on biosecurity matters,” Dr Allan said.

“It will provide the opportunity for meaningful feedback to the Biosecurity Collective.” 

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