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Mackay Base Hospital has become one of three sites across Australia recruiting patients for a clinical trial investigating a potential new drug treatment aimed at improving recovery time following concussion. The clinical trial will assess the safety and effectiveness of an investigational medication designed to treat concussion and potentially support faster recovery for those affected. Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Senior Staff Specialist (Emergency) and Principal Investigator Dr Sunday Sofola-Orukotan said concussion was a very common condition which could happen to anyone, anywhere, but was more frequently associated with contact sports such as football. “It’s very common with sporting activities and the rate of presentations of head injuries increases during the rugby season,” Dr Sofola-Orukotan said. Trial sub-investigator and Mackay HHS senior medical officer (emergency) Dr Olurotimi Akinola said concussion presentations in the ED could also be the result of falls and trips. “We see it very often in elderly patients,” Dr Akinola said. “That’s why a study like this is important because it gives us the opportunity to investigate whether a new treatment may improve a patient’s recovery outcomes.” “Generally, most patients with concussion recovered within a few days, but some experienced persistent symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and concentration and memory issues,” he said. “We see people with post-concussive syndrome who have had ongoing symptoms for months and it's affecting their livelihood and day-to-day activities,” Dr Akinola said. There are currently no approved pharmaceutical treatments for concussion available in Australia with recovery focused on rest and symptom relief. This clinical trial would investigate the safety and efficacy of a new drug in the treatment of mild traumatic brain injury and trial participants would receive either the investigational drug or placebo alongside standard care. During his training in Nigeria, Dr Sofola-Orukotan had been involved in another clinical trial and collected data for a study into reducing bleeding in traumatic brain injuries. “This study is very similar to what I’ve done before so I see it as an opportunity to bring this type of research to the Mackay region to benefit our patients,” he said. Anyone interested in learning more about the clinical trial can contact the Clinical Trials Unit on 4951 7561 or email mackay-clinical-trials@health.qld.gov.au Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) trial sub-investigator and senior medical officer (emergency) Dr Olurotimi Akinola, clinical trials nurse Alta Neethling and senior staff specialist (emergency) and principal investigator Dr Sunday Sofola-Orukotan. Photo supplied
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A caesarean birth can be planned, unexpected, calm, chaotic, welcomed, or deeply emotional. For many women, it is all of those things at once. Yet while there is often plenty of discussion about the birth itself, far less attention is given to what comes next… recovery. April is C-Section Awareness Month, a timely reminder that caesarean birth is not the “easy option,” nor is recovery something women should simply be expected to push through in silence. A caesarean is major abdominal surgery, performed at the same time a woman becomes a mother or welcomes another child into her family. In the days and weeks afterwards, women are often navigating pain, fatigue, sleep deprivation, feeding demands, changing hormones, and the enormous responsibility of caring for a newborn, all while healing from surgery. Many mums are surprised by how vulnerable they feel. Tasks that once seemed simple, like getting out of bed, laughing, coughing, lifting the baby capsule, or walking through the supermarket, can suddenly feel challenging. Yet because caring for a baby doesn’t pause for recovery, many women push on long before their body feels ready. What often goes unspoken is that healing continues well beyond the first six weeks. While the skin may appear healed relatively quickly, deeper layers of tissue continue to recover for months. The abdominal wall, scar tissue, core muscles, breathing patterns, posture, and pelvic floor can all be affected. Some women notice numbness around the scar, tightness, pulling sensations, back pain, weakness, bladder symptoms, or discomfort when returning to exercise. Others simply feel disconnected from their body, particularly their scar, and unsure where to begin. Scar care is another area many women are never taught about. Once the wound is fully healed and your medical team has cleared you, gentle scar massage can help improve mobility, reduce sensitivity, soften tightness, and support comfort as the tissues recover. Silicone therapy is also widely regarded as a gold-standard treatment for scar management, helping optimise scar healing and appearance. Early guidance can make a significant difference, particularly if the scar feels raised, tethered, numb, sensitive, or uncomfortable. These experiences are common, but they are not something women need to “just put up with.” One of the biggest myths around caesarean recovery is that if the baby is healthy and the scar looks fine, everything must be okay. But recovery is about far more than appearance. It is about how a woman feels in her body, how she moves, how she functions, and how confidently she returns to daily life. This is where support can make a meaningful difference. Pelvic health physiotherapy can help women recover strength, confidence, and comfort after a caesarean birth. That may include gentle core rehabilitation, scar mobility work, breathing retraining, guidance for safe return to exercise, lifting strategies, and addressing pelvic floor symptoms such as leaking, heaviness, or pain. Just as importantly, it can provide reassurance. Many women feel relief simply hearing that what they are experiencing is valid, understandable, and treatable. As a women’s health physiotherapist, I often meet mothers months or even years after their caesarean who say, “I thought this was just how it would be now.” But it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve had a caesarean birth, recently or years ago, and something still doesn’t feel quite right, a check-in with a qualified health professional can be a helpful next step. Your body has been through something significant, and it deserves care. This C-Section Awareness Month, let’s broaden the conversation. A caesarean birth is still birth. Recovery still matters. And mothers deserve more than being told to bounce back. Because healing well isn’t a luxury after birth — it should be the expectation. Text Box 2, Textbox Women's Health Physio Mackay admin@whphysiomackay.com.au 0476 616 324
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A duck walks into a newsagency, approaches the counter and asks the newsagent: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent says: No, we don’t have corn. There’s a grain store a few doors up the street and they sell corn.” The duck says “okay, thanks” and waddles out. The next day the duck walks into the newsagency, approaches the counter and asks the newsagent: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent says: “No, as I said yesterday, we don’t sell corn but the grain shop up the road sells it.” The ducks says “okay, thanks” and leaves the shop. The next day the duck waddles into the newsagency and approaches the newsagent and says: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent is now sick of it. Exasperated, he says: “Look, mate we don’t sell corn! We are a newsagency! We sell cards and newspapers and lotto tickets. We don’t bloody well sell corn! If you want corn, you go to the grain store up the street and get your corn there.” The next day the duck walks into the newsagency. The newsagent sees him and thinks to himself, “right, if this friggin’ duck asks for corn again, I am gonna go off”. The duck waddles up to him and says: “Have you got any corn?” The newsagent is furious and has had enough. Now he’s shouting: “LISTEN MATE. WE DON’T SELL CORN! I’M SICK OF THIS. IF YOU COME INTO MY SHOP AGAIN AND ASK FOR CORN I AM GONNA GRAB YOUR HEAD AND NAIL YOUR STUPID DUCK BILL TO THIS COUNTER! The ducks says, “okay, thanks” and leaves. The next day the duck walks into the newsagency, goes up to the counter and says to the newsagent: “Have you got any nails?” The newsagent shouts in frustration: “No I don’t have any nails!!” The duck says: “Okay, do you have any corn?” Now that is one very annoying duck. In life, I try not to be as annoying as that duck. But there are some annoying things I do that I can’t eradicate. One of them is consistently turning up to photo shoots for a property I am listing. I use the same photographer for every listing and she is very good and knows what is required. Yet I turn up. Not on a two-bedroom unit I do for most houses because, even though I know the photographer is very good, I still need to tell her about the importance of certain features. I need to stress how important the shed is, how vital it is that we show how wide the side access is for buyers needing access for a boat or a caravan. Even if there isn’t a shed, I have to say something. “Listen I know there’s no shed but there is really good side access and look at all the space in the yard to put a shed. If you take a photo from over in that corner of the yard I reckon people will be able to see the side access and also the space that’s available for the shed in one picture.” It must be very annoying for a highly professional photographer who has done it thousands of times. It’s the same inside the house. I say things like: “If you take a photo from this angle in the family room, people will be able to see the lounge, dining and part of the kitchen and get a feel for the space.” Annoying. I know most agents consider attending the photo shoots a waste of time and maybe they’re right. For me, we only get one chance at a first impression and that’s the photos so let’s make sure they’re right. Even though the poor photographer has to turn up to a property and see that stupid duck waiting.
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In industries where conditions are demanding and timelines are tight, the need for reliable, adaptable site infrastructure is non-negotiable. M&P Services has positioned itself at the forefront of this space, delivering transportable building solutions designed to perform in some of the harshest working environments across Australia and the Pacific. As North Queensland’s largest portable building manufacturer, M&P Services provides a comprehensive range of mobile crib rooms and transportable site solutions for commercial, construction, mining, rural and residential applications. Their offering spans hire and sale options, with each build designed to meet site-specific requirements while maintaining a focus on durability, comfort and practicality. At the core of the product range are mobile crib rooms and site amenities that are widely used across WA, NT, QLD, NSW and PNG. These units are purpose-built for functionality, offering safe and efficient spaces for workers in remote or high-intensity environments. Each solution is ready to serve every client’s needs, with M&P Services working closely with businesses to ensure specifications align with operational demands. Manufactured Colorbond cladded EPS panel, the buildings are designed to regulate internal temperatures, remaining cool in summer and warm in winter, while also being easy to maintain in field conditions. This construction approach supports both comfort and longevity, essential factors in industries where downtime and inefficiency carry significant cost. Beyond crib rooms, M&P Services delivers a broad suite of portable infrastructure including toilets, ablution blocks and fully equipped amenities for large-scale worksites. The company also provides cyclone tie-down systems, associated modular components, etc. that provide rapid deployment qualities from non-fixed infrastructure solutions. Our products increase safety & improve employee comfort. In addition to commercial and mining applications, M&P Services also offers customised rural and residential transportable buildings. Each unit is built to specification, with internal fit-outs capable of replicating the functionality and comfort of traditional homes. This flexibility allows clients to design living quarters that meet both practical needs and personal requirements. Shipping containers remain another key component of the business offering, available for hire, purchase or modification. These units are used to expand storage capacity or create adaptable workspaces, further extending the versatility of the company’s infrastructure solutions. Across all product lines, the focus remains consistent by delivering robust, adaptable, innovative and cost-effective solutions that support industry productivity. In sectors where efficiency and reliability are critical, M&P Services continues to play a significant role in providing infrastructure that works as hard as the people who use it. From remote mining operations to regional construction projects, their transportable building solutions are quietly powering the foundations of industry across Australia in a practical, proven way, designed to perform across all conditions and seasons.
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Glen Kelly MP has championed a vital victory for Sarina, securing long-overdue safety upgrades for the Anzac Street Pedestrian Railway Crossing.
While in Brisbane for Parliament on 29 April, Mr Kelly met with Queensland Rail to advocate for urgent improvements to the crossing. Queensland Rail has now confirmed the upgrades will go ahead under the Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund.
Improving safety at the Anzac Street crossing has been a long-standing concern for the Sarina community. Sarina State High School students regularly use the crossing to travel between the main school campus and the agricultural campus. With around 850 students enrolled, and approximately four classes per day accessing the agricultural site, the current conditions pose a serious risk to student safety, as well as to the broader community.
"The community has raised concerns for years, and I’ve heard them loud and clear," Mr Kelly said.
"My Sarina office is right near the crossing – I’ve seen firsthand the near misses, and the fear locals feel when crossing the tracks.
“I wasn’t going to wait for a tragedy to act.”
The upgrade is currently in the concept phase, with engineering and optioneering work now complete. Preliminary design has commenced, with development scheduled to begin in late 2025. Construction and commissioning are expected to be completed by 2027, subject to weather and seasonal constraints, particularly the sugar cane crushing season.
While the previous Member for Mirani initiated a petition in 2019 that attracted 94 signatures, the then Labor Government failed to deliver any upgrades. In contrast, Mr Kelly has secured firm commitments from Queensland Rail within his first six months in office.
“This is a government that listens, acts, and delivers for regional Queenslanders,” Mr Kelly said.
“Under the Crisafulli LNP Government, we’re putting safety first – and delivering real outcomes for communities like Sarina.”
With the 3rd of June marking the first day of crushing season, pedestrian safety at railway crossings is rightly front of mind for the community.
Glen Kelly MP has secured crucial safety upgrades for Sarina’s Anzac Street Pedestrian Railway Crossing, addressing long-standing community concerns and ensuring safer passage for students and locals, with construction set to begin by late 2025. Photo supplied
Rotary Australia World Community Service Limited (RAWCS) was established in 1987 as a public company limited by guarantee. Operated under its own constitution and authorised by Rotary International as a Multi-District Activity, RAWCS helps facilitate life-changing community service projects both locally and internationally.
Walkerston Rotary’s latest RAWCS project focuses on supporting communities in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands. The initiative aims to supply educational and teaching aids, medical supplies, and improve water and sanitation infrastructure in various villages. The long-term goal is to enhance health and education outcomes for island residents.
Over the past several months, Walkerston Rotary has received generous donations of books, school desks and chairs, school and sports uniforms, musical instruments, bikes, scooters, medical supplies and equipment, Days for Girls menstrual hygiene kits, wheelchairs, walking frames, crutches, and a wide range of items to assist people in developing regions.
Other Rotary clubs, businesses, and individuals have also pitched in to help fund the purchase of equipment and cover shipping costs.
Led by project manager Col Baldock, the club is currently planning to refurbish the water supply tanks at Helena Goldie Hospital in the Solomon Islands. Later this year, they will investigate how to assist in upgrading the hospital’s Children’s Ward.
To raise additional funds, the club is collecting old car and truck batteries and other recyclable materials.
They will also be hosting a ‘Scrubby Rotary’ Book Sale at North Mackay Rotary’s next Troppo Markets, featuring books not suitable as educational material for the Solomon Islands communities.
Currently, the club’s Solomon Islands storage facility has more school desks than chairs. Donations of school chairs in various sizes are most welcome and would be greatly appreciated.
Due to unreliable or non-existent power in many villages, schools and medical centres are always in need of laptop computers and generators.
The Nurses’ Training College has requested donations of medical mannequins — including open chest busts, individual organs, full skeletons, and resuscitation dummies. The club is currently investigating where these might be sourced affordably or ideally at no cost.
During a previous visit to Munda, Solomon Islands, Rotarians learned from the medical superintendent that the hospital had gone six weeks without any pain relief medication. With the help of a local pharmacy, Walkerston Rotary arranged for a large supply to be delivered on the next visit — the first the hospital had received in nearly four months.
Walkerston Rotary also partners with the local Days for Girls group to distribute menstrual hygiene kits throughout the region.
With previous work in the Solomon Islands now completed, Mackay North Rotary and Mooloolaba Rotary Clubs have joined forces to support Walkerston Rotary’s ongoing projects in the area.
If you have items to donate or would like to support the initiative, please contact Walkerston Rotary’s Project Manager – all donations are tax-deductible.
Contributed by Col Baldock
Walkerston Rotary, through its RAWCS initiative, is delivering vital educational, medical, and infrastructure support to the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, with the help of generous community donations, local partnerships, and a shared commitment to improving health and education outcomes. Photos supplied
Earlier this month, Michelle Landry was officially declared the winner of the seat of Capricornia by the Australian Electoral Commission.
At the Declaration of Results event, Ms Landry was confirmed to have retained the seat with a decisive margin of 11,512 votes.
“This is an incredible honour and I want to sincerely thank the people of Capricornia for once again putting their trust in me,” Ms Landry said.
“To be elected for another term is deeply humbling. I never take this job for granted and I promise to continue fighting every single day for our local communities.”
Ms Landry said the result sends a clear message to Canberra about what matters most to the people of Capricornia.
“Cost of living is the number one issue on everyone’s mind. People are struggling with soaring prices for groceries, electricity, fuel, and rent and Labor just doesn’t seem to get it.
“I’ll be pushing for practical relief to help families and small businesses make ends meet.”
She also committed to securing more infrastructure investment across the region, particularly for critical upgrades to the Bruce Highway.
“Our roads are in urgent need of attention. I’ll be lobbying hard for increased funding to deliver more overtaking lanes between Rockhampton and Sarina, as well as broader upgrades that improve safety, connectivity and productivity across Central Queensland.”
Looking ahead, Ms Landry reaffirmed her unwavering support for the backbone industries of the region.
“Small businesses, farmers, and workers in the resources sector are the beating heart of Capricornia’s economy.
“I’ll always stand up for them and make sure their voices are heard loud and clear in Canberra.”
Michelle Landry has been officially re-elected as the Member for Capricornia, pledging to fight for cost-of-living relief, critical road upgrades, and strong support for the region’s key industries. Photos supplied
Tucked away on the sun-drenched shores of Blacks Beach, just 20 minutes from Mackay, Comfort Resort Blue Pacific is one of regional Queensland’s best-kept getaways. Blending seclusion, spacious comfort, and standout service, this award-winning beachfront resort is framed by the natural beauty of the Coral Sea.
Guests are welcomed with roomy, fully self-contained one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, ocean views, and direct beach access. From peaceful strolls beneath swaying palms to sunset BBQs with the Coral Sea as your backdrop, every stay offers a slice of tropical serenity.
The resort has recently been honoured with the Best of Queensland Hotel/Motel Accommodation award at the 2024 Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards, recognising its excellence in guest experience and its leadership in sustainable tourism.
With Gold in the 3–3.5 Star Accommodation category for four consecutive years, five Gold Awards, and the title of Choice Hotels Franchisee of the Year in 2022, owners Nick and Cath uit den Bogaard have created a legacy of excellence that continues to shine.
Taking its commitment to sustainability even further, the resort has recently joined the World Travel & Tourism Council’s Hotel Sustainability Basics program – a global initiative focused on operational efficiency, environmental care, and community engagement.
Whether you're here for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, this coastal retreat delivers peace, privacy, and pristine natural surrounds in perfect harmony.
Experience the best of Queensland and book your stay today at www.bluepacificresort.com.au
MADEC is proud to announce the launch of a new dual wheelchair-accessible community van, thanks to the generous support of Macrossan & Amiet and the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.
The new van is a significant step toward improving transport accessibility for people with disabilities in the Mackay region. As part of MADEC’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, the vehicle will be made available to other local not-for-profit organisations who support individuals with disabilities.
“This van represents more than just a mode of transport – it’s about freedom, participation, and opportunity,” said Jasmine Lowry, CEO of MADEC.
“By sharing this resource with other community organisations, we’re helping to remove barriers and open up new possibilities for those we all support.”
The van is equipped to accommodate two wheelchairs and several additional passengers, offering a safe and comfortable way to travel for:
• Day trips and community outings
• Medical or personal appointments
• Short holidays or overnight adventures
Usage costs will be discussed on a case-by-case basis to ensure affordability and accessibility for all organisations.
MADEC invites not-for-profit groups across Mackay to reach out to discuss how the van might support their service delivery.
For bookings or more information, contact fleet@madec.org.au.
MADEC has launched a dual wheelchair-accessible community van to boost inclusive transport in Mackay, thanks to support from Macrossan & Amiet and the Gambling Community Benefit Fund. Photo supplied
The Mackay Art Society is proud to announce that acclaimed artist, Ron McBurnie, has been selected as judge for 2025 Woollam Art on Show Awards & Exhibition.
A celebrated artist and educator, Ron previously served as guest judge for Mackay’s prestigious Woollam Art on Show Awards in 2010 and will return in 2025 to once again lend his expertise.
McBurnie’s artistic journey began in 1975 at Queensland College of Art. In 1980, he relocated to Townsville, where he took up a teaching position at the Townsville College of TAFE before moving to James Cook University. His continued artistic evolution led him to earn a Master of Creative Arts in 2000, and he now works as a professional artist.
Known for his masterful paintings, drawings, and prints, McBurnie takes inspiration from legendary artists such as Hogarth, William Blake, and Samuel Palmer, blending their techniques with his deep connection to the Australian landscape. His work has been exhibited internationally, as well as in Mackay, with notable exhibitions including:
• In Search of Arcadia (2011) – Artspace Mackay
• Tales of the Lyrebird (2022) – Artspace Mackay
• Painting with the Tide (2024) – Milton House Gallery
“We are thrilled to welcome McBurnie back as the guest judge for this year’s Woollam Art on Show Awards,” says Ben Ranson, President of the Mackay Art Society.
“His keen eye and artistic wisdom will undoubtedly add depth to the judging process.”
Artist submissions for Woollam Art on Show Awards opened in April and interested artists are encouraged to enter as soon as possible.
“Join us for the opening night on August 1st at Pavilion 500, Mackay Showgrounds, with the exhibition running until August 4th, 2025. We look forward to an inspiring showcase of artistic talent!”
For competition details and registration visit www.mackayartsociety.com.au
Acclaimed artist Ron McBurnie returns as guest judge for the 2025 Woollam Art on Show Awards, bringing expertise and inspiration. Photos supplied
The Mackay VIEW Club recently received a generous $1,000 donation from the Mackay Alpha Rho ESA Club.
Since its inception, the dedicated members of ESA Mackay have raised substantial funds in support of the Cancer Council of Queensland, the Leukaemia Foundation, and various local charities this year, including the Mackay VIEW Club.
“This most generous donation will assist with our ongoing support of our 5 Learning For Life students,” said VIEW Club President Elizabeth.
VIEW is proud to be the largest community sponsor of The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, which provides students experiencing disadvantage with financial, educational and personal support.
The Mackay VIEW Club meets on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at The Mackay Surf Club, gathering at 11:00am for an 11:30 am start.
Anyone interested in becoming a member or coming along to find out more about the Mackay VIEW Club can email Elizabeth on mackay.viewclub@gmail.
Contributed by Frances Pailthorpe
Mackay VIEW Club members Rita, Maree, and Elizabeth accepting the $1,000 cheque from ESA Mackay. Photo supplied
By Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing
It’s great to see the 2025 production season off to an early start, with crushing under way in the Burdekin and Plane Creek regions, and the Herbert commencing this week. The weather continues to cooperate, and we hope that remains the case so all regions can get sugar into the sheds.
The #11 sugar contract continues to trend lower, with little change in the global surplus production forecast. The recent UNICA report for the first half of May 2025 showed Brazilian harvest progress catching up, though it remains 20% behind the same period last year.
Cane tonnes and sugar mix have increased, but Total Recoverable Sugar (CCS) remains low. The report aligned with market expectations. However, a 5.6% drop in gasoline prices by Petrobras halted a rally, as ethanol parity fell below 15 USc/lb.
We are forecasting a small global surplus for the 2025–26 season, mainly due to another large Brazilian crop expected. Indian production also looks strong, supported by an early monsoon, with forecasts of 32.5 million tonnes for 2025–26, up from 26 million in 2024–25. In Thailand, weak cassava prices are likely to result in another bumper crop, reinforcing export competition.
Our 2025 Season Commencement of Crush Pool reports were released last week. Notably, the Allocation Account forecast is significantly lower than last year due to a drop in physical premiums. This reflects increased Thai production impacting our sales into traditional Asian markets.
Additionally, the US Quota estimate has been reduced for both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, with import tariffs now factored in. It’s still early in the season, but growers should be aware that the strong physical premiums of recent years are under threat.
Across the regions, we’ve been connecting with growers at events such as the inaugural Link2Country Expo in Ingham, and the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival and Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships in the Burdekin.
Our Burdekin Relationship Manager, Fiona Villis, presented the Under 35 Category awards at the Cane Cutting Championships, proudly sponsored by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.
Wilmar’s Grower Marketing Relationship Manager, Fiona Villis, right, presenting the awards for the Under
35 Category at the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships. Keith Gilbert won first place, Stuart
Gilbert second place and Angus Gilbert third place. Photo supplied
By Amanda Wright
In the quiet community of Andergrove, a local treasure known as MAD Animal Addiction, a cherished petting farm, finds itself facing an uncertain future.
For over six decades, the property at 81 Andergrove Road has been a vibrant tableau of rural life, a place where the gentle bleating of goats and the soft rustle of feathers have harmonised with the daily rhythm of the neighbourhood. Yet, as its owner, Karen Mason, shares, recent actions by the Mackay Regional Council (MRC) have cast a shadow of doubt over its continued operation, prompting a heartfelt plea from the community and raising profound questions about the delicate balance between local regulations and the enduring spirit of community benefit.
The very earth beneath MAD Animal Addiction tells a story of continuity. Purchased in June 1964 as working farmland, it was once a part of a bustling dairy enterprise. Decades passed, and while the urban landscape grew around it with subdivisions in 1983 and 2005, the rural pulse of this unique property remained unbroken. Crucially, as Karen Mason recounts, confirmations from MRC Local Laws as far back as 2015 explicitly acknowledged the farm’s "existing use rights," granting it the permission to keep livestock without the imposition of animal number restrictions.
This understanding, she notes, was reportedly reaffirmed during subsequent Council visits in 2020 and 2023. Through years of various complaints, Ms Mason said that no issues were identified, and no enforcement actions were ever taken.
Beyond its fences, MAD Animal Addiction is far more than just a collection of animals; it's a living, breathing heart in the Mackay community.
Toni Breadsell, the Director of Kool Beanz SUNS Harrup Park, vividly illustrates this profound impact. She speaks of the invaluable educational opportunities MAD Animal Addiction offers to children, teaching them about animal care, nutrition, and fostering crucial sensory development.
"Mackay hasn't got a lot of choice for services for educational purposes," Ms. Breadsell said.
She emphasises that both children and their parents eagerly anticipate the petting zoo's visits.
"We have families wanting extra care days when the petting zoo comes to Kool Beanz – they’re very popular," she highlights, adding that the experiences create memories that last with us a lifetime.
"Being around animals can be very exciting for some and very calming for neurodivergent children,” she said.
The chorus of support from NDIS participants, aged care groups, and long-time neighbours further amplifies the profound positive influence this unique farm has on mental health and community cohesion.
Yet, Mackay Regional Council views the situation through a different lens, one of compliance with local regulations. As former Director Community Services Janine McKay explained, the Council has received "a number of animal and nuisance related complaints, including concerns about odour, from a residential property housing a range of domestic animals within a suburban area."
Ms McKay highlighted that council's local laws specifically outline "the maximum number of domestic animals that can be kept on properties within the local government area and set the minimum space requirements for each animal."
These laws, she clarified, are designed to ensure animals are housed appropriately and "do not cause nuisance such as odour and noise, or disrupt the peaceful occupancy of neighbouring properties."
A recent inspection, according to Ms McKay, indicated that "more than 90 animals were being housed on site, including sheep, goats, alpacas, pigs and a range of birdlife, far exceeding the maximum numbers allowed under council’s local laws."
The Council's stated aim is to work with the residents to achieve compliance, managing the number and types of animals to ensure local laws are adhered to and neighbouring residents are not adversely affected.
Ms Mason, however, provides a different account of the animal numbers. She asserts that the Council needs to correct its statement regarding 90 animals, a point she claims to have raised with them numerous times. Ms Mason clarifies that birdlife is allowed in unlimited numbers under current local laws, making their inclusion in the overall count potentially misleading to the public. She states that there were only 44 livestock animals, arguing that presenting a figure of 90 when more than half are permitted birdlife is incorrect.
This unfolding narrative prompts several critical questions that resonate within the community and beyond. Given the property's documented 61-year history of rural land use and the MRC's reported consistent acknowledgment of its "existing use rights" over many decades, Karen Mason asks what has prompted this recent, unexpected shift in the Council’s approach? She, along with community members, questions the sudden claim by an MRC officer in January 2025 of being "unaware" of these established rights, a statement that seems to directly contradict previous confirmations.
Ms Mason further seeks clarification, asking "why the burden has now been placed on me to prove these rights, rather than on MRC Local Laws to justify their abrupt departure from previous acknowledgment.”
Former Cr George Christensen, a vocal supporter before his resignation, expressed his profound disappointment.
"It's hard to see how the community gains anything by shutting down a long-standing, much-loved local initiative that costs ratepayers nothing but brings joy, healing, and education to so many," he stated.
Mr Christensen had formally requested that Council consider a temporary halt to enforcement, a recognition of historical use, and an investigation into planning exemptions or alternative solutions.
As our region, like many others, navigates the complexities of urban development and community well-being, the story of MAD Animal Addiction serves as a powerful reminder of the human element in policy and planning.
The community of Mackay, deeply connected to this unique farm, now waits for a resolution that acknowledges its rich history, respects its unwavering contributions, and secures the cherished presence of this local icon for generations to come.
Maggie shares a tender moment with goat Harry, alongside alpacas Phoenix and Tiger-Lily.
Eadie delights in the company of a charming baby miniature pig.
Karen Mason, owner of MAD Animal Addiction, with her beloved alpacas, Elvis and Matilda.
Local children enjoying MAD Animal Addiction's mobile petting zoo at the recent Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day
By Hannah McNamara
In a world where recognition often follows spectacle, two local veterans are quietly carving a road less travelled … one of grit, heart, and community backing.
Tony Ciantar and Wayne Davis, both retired servicemen, are trading boots for bonnets and embarking on a 10,000km journey in their lovingly restored 1994 Ford Fairmont as part of this year’s Variety Bash.
Although, this isn’t just any road trip.
It’s a rugged, soul-stirring mission to raise funds for sick and disadvantaged children through Variety – the Children’s Charity.
Their vehicle, aptly named The Eagles, bears more than stickers and sponsor logos – it carries the memory of a close mate.
Local builder and Sarina icon, Lenny Ivory, sadly passed away last month from pancreatic cancer, and his name now rides proudly on the panels.
“We named the car after a dear friend from Sarina… it’s our special way of honouring him,” Tony shared.
The Fairmont had slept silently in a shed for over 15 years until Tony, a mechanic by trade, brought it back to life.
“It’s a 1994 Fairmont. I bought it off my neighbour in 2002… and it’s been in the shed for 15 years, so I decided to get it going.”
This year marks their first Bash, and it’s no Sunday drive. With over 7,000km on the official route and another 3,500km just to get there and back, the veterans are bracing for tight check-ins, long days, and chilly nights camped at showgrounds and school ovals.
“It’s full on, but every night there’s a barbecue or fundraiser. People say the social side is great too,” Wayne said.
And while the trip is no holiday, neither man expects accolades.
“We don’t get anything out of it – we pay for everything ourselves – but it’s all about raising money for the kids.”
At a time when every dollar counts, their self-funded mission has stirred an outpouring of goodwill from the Mackay and Sarina community. Major sponsors like NB Industries, Transit Tyres, Battery World and Master Mechanical in Sarina have all chipped in, alongside many other businesses and car club mates. Raffle prizes worth over $4,000 are on offer at the upcoming Sarina Show, and every cent raised goes straight to Variety.
“We’re not asking for a handout, but if the community would like to pitch in then we’d greatly appreciate it” Tony affirmed.
Their journey may be long, and the ride may be rugged, but their mission remains certain: to serve with heart, stay humble, and honour fallen mates, all while raising hope for children who need it most.
To support their mission – and give back to those who’ve already given so much – donate via the QR code, visit the Variety Bash website, or grab a raffle ticket at the upcoming Sarina Show.
Tony and Wayne are trading boots for bonnets, hitting the road in a restored Fairmont to honour a mate and raise funds for kids in need. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Car #142 is a tribute in loving memory of Leonard (Lenny) Ivory – 21.10.1950 to 04.05.2025. Photo supplied
Approximately fifty runners enjoyed ideal weather conditions and generous hospitality at the inaugural Mackay Road Runners event hosted by the Eimeo Surf Club. Participants tackled either a 5km or 14km course through the scenic and undulating suburbs of Eimeo, Dolphin Heads and Blacks Beach.
Mackay Road Runners Club President, Paul Tilse, extended his gratitude to the Eimeo Surf Club for their warm welcome, which included access to parking, amenities, delicious breakfasts, and breathtaking ocean views. The club also acknowledged the friendly staff for their exceptional service.
The event was expertly timed and managed by Julie Whibley and Rohan Miles, who coordinated the handicap starts based on formal club handicaps. Mick Vivian, the highest-placed backmarker, delivered an outstanding performance in the 14km run, recording the fastest time and the only sub-60-minute finish of the day. However, it was the reigning 10km Grove Handicap Champion, Justin Rule, who crossed the line first on handicap, narrowly edging out the fast-finishing Vivian. Joe Grech maintained his consistent form to claim third on handicap, followed by Shane Donnollan and John Rae. Celebrating her birthday, Jose Short split the top male finishers to cross next and also claimed fastest female honours in the 14km, narrowly ahead of Carolyn Mapes by thirty seconds.
The 5km runners also enjoyed a competitive field, with Lily Leven clocking the fastest overall time and finishing fourth on handicap. Gail Mackie showed impressive determination to take first place on handicap, followed by Craig Joynson in second, Alan Zamparutti in third, and Leven in fourth. Millie Bishop also recorded a solid time, as did Darrin Pullen, who looked injury-free in his run to finish ahead of Michael Feenaghty and Teresa Hackney. Notable performances also came from John Couldrey, Kayla Waugh, Lauren Connor, Leanne Connor, Ross Connor, Kim Saron, Fran March, David Isbister, and Stuart Sprott.
Special thanks were extended to Andrew Short for his early morning efforts in setting up the technical and challenging course. He was ably supported by volunteers Paul Tilse, David Isbister, Len Howarth, Joe Grech, Brendan Bishop, and Alan Zamparutti. Jo Hughes also made a valuable contribution, providing much-appreciated water station support for the 14km runners.
The club’s next event is the 30km Club Championship, taking place this Sunday at 6am from Northview Park Playground, Schapers Road, Glenella. The event also includes 5km and 15km distance options. All participants are reminded to wear their race bibs on the front and check in with timekeepers at least ten minutes prior to the start. A sausage sizzle will follow the event, and all are welcome. Casual race day fees are $10 for adults and $5 for juniors, with a $2 fee for members.
Mackay Road Runners also extended thanks to the many members who volunteered their time and energy at the successful 17th BMA Mackay Marina Run last weekend. The Marina Run Committee sincerely appreciates the club’s ongoing support and involvement, noting that the event’s success would not have been possible without them.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
It’s been an inspiring and action-packed few weeks across our region, full of energy, ideas, and community pride. From welcoming visiting ministers to celebrating local achievements in training, sport, education, and the arts—there’s so much to be excited about!
We were thrilled to host Assistant Minister for Finance, Trade, Training and Employment, Amanda Stoker. Her visit gave locals a valuable chance to share feedback on government programs, with insights heading back to Brisbane to help improve service delivery in our community.
A standout moment was recognising our finalists in the 2025 Central Queensland Training Awards. At Kool Beanz SUNS, we met Toni, their passionate Lead Educator, who showed us around their fantastic facility, featuring dedicated STEM rooms and purpose-built kindy spaces. As a finalist for Small Employer of the Year, Kool Beanz clearly prioritises nurturing both children and educators.
We also visited Intuition – The Art of Hair, another finalist in the same category. Apprentice Chelsea shared her positive training experience, made possible by salon owner Victoria’s hands-on leadership. Intuition’s repeat finalist status reflects their strong support for staff development.
Another highlight was visiting Ideal Placements Mackay, a regional finalist for Community Training Initiative of the Year. Their Women in Warehousing program provides practical training and employment pathways for unemployed or underemployed women. Sharee Pryce, one of their standout participants, is nominated for Equity Student of the Year after completing her Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations. Sharee’s determination to build a better future for her family truly showcases the power of inclusive training programs.
Sport was also in the spotlight with a visit from Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander. I had the pleasure of showing him Mackay State High School’s five sporting excellence academies, where young athletes are training hard for the future. We also discussed exciting regional opportunities linked to the 2032 Brisbane Games and the new ‘You for 2032’ app, designed to connect locals with sports that match their skills and interests.
Looking ahead, we’ll welcome Minister for Arts and Education, John-Paul Langbroek, for the Between the Tides festival—a vibrant celebration of live music, local culture, and community spirit.
And don’t forget—the Mackay Show is just around the corner! I’ll be there with my mobile office, so please drop by for a chat. I’d love to hear your thoughts and say hello!
Left to right: Chelsea (Inutition – The Art of Hair Apprentice), Assistant Minister - Amanda Stoker and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton and Assistant Minister Amanda Stoker, celebrating the Ideal Placements team and Sharee Pryce’s success in the Queensland Training Awards
Left to right: Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton with Toni Breadsell from Kool Beanz SUNS Harrup Park, and Assistant Minister Amanda Stoker
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton and Minister Tim Mander talking to students of Mackay State High School. Photo supplied
The competition that combines artistic fun with serious safety messages is now open to all Queensland primary school children from Prep to Year 6.
Twelve different pieces of artwork from Queensland primary students will be chosen to feature in the calendar, with a different safety theme for each month.
Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie said the competition is about creative young minds promoting the importance of farm safety.
“Raising awareness among primary school students and their communities about common safety hazards on farms and in rural settings is an ongoing campaign.
“Tragically, serious injuries and fatalities occur on farms and rural settings each year, the calendar serves as a creative and visual reminder covering overhead powerlines, being safe with electrical equipment, animal safety and the importance of washing hands after contact with animals.
"In the last year alone 26 Queenslanders lost their lives simply going to work. These aren’t just numbers—they’re 26 families left without a chance to say goodbye. The rural sector alone accounted for 10 of those lives.
“Our government backs our agricultural sector to continue to grow the economic output and that also means supporting safe and productive farming workplaces as well.
“We know many rural communities and schools have the calendar prominently displayed in the home throughout the year, educating Queenslanders of all ages to work and play safely on farm properties."
Member for Condamine Pat Weir said that the focus on rural safety around farms should never be forgotten.
“As someone who has been injured themselves from a farm accident, I know all too well the importance of the issue to local farming families,” Mr Weir said.
“It’s great that the focus is also about educating our next generation of farmers as well throughout primary schools in Queensland.”
Central Queensland’s Gogango State School’s teacher, Ms Wendy Thornton said the farm safety competition is a fantastic addition to our unit of work about farms.
“The students enjoy the challenge of illustrating farm safety aspects which are extremely important for each student to remember as they go about their daily lives in rural settings,” Ms Thornton said.
More than 40,000 copies of the calendar will be printed for statewide distribution. The competition is open until 27 June. The 12 winning entrants receive a $250 gift card and $500 for their school.
For information on how to enter and to download resources, go to WorkSafe.qld.gov.au.
By Owen Menkens, CANEGROWERS Chairman
It’s been a big week in cane country. Harvesters are up and running in the Tableland and Bundaberg districts, marking the start of the 2025 crush.
For growers, there’s nothing quite like seeing the first cane bins filling up – it signals a new season, a fresh start, and hope for better days after a challenging run last year.
Across the rest of Queensland, farms are almost ready. Growers are fine-tuning gear, checking fields, and waiting for their local mills to fire up.
No matter where you are, there’s a shared sense of anticipation and relief to be getting on with it.
Last season was one of the most difficult in recent memory. Wild weather, breakdowns, and industrial action delayed the harvest so long that some districts were still cutting in January.
By the time it was over, about a million tonnes of cane had been left in the paddock – not for lack of effort, but because the system simply didn’t hold up.
But cane farmers are a resilient bunch. We’ve done what we always do – rolled up our sleeves and got back to work. We've replanted, repaired and prepared. And now we’re ready to go again.
The forecast for this year is about 28.5 million tonnes of cane across 13 growing regions.
That’s a little lower than last year, mostly due to the recent widespread flooding across North Queensland – especially around the Herbert River district – which destroyed large areas of cane.
Even so, the mood among growers is cautiously optimistic. We’ve done our bit. Now we’re relying on the mills, the weather, and the supply chain to help turn that hard work into returns.
That won’t be easy. Labour shortages are still hitting hard. Skilled workers – from harvester drivers and haulout operators to mill staff – are in short supply.
And it’s not just sugarcane – agriculture right across the board is feeling the pinch.
That’s why CANEGROWERS is working with our local offices and the Queensland Farmers’ Federation to help address the shortage. Because no matter how good the crop looks, it doesn’t mean much if we don’t have the people to move it.
Last week also gave us the chance to keep up our pressure on the government in another critical area – disaster support.
Queensland’s Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett, visited Ingham for the Link2Country Expo and a Community Cabinet meeting. While there, he met with growers still dealing with the impacts of the summer floods.
We made our position clear – disaster support needs to reflect the way farming works in 2025.
Right now, some growers are being ruled out of disaster funding because they earn part of their income from agricultural support services – things like planting or harvesting for other farms. But that’s still farming. And it’s often what helps keep smaller operations afloat.
After the floods, this issue hit home hard. Some farmers were denied help simply because their income didn’t fit the current rules.
That’s why CANEGROWERS, alongside the QFF, is fighting to modernise the rules under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. The system needs to catch up with the reality on the ground and make sure no grower is left behind when disaster strikes.
We’re grateful the Minister took the time to visit and listen. But now we need more than goodwill – we need action.
As crushing ramps up across the state, we’re keeping our eyes on more than just the crop.
We’re focused on securing the long-term future of this industry – one where growers are backed by fair systems, strong support, and a shared belief in the value of what they do.
Here’s to a smoother season ahead and a fairer go for every grower who puts in the hard yards.
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As we mark National Men’s Health Week, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank reflects with pride on the many years of support provided to the Sarina and District Community Men’s Shed.
In 2014, Community Bank Sarina provided a community grant to lay the foundations – quite literally – for the Sarina Men’s Shed location that is now the organisation's home. Close to $100,000 in funding supported essential infrastructure that enabled construction to begin and by 2015 it was operational.
Sarina Men’s Shed Chair Jon Eaton said that without the support from Community Bank Sarina the Men's Shed would not have been able to achieve their ambitions as a group.
“We are so thankful and will be forever grateful to Community Bank Sarina,” Mr Eaton said.
Since then, the shed has evolved into much more than a building. It’s a safe and inclusive space where men can share stories, build skills and support each other through life’s challenges. From health conversations to hands-on projects, the shed fosters belonging, reduces isolation and strengthens men’s wellbeing.
The shed plays an active role in the wider community, with members regularly contributing their time and skills to create furniture for local schools, build items for hospitals, kindergartens and support community events with custom projects and repairs.
Community Bank Sarina believes in funding initiatives that have a long-lasting impact and The Sarina Men’s Shed is a perfect example of this. It’s a testament to what’s possible when local people invest in local ideas, with real support and shared purpose.
As a profit for purpose organisation, Community Bank Sarina is proud to have stood alongside the Men’s Shed to continue supporting programs that prioritise connection, resilience and men’s health in our region.
Sarina Men’s Shed members enjoy a monthly BBQ and have an upcoming open day – stay tuned to their Facebook page for more details at https://www.facebook.com/SarinaMensShedQld.
Two Sarina Men’s Shed members working together on a community project. Photo supplied
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