Barefoot Medicine Whitsundays in Cannonvale welcomed a new GP on Monday, an experienced doctor with 21 years in the field and a strong passion for community care.

Originally from Melbourne, Dr Jane Habib has worked mostly in rural areas across New South Wales and Queensland. Before studying medicine, she raised her children, completed a naturopathy degree, and then returned to university.

“I became more interested in looking after people and the health sector.

I did a naturopathy degree, and then I felt like I didn't know enough or have enough control over what you could do. So that's why I went on and did medicine,” she said.

Now, as a GP, she focuses on a wide range of care.

“I particularly see a lot of women but I also do a lot of mental health, children, aged care, preventative medicine, health checks, all the useful GP things,” said Jane.

She says what she loves most is connecting with her patients and getting to know people and their families. Additionally, she enjoys the long term care you get from being a GP.

A firm believer in working collaboratively with her patients, Jane finds that partnering with her patients through a shared decision-making model leads to the best outcomes.

"I don't tell the patient, this is what you have to do," Jane said.

"We discuss the options, and the patient can think about things and decide what they want to do, and then we work out what's best for them."

Having raised children and now grandchildren, she brings real-life experience to her practice, which has made her the GP she is today.

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Jane Habib GP at Barefoot Medicine Whitsunday. Photo supplied

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There’s always something happening here in The Whitsundays and our fantastic local tourism operators have some exciting updates and fresh experiences to share.

Explore Group is now offering half-day dive trips from Hamilton Island. As a PADI 5-Star provider, it’s a great option if you’re short on time but keen to check out the colourful fringing reef.

Heart of Reef Car Rentals has teamed up with Boaty’s for a great deal. Book a car for 3 days or more and you’ll score a free brekky voucher worth up to $100.

Over on Daydream Island, Pioneer Adventures is now running water sports directly from the island. Jet ski tours and boat hire are now easier than ever for guests staying there.

Portland Roads has officially become Carbon Positive, offsetting five times more CO₂ than required. They’ve also partnered with Jesse Martin OAM to launch the LIONHEART sailing experience — all about big adventures and even bigger inspiration.

At Waterview Airlie Beach, the gardens are getting a refresh, with new designs and plantings making the space even more welcoming.

Wings Sailing Charters is now offering a BYO sunset sail from Airlie Beach, perfect for a relaxed evening out on the water.

And finally, Hamilton Island has just launched its biggest brand campaign in nearly a decade, A Little Island Can Do Wonders, inviting more Aussies to discover everything the island has to offer.
With so much going on close to home, now’s the perfect time to explore our own patch of paradise.

Contributed with thanks to Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Manager, Tourism Whitsundays

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Hamilton Island has recently launched their biggest brand campaign. Stock image

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Women across the region are being encouraged to take the next step in their leadership journey, with partial scholarships now available through Women & Leadership Australia.

With up to $5,000 on offer per person, the scholarships aim to empower more women to build their leadership skills, expand their workplace impact, and take on greater responsibilities—regardless of career stage.

Women & Leadership Australia’s programs are designed for flexibility, allowing participants to engage in part-time study that blends cutting-edge theory with practical application.

There are four programs available, each tailored to different levels of experience:

• Impact Program ($700 scholarship) – Designed to build interpersonal skills and boost career confidence for women at any career stage.
• Leading Edge Program ($1,000 scholarship) – Perfect for early-career or aspiring leaders looking to establish strong leadership foundations.
• Executive Ready Program ($3,000 scholarship) – Aimed at mid-level and experienced professionals wanting to lead high-performing teams with confidence.
• Advanced Leadership Program ($5,000 scholarship) – For senior leaders ready to elevate their strategic impact at the executive level.

Graduates are seeing real results with 9 in 10 gaining the confidence to step into senior leadership, more than 90% improving their ability to lead change, and 80% reporting positive career progression.

Applications close Friday, the 22nd of August and to learn more and register, visit www.wla.edu.au/industry/register.

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Proserpine Veterinary Surgery is marking a major milestone, 50 years of continuous service to the Whitsundays.

Dr Faye McPherson, who joined the practice in 2003, says the longevity is a testament to community support and the clinic’s commitment to care.

“I’ve seen businesses celebrate 15 years, but 50 years? That’s really worth celebrating,” she said.

Originally partnering with Dr Bill Bowman, Faye then has been dedicated to building and growing the clinic ever since.

Over two decades, Faye has grown the clinic significantly, driven partly by personal circumstances. Her daughter Karli was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as a newborn, requiring unpredictable and lengthy hospital stays and a supportive team at the Vet Surgery.

With a strong team of vets including an equine specialist due in August, Faye says the future is bright.

"We’re excited to offer a more extensive equine clinic in August with the arrival of a new member of the vet team," said Faye.

“Having a strong team means we can offer a full range of services and keep supporting the community, whether it’s family pets or farm animals.”

Faye also said their newest vet Dr Nicole Frolich is highly qualified with eight years of experience in eterinary critical care and emergency work. Faye said Nicole will play an important role in Proserpine Vet Surgery's future and that they are both excited to look forward to the next 50 years of serving this beautiful region.

Passionate about giving back, the clinic sponsors junior sport, golf, rodeos, and local events.

After 50 years, Proserpine Vet Surgery remains a vital part of the Whitsunday community.

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Dr Faye McPherson from Proserpine Vet Surgery. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Volunteers of the St. Paul’s Op Shop are calling for people of the community to stop donating unsellable mattresses and furniture at the church’s furniture shed.

The Op Shop, run exclusively by volunteers, uses the profits from the store to fund the St Paul's Anglican Church. However volunteer at the store, Chris Hinschen, believes that rising costs at the dump has led people to leave mattresses at the Op Shop’s furniture shed as a donation, but they do not accept mattresses.

The furniture shed, located directly behind St Paul’s Anglican Church, is unmanned — making it easy for the drop-offs.

The volunteer led op shop does not have the funds to take these mattresses to the dump and they are stuck.

“We’re just a little community op shop,” Chris explained. “

“We don’t pay anyone, and that’s how we survive. We’re all volunteers, and we can’t sustain this.”

The hygiene risk of second-hand mattresses means they cannot be resold.

Some furniture donations have also been too large or too damaged to sell. “We had a lounge that dogs had slept in. We just can’t use that.”

The op shop is asking for only clean, saleable furniture and typical household donations like clothing.

“I am just appealing to people, please don't dump this, because our only recourse will be to close down, ” said Chris.

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St. Paul’s Op Shop cannot except mattresses or dirty furniture. Photo supplied

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Each August, Loneliness Awareness Week stands as a reminder of just how essential human connection is to the overall wellbeing of communities accross Australia. This year’s theme, ‘Moments Matter’, is one that truly resonates with the team at Selectability's Bowen Clubhouse, where simple, everyday interactions are making a big difference in the lives of locals.

Whether it’s sharing a meal, creating a craft project, or just enjoying a cuppa and a chat, Clubhouse members are forming bonds and tackling the devastating effects of social isolation.

With studies revealing that one in six Australians experience severe loneliness, which can impact physical health as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, Selectability’s recovery-focused Clubhouse program is proving to be a lifeline for many.

Regional Coordinator Jenelle Maher said the Bowen team works closely with participants to ensure activities are relevant and engaging.

“We switch up our activities quite often to ensure there’s something for everyone,” said Jenelle.

“Moments Matter being this year’s theme for Loneliness Awareness Week, resonates with the Clubhouse, as our activities empower our members to create positive social interactions.”

From BBQs at Horseshoe Bay to creative days at the Clubhouse, these simple moments are helping locals build confidence, connection, and community.

The Clubhouse is open to anyone over 18 seeking to improve their mental wellbeing.

Find the latest activity timetable at selectability.com.au or drop by and meet the team at 38 Herbert Street. NDIS and non-NDIS funding options are available.

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Meet Gwendy, a sweet-natured tortoiseshell girl with a heart as soft as her fur.

Found wandering the streets of Guthalungra with no collar, no microchip, and no one to claim her, Gwendy’s story could have had a much sadder ending. But thanks to the kindness of strangers, this affectionate feline has landed in safe hands at Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc, and now, she’s patiently waiting for the loving home she truly deserves.

Calm, gentle and full of quiet charm, Gwendy is the kind of cat who’ll happily curl up beside you while you read or watch TV. She enjoys company, has been vet checked, and is in good health – just waiting for the right person to see her and fall in love.

If you’re searching for a loyal companion with beautiful tortoiseshell markings and a sweet personality to match, Gwendy could be the perfect addition to your family.

Her adoption fee is $195, which includes desexing, vaccination and microchipping.

To meet Gwendy or learn more about her, email bowencollinsville@gmail.com with your contact number and email address.

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Mackay’s Future Takes Root At National Tree Day

Fingers in the dirt, boots muddy and smiles wide – more than 300 local students rolled up their sleeves at Glenfields Park last Friday for a hands-on lesson in giving back to the planet. As part of Mackay Regional Council’s 16th annual partnership with Planet Ark for National Tree Day, children from nine schools across the region planted over 3,000 native seedlings grown specially by the Mackay Natural Environment Centre. The event transformed Glenella’s parklands into a buzzing outdoor classroom, with students helping restore the riparian habitat along Goosepond Creek.

Council Parks Planner Tracie Carlsson said the site’s environmental value made it ideal for long-term revegetation, and seeing last year’s growth was a powerful motivator for students. Backed by groups like Catchment Landcare and Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, the event is part of a broader greening strategy for Mackay. As the trees take root, so too does a vibrant legacy of environmental stewardship.

Fingers in the soil and smiles all around, local students transformed Glenfields Park into a thriving hub of environmental action, planting native seedlings to nurture Mackay’s natural future. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Roots Of Change
Students And Locals Celebrate National Tree Day

Last Friday, hundreds of local students swapped pencils for planting gloves as Glenfields Park in Glenella came to life with laughter, muddy boots and thousands of native seedlings.

The event marked the 16th year Mackay Regional Council has partnered with Planet Ark for National Tree Day – Australia’s largest community tree planting and nature care initiative.
More than 300 children from nine schools across the region took part, planting native tube stock grown specially for the occasion.

Grade 2 Slade Point State School student Maleayah said, “We’re planting trees today.”

“It’s important because it’s nature, and animals live in the trees.”

It’s simple wisdom from the youngest planters, and a message echoed by experts who’ve helped bring the event to life.

Tracie Carlsson, Parks Planner with Mackay Regional Council, said the Glenfields Park site was chosen for its environmental value and opportunity for regeneration.

“Today we've had nine schools, 312 children from across the region, who have joined us, and over the weekend we’ll be planting a bit over 3,000 tube stock,” she said.

“That’s specialist tube stock that has been grown by our Mackay Natural Environment Centre, and all of the species that would have been here along Gooseponds Creek originally.”

The planting at Glenfields is part of a long-term revegetation effort.

“This is the second event for National Tree Day that we've held here, and what's really lovely about that is the kids can actually see, 12 months on, what the planting is going to look like,” Ms Carlsson said.

She added that the project had been months in the making.

“For everyone here today, it is a labour of love, and when we see what a wonderful result we’re getting here, it’s all worth it.”

Donna Jackson, Senior Projects Officer with local group Catchment Landcare, said getting children involved builds lasting environmental stewardship.

“Everybody has space for a tree. You can keep trees in pots. Every tree you plant helps our environment, and it helps our native species and our wildlife,” she said.

“It can be food for pollinators, like some of our native bees and birds. Get out there, plant some trees, enjoy being in your yard, and enjoy the beautiful weather we have at the moment… before it gets too hot!”

Ricci Churchill, Manager of Safety, Risk and Environment at Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, has been part of the council’s National Tree Day effort for a decade.

“I’ve come along every year – this is our tenth year helping council,” she said.

“It’s always a different location. We’ve done the river, the Botanic Gardens – this is our second year here, and it’s always great to be involved.”

The tree planting continued on July 27, where members of the public were invited to join the greening of Glenfields Park.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the initiative is part of a multi-year greening strategy to boost riparian vegetation and restore native habitats.

“It’s been fantastic to see how plants we planted last year along Goosepond Creek have thrived in the last 12 months,” he said.

“This not only supports our natural environment, but also creates a greener, healthier future for the region by encouraging people to enjoy the great outdoors.”

As the trees take root, so too does a shared vision – one where students, families and community members grow something lasting together.

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More than 300 students from nine Mackay schools joined forces at Glenfields Park for National Tree Day, planting thousands of native seedlings to help restore the natural environment. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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We might not have hit orbit, but Australia is now officially in the space game — and that’s something worth celebrating.

This week’s ERIS rocket launch from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport didn’t quite go the distance, reaching an estimated altitude somewhere between 50 and 100 metres before returning to Earth. But in the world of rocketry, altitude isn’t everything, especially not on a maiden launch.

As anyone who’s followed spaceflight will tell you, a first launch is rarely flawless. Rockets are complex beasts, requiring thousands of components, perfect timing, and collaboration across aviation, maritime, defence and government. The very act of liftoff is already a triumph. Every second in the air provides priceless data — and every anomaly is an opportunity to learn, iterate, and improve. For Gilmour Space Technologies, TestFLight1 was not a failure, it was ignition.

I was fortunate enough to see a SpaceX rocket launch in person during a trip to the United States in 2022. We visited Cape Canaveral and, during a guided tour, stood in awe before the rocket on the pad during its final preparation. That night, we watched it blast off into orbit, an unforgettable experience that seemed lightyears away from our quiet patch of coastline in North Queensland.

And yet, here we are.

To watch a rocket lift off from our very own Bowen, with local terrain beneath it and an Aussie-built hybrid propulsion system inside, is surreal. We owe a huge congratulations to James and Adam Gilmour and the entire team at Gilmour Space Technologies.

Thanks also to Aussienaut on YouTube, who gave the nation a front-row seat to history with a live stream that captured the moment ERIS kissed the sky.

We’ll be watching, and cheering, as the next chapter in Australia’s space story unfolds. This is just the beginning.

Amanda

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Richglen has proudly donated $31,000 to the region’s two emergency helicopter services, recognising their vital role in supporting workers who travel to and from remote mine sites across Central Queensland.

Through its matched giving program, Richglen employees contribute a portion of their pay to the life-saving services, with the company matching every dollar.

This year’s total donation includes $22,000 to CQ Rescue in Mackay and $9,000 to CapRescue in Rockhampton.

Managing Director Matt Borg said the services were a vital lifeline for Richglen’s workforce.

“For our workforce – whether driving long distances or working on isolated sites – CQ Rescue and CapRescue provide a safety net we hope we never need, but are grateful to have,” he said.

“Their crews are often responding to emergencies in remote locations where time and access matter most.

“It’s great to know they have our back when we’re out bush.

“As Richglen’s workforce grows, so too does its capacity to give.

“The company looks forward to continuing its support in the years ahead, helping to keep these helicopters in the air for the benefit of the entire region.”

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Mackay’s By-Election Candidates Unveiled

On Thursday, 24 July, at the 500 Pavilion, the Mackay community learned that nine candidates will contest the upcoming Mackay Regional Council by-election, set for Saturday, 30 August 2025. This election follows the resignation of former councillor George Christensen on 30 May, with over 90,000 residents expected to participate via a full postal ballot announced by the Electoral Commission of Queensland.

The candidates, consisting of Melissa Milton, Greg Fisher, Andrew Deguara, Ian Christensen, Kimberley Doyle, Anne Baker, Dion Loader, Melanie Laas, and Jeffery Keioskie, bring a diverse and compelling mix of experience and priorities that could shape Mackay’s future. With backgrounds spanning local government service, business ownership, farming, volunteerism, and media production, these contenders reflect a community deeply invested in practical governance and regional progress.

Some candidates draw on long-term council experience and a focus on improving communication with rural residents, aiming to make council projects more transparent and inclusive beyond Mackay’s urban centre. Others highlight their commitment to infrastructure essentials such as road maintenance, park upkeep, and waste management services, recognising these as the foundation for a thriving and functional community.

Will Mackay’s next councillor be the one who champions balance between growth and sustainability, urban and rural needs, tradition and innovation?

Several candidates have underscored the importance of supporting key local industries, notably sugar cane farming, which remains vital to the region’s economy. Advocacy for fair council rates and stronger partnerships with state and federal governments also feature prominently, signalling a desire to maximise funding opportunities and ensure the region’s interests are well represented at higher levels.

Beyond the technical and strategic, the candidates show a strong connection to community life, pledging to energise local events, boost tourism, and foster a shared sense of pride and belonging. Leadership styles vary from pragmatic “no-nonsense” solutions to people-first, inclusive approaches that emphasise respect and professionalism.

Together, this field of candidates offers Mackay residents a chance to choose a leader who not only understands the complexities of regional governance but also shares a vision for vibrant community engagement and sustainable development. As the election approaches, voters will weigh who can best guide Mackay through its next chapter, blending experience, innovation, and heart to serve the region’s diverse needs.

The nine confirmed candidates, listed in ballot paper order, are:

• Melissa Milton
• Greg Fisher
• Andrew Deguara
• Ian Christiansen
• Kimberley Doyle
• Anne Baker
• Dion Loader
• Melanie Laas
• Jeffery Keioskie

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Nine candidates will contest the Mackay Regional Council by-election on Saturday, 30 August 2025, following the resignation of former councillor George Christensen, with a full postal vote set to decide who will represent the region’s diverse and evolving needs. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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OPINION PIECE

The Albanese Labor Government has used its numbers in Parliament to block a proposed Senate Inquiry into the health and future of Australia’s metals manufacturing industry, without providing any explanation for the decision.

The Inquiry, moved by Nationals Senators Susan McDonald and Matt Canavan, was designed to investigate the looming crisis facing the sector, including key processing facilities Glencore’s Mount Isa and Townsville operations.

“These facilities underpin our local economies and are a vital part of Australia’s sovereign capability. Shutting them down would mean significant job losses and a massive blow to our national resilience,” Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said.

The rejection of the Inquiry comes despite Labor’s own Industry and Innovation Minister, Senator Tim Ayres, recently admitting the Mount Isa closure represents a “very significant economic problem”.

With billions of taxpayers’ funds committed to Labor-designed programs such as the Future Made in Australia plan, the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, the Critical Minerals Facility, and the National Reconstruction Fund, time will tell if these programs are tapped into to support these facilities and their workers.

“This government talks up a big game with its commitment to manufacturing, but when it’s time to act, they are nowhere to be seen,” said Mr Willcox.

“Workers, their families and our communities deserve answers and some certainty about their future. Blocking this inquiry sends the exact opposite message. When our metals manufacturing industry shuts down, countries like China and Indonesia fill the void.

“Labor’s decision to block this inquiry is deeply disappointing, but sadly it’s not surprising. For all their talk about building a ‘Future Made in Australia’, this is just more fluff and no substance,” Mr Willcox said.

Andrew Willcox

Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

Member for Dawson

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The scenic coastal town of Midge Point has welcomed a vital boost to water safety, becoming the newest addition to Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) as Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Midge Point officially joins the statewide service as its 15th unit.

MRQ Midge Point Unit Commander Gary Considine said waters around the township provided rich fishing and boating opportunities and were a popular spot for locals and visitors to the area.

“The area provides some wonderful opportunities for water activities, but anyone can run into trouble out on the water and if they do, MRQ Midge Point crews will be there to provide support and assistance,” Mr Considine said.

“Our crew are all avid fishers and know the area well, so we stand ready to keep people safe if they need help.

“We’re excited to be the newest members of the service and joining a statewide crew of dedicated marine rescue volunteers.”

MRQ Chief Officer Tony Wulff welcomed MRQ Midge Point into the service and praised the dedication of small units in keeping people safe when out on the water.

“We welcome the commitment of every volunteer who gives up their time to make themselves available to assist people who get into trouble when out on the water,” Mr Wulff said.

“Each volunteer unit is an important link in a vital chain of support along the Queensland coastline.

“By working together, we are able to coordinate resources to deliver assistance where it’s most needed.”

MRQ Midge Point operates from Laguna Quays, supporting the area south of the Whitsunday Islands, out to the southern side of Repulse Bay and as far south as Cape Hillsborough. The unit is on call 24/7 via VHF channel 16 but has a launch time of approximately ½ to 1 hour from Laguna Quays Marina.

Water safety tips:

· Log your journeys from start to finish
· Always wear your lifejacket
· Remember to pack sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat and water (two litres per person)
· If you need help, radio VHF-16 or call Triple Zero (000)
· Check you have extra fuel
· Check the weather forecast before you leave
· Charge your phone and any other devices
· Tell family and friends where you are going.

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Midge Point has strengthened coastal safety as the newest unit of Marine Rescue Queensland, providing vital support to local fishers and boaters across the region with a dedicated volunteer crew ready 24/7. Photo source: Marine Rescue Queensland

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By Hannah McNamara

It’s no secret that Mackay is in the midst of a homelessness crisis, driven by escalating living costs, limited housing availability, and increasingly complex social challenges. In a climate where shelter has become a luxury for many, one initiative offers a glimmer of hope, in the form of three converted buses designed to give those without a roof over their heads a secure place to sleep.

According to the Queensland Council of Social Service (QCOSS), Specialist Homelessness Services in Mackay assisted 3,193 people during the 2023–24 financial year, with nearly one in four cases (22.9%) involving domestic and family violence — a key driver of displacement.

The rental market paints an equally bleak picture. The median weekly rent in Mackay rose 16% to $580 in the same period, pushing affordable accommodation out of reach for many. Meanwhile, 488 households in the region are registered as homeless or at risk on Queensland’s Social Housing Register, facing an average wait of more than 20 months.

Frontline service providers report not only more people in need but also greater complexity in the support they require. Community Accommodation and Support Agency (CASA) Mackay General Manager William Stafford said the demand is unrelenting.

“We get up to 180 walk-ins and calls daily from people needing help, and have daily outreach with about 65 rough sleepers in Mackay city alone,” he said.

In a timely development, Safe Sleep Mackay (SSM) has successfully secured three Sleepbus vehicles — part of a national initiative to provide safe overnight accommodation for those sleeping rough. Each bus is fitted with secure sleep pods, toilets, and basic comforts like phone chargers, giving people a safe place to rest when few other options are available.

Despite the national Sleepbus organisation ceasing operations in June due to financial hardship, SSM was able to receive the final three buses produced by the charity — two for Mackay and one for Sarina. One bus is specifically outfitted for women and children, offering an extra layer of safety and privacy.

Founder of Sleepbus, Simon Rowe, confirmed the milestone after delivering the final vehicle.

“This brings a 10-year journey for me to an end, however I am so grateful to all the amazing organisations that have stepped up to keep safe sleeps happening around the country.”

Rowe had earlier revealed that refurbishing the third bus was a financial challenge, but SSM persisted. As the final bus made its way north, SSM’s Lisa Jamieson shared an update.

“It’s very exciting that we will get three buses.

“There will be some items needed to fit out the later buses for them to be ready to use. We are currently needing some auto electrical support to help find, potentially, a loose wire in the transmission harness of the first bus.

“So, if there is anyone with Auto-electrician skills that can help out, we’d love to hear from them.”

The buses will be owned and managed by Australian Street Aid Project Limited, enabling local oversight and flexibility tailored to the Mackay region’s specific needs.

In response to the broader housing crisis, the Crisafulli Government’s 2025–26 State Budget has allocated $592 million in additional funding for homelessness support and frontline services. This includes $380 million to expand crisis accommodation initiatives and $208.9 million to extend a 20% funding uplift to specialist homelessness services statewide.

Local services set to benefit include CASA, Kalyan Youth Service, Lowanna House, and the St Vincent de Paul Society. The funding aims to bolster support for individuals and families in crisis, however, systemic challenges remain.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton acknowledged homelessness stems from ‘a multitude of reasons.’

“What we need to do is make sure they’re catered for as best as we possibly can whilst they’re homeless – and then progress them into housing when it’s possible.”

Dalton says he’s been a vocal supporter of the Sleepbus initiative since its inception.

“I was very much in favour of the Sleepbus when it was first mooted… I could see real need for it for several groups of people.

He described the buses as “temporary, short-term accommodation” that “needs to be well managed,” but recognised their greater value.

“I’d like to see no need for a Sleepbus… but I know there is. And I hope it’s well used – only because I know there are plenty of people who need it.”

As Mackay waits for an official operational date, the arrival of Sleepbus is a significant step forward in the fight against homelessness. While it may be a short-term solution, it’s a critical safety net for those living on the margins.

From riverbanks to parked cars, couch surfing to domestic violence shelters, homelessness in Mackay takes many forms — some visible, many not. In a region where too many sleep in the shadows, these final buses arrive as a quiet answer for those still waiting in the margins for a place to rest.

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Many of Mackay’s homeless community find refuge by riverbanks, in cars, or in tents quietly settled around town.

Three Sleepbuses have arrived, with two to serve Mackay and one dedicated to Sarina. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay students are set to take centre stage this month, joining some of Australia’s top professional opera vocalists for a special performance at the MECC.

Opera Australia is Australia’s largest performing arts company, presenting over 700 performances to more than half a million people every year.

The company will return to Mackay with its annual national tour, showcasing crowd favourite La Bohème with a choir of local students as part of the company’s Regional Children’s Chorus program.

The program involves recruiting a local chorus of students in each participating town to perform as part of the touring production, enabling them to take the first steps on their own special journeys with opera.

Led by Choir Leader Nicole Thomson, the students have been hard at work rehearsing, learning music, harmonies, and Italian lyrics – quite the feat for some of the students with limited experience in a language other than English.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for regional singers, they’re learning so much and are all looking forward to performing on stage with Opera Australia,” Ms Thomson said.

For many of the students, this will be their first taste of live performance in front of an audience.

“We can’t wait to showcase our hard work on stage at the MECC, it will be an exciting night for all involved” she continued.

Opera Australia will delight Mackay audiences with the original Italian version of La Bohème, with English surtitles. Led by conductor Simon Bruckard, the cast features some of Australia’s brightest operatic stars including sopranos Danita Weatherstone and Maia Andrews as Mimì, tenors John Longmuir and Nick Kirkup as Rodolfo, sopranos Cathy-Di Zhang and Sarah Prestwidge as Musetta, and baritones Andrew Williams and Benjamin Del Borrello as Marcello.

Director Dean Bryant said, "This is a story about a group of young artists dealing with all the huge things in life for the first time. Growing up in regional Australia, I had the same passion and urgency to be heard, to fall in love, to live, so it's particularly exciting for me to be taking this production, set in Paris in the 1970s, across the country.”

Tickets to Opera Australia’s La Bohème can be purchased at the Box Office on 4961 9777 or online through themecc.com.au.

What: The MECC & Opera Australia presents: La Bohème
When: Thursday 31 July 2025, 7.30pm
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

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Mackay students will take centre stage alongside Opera Australia’s cast in La Bohème at the MECC this month, performing live as part of the national tour’s Regional Children’s Chorus program. Photo supplied

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