A group of fourteen students in Years 10 and 11 from Whitsunday Anglican School made history as they participated in the School's inaugural Oxbridge Academic Tour, travelling to the University of Cambridge last month.

The prestigious programme, inspired by the international reputations of both Oxford and Cambridge Universities, offers a transformative learning opportunity for students with high academic aspirations.

The tour ran from 7 – 23 July 2025, beginning with three days of cultural sightseeing in London, before the group joined a summer school programme at the world-renowned University of Cambridge, recently ranked 4th in the Times Higher Education World Reputation Rankings.

The programme offered access to university-level courses taught by world-class educators in a wide range of fields including Aerospace Engineering, Astronomy and Astrophysics, International Espionage, Medicine, Law, and Business.

Principal, Mr Andrew Wheaton, expressed pride in this initiative for the region.

"The Oxbridge Academic Tour reflects our school’s commitment to excellence, offering students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a global context - preparing them to lead on the international stage in their chosen fields," he said.

The University of Cambridge, founded in 1209, has produced a remarkable array of alumni including Nobel laureates, prime ministers, scientists, and authors.

The opportunity to study within its walls is a rare and invaluable experience for young students.

“To learn from actual Cambridge academics is something I never thought I’d get to do while still in School,” shared Andie Deguara, from Year 11.

Students were based at the historic Jesus College, founded in the 12th century, where they lived and learned in an environment steeped in academic tradition.

As part of the tour, students explored London’s most iconic landmarks, including the British Museum, Houses of Parliament, Churchill War Rooms, and West End Theatre District before transitioning into the academic portion of their journey.

The Oxbridge Academic Tour is a significant educational experience – one that bridges aspiration and opportunity, and sets a new standard for global learning at Whitsunday Anglican School.

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Fourteen Year 10 and 11 students from Whitsunday Anglican School made history by joining the inaugural Oxbridge Academic Tour, gaining rare access to university-level learning at Cambridge and exploring iconic sites across London. Photos supplied

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OPINION PIECE

Australia is blessed with abundant resources — coal, uranium, sunshine, wind, and water. We should have the cheapest and most reliable power in the world. Instead, electricity bills are soaring, reliability is falling, and households are feeling the squeeze. The gap between what we are paying for power and what we should be paying keeps growing.

Investors are walking away from major wind and hydrogen projects, leaving taxpayers to foot the bill. Even members of the government are quietly questioning the current direction of Labor’s energy policy. The current path isn’t working.

A recent CSIRO report has confirmed that coal is, in fact, the cheapest form of energy in Australia at present.

My views have not changed and my message is clear: we need a balanced energy mix. Our priority must be practical outcomes that improve livelihoods, create stable electricity, and deliver cheaper power prices.

Labor’s wind-and-solar-only approach is not the answer. Their current strategy is hurting families, tearing up prime agricultural land, and damaging our natural landscapes — all while falling short of its own climate targets. Yes, the sun and wind are free, but the infrastructure is not. Long-distance transmission lines and battery storage cost billions.

We need to rethink the path we’re on. I’ve long called for a balanced energy mix — one that is open to all technologies: coal, gas, hydro, solar, bioenergy, carbon capture, and nuclear. So long as costs are reduced, the natural environment is protected, and the lights are kept on, I’m all for it.

Mackay’s Racecourse Mill Co-generation Plant is a great example of clean and cost‑effective electricity production. The plant generates around 30% of Mackay’s electricity. Why isn’t the government putting innovations like this on the table for similar solutions to operate?

At present, I am working with my Coalition colleagues on an Energy and Net Zero Task Force, set up to review and identify the best energy mix for the country moving forward. This will be presented to the Australian people as the Coalition’s vision for energy in this country — the policy we will advocate for and take to the next election.

Let’s face it, while the world is powering ahead and building stronger energy capacities, Australia is going backwards. We need a course correction before it becomes too hard to undo, leaving Australians impacted for generations.

We need to put people first. We need to consider the natural environment. And we need to think about how we keep the lights on 24/7 in all scenarios. Australia needs a refreshed energy policy — and it has to be practical.

Net Zero is about trying to achieve the impossible, rather than doing what’s sensible. And at what cost? Taxpayers can’t afford to sign a blank cheque.

We must change our course on the national energy mix and find the right balance.

Andrew Willcox MP
Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability
Member for Dawson

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Kerryn Grieve spent six years on dialysis before he received a life-changing kidney transplant earlier this year.

The Mackay father of three had been spending five hours at a time, three days a week at Mackay Base Hospital on haemodialysis after dialysing at home was no longer an option.

Kerryn was diagnosed with end stage kidney disease in 2018 which was secondary to his lupus diagnosis 10 years earlier.

“You are placed on the kidney transplant waitlist when you first start on dialysis,” Kerryn said.

“I started peritoneal dialysis in July 2018 so that I had freedom to continue working and do it at home. I became active on the transplant wait list in November 2024.”

On 7 February this year, Kerryn received a call from the Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane which would change his life; he had progressed up to fourth on the transplant waitlist.

“At 1.30am on 10 February, I received a call that a kidney was available and was advised that the Mackay hospital would contact us with the flight details,” Kerryn said.

“I felt overwhelmed and excited about the news. We had a plan in place beforehand and I had been very open with work, so everyone knew we were waiting for that call at any moment.

“From 1.30am we were organising the kids and dropping them to their nan’s house. We were then at the airport at 5.30am for the 6am flight.”

Kerryn’s kidney transplant took place that same day. He was incredibly grateful for the lifesaving operation and new kidney, but it wasn’t easy recovering from major surgery so far from home.

“It was very difficult to be away from the kids and family for six weeks,” Kerryn said.

“My wife was able to be with me in Brisbane for three weeks and then returned home to be with the kids because it was the first time we had spent more than four days away from them.”

After six weeks in hospital in Brisbane, Kerryn was able to return home and began weekly visits to the renal unit and nephrologist Dr Danielle Wu at Mackay Base Hospital for ongoing blood tests, monitoring and follow up care.

Four months later, these visits have reduced to fortnightly.

Kerryn has now returned to work and resumed normal activities with his family including taking his son to his soccer training and games.

The light at the end of the tunnel during his recovery, he said, was knowing that the transplant had gifted him “more time” with his young family.

“I also don’t have to go to the hospital three times a week for dialysis anymore,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to going home to Normanton where I grew up and my family still lives.

“I haven’t been able to go home since 2022 as they don’t have dialysis available and travelling there was too far.

“Knowing that I can now go home to see my family really helped me to remain positive.”

The opening of the North Queensland Kidney Transplant service in Townsville later this year has real potential to benefit local renal patients and enable more people to consider kidney transplants.

Being closer to home, it would also give young local families the opportunity to visit which may help patients with their recovery.

“Being closer to home and not having to travel to a big city could help patients who are anxious about travelling to Brisbane,” Kerryn said.

“Having to fly to Brisbane was not possible for my family when I had my transplant. We were lucky as my wife’s mum and sister were able to help us with the kids.

“The kids didn’t seem to be affected immediately, but after my return to Mackay my boy had a bit of anxiety thinking his dad was going to go away again.”

By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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The opening of the North Queensland Kidney Transplant service in Townsville later this year has real potential to benefit local renal patients and enable more people to consider kidney transplants.

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After six years on dialysis, Mackay father-of-three Kerryn Grieve received a life-changing kidney transplant earlier this year, allowing him to return to work, reunite with family, and plan a long-awaited trip home to Normanton. Photo source: MHHS

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With school back in session and wheels spinning across footpaths, Mackay Whitsundays Highway Patrol is cracking down on the illegal use of electric motorcycles and personal mobility devices, targeting safety before speed.

Since Operation Wolfking commenced in January, police have administered 54 charges, including driving unlicensed, driving uninsured, driving unregistered, and driving a defective vehicle.

Police have also completed 35 street checks and issued 82 infringement notices, with the majority of offences being failure to wear an approved helmet and riding a PMD on a prohibited road, both of which incur a $166 fine. Other infringements included riding an e-bike unregistered, unlicensed, or uninsured.

Mackay Whitsundays District Highway Patrol Sergeant Daniel Goldburg said the ongoing operation is a reminder to road users about the importance of wearing a helmet, and to children and parents to know the rules and potential dangers around electric bikes.

“We want to ensure kids and parents are aware of the laws surrounding e-bikes and PMDs, and to know that officers will be charging offenders and parents for these infringements,” said Sergeant Goldberg.

“If a bike is being used as throttle-powered only, it’s a motorbike. And the rules are the same as that for a motorbike including the rider being licenced and the bike registered.”

“Officers will continue to enforce road safety and the dangerous and illegal use of e-bikes in our communities to ensure riders, road users, and pedestrians make it safely to and from their destination.”

“Wearing a helmet and staying off the road is simple, and it’s lifesaving.”

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As students return to school, Mackay Whitsundays Highway Patrol is ramping up enforcement on illegal e-bike and PMD use, issuing charges and fines to improve safety and ensure riders follow the rules. Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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Mackay is once again rolling out the welcome mat for its Sister City, with ten students from Matsuura, Japan visiting this week as part of a long-standing cultural exchange.
Mayor Greg Williamson formally welcomed the delegation last Friday during a civic reception, highlighting the enduring strength of the 35-year relationship between the two cities.

“This is the continuation of a 35-year relationship with our sister city in Japan, Matsura,” he said.

“Every other year we send students across to Matsura on an exchange and then they send students here.”

Many of the visiting students, aged 15, are travelling outside Japan for the first time. The week-long program aims to immerse them in Australian culture, offering everything from classroom experiences at a local high school to beach visits, bush dances, and tasting iconic Aussie foods.

“Most of these students wouldn’t have been outside Japan before,” the Mayor said.

“It’s building that cultural relationship, but it’s building the people-to-people relationship, which is really important for world relationships.”

“They’ll get to see things like the platypus and the beaches… it’s just that relationship building that’s very, very important for our relationships internationally.”

Mayor Williamson also hinted at some of the more memorable culinary moments the students could expect.

“We’ve got pies on the agenda with this lunch today… but they’ll get a great range of Aussie foods: barbecues, fish and chips, and hopefully an experience of Vegemite as well.”

Among the excited students were Kaya Yamashita and Ayana Maeda, who said they were glad to be in Mackay and eager to communicate in English with new friends.

“It’s our first time in Australia,” they said.

“We want to communicate in English with our friends.”

“The people are very friendly, nice and warm.”

Another student, Soataka, shared his excitement about staying with a local host family.

“I’m staying with an Australian family for a week to learn about Australian culture and the people,” he said. Having studied English for 10 years, Soataka said he found Mackay “very interesting” and was keen to practise his language skills in real life.

During their visit, the students will also tour Matsuura Gardens and spend time with local families to deepen their understanding of life in regional Australia.

The Sister City relationship between Mackay and Matsuura continues to foster goodwill, cultural appreciation and lifelong friendships across borders.

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Cultural ties shine as ten students from Matsuura, Japan, visit Mackay to experience Aussie life, marking 35 years of the Sister City relationship with a week of friendship, food, and cultural exchange. Photos supplied

Kaya Yamashita and Ayana Maeda, both 15, are among the many students visiting Australia for the first time. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Help Make A Difference In Mackay

The St Vincent de Paul Society—known locally and fondly as Vinnies—is calling on compassionate community members to join in its mission of offering hope, dignity, and practical support to those doing it tough in Mackay.

"Working with the St Vincent de Paul Society is a powerful way to live out our Christian faith in action—through love of God and love of neighbour," says Regional President Richard Calligan.

“While we are proud of the spiritual foundation of our work, we focus our daily efforts on serving anyone in need—especially the poor, the marginalised, and the forgotten—regardless of their circumstances, beliefs, or attitudes.”

The Society’s mission is rooted in respect for every person's human dignity, offering practical support while encouraging people to regain control of their own lives.

Everyone is welcome to get involved. Membership is open to anyone who shares the Society’s values. New members receive training, support, and are warmly welcomed into a community of like-minded volunteers.

What does Vinnies do in Mackay?

The work is wide-ranging and deeply personal. Imagine yourself in these moments:

• Sitting at a kitchen table with a young mother—new to Mackay, traumatised, and raising four children under seven—helping her feel less alone and more supported.
• Responding to a call from an elderly neighbour, now sleeping in their car after being priced out of the rental market.
• Listening at our Support Centre to a single father with two daughters who must choose this week between paying rent or putting food on the table.
• Visiting the police watch house, offering support to a devastated family whose lives have just been turned upside down.
• Sharing a fishing trip with men from our homeless shelter—a simple outing that brings joy, dignity, and connection.
• Volunteering at a Vinnies shop or warehouse, helping raise the funds that make all this work possible.

Whether your passion is front-line support, behind-the-scenes organisation, or simply lending a hand when you can—there’s a place for you at Vinnies.

Want to learn more or get involved?
Please reach out to Richard Calligan at
Email: president.mackay@svdpqld.org.au
Phone: (07) 4840 0820

Help us bring hope where it's needed most—right here in our Mackay community.

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What a fantastic week it’s been in Mackay!

Despite the winter chill, our community spirit has been on full display. I’ve been out and about across the region—listening, celebrating, and continuing to advocate for the issues that matter to locals.

I kicked things off at the Bluewater Fling—there’s nothing quite like the sound of the mighty bagpipes and a sea of tartan to celebrate Scottish heritage. The music, culture, and dancing made for a memorable day.

It was also great to catch up with locals at the Northside Uniting Church Fair, where I enjoyed some meaningful conversations and experienced the strength of our community connections.

A true highlight was welcoming our newest police recruits—dedicated individuals ready to serve and protect our region. Their commitment to keeping Mackay safe deserves our full support.

Local creativity took centre stage at the Woollam Art On Show Exhibition, where artists of all ages showcased stunning work. It’s clear Mackay continues to shine as a regional hub for the arts.

I was honoured to attend the Pyjama Angel of the Year Award, a moving tribute to those who go above and beyond in serving others. And the St Paul’s Uniting Church Choral Society reminded us all of the power of music to lift spirits and bring people together.

On a more serious note, I was proud to launch the Healthy Rivers to Reef Report Card, highlighting our shared responsibility to protect our natural environment. I also stopped in at the Mackay and District Sports Day—a great show of local talent, teamwork, and community pride.

Before I go—if you have 3 minutes to spare, please complete my Public Intoxication Survey. Your feedback plays a vital role in shaping local policy.

And don’t forget to mark Tuesday, 2 September in your calendar for my Digital Detox Event, featuring international speaker Brad Huddleston, who will explore the growing concerns around digital addiction and its impact on our wellbeing.

Whether it is catching up with the RSL, Soroptimists, or locals in a coffee shop – I am delivering for Mackay.

Nigel Dalton MP, Member for Mackay

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Nigel Dalton at the Bluewater Fling

Nigel Dalton at the Mackay and Districts Sports Day

Nigel Dalton at the CQU seagrass research facility, Coral Sea Marina

Nigel Dalton with Ken and Russel from the Mackay RSL

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When it comes to legends of the surf, few names command the respect of Reg Buttler, and recently, that reputation was etched into history with the awarding of a rare and remarkable 75 Year Pin.

The milestone recognises an extraordinary lifetime of service to surf lifesaving, beginning in 1950 at Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club, when budgie smugglers were woollen and sunscreen was a novelty.

Now based in Mackay, Reg has become a cornerstone of the Mackay Surf Life Saving Club and a familiar face across the North Barrier Branch and broader Queensland and Australian surf communities.

Over the decades, Reg has worn many hats — and caps — earning his Bronze Medallion, training and assessing generations of lifesavers, officiating at competitions, mentoring young members, and serving in leadership roles at all levels of the organisation.

His contributions have earned him Life Membership at club, branch, state, and national levels — an honour reserved for the very few who have given so much for so long.

Those who know him best say Reg’s passion hasn’t faded, even after 75 years. His red-and-yellow patrol shirt remains a symbol not just of safety on our beaches, but of steadfast commitment, generosity, and wisdom.

In a field built on vigilance and service, Reg Buttler stands out as a figure of quiet dedication and enduring impact.

The Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club said “Congratulations and thank you — we’re all just trying to keep up with you.

“We love you Reggie.”

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Reg Buttler’s extraordinary 75-year surf lifesaving journey, which began in 1950, has been officially honoured with a rare 75 Year Pin, recognising a lifetime of dedication, leadership, and impact across the Mackay, Queensland, and national surf lifesaving communities. Photo source: Mackay Surf Life Saving Club

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OPINION PIECE

There has been a lot of discussion regarding the council bi-election and varied opinions on what makes a good Councillor.  Firstly, everyone has a democratic right to stand for election.  Under the Local Government Act there is no specific qualification that you need, but there are plenty of things you need to learn and do to properly represent the people who voted for you.

I would like to reflect on my experience as a local government representative for the past 21 years.  Firstly, it is an absolute honour and privilege to be able to serve the local community of the Mackay region. I have seen many Councillors come and go over that period and I myself have learnt through actively participating in training opportunities, networking with other Councillors, attending conferences and participating in community organisations.

I undertook professional development through accredited training providers and the Australian Institute of Company Directors course to ensure I had all the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out my duties.  For me, there are three important parts of the role of Councillor:

1. Engage – participate in and be fully prepared for council meetings. It’s essential to read all agenda items. Seek clarification from officers if you feel you need further information to make an informed decision.  Briefing sessions are provided to councillors to ensure we are fully across the details of the item.  Attendance at these briefings is a very important part of the role. You also need to understand meeting standing orders. You need to know what you can and can’t do during the meeting so you can actively participate in the debate.  This is the way in which you can provide your view on the item or, as I like to say, this is where you get to put the community overlay on the agenda item.
2. Connect – the other part of the role is engaging with the community.  I do this by participating in the running of organisations, attending community meetings, functions and networking events, attending other community organisation meetings, when invited, and responding to residents’ customer requests.  I like to meet face-to-face where possible and listen/learn firsthand. You then need to investigate the matter via council officers and, most importantly, report back to the resident.  You may not always get a positive result; however, if you explain why to people, they generally understand.
3. Advocate – advocacy takes on a few different components at different levels.  You can advocate on behalf of the local community at the local level by taking the local concerns to the council to try to gain support from other councillors, or you can advocate of behalf of the community to the State or Federal Government.  It’s important when advocating to the other levels of government that you do this with a united voice.

Karen May, Deputy Mayor

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At Papa Ben’s Coffee Van

You can’t miss it – the bold yellow van, the scent of freshly ground beans in the air, and the signature grin of Mackay’s very own barista-on-wheels, Ben Fiegert. Behind the wheel and the espresso machine at Papa Ben’s Coffee Van is a man who gave up a long career in the mining industry to follow a passion that was percolating for years… coffee and community.

After 17 years of mining life, Ben made the bold decision to trade in the work boots and hi-vis for an apron and coffee beans. The motivation? More time with his three children, and a longing to serve the community he loves in a way that feels meaningful.

From that desire, Papa Ben’s Coffee Van was born.

Whether it’s your essential morning brew, a cheeky second coffee with lunch, or a caffeine boost at your next corporate or community event, Papa Ben’s Coffee Van delivers with heart.

The van is a regular at local markets, school fairs, smoko runs to local businesses, and private functions, including weddings, parties, and sporting events. No matter the setting, one thing never changes – Ben’s upbeat energy and warm approach that keeps customers coming back.

The coffee is top-notch, but there’s more brewing behind the counter than just espresso.

Papa Ben’s is also known for unique, mouth-watering menu items, none more beloved than the Biscoff Latte. What started as a promotional drink quickly became a customer favourite and a permanent fixture on the menu.

“The Biscoff Latte is hands down the most popular,” Ben explains.

Locally owned and operated, Papa Ben’s Coffee Van is the perfect example of a small business with a big heart.

And when he’s not fuelling the region with flat whites and friendly banter, Ben enjoys caravan holidays, movie nights with the kids, and making memories with family and friends.

From smoko stops to special occasions, Papa Ben’s Coffee Van is where quality coffee meets genuine connection.

Follow Papa Ben’s Coffee Van on socials to stay up to date with daily locations to have your coffee served fresh – with a smile.

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Vote Jeff Keioskie For Mackay Regional Council

In a by-election that will shape the direction of Mackay’s future, one candidate stands out not for promises made under fluorescent lights, but for decades of work done under the sun and on the ground.

Jeff Keioskie, a familiar name within building and business in our region, is putting his hand up to serve on the Mackay Regional Council. With more than 45 years in the local construction industry and generations of family ties to the region, Jeff’s campaign is rooted in experience, practicality, and a deep sense of community responsibility.

“The Keioskie family has been part of Mackay’s story since 1874,” he says.

“I’m the first generation off the land, and my connection to this community runs deep.”

A licensed builder and project manager, Jeff’s work has shaped some of Mackay’s most recognisable developments. From residential homes to industrial projects, he has a firsthand understanding of what infrastructure works, what needs improving, and how to grow with foresight rather than hindsight. His contributions have earned multiple Housing Industry Association (HIA) awards, but, more importantly, the trust of families and businesses across the region.

For the past two decades, he’s also served as Director of Professional Inspectors, a Mackay-based building inspection business that has supported thousands of families through honest, independent property advice.

“Our role is to protect people’s investments and provide peace of mind,” he explains.

It’s this combination of business acumen, boots-on-the-ground experience, and a strong moral compass that drives Jeff’s bid for council. He is not a politician by profession, and that’s precisely what appeals to many voters.

“I’m a practical, ‘can-do’ person. I want to contribute to a council that works with the community, not just for it,” he says.

Jeff is passionate about delivering better planning, stronger support for business and agriculture, and keeping Mackay’s young people employed and connected to the region.

“We need to plan smart, long-term infrastructure that meets the needs of our region,” he says.

“That means encouraging investment, creating career pathways, and backing our builders, farmers, and small businesses.”

He also calls for council leadership that prioritises transparency, accessibility, and results.

“I stand for practical solutions, open communication, and long-term outcomes that serve the whole community,” he says.

As the by-election draws near, voters have an opportunity to elect someone who isn’t learning on the job, but who has already spent a lifetime working for Mackay in various ways.

Jeff Keioskie offers a steady, experienced hand and a local’s passion for seeing this region thrive. He’s a candidate who understands that the true foundation of a thriving community is all about connection.

“I’m putting my hand up because I care deeply about Mackay and believe I can bring a valuable, hands-on voice to the Council table. Mackay deserves leadership that listens, rolls up its sleeves, and delivers real results.

“Let’s build a stronger future for Mackay together.”

Support local leadership – Vote Jeff Keioskie for Mackay Regional Council

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By Owen Menkens, CANEGROWERS Chairman

As we approach the midpoint of the 2025 crush, it’s clear this season is shaping up very differently to the one we endured last year.

In 2024, widespread delays, mill breakdowns, and wet weather left many growers stuck in the paddock and well behind schedule. This year, thankfully, we’re in a better place.

Dry conditions have helped keep the wheels turning. Some districts are even ahead of schedule, a rare but welcome sight. Mills are running more reliably in many areas, thanks to stronger off-season planning and maintenance.

It’s not perfect, and we’ve still seen disruptions, but cane is being harvested and crushed more efficiently than this time last year.

While this is relieving for a grower’s state of mind, we continue to navigate ongoing challenges, the global sugar price has dropped substantially from last year and input costs continue to pressure margins. Fuel, fertiliser, labour all remain elevated compared to last season and water availability remains critical.

Still, one thing hasn’t changed: the resilience of our growers. Time and time again, they rise to the challenge. It’s not just about farming cane — it’s about keeping the heartbeat of regional Queensland strong. Growers support local jobs, schools, businesses, and services. Their success underpins entire communities.

In my conversations across the state, the sentiment is cautiously optimistic. There’s relief that the season is progressing better than last year, and a quiet determination to keep pushing forward. Growers are realists, they know how quickly things can turn, whether it’s from global markets, extreme weather, or shifting policy. But they also know how to adapt and keep going.

Compared to last year, there’s a stronger sense of stability in the air. That’s thanks to the people on the ground, the growers, families, and workers who make this industry what it is.

Let’s stay on track and finish the season strong.

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August photo in the CANEGROWERS 2025 calendar. Photo credit: Robyn Bacon

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

In a volatile global sugar market, having the right marketing partner can make all the difference. Wilmar Grower Marketing is helping local cane growers take charge of their sugar price exposure with tailored support, flexible options, and proven results.

As one of world’s largest sugar traders, Wilmar offers growers the confidence to navigate changing market conditions. Whether you're someone who wants hands-on involvement or would rather leave pricing decisions to the experts, our flexible approach puts the power in your hands.

Some growers want to be closely involved in their pricing decisions. Others prefer to hand it over to an experienced team. We cater to both. Our service and products are designed to give growers genuine choice - whether that’s through managed pools, target pricing, or a mix of both.

One of our biggest strengths is our people. Our regional team members live and work in cane communities, so we’re always close by when support is needed. At the same time, we’re backed by a global trading desk, giving us access to detailed market insights that we share with our growers to inform their pricing decisions.

Over the past few seasons, we’ve been proud of the results we’ve delivered. Strong pool performance, competitive premiums and well-timed decisions have helped growers capture more value for every tonne of cane.

We also place a big emphasis on keeping things clear and simple. We know growers are busy running their farms — so we aim to make marketing something that supports your business, not complicates it.

The 2026 season is shaping up to be another important one for growers, and with the 31 October nomination deadline approaching, now’s the time to start thinking about who you want in your corner.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your sugar pricing strategy or simply want peace of mind knowing your pricing is in good hands, our team is ready to support you every step of the way.

To find out more about how we can support your marketing in 2026 and beyond, get in touch with our team.

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Here when you need us - support that fits in with your day

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You're in - you have your first full time job but now you need to learn to save. Here's how to budget your salary for the first time. The key is to start small and be consistent. Knowing exactly where your money goes each pay will give you control over your finances. You know what position you’re in and you’re better prepared to make informed financial decisions.

Start small
Leaving yourself a bit of wiggle-room is the golden rule of budgeting. So, start small with your savings. It keeps you focused, motivated and won’t feel like a total blow out if things don’t go to plan one week.

Streaming services
Option-paralysis aside, streaming services like Netflix, Stan and Spotify are so accessible that we sign up to them in the blink of an eye. Most services offer ‘family’ discounts so see if your friends are down to buddy up with you on an account so you can all save a few coins.

Lunches
Buying lunch at work every day adds up – quick. It can cost upwards of $20 or $30 a day just for coffee, lunch and a snack. While bringing your lunch to work every day isn’t always possible, doing it just two days a week can save you upwards of $200 a month.

Make swaps
This is a big one for the budding saver. There are endless swaps you can make to free up some cash in your budget, without it cramping your style. Some examples include choosing generic brands where possible in your grocery shop, and getting a reusable coffee cup for cheaper coffee shop trips (plus, it’s better for the environment – bonus!).

Stay home
This sounds so cliché but it’s fun. Promise. Next time you’re planning a night out with your friends for dinner, have them over instead. Put each friend on drinks, snacks or dessert duty and throw on some tunes while you whip up your favourite dish for your people.

Don’t forget that you’re essentially learning a new habit. And the key to creating a successful habit is consistency. Put a set amount into your savings from every pay, no matter how small, and be mindful every time you make the transfer.

It might feel like a process to start with, but seeing the figure grow month by month will motivate you to keep going. And with time, adding to your savings will become as second nature as stopping for your morning coffee. If you’d like to open a dedicated savings account, or talk more about budgeting and saving, contact us at Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank on 4943 2634.

NOTE: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS GENERAL ADVICE ONLY. READERS SHOULD SEEK A TRUSTED PROFESSIONAL’S ADVICE ON FINANCIAL MATTERS.

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Early intervention has received a major boost in Sarina, with local organisation, Mudth-Niyleta Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation awarded $300,000 through Round 1 of the State Government’s Kickstarter Grant.

The grant forms part of the Gold Standard Early Intervention program; a four-year, $100 million commitment aimed at breaking the cycle of disadvantage and crime through proactive, community-led support. This latest investment is set to deliver meaningful change for Sarina’s young people, providing early help to those most at risk.

The funding will support a new holistic youth wellbeing initiative designed by Mudth-Niyleta, focusing on culturally responsive case management and wraparound support for vulnerable, disengaged, homeless or at-risk youth aged 8 to 17 across the region.

“This funding means we can work alongside young people who are falling through the cracks, connecting them with the right support at the right time. It's about healing, guidance, and offering hope,” said Jazzan Arroyas, Program Manager.

The initiative will help local youth reconnect with education, access safe housing, build life skills and find positive pathways into employment and community connection.

“As a community-led organisation, we understand the challenges faced by our youth, and we also understand the power of early support and belonging,” said Sam Raciti, CEO of Mudth-Niyleta.

“This funding allows us to strengthen our efforts and deliver meaningful outcomes for young people who need a hand up.”

Chairperson Sam Hampton added: “We are proud of the work our team continues to do in Sarina and beyond.

"This investment is recognition of what can be achieved when community organisations are trusted to lead. We thank Glen Kelly’s for his advocacy and the Queensland Government for backing a project that will make a real difference.”

Mirani MP Glen Kelly also welcomed the news.

“This is a fantastic result for Sarina. Mudth-Niyleta are doing grassroots work that truly changes lives, and I’m proud to see this level of investment backing a local organisation that understands our community from the ground up.

“Supporting our young people, especially those facing complex challenges must be a priority, and this program is a powerful step in creating better futures. Congratulations to the Mudth-Niyleta team and everyone who worked so hard to make this happen.”

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Glen Kelly, Sam Hampton, Sam Raciti and Jazzan Arroyas discussing the Queensland Government’s Kickstarter Grant allocation. Photo supplied

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