Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Photo source: Mayor Greg Williamson (Facebook)
Mackay has etched its name into Australian sporting history, with the city hosting its first-ever men’s Test match at Great Barrier Reef Arena in a landmark week that placed the region firmly in the international cricket spotlight.
Held from August 22nd to 26th, the second match of the NRMA Insurance Northern Australia Test Series brought Australia and Bangladesh to Mackay, transforming the Great Barrier Reef Arena into the stage for one of the biggest sporting events the region has ever hosted.
And while the historic occasion may have ended sooner than many fans had hoped, Australia delivered an emphatic performance on the field, bouncing back from its defeat in Darwin to secure an innings-and-51-run victory over Bangladesh inside two days.
Bangladesh struggled against Australia's formidable bowling attack, scoring 64 in its first innings before being dismissed for 95 in the second, while Australia posted 210. Mitchell Starc was the standout, claiming 10 wickets for 51 runs across the match, including 6-12 in the first innings and 4-39 in the second. Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon each claimed three wickets in Bangladesh's second innings as Australia sealed the victory and levelled the series 1-1.
But beyond the scoreboard, the Test represented something far greater for Mackay.
Speaking to media before the opening ball was bowled, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson reflected on the significance of the occasion, and the potential of hosting cricket at the Olympics in 2032.
“We are now the 12th city in Australia to be recognised as a Test venue for men’s Test cricket,” Mayor Williamson said.
“When you look at what Great Barrier Reef Arena is today, it’s a fantastic venue. We’ve proven that we’ve got the facilities there.
“I think we’re going to see a tremendous event housed in a tremendous facility that can actually handle it.”
For Great Barrier Reef Arena CEO Adrian Young, the historic match was a milestone for the venue, and a reflection of the community that had spent generations building Mackay cricket.
In a reflection post on social media after the big weekend, Mr Young said, “What a week for Mackay.”
“Our first-ever men’s Test match. Two sold-out days of cricket. A national and international spotlight on our city, and another huge step forward for Great Barrier Reef Arena.”
“We prepared a great Queensland pitch that had bounce, carry and consistency. It rewarded GREAT bowling and provided a challenge the touring team weren’t able to overcome. The best bowling attack in the world showed us exactly what they were made of,” he said.
More importantly, Mr Young said the event demonstrated what the Mackay community was capable of achieving.
“This venue has been built over generations by our community. Volunteers, staff, players, members and supporters have taken Mackay cricket from humble beginnings to hosting the Australian Test team,” he said.
“To every volunteer and staff member who gave their time before and during this event; thank you. We simply wouldn’t be here without you.”
“From a cricket club formed in 1867, to Test cricket in 2026 to Olympic cricket in 2032,” he said.
“That’s the journey we are on, and we are only just getting started!”
Remember September, Pankind’s flagship fundraising campaign, brings communities together each year to remember those affected by pancreatic cancer while raising vital funds for research and support. Photo supplied
Mackay residents are being encouraged to lace up their walking shoes or ditch a daily vice next month to support those affected by pancreatic cancer.
Pankind’s Remember September 2026 campaign is calling on the community to take action against Australia’s third biggest cancer killer, with two challenges available.
Participants can Move It by walking or running 78km throughout September, representing the 78 Australians who die from pancreatic cancer every week, or Give It Up by going without a vice such as coffee, sugar or alcohol for the month.
More than 4,500 Australians are expected to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year, with 80 per cent dying within 12 months. The five-year survival rate is just 13 per cent, dropping to around six per cent in rural and regional areas.
Pankind CEO Michelle Stewart said research was key to changing those outcomes.
“Remember September is about solidarity, action, and progress. Every step taken and every dollar raised fuels research that could help Australians live longer and live better after diagnosis.”
Since its inception, Pankind has invested more than $20 million in research grants across 76 projects at leading Australian institutions, and those wishing to become involved in this year’s fundraiser are encouraged to register online via www.rememberseptember.org.au.
M&P Services’ 11th annual Charity Golf Day raised $75,152 for local causes, continuing a 40-year legacy of giving back to the Mackay community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
M&P Services has once again hit it out of the park – or, more accurately, around the course – with its 11th annual Charity Golf Day raising a remarkable $75,152 for local causes. Proudly sponsored by Key Solutions Group, this year’s event edged past last year’s $75,000 total, continuing a fundraising legacy that began with $6,000 at the inaugural event.
Mayor Greg Williamson praised M&P Services Managing Director Max Lamb Jnr and his team for turning a day on the green into one of Mackay’s standout community fundraising events.
After 40 years serving Mackay and the greater region, M&P Services continues to prove that good business is more about giving than it is about receiving. With more than $425,000 raised over the years, this is one community tradition that’s well and truly on par.
Mr Lamb Jr and the team emphasised their overwhelming gratitude for all involved in such a great turnout for yet another year!
A day on the green has once again delivered a major result for the Mackay community, with the 11th annual M&P Services Charity Golf Day raising an impressive $75,152, just surpassing last year’s total of $75,000!
Proudly sponsored by Key Solutions Group, the annual event has grown from humble beginnings into one of Mackay’s leading charity golf days.
Mayor Greg Williamson praised M&P Services Managing Director Max Lamb Jr and his team for the event’s continued success.
“This is the 11th annual charity golf day, and we’ve got to say to Max and his team, what a great job,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The first round, 11 years ago, raised $6,000. Last year, it raised $75,000, and already more than $350,000 has gone to Mackay charities throughout the years.
“This is Mackay’s leading charity golf day, and getting from $6,000 in that first year to where it is today is an outstanding achievement.”
For Max Lamb Jr, the day was about more than golf, with the event providing an opportunity to give back to the community that M&P Services has supported through its operations across Mackay and the greater region for 40 years.
With now more than $425,000 raised over the past decade, this is one community tradition that’s well and truly on par.
A strong focus of the event has been keeping funds local, with money raised going directly to the supported charities and organisations.
“Every dollar we raise goes straight to the bank accounts of these local charities,” Max Jr said.
“It doesn’t go through head offices in Brisbane, Sydney or anywhere else. It’s directly supporting local charities, which is why we love what we do.”
Max Jr also extended a major thank you to the many supporters, businesses, organisations, sponsors, volunteers and participants who have helped make the Charity Golf Day possible year after year, with their support again playing a vital role in the success of the 2026 event.
“To everybody who has supported this event, we thank you very much!”
For 40 years, M&P Services has been part of the fabric of Mackay and the greater region, and giving back to the community has remained central to that legacy. The annual Charity Golf Day has grown into one of the company’s most meaningful ways of turning community spirit into tangible support, bringing together local businesses, organisations and individuals to make a difference.
The following Charities and Organisations have been supported by this years golf day:
The team at M&P Services extend a massive thanks to the following Major Sponsors:
What began as a quick stop to watch Hamilton Island Race Week soon placed Ben Archer, his mate Ryder and Ryder’s partner Eva at the centre of a Mayday response.
After the Oyster 825 Viva La Vida struck a reef near Long Island, the trio rushed to assist as the yacht continued taking on water.
Seeing the situation worsening by the minute, Ben was faced with a daunting decision. Should he stay safe aboard his boat or climb aboard the stricken vessel to help?
On Friday 21st August during Hamilton Island race week, a boat began echoing a mayday after their vessel struck the reef and began taking on water fast.
It was the most dramatic moment of an already hectic fifth day of racing, as the American-led crew of the Oyster 825 Viva La Vida struck a reef and began taking on water, prompting them to sound the alarm.
“On Friday 21 August, during racing at Hamilton Island Race Week, the crew of Viva La Vida issued a Mayday call after striking a reef,” said the Hamilton Island race week team in a statement about the incident.
“Vessel traffic services were alerted and took control of the emergency response.
“The crew was supplied with a pump by Hamilton Island Marina but was unable to stop water entering the vessel.
“All crew members were safely returned to Hamilton Island Marina."
Among those who rushed to help was fellow sailor Ben Archer, who was aboard a Riviera with his mate Ryder and Ryder’s partner Eva near the northern end of Long Island when the Mayday call came over the radio.
The pair were delivering the Riviera from Coral Sea Marina back to its owner, when they stopped to watch the racing.
As the fleet sailed past, a mayday call came over the radio. Realising Viva La Vida was nearby the trio immediately moved to assist.
A nearby Hamilton Island barge arrived at about the same time carrying a diesel pump, which they helped transfer onto the Riviera and then across to Viva La Vida in the swell.
With the yacht continuing to take on water, the crew attempted to start the pump but struggled to get it running, prompting Archer to climb aboard the stricken vessel and help.
“They asked if I could get on board and help start the pump,” Ben said.
“I thought, ‘Am I really going to jump onto a sinking boat?’ But I said, ‘Righto, here we go.’”
Despite the urgency of the situation, Archer said the atmosphere aboard was calmer than might be expected, even as the yacht eventually rolled onto its side and began to sink, taking the diesel pump with it.
“I’d just got the pump going and thought we’re going to save it, and then the whole boat turned over,” Ben said.
Once in the water, Ben climbed onto the back of the hull with two of the sailors, only to realise everyone had already abandoned ship and were on the boat with Ryder.
“I was thinking, ‘How did I end up on the sinking boat while everyone else is on the floating one?’” Ben said.
The experience made for a memorable Race Week for the rescuers, with Ben saying it was a great team effort, and the crew was grateful for their assistance.
“They were very thankful for all the assistance we could give them and definitely pretty happy to be aboard the Riviera afterwards,” Archer said.
“Ryder did a great job driving the boat, while Eva and I transferred the pump through the vessel.”
Christian College Whitsundays students Pazel Davis, Ollie Webb, Elliana Langshore and Miranda Jackson receive their medals at the Queensland Schools Bowls Competition in Brisbane.
As spring approaches, the action at our little club in paradise continues to grow.
Monday afternoon brought the final practice session for our four students before they travelled to Pine Rivers Bowls Club in Brisbane to represent the Whitsunday and Mackay districts at the Queensland Schools Bowls Competition.
Thanks go to Ronnie, Tony Whitehorn, David Meiklejohn and Di Jackson, who assisted skippers Ollie Webb and Elliana Langshore and leads Pazel Davis and Miranda Jackson during their match-play preparation.
After flying to Brisbane on Tuesday, the students contested games across Wednesday and Thursday, with every match livestreamed by Bowls Queensland. Miranda and Elliana won three games and finished eighth, while Ollie and Pazel placed a credible 11th against opposition.
We are proud of their efforts and hope to return even stronger next year. Special thanks also go to managers Mrs Webb and Mrs Langshore for taking such care of the students.
Back home on Wednesday, 38 bowlers filled the rinks. Western Australian skipper Mark Lewin teamed with Janet Jacometti and Laurie Horkings to win by 19 shots, while Noel Crosbie and Tony Whitehorn finished second on 16 points.
Friday welcomed Endeavour Foundation staff and our special friends Kathy, Michael, Jett and John, who all showed impressive improvement.
On Sunday, Carol and Noel Crosbie and Terry Clarke won their mixed triples by one point, while Andrew Butler, Kath Remmeswaal and Elaine Kippen advanced with a three-shot victory.
Visitors Mayumi O’Neale, Kurt Willi and Steve Anderson also joined us for another wonderful afternoon.
Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.
Cutting the anniversary cake.
Four decades of learning, friendships and school unity were celebrated last Saturday as Collinsville State High School welcomed past and present students, staff and families back for its 40th Anniversary Open Day.
The school first opened on its Walker Street site in 1986, giving Collinsville’s older students the chance to continue their education in their own community rather than travelling long distances or leaving town.
Over the four decades since, the school has grown alongside Collinsville and shared in the changing fortunes of the surrounding mining industry.
“Since opening its doors at the Walker Street site, Collinsville State High School has been a place where young people have learnt, grown, made lifelong friendships and been encouraged to believe in themselves and their future,” said Principal Anna Reeves in a school newsletter.
“Our 40th anniversary is not just a celebration of the school as it is today, it is a celebration of everyone who has been part of our journey.
“Our school’s story is one of strong community spirit, resilience, opportunity and a commitment to supporting every student to reach their potential.
“Forty years is a wonderful milestone, and I am very proud to be the current principal of such a wonderful school, with dedicated staff, amazing students and a supportive community.”
The open day offered Collinsville students past, present and future the chance to explore memorabilia collected throughout the school’s history.
The parade room will feature four decades of photographs, magazines and newsletters, alongside earlier material from when secondary education was delivered to Collinsville State School site.
For those unable to attend the open day, the display will remain in place across Monday and Tuesday, with visitors encouraged to contact the school to arrange a viewing.
The day’s main event began at 11.30am, as guests gathered for welcome speeches before watching one piece of Collinsville history emerge from the school’s 30th anniversary time capsule and another be sealed away for future generations.
Inside the 30th anniversary capsule were formal and polo school shirts, photographs and a letter from a member of the original Year 12 cohort who attended the school in 1986. The capsule also contained postcards written by students and staff predicting where they expected to be 10 years later, offering a personal glimpse into the hopes held at the time.
The new 40th anniversary capsule was filled with items capturing school life today, including staff and student shirts, a school-branded travel mug and cutlery set, photographs of students, staff and events, student artwork and the current newsletter.
Messages from staff and students were also included, alongside stories from four Year 7 students about life in Collinsville. A Bacon Busters program, School President Kodi Mackie’s welcome speech, Anna Reeves’ thank-you speech and a letter from former principal Boyd Jorgensen completed the collection.
With the latest chapter of school history safely sealed away, the milestone celebrations were topped off with the cutting of the anniversary cake.
“The Open Day will provide an opportunity to explore our school and relive many wonderful memories created at Collinsville State High School over the years,” Principal Reeves said.
Penny, Mandy Coles, Paul Darrouzet and Dawn Romanella Photo credit: Rachael Smith & Trish Jandt
The iconic jetty at Coral Sea Resort came alive with a vibrant party atmosphere last Thursday evening with the resort kindly hosting more than forty industry members in the second of its monthly networking evenings.
Owner of Coral Sea Marina, Paul Darrouzet was present on the night, and the rain clouds that had previously plagued the week, parted to provide a stunning ocean backdrop and a classic Whitsunday sunset.
Honey may be shy at first, but beneath her reserved nature is a big personality waiting to emerge.
The three-to-four-year-old cat just wants a peaceful place she can meow home to, where she can regain her confidence and feel safe.
Honey arrived at Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue from the pound, where renovation work and excessive noise left her in a constant-anxiety filled state. She now needs patient owners willing to give her the space and time to settle in on her own terms.
Once comfortable, Honey enjoys staying close to her people and can become quite talkative, particularly at night when she finds a secure spot to curl up and let her purrs be heard.
Honey prefers her own space, rather than being around other cats and dogs, feeling more at ease as the only pet at home. While she is gentle around children, she is more likely to keep to herself.
If you think Honey could be the perfect addition to your home, contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue by direct messaging your name, phone number and "Honey" to begin the adoption process.
Fundraising with a view: Rendezvous set to come to Cape Gloucester. Photo source: Shutterstock
The Shag Islet Cruising Yacht Club (SICYC) is preparing to bring four days of fun and fundraising back to the Whitsundays, with its annual Rendezvous once again throwing its support behind the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
Running from 27th to 30th August at Cape Gloucester Resort, this year’s “Nauti-Cal Schoolies” themed Rendezvous will bring the boating community together for a packed program of entertainment, competitions and social activities; all while supporting an important cause.
Fundraising for prostate cancer will feature throughout the weekend, including opportunities for attendees to purchase event memorabilia and take part in activities supporting the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
On Saturday, representatives from the foundation will be on hand alongside a specialist nurse from Mackay Hospital and Health Service, giving attendees the opportunity to learn more about prostate cancer, available support and the importance of awareness.
The weekend will also include the popular “Shaggers Salon”, where attendees can brave a shave for prostate cancer, along with raffles and major auctions helping raise further funds.
Beyond the fundraising, there will be no shortage of entertainment across the four-day program.
Festivities include live music, themed dress-up competitions for boats and caravans, beach games, yoga, a book swap, a pirate farewell party and Saturday night fireworks.
Grey nomads have also been invited to join the fun, with a special “land lubbers” morning tea planned for Saturday.
The annual Rendezvous has become an opportunity for SICYC members, visitors and the wider boating community to enjoy the Whitsundays while rallying behind the fight against prostate cancer.
Tickets are $35 per person, with caravan and camping available on site for an additional fee. Bookings are essential, with registrations available through Humanitix.
Close to 40 disadvantaged people and job seekers across the Burdekin electorate will be given extra support to build their skills, confidence and pathways into lasting local work.
The initiative comes from a welcomed investment by the government being put into two local training programs, with $215,500 for Burdekin PCYC’s Get Set for Work program and $146,800 for Whitsunday Success Pathways’ Work Skills Traineeships program, which will be delivered in Bowen.
The funding forms part of a $46.2 million round of the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program, supporting 166 projects across Queensland aimed at addressing skills shortages in priority industries.
Member for the Burdekin electorate Dale Last said the wraparound support offered through both programs would give young people a more tailored experience.
“We have already seen the successful results in our community with past participants becoming the skilled workers we need in priority industries like construction, health, community services and hospitality,” Mr Last said.
“In order to grow our local workforce and bolster our region’s economy, we need to be able to retain young adults in our community and that means ensuring there are positive career pathways available and the ability to obtain the skills needed in our towns.”
Mr Last said that programs like Skilling Queenslanders for Work showed the government’s focus on better outcomes for workers, employers and local communities.
“This is a great outcome for Burdekin and Bowen communities whose economies ultimately benefit from the addition of skilled, local young workers,” Mr Last said.
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Sunday Sippers presenting CQ Rescue with their big check. All photos supplied by Peter Hannah.
What started as a quiet Sunday afternoon drink at the Queens Beach Hotel has grown into a $57,000 show of support for a service Bowen locals know they may one day need.
For the past five years, the Sunday Sippers have been gathering at the pub each Sunday from 4pm to 6pm, running raffles, sharing a drink and raising money.
The raffles have grown with the cause, now featuring venue vouchers, butcher shop prizes, seafood vouchers and extra BWS prizes when the Sunday crowd is especially strong.
“In the early days we’d go to the hotel on a Sunday and there wasn’t much happening, so we decided we’d put something together where we could raise funds while having a drink,” said Sunday Sipper Peter Hannah.
“It started out with a little sausage sizzle, two bucks a sausage, and on a big Sunday we’d raise 12 bucks. So we thought, no, we’ve got to do something better than this.”
Since those humble beginnings, the group has gone on to raise an impressive $57,000 for CQ Rescue.
Choosing an organisation to donate to was easy for the Sippers, as Bowen’s location between Townsville and Mackay, surrounded by rural communities, cattle properties and coastal roads, means the rescue helicopter plays a crucial role when urgent help is needed.
“Our community fundraising supports the helicopter- to ‘keep the bird in the air’ as we say,” Peter said.
“The helicopter visits here quite regularly, so people know that it’s a vital part of how to get out of here if things go wrong.”
“All the people here are behind it,” Peter said.
“We are supported by our community people, the butcher shop and the pub and things like that.” Peter said.
“I’d like to give them a little pat on the back too.”
Peter Luke and Brad Garner. Photo supplied: Leanne Oliveri.
After two-and-a-half seasons in Proserpine, Cane Supply Manager Peter Luke is returning to the Burdekin and handing the reins to experienced railway and logistics manager Brad Garner.
“I’ve been in logistics for close to 20 years and working in Proserpine has been one of the highlights of my career with Wilmar Sugar and Renewables,” he said.
“Proserpine is a friendly place and everyone has been extremely welcoming. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support, friendship and cooperation throughout my time here. I have greatly appreciated it and will look back on my time at Proserpine with many fond memories.”
Peter has been working closely with Brad over the past month, helping him transition into the Cane Supply Manager role.
Brad began his sugar industry career at Invicta Mill in 1985 and has since held rail and logistics roles across Wilmar’s Burdekin operations, most recently serving as Senior Railway Superintendent across all eight mills.
“I’m looking forward to taking on this position, as it will give me the opportunity to work directly with local growers and harvesting contractors, as well as Proserpine Mill employees,” Brad said.
“Peter has introduced me to lots of local growers and industry stakeholders, and has given me a strong foundation for success in the role.
“I’m keen to bring my experience to the region, build strong relationships and contribute to the ongoing success of the local sugar industry.”
Proserpine Mill processed close to 64,300 tons of cane for the week. This was below budget due to a planned extended maintenance stop to repair the bagasse reclaimer. Our season to date has now totaled more than 712,000 tons.
Average weekly CCS came in above budget, at 14.01 units. The highest weekly CCS sample for the week was 17.16 units, from a rake of SRA26 Plant cane in the Elaroo District.
As we approach the halfway point for the Proserpine production season, we’re reminding locals and visitors not to become complacent about cane trains. Parents and carers are urged to remind their children not to play on or around the cane rail network.
Drivers are reminded to obey all signs and signals and always give way to cane trains. Haulout operators are reminded that cane trains get right of way when delivering or collecting bins from the siding.
Remember, cane trains work around the clock, seven days a week, so please continue to use your train brain and always take care around the cane rail network.
Anxiety is experienced not only through thoughts but also through the body. A person may understand that their fears are unlikely to happen, yet their body can still respond as though danger is present. This is why effective anxiety treatment often involves addressing both the mind and the physical stress response.
Psychotherapy helps individuals explore the thoughts, beliefs, and experiences that contribute to anxiety. Through evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), people can learn skills to manage worry, reduce avoidance, and respond differently to anxious thoughts.
Exercise strengthens these therapeutic changes by regulating the nervous system. When we exercise, the body experiences sensations similar to anxiety, an increased heartbeat, sweating, and faster breathing, but within a safe and controlled environment. Over time, this can help the brain learn that these sensations are not dangerous.
Movement can also create space from anxious thoughts. A walk outdoors, a yoga session, or a gym workout can shift attention away from constant worry and bring awareness back to the present moment.
The combination of psychotherapy and exercise can be especially valuable because each approach targets different aspects of anxiety. Therapy supports insight, emotional processing, and behavioural change, while exercise supports physical regulation, energy, sleep, and confidence.
Small steps matter. Someone experiencing anxiety does not need to begin with a demanding exercise routine. A short daily walk or gentle movement can become a foundation for change.
When exercise and psychotherapy are combined, individuals are supported to develop healthier thinking patterns, stronger coping skills, and greater resilience in managing life’s challenges.
“If you’d like more support in managing ADHD for yourself or your family, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give Cristie 0488667264 or me 0418708214.”
By Michael Kimpton: Motivational Speaker
I am a 72-year-old Ironman triathlete. Currently ranked number 1 in Australia and number 4 in the World in my Age Category 70-74, where most of the athletes are retired or dead!
I only progressed to IRONMAN Triathlon competition in 2021, at the age of 67, taking on a monster one day endurance event consisting of a 3.8km swim, 180km cycle and a 42.2 km Marathon run. This wouldn’t have seen possible once upon a time- back in 1977,a traumatic accident permanently changed the course of my life. Let me take you back to that day.
On a wet and windy night I was commuting back home after work as an Accountant in Melbourne. Out of nowhere I crashed my motorcycle, causing life-threatening injuries that changed everything.
The accident happened just down the road from the Royal Melbourne Hospital. I fell off my motorcycle on a greasy roundabout and slipped under a parked car. I lost consciousness and immediately needed 2 units of blood for my massive injuries; a severely gashed calf and compound fracture of the femur. I was rushed to emergency at the Royal Melbourne Hospital in a critical condition with severe injuries, loss of blood and shock. My kidneys failed and I was placed on dialysis.
However, the human body can be remarkably resilient and is sometimes able to recuperate. Slowly I weaned off pain medication and gradually started to understand the seriousness of my health predicament. My left leg was fully paralysed due to nerve damage and the compound fracture required the insertion of a metal rod and months in traction.
The enormous wound in my calf required skin grafts. I was told I was lucky not to lose my lower leg.
I spent 5 months in hospital in traction, 6 weeks on kidney dialysis, and then learning how to walk again after my muscles wasted away was a major task. Lucky for me the Nerve in my leg was not completely severed and it regenerated over the next 18 months.
Whoever thought I could do a full Ironman, let alone represent Australia 7 times in this challenging multisport?
Years on I still listen to kids on the beach who say, “Shark Bite for sure!” I’m still explaining my disfigurement to this day.
I believed I was given a second chance in life. I am now one of the most ambitious and driven people - in life and in triathlons. I never do things halfhearted. I always put in 110% and never say never!
‘Not possible” are two words that don’t appear in my vocabulary. If someone says to me it’s not possible; I’ll prove to them it may be possible.
My goal is to motivate & inspire you all. I want you to feel safe enough to leave your comfort zone in order to achieve anything which you might believe is beyond your expectations.
This does not have to be in a sport. it can be in life in general. Any goals you set yourself whether it be to do with work, family, play, achievements, recognition, promotion, happiness- whatever!
Please help me with raise funds for my next challenge in October this year by scanning the QR code.
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