By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
If you were following the recent action in Paris, you may have noticed the dazzling blue of the turf on the hockey fields of the Olympics. Called Poligras, it’s a carbon-neutral synthetic turf - and it was 80 per cent sugarcane-based. It’s an interesting fact that as the world looks for ways to get away from plastics, biodegradable products that source sugarcane are now genuinely part of the solution. 
It’s exciting to see these emerging uses for sugarcane as it is a fast-growing tropical grass, so it suits a world looking towards more renewable fuels and fibres. To add to this, the catering industry – driven by government policy on single-use plastics to some extent - has made a major change by introducing reusable cutlery and packaging to material made from biodegradables and compostables. It's positive to look down at your takeaway coffees and sandwich boxes and see the “made from sugarcane” branding.
During the Covid period, restaurants and hotels saw the benefits of supplying customers with disposable biodegradable utensils to help halt the spread of the virus. Since this move, the renewable /disposable utensil and packaging industry has grown to take up a 30% share of that market in 2023.
But, by and large, these are being manufactured overseas with only a company called BioPak that produce in our own country. There are some things that need to happen for Australia to gain an opportunity to take advantage of this massive consumer shift.
First and foremost, we need sugarcane pricing formulas that deliver a return to the producer on value add. Right now, growers are paid on CCS. They are paid for the sugar with only minimal benefits for any further products produced, so there is little return for the growers where there are value adds from the plant we grow and supply – molasses, ethanol, bagasse for fibre or fuels like Sustainable Aviation Fuels or cogen electricity supply to the grid.
Mackay Sugar had a ground-breaking model in the PRS (Percentage Recoverable Sugar) cane payment system, that covered the cane’s sugar content, but also delivered a percentage return on value adds like molasses and cogen. It was introduced in 2005, when the mill was still a cooperatively grower-owned company, and there was a strong interest in mutual benefits and an emerging trend for value-add-on sugar. It was replaced by a return to the CCS model in 2019, as part of the deal with Nordzucker to take on Mackay Sugar.
Nonetheless, PRS remains a great starting point for a new model of cane pricing.
Other millers have never ventured into this space and have continued using the CCS-based system which was devised in 1888 by the Colonial Sugar Refining Company (CSR), and its intent then was to benchmark mill efficiency but was adapted to cane payments. That formula has served us well in the past but is very fast becoming /if not already outdated for this modern era of emerging new technologies and sugarcane-based products. Simply, “sugar ain’t sugar” anymore.
No grower wants something for nothing, and growers invest in their productivity. But it is important that growers are remunerated for ALL useable parts of the sugarcane they grow. Not just the sugar. Just as strong mill reliability will encourage growers to further invest in increasing supply by expanding crop area, so too will reasonable returns on the full sugarcane product.
It is positive to see governmental policy and programs shifting towards reinstating Australia’s manufacturing capabilities. It is positive to see research facilities like the QUT Biocommodities Pilot Plant, and the planned Future Industries Hub at the Resource Centre of Excellence in Paget developing technologies to support new manufacturing streams for sugarcane.

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Sugarcane was a primary ingredient in the synthetic turf used in Hockey at the Paris Olympics

Bagasse is a waste fibre from sugarcane processing that can be used in SAFS and bioplastics

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
60,190
377,048
Average bin weight
3.91
3.85
CCS
13.96
13.16
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
29.1
13.91
Q253
17.4
14.18
Q240
11.2
13.71
SP80
2.1
13.63
Q208
15.2
14.27
SRA9
4.4
13.75
KQ228
7.2
14.51
Q242
2.8
12.43
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just over 60,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to just over 377,000 tonnes.
Average CCS rose by 0.87 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 13.96 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 13.16 units.
Standover cane made up six per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q253 1R from the Bollingbroke productivity area with a CCS of 16.0 units.
Please remember to use your train brain, obey all signs and signals, and always give way to cane trains.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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The newly established network of Sustainable Agriculture Facilitators will connect stakeholders with others in the industry and share information on sustainable agriculture practices.

The facilitators are employed by local Natural Resource Management organisations funded through the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program and will support the program’s broad climate-smart sustainable agriculture outcomes.

Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy, Matt Lowe, said the $40.7 million investment in the network of facilitators, spread across 52 regions Australia-wide, ensures there is a designated point of contact for farmers, landholders and community groups.

“We understand there’s a lot of information out there and that support is needed on the ground to ensure everyone has access to the latest and most helpful information,” Mr Lowe said.

“The facilitators will provide one-on-one support for farmers and landholders, providing them with available information and funding opportunities, as well as connecting them with others in the industry.

“Our industry has made great strides in becoming more sustainable, and this network will further support us in achieving our climate-smart goal.

“The facilitators will work closely with our network of Regional Soil Coordinators, also funded through the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.

“Together, the facilitators and Regional Soil Coordinators will ensure our valued stakeholders on the ground have a point of contact on all thing’s climate, sustainability and soil.”

For more information, visit: agriculture.gov.au/climate-smart

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Not only is Spring starting tomorrow, but there are hundreds of families outside enjoying the weather because it’s finals fever for so many sports.

We’ve got grand final hockey action down off Bridge Road. Hundreds of kids and families are getting into the stick action to see who comes out on top. If you are looking for the next Aussie player to grab the green and gold jersey for Brisbane 2032, don’t come looking at my A4 men’s Arsenal team. Well not yet anyway. You will find out more in a few years, that’s all I can say.

If you or your family are invested in other sports like league, AFL, soccer, netball, table tennis, chess, or the incredibly stressful energetic sport of darts, I wish you all well.

While all this sport is fun, and you do get to go outside and enjoy each other’s company, you can’t get away from the highlight of this weekend, Father’s Day.

Sunday is a chance to say thanks to your Dad and make him feel special for at least 24 hours. We know the other 364 days of the year are all for the Mum’s of the world, and rightly so. They brought us into existence, so they deserve every day.

Dads however do not have that luxury, so this one day in September, show him some love and make him feel like a king.

If you are unsure how to help him out on Sunday, come and join me at Dad’s Day in the Valley. The annual tradition in Mirani with the Pioneer Valley Car Club does a few wonderful things on the weekend. It gets us all outdoors. You get to see a whole bunch of cool cars and bikes in one place. The kids get to have some fun with the rides, you get to grab some good tucker, and you help a fantastic car club that gives so much back to the whole Mackay and Pioneer Valley.

This event has been going on for so long now, I’ve forgotten how many years we’ve clocked over. I’m sure Ian will tell me on Sunday as we broadcast live from the main street outside the Police station.

Bring the family along and come and say hi. I guarantee it will be worth your while. We’ve got some cool prizes to win, that’s for sure.

Oh, and speaking of Dad’s, thank you to everyone who has reached out about my Dad, David. Your prayers were answered, because on Monday last week, he was released from hospital and is now back home with his brand-new friend. His 4-wheeled walker called Bluey. He will get his strength back soon, and I’ll get to see him again in September when I head down to run the Sydney marathon.

The last month has been a rollercoaster of a ride. This Father’s Day will be extra special in so many ways for our family. If anything has come out of my Dad's heart attack, it’s that life is too short. Live for today, hug who you want to, and tell those close that you love them. It may be your last chance to do it.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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One of Mackay’s most famous entertainment venues is The Dispensary, an outstanding spot for a meal or a drink and a place to catch up with friends.
Its business model was a bit different a few years ago, when it included a seriously “high-end” restaurant that offered dishes that many customers had not experienced in Mackay.
For diners who were accustomed to dishes like “crumbed steak” and “chicken parmy”, it was akin to entering a new world with terms like “degustation”, “confit” and “jus”.
Anyway, I was at the restaurant with my wife and a group of friends this night some years ago. We had examined the menus and the waiter came along to take our orders.
The first person he went to was my mate Lawrie, a builder who is more at home shooting feral pigs than sampling succulent pork belly at a flash restaurant with subdued lighting.
Don’t get me wrong, Lawrie’s no dill. He’s an intelligent bloke in his early 60s who loves and plays music and has an insightful understanding of politics. We share a protective love of the freedoms of Western democracies such as Australia and often chat about such things over a quiet beer.
But, when he looked at the menu at The Dispensary that night, it was like a foreign language. When the young waiter asked him what he wanted, Lawrie said: “Can I get a carpetbag steak?”
There was silence as we all stopped, mouths slightly open, waiting for the waiter’s response. Lawrie had gone rogue and ordered a dish from the 1970s that definitely didn’t have a place on The Dispensary’s menu.
The waiter said: “That should be fine sir, I’ll just confirm that with the chef.”
He returned a couple of minutes later and said: “Yes sir. The chef said he would be happy to do the carpetbag steak. Would you like a side-dish with that?”
Lawrie was happy and thoroughly enjoyed his carpetbag steak. (For those who don’t know, it is a piece of steak stuffed with oysters.) I was impressed with the service and the culinary pivot to accommodate something that wasn’t on the menu.
At the end of the night I thanked the waiter for arranging the carpetbag steak.
He said: “I didn’t even know what it was. I’d never heard of a carpetbag steak but the chef knew what it was and was happy to do it.”
I thought then, as I do now, that the “carpetbag incident” was a great example for people in business, and certainly in real estate, of how to treat your customers and clients.
We get caught up in what’s on our menu, on what we want to provide, rather than focusing on what the customer or client wants.
The response by the waiter and the chef at The Dispensary that night did several things: It created a happy customer who was not made to feel uncomfortable, it confirmed in my mind and the minds of my fellow diners that The Dispensary was a class act with the customer at the centre of everything they do and it showed that they have staff who are nimble, accommodating and unpretentious.
There are some things you can’t do, can’t accommodate, in business and real estate. If Lawrie had asked for a piece of moose rump, done medium rare … well, sorry they just can’t do that.
If you have a 2mx3m garden shed out the back and you want me to advertise it as a “granny flat” … well, sorry I just can’t do that.
But in restaurants and real estate it’s important to listen to what the customer wants and, like the waiter at The Dispensary, do everything you can to accommodate it.

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By Hannah McNamara

Last Sunday evening, Vietnam veterans, families of veterans, and members of the public gathered at the Mackay City Cenotaph, Jubilee Park to acknowledge the fallen soldiers who sacrificed their life in Vietnam, as well as those who are still standing with us today.

Vietnam Veterans' Day is celebrated annually on the anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, at 5.30pm, on August 18 - this specific time and date holds significance as it is said to be when Australian forces had contact with the enemy.

This battle played a crucial part in Australia’s military history and is described as one of the most intense conflicts for those who served in the Vietnam War.

Vietnam veterans gather in solidarity to honour fallen comrades at Mackay’s Vietnam Veteran’s Day service. Photo credit: Graham Jackson, Mackay RSL Sub Branch

Mackay Reflects On The Legacy Of Vietnam Veterans Day

The sacrifice of war is a solemn reminder of the heavy price paid for peace.

Each life lost on the battlefield represents not just a fallen soldier, but a family forever changed, a future left unwritten. The weight of their sacrifice lingers in every moment of freedom we enjoy, a silent testament to their bravery and the unshakable duty they carried.

Acknowledging the sacrifice made by soldiers in Vietnam, Meecham Philpott from ABC Tropical North shared his deepest gratitude at the ceremony, as locals paid their respects to the people who laid down their life for the united, peaceful country as we know it today.

“So many Australian men from all different ethnicities…they were all there united with 190 other different ethnicities, which is the strength of Australia, it’s what makes our country great,” said Philpott.

“On behalf of 27 million Australians, to all of you that served in Vietnam, I just want to say thank you, and I want you to know that what you did has made a difference…certainly in my life, my kids’ lives and my grandchildren’s lives.”

Mr Philpott also noted the ever-growing talent that the community has seen recently in the young men and women of Mackay who are excelling at an international level.

Despite the horrific circumstances that were endured by our Vietnam soldiers, the opportunity for younger generations today has been paved, with an overwhelming thanks to those who put their life on the line so that the children and families of Australia can live a life of choice, peace and unity. In their honour, we must remember that the peace we cherish today was forged through unimaginable hardship and loss, a gift from those who gave everything for a cause greater than themselves.

In honour of our Vietnam Veterans who served;
We Will Remember Them
Lest We Forget

During a heartfelt Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony last Sunday, appreciation was shown for the peace and unity that our soldiers bravely fought to secure for Australia. Photo credit: Graham Jackson, Mackay RSL Sub Branch

Mackay RSL friends, family and spouses of 6RAR and 1st and 2nd tour at Mackay RSL Illawong Headquarters last Saturday, most of which travelled from across the country to celebrate Vietnam Veterans Day together in Mackay. Photo source: Mackay RSL Sub Brance (Facebook).

There’s a special kind of magic in watching two people you care about commit to a lifetime of love. Last Saturday, our very own Whitsundays editor, Rachael, tied the knot with her beloved Matt at the stunning Paradise Cove, surrounded by the beauty of nature—and even more so, the beauty of their love.

As they embraced their vows, a line from a favourite poet comes to mind: “The best part of love is not just in being adored, but in the reflection you see of yourself in the eyes of the one who adores you. In their gaze, we find the parts of us we never knew were worth loving.” Rachael and Matt are a testament to this—each seeing the beauty in the other that we all cherish, even when they themselves couldn’t see it.

The celebration wasn’t just about two hearts joining, but two families coming together, sharing stories, laughter, and just the right amount of good-natured ribbing. Rachael’s mum kicked off the festivities with a toast that had everyone in stitches, beginning with, “Good evening ladies, and gentlemen... and Australians,” poking fun at the charming British-Aussie divide. It was a night filled with humour, joy, and the overwhelming sense that when you have love, nothing else really matters.

Here’s to Rachael and Matt—may your love continue to grow, seeing the best in each other and embracing all that life has to offer together. Cheers to the newlyweds!

Amanda

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In an attempt to help improve the life of a gentleman in his 60s who has struggled on the streets for the past nine months, Chances House (Australian Street Aid Project) reached out to the community for extra support.

Quick to jump on board, the Mackay community donated enough money to secure nearly 12 months of rent for the elderly man’s new home, providing him with a safe and warm place to sleep.

With rent now paid in advance, the organisation can focus on getting him an ID and a future income so that he will never have to live on the streets again.

Once he was comfortably settled into his new home, he was so moved by the gesture that he was in disbelief that he deserved such kindness. As he sat on the porch of Chances House, he said, "Just a couple of months ago I was in big trouble and it was all hopeless but now things are really looking up. Thank you."

The collective effort by the Mackay community has had a transformative impact on his life, offering shelter, hope, and security for his future.

Chances House also extends its thanks to the local organisations who assisted in this effort. The collaboration not only provided a home for this gentleman but also restored his faith in humanity.

A spokesperson from Chances House commented: “Well done, Mackay, you have collectively helped an elderly, frail man who was very vulnerable to secure safe, suitable accommodation and finally sleep safe and sound at night.

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A brazen double carjacking attempt at the busy Milton and Shakespeare Street intersection on August 17 has left the Mackay community on edge.

In a shocking sequence of events, two men tried to force their way into two separate vehicles stopped at a red light, prompting both drivers to flee through the intersection red lights. The alarming incident has sparked widespread concern, with police urging witnesses to come forward.

Mackay police reported that at about 8:45pm on August 17 at the Milton Street and Shakespeare Street intersection, two people attempted to steal two separate cars which were stopped at a red traffic control light.

“Both people have approached a large red vehicle which was stationary and attempted to open the doors to gain entry,” the police statement read.

“The driver of the vehicle drove through the red light to escape the situation.

“The two people have then moved to the next stationary vehicle in line which was a black-coloured Mazda hatchback and attempted to open the doors of this vehicle.

“The driver also drove through the red light to escape the situation.”

Police said the two alleged carjackers are described as being male, wearing all-black, long-sleeve-coloured shirts and pants and between 30 and 40 years of age. One person was described as being Caucasian with dark coloured hair, average height and weight.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have dashcam footage of the incident is asked to contact police as soon as possible.

Police report number QP2401394280.

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The Greater Whitsunday region is set to capitalise on immense diversification opportunities according to The Greater Whitsunday METS Sector – A Revenue Diversification Strategy report.
The Greater Whitsunday METS Sector – A Revenue Diversification Strategy is a key deliverable of the broader Decarbonisation Accelerated Project led by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCoE).
GW3 Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ms Kylie Porter said the strategy outlines the significant growth opportunities and provides a pathway for implementation.
“Over many decades of supporting the mining sector, regional METS businesses have evolved into a high-performing industry with a depth of skills and expertise unmatched in other Australian regions.
“In fact, our region has the largest density of METS businesses in the Southern Hemisphere.
“These skills provide our regional businesses with an exceptional opportunity to embrace economic revenue diversification pathways to safeguard their businesses long into the future. The Greater Whitsunday METS Sector – a Revenue Diversification Strategy outlines actions to embracing new value streams that leverage the region’s established skills and expertise within its METS sector.
“This approach ensures that while continue to serve our existing mining industry, we further expand our economic portfolio,” Ms Porter said.
More than 40 stakeholders across METS managers and owners, resources companies, state and local government and industry bodies and committees engaged to discuss perceptions of diversification and decarbonisation in the Greater Whitsunday region during the development of the strategy.
“A series of key themes emerged during the stakeholder consultation which can be categorised under three key opportunity areas: Diversifying into new industries; Increasing motivation to diversify and Decarbonising business operation,” Ms Porter said.
The strategy also identified seven new and emerging industries most aligned to regional strengths.“
A multi-criteria analysis has been applied to identify sectors with a high degree of adjacency to the skills and expertise of the region’s METS sector, as well as those considered to be high growth in the future,” Ms Porter said.
Some of these sectors include Critical Minerals, Renewables, Bioenergy, Biomanufacturing, Circular Economy, Aerospace and Post Mining Land Use.
Resources Centre of Excellence Chief Executive Officer Mr Steven Boxall said it is estimated that there are more than 700 METS businesses providing innovative, specialised and unique goods and services, which directly employ and more broadly support thousands of jobs across the region.
“While the traditional METS sector will continue to flourish for a long time to come, the Greater Whitsunday region’s proactive approach to align with future opportunities, is paramount for continued growth.
“Our Greater Whitsunday METS sector is well-positioned to offer rehabilitation and remediation services, expanding revenue streams to future-proof the region's economy,” Mr Boxall said.
The strategy will be released at a launch event at FMS Group in Paget the heart of the region’s METS sector on Friday, August 23.

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Decarbonisation Accelerated Program at QME. Photo credit: Marty Strecker

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Council has expanded its offering of Small Equipment Grants to allow greater flexibility for local not-for-profit organisations needing to purchase essential equipment.

Organisations can now apply for grants of up to $1500 at any time to purchase equipment that supports the organisation or its volunteers – things like kitchen appliances, office equipment and computers.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the grants would allow local community groups and organisations that positively impact our region to purchase equipment when they needed it without having to wait for one of the two yearly grant rounds.

“These grants are a lifeline for clubs that need to access vital equipment,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This change will allow them to quickly access funds to get a new computer without having to potentially wait for months for a new funding round.”

A total of $50,000 is available for Small Equipment Grants for the financial year.

Council has also increased the maximum funding available through its Community Impact Grants from $7500 to $10,000, with a total of $110,000 available per funding round.

Council is also still offering the Infrastructure and Assets Grants of up to $30,000, with $180,000 available per round and two rounds available per year.

These grants support not-for-profits, community organisations and sporting clubs to develop new or upgrade existing infrastructure/assets to contribute to a safe, creative, inclusive, cultural, healthy and connected community.

Applications for all three grants are open now.

For support to complete your application, please contact council’s Community Programs Team on (07) 4961 9434.

To view grant guidelines and commence an application, please head to Mackay Regional Council - Community Investment Grants Program.

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Community Impact Grants are an excellent funding option for projects that engage or connect residents, like the recent Northern Beaches Community Week (pictured)

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Mackay’s 2024 annual Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day ceremony took place last Thursday, August 15th, at Jubilee Park, marking the 79th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.  

The event was a solemn and reflective occasion, drawing together the community to honour the sacrifices made by those who served in the war.

Victory in the Pacific Day commemorates the moment when Australia’s Prime Minister at the time, Ben Chifley, announced the end of the war against Japan on August 15, 1945. In his address to the nation, Chifley declared, "Fellow citizens, the war is over.  

“The Japanese Government has accepted the terms of surrender imposed by the Allied Nations and hostilities will now cease... Let us remember those whose lives were given that we may enjoy this glorious moment and may look forward to a peace which they have won for us."

At this year's ceremony, Councillor Alison Jones acknowledged the significance of the day, stating, "More than 17,000 Australians lost their lives in the war against Japan.

"Today, I want to take this opportunity to thank our current and former veterans for the sacrifices they have made, and continue to make, to ensure that we can enjoy the freedoms of living in this free and democratic country that we know and love."

Mackay RSL Sub Branch Senior Vice President and guest speaker on the day Col Benson, highlighted the legacy of Edward “Teddy” Sheean, whose heroic actions on the HMAS Armidale during a Japanese aerial attack are now legendary in Australian military history. Sheean’s decision to strap himself to his anti-aircraft gun and continue firing as his ship sank was an act of valour that ultimately cost him his life. His recognition with the Victoria Cross in 2020 solidified his place as one of Australia’s most respected war heroes.

President of the Mackay RSL, Ken Higgins OAM, spoke passionately about the importance of remembering the stories of those who served.  

“What a wonderful young fella who gave his life for the country, and a lot of these stories just get washed away in the wind,” Higgins said.  

“We need to be more vigilant about remembering all of these wonderful men and women that gave their lives for our country that served.”

Amidst formalities, a special acknowledgment was made to of one of Mackay’s oldest veterans, Louis Burley, who celebrated his 93rd birthday on VP Day. Burley joined the army at just 17 and served in Japan before later joining the Navy. Despite problems with his feet, Mr Burley says he is “fit as a fiddle” and is “feeling really good.”  

The ceremony included traditional elements such as the ‘Last Post,’ played on the violin by Kayla Lovern, a 13-year-old student from Mackay State High School. The rouse was then played on flute after a minute of silence. At 11:00am, a fly-past by the Mackay Tiger Moth Museum added a sedimental touch, paying tribute to the servicemen and women of WWII.

Lest We Forget

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A Tiger Moth flew past at 11am
93-year-old Louis Burley with President of the Mackay RSL, Ken Higgins OAM
The flags were raised by Cliff Turner and Steve Haidle, who both served in the NAVY. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  
Crowds of civilians and soldiers fill a city street in Sydney during celebrations for VP day, 15 August 1945. Photo Source: Australian War Memorial 
On the left is H1646 Stoker Class II Thomas (Mick) Sheean and on the right is H1617 Ordinary Seaman (OS) Edward (Teddy) Sheean, RAN. Photo Source: Australian War Memorial 

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Paralympic stars Kelly Cartwright OAM and Dr. Brendan Burkett OAM recently visited Mackay to lead discussions on accessibility and inclusivity in sports and recreation.

Their presence at the 2024 Accessible Active Living Seminar at Harrup Park Country Club was a powerful reminder that an impairment does not define one's ability to achieve greatness—mindset does.

Kelly Cartwright, who found success as a gold medal-winning 100m sprinter, long jumper and most recently a powerlifter, shared her journey of overcoming adversity. Despite losing a limb at a young age, Kelly's determination and positive mindset propelled her to the pinnacle of Paralympic success.

She became the first above-knee amputee woman to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in 2009, proving that with the right mindset, no challenge is impossible.

Dr. Brendan Burkett, an Australian swimmer who won five medals across four Paralympics and served as the Opening Ceremony flag bearer in Sydney 2000, also shared his experiences. He spoke about the challenges he faced in his career, from competing at the highest levels of sport to breaking barriers in his professional life.

Despite losing his leg in a hit-and-run accident, Dr. Burkett's relentless pursuit of excellence led him to earn a PhD in Biomechanics and become the first person with a disability to work as an engineer on oil rigs in the North Sea.

During the seminar, Dr. Burkett shared a powerful story that encapsulated the power of mindset. He recalled a time when he was flying with a good friend who used a wheelchair and was a double amputee. When Dr. Burkett expressed his wish for first-class legroom, his friend confidently remarked that he already felt like he was in first class…because he didn’t need the extra legroom.

This perspective left a lasting impact on Dr. Burkett, reminding him that success is not about external circumstances but about how one perceives and approaches challenges.

Dr Burkett shared that after this encounter, instead of over analysing every move as he was preparing to compete, he “just switched off and went ‘first-class.’

“The gun goes off and all I’m thinking about is ‘first class’.”

After touching the end of the pool wall, Dr Burkett said “I turned around and saw my name up in the gold medal spot and it was all because of someone that said to me, ‘first class’.”

Mayor Greg Williamson emphasised the importance of these messages, noting that Kelly and Brendan’s achievements demonstrate what can be accomplished when one refuses to be defined by their limitations.

“These are amazing Australians with a wealth of knowledge and experience.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to hear their insights into improving accessibility and inclusivity in sports and recreation, especially in relation to grass roots clubs.”

The seminar was not only an opportunity to learn from these Paralympic legends but also a call to action for the local community. It highlighted the need to create inclusive environments where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate and excel.

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Dr. Brendan Burkett OAM with Mayor Greg Williamson and Kelly Cartwright OAM. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Your Cheer Squad is a key group of people in your corner who can encourage and uplift you and, most importantly, will provide you with honest feedback.

This is particularly useful if you operate a small or micro business, as it can be quite isolating. As well as providing encouragement, your Cheer Squad will hold you accountable to your goals, offering feedback and a motivation boost when needed.

And best of all - you get to choose and build your Cheer Squad based on what you need. It’s important to choose carefully. Here are some tips for building your Cheer Squad.

1. Identify your needs
   • What kind of support are you looking for? Whether it's emotional, motivational, or more professional support, understanding your needs can help you identify the right people to include. And then ask them if they would be part of your Cheer Squad.
2. Find the right people
   • Close friends and family can be your biggest cheerleaders in life; they are emotionally invested in you and are eager to support your goals and celebrate your successes, however they may not always be the right people for your professional Cheer Squad. It’s about having someone that you respect, who will not betray your confidences, and also has the courage to be honest (albeit gently) and direct with you.
3. Practice gratitude
   • Express appreciation: gratitude is more powerful as a two-way street. Regularly thank the people who support you, family and friends, as well as your professional Cheer Squad. This reinforces your connections and relationships, and encourages continued support.
4. Support others
   • Be a cheerleader for others. You don’t have to be a member of someone’s inner Cheer Squad to support others in their activities, and this may lead to mutual encouragement and the creation of a broader strong support network.
5. Find an independent Mentor or Coach
   • This is an option or complement to the Cheer Squad. Some may find it easier to have an independent professional relationship with a Mentor or Coach to provide guidance and encouragement. Knowing that you’re paying for a service, can make feedback more valuable – and make you more accountable for action.

And as an extra
Leverage virtual support
   • Find and follow a select few online. These people may not be in your inner Cheer Squad but provide an additional way to reinforce your journey with individuals who inspire you and benefit from their motivation.

Working with someone else can assist with clarifying your needs and building your Cheer Squad - this is where we can help. Contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is now the Volunteer Sponsor for the Mackay Hospital Foundation (MHF), investing in the vital role that volunteers play in the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday region hospitals. This partnership, involving more than 100 dedicated volunteers, is key to supporting MHF’s mission of improving patient care and community wellbeing.
Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May noted that this sponsorship aligns with the bank's “profit for purpose” model. “Our commitment to community health and wellbeing is central to our values,” Ms May said. “Volunteers play a crucial role in making hospitals more compassionate and welcoming. Our support is an investment in a healthier, more connected community.”
The MHF volunteers engage in a range of important activities, including running hospital gift shops, manning information desks and supporting the Children and Adolescent Unit. They drive the Whitsunday patient transfer bus and buggy in Mackay, offer comfort in Oncology and contribute to companionship programs, among other duties.
Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager Kristi Algate expressed appreciation for this partnership. “We are proud to have Community Bank Sarina as a key partner, recognising their significant role in supporting our volunteers and the vital work they carry out,” Ms Algate said.
Community Bank Sarina Manager Charmaine Matsen emphasised that the sponsorship is more than a financial investment. “It’s about building relationships and working together for mutual benefit,” Ms Matsen explained. “Our team will regularly visit hospital locations to offer personalised service and information to volunteers, staff, and visitors.”
When visiting any of the eight public hospitals in the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions, look for volunteers in Community Bank Sarina branded polo shirts, ready to assist.
Community Bank Sarina staff will also be available to answer questions at Mackay Base Hospital on 3 and 18 September between 10-2 in the Alcove opposite Xray. They're here to provide information and support for patients, staff, and visitors.

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