It was raw. It was real. And it was the start of something powerful.

Earlier this month, the first Women’s Wealth Creation Workshop launched in Mackay, bringing together a roomful of women ready to reshape their futures, reclaim financial independence, and talk about money – the good, the bad, and the transformational.

The event, hosted by Shirlz Russell and Robyn Agius from Area Specialist, was created to encourage and support women to build independent wealth, and to show that investing in property might be closer than many think.

Behind the conversations were some sobering statistics. According to the 2021 Census, 7,325 women aged over 55 were experiencing homelessness – a 6.6 per cent increase since 2016, when older women were already the fastest-growing group facing homelessness in Australia. Many of these women had never been homeless before. For some, the shift came suddenly, triggered by divorce, the death of a partner, or illness.

“These are our mums, our sisters, our neighbours,” said Shirlz.

“This isn’t a niche problem. It’s happening right here, and it’s something we can change.”

As Chair of the Chances House committee – Mackay’s key homelessness organisation supporting people without a permanent address and those doing it tough – Shirlz sees firsthand how fragile a woman’s housing security can be. Her passion for preventing homelessness is one of the driving forces behind the workshop.

The workshop combined practical financial knowledge with deeper mindset work, because, as the hosts believe, building wealth isn’t just about the numbers. It’s about undoing the conditioning that tells women they have to be caregivers, not asset-holders.

Guest speaker Maria Roney, a healer and intuitive guide, explored the emotional side of money.

“We’ve been conditioned to give and nurture,” she said.

“Many women can barely take a compliment – so how do we expect ourselves to receive wealth?”

Maria encouraged attendees to examine their financial behaviours, confront inherited beliefs, and actively ask for abundance.

“Dream your greatest dream – and take the steps to get there.”

Next, mortgage broker and property investor Kara Johnson of Yellow Brick Road Mackay shared practical insights from her own investment journey – one that started in negative equity. Now with 18 years in finance and a thriving property portfolio, Kara helped participants understand how to get ‘finance ready’, even if they’re starting from behind.

“There’s always a lender out there, even for applicants with poor credit or small deposits,” she said.

“Sometimes it’s about knowing how to present yourself, streamlining debts, and taking advantage of first home buyer grants, particularly with new builds where instant equity can be created.”

Kara stressed that the first step is just having the conversation.

“Even if you’re not ready now, a good broker can give you a tailored plan to get there.”

The energy in the room was electric and deeply emotional. Women shared their own stories, asked bold questions, and walked away with more than just inspiration: they had practical tools and a roadmap for action.

“Our WWC Workshop has certainly been a game-changer for many already,” Shirlz said.

“We had real talk, raw honesty, and powerful mindset shifts. We’ve had so many women say this was exactly what they needed – and we’re just getting started.”

The workshop was the first in a four-part series. The second session took place on May 22, diving into budgeting and decluttering your financial life.

Women can still join the remaining two sessions – and by attending three of the four, attendees will remain in the running to win the $12,000+ Wealth Prize Pack, drawn at next year’s International Women’s Day high tea hosted by Zonta.

Book your seat: https://bit.ly/WealthWorkshop1

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Nala’s Second Chance After Years On The Run

In a story that reads more like fiction than fact, a dog named Nala has been found – five years after she first went missing from a backyard in West Mackay.

Nala vanished in February 2020, just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, near the Botanical Gardens. Her disappearance sparked an emotional and determined search by her heartbroken family.

But Nala was in flight mode.

Each time she was sighted, her family raced to her location, laid down food and bedding, only for her to approach, recognise them, and run.

Over the years, community members continued to report sightings. Photos were posted online. Social media users tagged her family in hopes of a reunion…But every lead ended the same way – Nala was always just out of reach.

In early 2025, new sightings began surfacing more frequently. A dog matching Nala’s description was seen again and again – thin, frail, and limping. It was clear she needed help.
That was when Ella, a resident from Moranbah, saw a post, and without hesitation, she committed to rescuing the dog.

Ella teamed up with a group of Mackay-based volunteers: Jodi, Debbie, Chantel, Julz, and Taylah from Lucky Paws Dog Rescue Inc.

Using CCTV footage from a local business, the team located the dog, and from that point on, a nightly routine began. The volunteers regularly dropped off home-cooked meals at the site in hopes of earning the dog’s trust.

The animal, wary but hungry, began returning to the same spot.

A Lucky Paws Dog Rescue Inc Representative said, “Rain, hail or shine, this hungry dog turned up for a warm bowl of dinner.”

However, there were unfortunate setbacks.

Some locals kicked over the food and water bowls, and the first trap attempt proved too small.

But the group persisted. Ella personally constructed a larger, custom-built trap designed specifically for the rescue.

Then, on Friday 9 May, after weeks of patience and perseverance – the dog was caught.

“The dog was finally in the trap and we can confirm this beautiful girl is Nala,” a Lucky Paws volunteer said.

Nala is now nine years old, battling heartworm, a hip injury, and several lumps requiring medical assessment. While she has not returned to her original family, she is now safe under the care of Lucky Paws Dog Rescue Inc, where she’s receiving the treatment, she urgently needs.

The organisation is appealing for public support to help cover her care, and donations can be made at www.luckypaws.com.au.

Thanks to the compassion and determination of a small group of volunteers, Nala now has a second chance, and the community is quietly cheering her on, hoping her next five years are filled with nothing but cuddles, comfort, and good food.

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After five years on the run, a determined dog named Nala has finally been rescued thanks to the efforts of a small group of volunteers - and now begins her long-awaited second chance. Photo source: Lucky Paws Dog Rescue Inc. (Facebook)

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Staff from the Specialist Outpatients Department (SOPD) at Mackay Base Hospital donned blue last week in support of Do It For Dolly Day, a national campaign to end bullying and spread kindness.

Held on 9 May, Do It For Dolly Day honours the memory of Dolly Everett, a 14-year-old girl who tragically took her own life in 2018 after experiencing prolonged bullying and cyberbullying. The annual day of action calls on communities, schools, and workplaces to foster kindness and stand against bullying in all forms.

A representative from Mackay Hospital and Health Service said the SOPD team felt strongly about raising awareness of bullying, its long-term impact, and the role kindness plays in prevention and healing.

The team rallied together to wear blue – the campaign’s official colour – and raised more than $350 for the cause.

“Every act of kindness and dollar donated can make a difference,” the representative said.

Their efforts were part of a broader national movement to show support for young people who may be struggling and to honour Dolly’s legacy with positive action.

By taking part, SOPD staff not only raised funds but also reinforced the importance of compassion within the healthcare setting.

The community is encouraged to continue spreading the message: be kind, speak even if your voice shakes, and never underestimate the power of a small gesture.

To learn more or donate, visit www.doitfordollyday.org.au.

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Mackay Base Hospital’s Specialist Outpatients team wore blue and raised $350 to support Do It For Dolly Day, a campaign to end bullying and promote kindness in memory of Dolly Everett. Photo source: MHHS

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143 Years Of Trusted Service

At Porters, our commitment to serving the Mackay community remains as strong as ever. As our business continues to evolve over 143 years, we want to reassure our loyal customers that all Porters Can Do Trade divisions at Carlyle Street are still open and trading.

You can continue to rely on the local expert teams at our Mackay City location - Mackay Trade Centre, Porters Plumbing Plus, and Inspirations Paint Mackay, all located on Carlyle Street. These stores remain fully operational, offering the same trusted service and quality products you’ve come to expect.

To help you plan your visit, please note the current trading hours for our Carlyle Street divisions:

• Mackay Trade Centre / Porters Plumbing Plus / Inspirations Paint Mackay:
Monday-Thursday: 6:30am – 4:30pm
Friday: 6:30am – 4:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am – 1:00pm

• Porters Plumbing & Kitchen Showroom:
Monday to Friday: 8:00am – 4:00pm

Whether you're a tradie, renovator, or weekend DIYer, our friendly staff are here to help with expert advice, competitive pricing, and a wide range of quality brands.

Outside of Carlyle Street? You can also visit any of our other Porters store locations, which are trading as usual:

• Northern Beaches
• Glenella
• Marian
• Sarina
• Whitsundays

Porters has been part of the Mackay region for over 140 years, and we’re proud to continue supporting local trades, builders, and families across all our locations.

For more information on store locations, products, and services, visit www.porterscando.com.au.

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

With the culmination of triennial elections this month, I have been given the honour to serve growers as Chairman of CANEGROWERS Mackay. It is a privilege to lead such an iconic organisation, that has been integral to the development of the modern sugar industry in this region since its inauguration 99 years ago.

It is also exciting to take up this leadership role at a time when the sugarcane industry will become even more important to the regional economy, with emerging opportunities across renewable energy and biocommodities that use sugarcane as a feedstock. I look forward to the challenges which may lay ahead.

While I am stepping up from the CANEGROWERS Mackay Deputy Chairmanship, the incoming Deputy Chair is Dumbleton grower Brett Leach.

I also wish to pay tribute to the departing Chairman of 12 years, Kevin Borg, whose commitment, work ethic and outright passion for growers concerns and for our industry cannot be understated.

As a leader in the Mackay-Plane Creek district, and within the State organisation, he has been instrumental in some major wins for growers, including the federal legislation for grower choice in marketing alongside the implementation of the Sugar Industry Code of Conduct. Locally, he has been a strong voice for growers with all levels of government, and particularly on the issue of Mackay Region’s peri-urban ratepayers in the canefarming category. Always forward-looking for new opportunities for sugarcane as a commodity, he has been a strong proponent for the Greater Whitsunday region’s emerging biocommodities industry opportunities.

He has had a long and successful term as Chairman, and I look forward to offering growers the continuity of that deep dedication to growers’ issues, and to capturing emerging markets for our product, but seen through fresh eyes. Change is good for an organisation, and can bring fresh ideas and new energy. Our organisation is in a good position to move forward and we will continue to work together with a focus on the common good of growers.

I intend to work closely with all parties interested in the sugarcane industry, to build on our relationships with all connected organisations.

I will represent our members with absolute tenacity across the industry and with all levels of government, maintaining our strong voice as an organisation. That is my commitment to our members.

The change in leadership comes as we stand on the cusp of another crush.

Plane Creek is scheduled to put first cane through the rollers on June 3, with an early crop estimate of 1.6Mt. Mackay Sugar will follow running a staggered start over a week, with Farleigh Factory leading out on 10 June, followed by Racecourse on the 12th, and Marian on the 17th. These start dates are, of course, dependent on successful steam trials and good weather. The initial crop estimate for Mackay Sugar is 5.15Mt, and CANEGROWERS members will have a starting CCS of 13, given Mackay Area Committee’s success in arbitration in 2024 on starting CCS.

Crush start means a need for vigilance in the community, not just around cane rail, but around farms as heavy machinery starts to move about.

We are calling on all families in cane areas to remind children that farms are workplaces, so rattling around cane headlands on motorbikes and bicycles, playing on farmland can be highly dangerous, especially during the harvest.

We ask those working in the industry across the supply chain to likewise take care, to be mindful of hazards.
We extend to all involved in the industry our hopes for a safe and successful harvest for all.

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Celebrate RSPCA's Million Paws Walk Fundraising Event For The Final Time Across Australia In 2025

For the past three decades, RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk event has united animal lovers across Australia, raising vital funds to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals in need. As the beloved event prepares for its final lap in 2025, the community is invited to come together one last time to celebrate its enduring impact – and create a brighter future for vulnerable animals.

Among the thousands of animals helped by Million Paws Walk fundraisers is Millie, a tiny puppy who went from injured and alone, to a life transformed.

At just five weeks old, Millie was found wandering the streets of Mackay, injured and in pain. Her eye was severely damaged, and it was obvious beautiful Millie was in need of urgent medical attention when she arrived into the care of RSPCA Mackay. Millie was rushed into surgery, but sadly her injured eye could not be saved.

In the days and weeks following her operation, the dedicated shelter team gave Millie the care, comfort and love she desperately needed. With pain relief and plenty of TLC, she quickly bounced back from her surgery. Millie had a fighting spirit!

Within a month, she had doubled her weight as she started to feel better and grew into a happy pup with a big personality.

Having just one eye didn’t hold Millie back from finding love. Once she was fully recovered, a loving forever family swept Millie off her feet. This is their recent update:

“She is doing great! She has settled in really well with her big brother Rocco and loves to annoy him by stealing his toys and making Rocco chase her for them. Millie loves people and gets very excited over meeting new faces and she will do anything for a cuddle. Millie loves her food and her sleep (as most pups do) and her favourite spot to relax is on her inside bed close to her favourite humans and big brother Rocco.”

Millie's happy tale is just one of the thousands of incredible stories made possible thanks to the generosity of Million Paws Walk participants over the years. The funds raised have helped countless animals like Millie receive lifesaving treatment and find their forever homes.

On Sunday May 25, the final Million Paws Walk events will take place across the country, including at Queens Park in East Mackay. The RSPCA is hoping for a record-breaking turnout of 550 walkers and their canine companions at the Mackay event. The community is encouraged to sign up and walk to help animals less fortunate than your own.

To be part of the final unforgettable Million Paws Walk chapter, register now via https://www.millionpawswalk.com.au/mackay

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Join the Mackay community this Sunday at Queens Park for the last-ever Million Paws Walk - a heartwarming celebration of 30 years helping animals like Millie find love, hope, and forever homes. Photos supplied

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National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week (19-25 May) is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering – a time to recognise the vital role volunteers play in our communities and to encourage more people to get involved. This year’s theme, ‘Connecting Communities’, highlights the incredible power of volunteering to bring people together, creating meaningful relationships that enrich lives and strengthen the places we call home.

At Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, this theme resonates with our mission to build a stronger, more resilient community by reinvesting profits back into the region through sponsorships, donations, community grants and scholarships. As a profit-for-purpose enterprise, our community banking model is founded on connection, belonging and bringing people together.

That same spirit of connection is what we see every day in the incredible volunteer organisations we’re proud to support, including:
• Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club – where dedicated volunteers keep our beaches safe, mentor young lifesavers and promote water safety across generations.
• Mackay Hospital Foundation Volunteers – this compassionate team provides care, comfort and community to patients and families in our local hospitals and medical facilities.
• QCWA branches across our region – where volunteers are the backbone of rural communities, offering support, advocacy, and practical help when it’s needed most.

To every volunteer who gives their time and energy without expecting anything in return – you’re not just helping our community, you are at the heart of it.

From all of us at Community Bank Sarina – thank you to all of our volunteers in our community.

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Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club awarded the 2021 Community Bank Sarina Community Impact Award with Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich and Chair, Karen May. Photos supplied

QCWA Nebo Sarina Range's Lyn Hackett with Community Bank Chair Karen May at the 70th Anniversary of the QCWA Nebo-Sarina Hall

Mackay Hospital Foundation Volunteers at the Community Bank Sarina Volunteer Sponsor Launch in 2024

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Kimberley Named QLD Volunteer Of The Year

A passionate Mackay local has taken out one of the state’s top honours during National Volunteer Week, being crowned Volunteer of the Year at the 2025 Queensland Volunteering Awards.

Kimberley Doyle was recognised for her extraordinary service to Special Olympics Mackay Fire and Special Olympics Queensland. Since stepping into a leadership role in 2014, she has helped grow the powerlifting program across three states, introduced bocce and table tennis to the Mackay club, and secured over $10,000 through the Containers for Change initiative. Now chair of Special Olympics Queensland, Kimberley continues to mentor others and build inclusive opportunities through sport.

Held in Brisbane on Friday, May 16, the awards celebrated Queensland’s most dedicated volunteers—those who give their time, talent and heart to strengthen communities.

Mackay was well represented on the night. Frank De Battista was nominated for Queensland Youth Volunteer of the Year, and Mackay Regional Council’s Youth Volunteering Program was named a finalist for the Volunteering Impact Award – Government.

Kimberley’s win is a proud moment for the region and a powerful reminder of how volunteers connect communities—especially in challenging times.

Kimberley Doyle accepts the 2025 Queensland Volunteer of the Year Award. Photo supplied

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Local green thumbs gathered last week to celebrate the official opening of Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association’s (SLCMA) expanded community nursery—an exciting milestone made possible through a $9,000 Community Grant from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.

The event marked the completion of Stage 1 of the expansion project, which aims to boost the nursery’s capacity to grow native plants, engage volunteers and support environmental rehabilitation projects across the Sarina region.

Attendees, including SLCMA members, volunteers, supporters, and funding partners, toured the nursery and surrounding gardens, reflected on the site’s development over the years, and recognised the many hands that helped bring the project to life.

“This expansion strengthens our ability to support local landholders, revegetation projects, and community greening initiatives,” said Saskia von Fahland, Coordinator of SLCMA.

“It’s also a reflection of what can be achieved through strong partnerships and grassroots support.”

“The SLCMA Community Nursery is a hub for learning, connecting and making a difference in our local environment,” Ms von Fahland said.

“We are excited to see how this expanded space will increase our production capacity, improve functionality and provide more opportunities for the community to get involved.”

The SLCMA Community Nursery plays a vital role in promoting native plant species and sustainable landcare practices. With its enhanced facilities, the nursery is better equipped than ever to continue its mission of supporting local biodiversity and land management through hands-on community action.

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Celebrating growth—SLCMA members, volunteers, and partners gather to mark the completion of Stage 1 of the Sarina nursery expansion

L-R CBS Chair Karen May and CBS Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich admire SLCMA gallery

L-R Glen Kelly MP, Karen May, Susie Tomlinson, Mayor Greg Williamson, Saskia von Fahland, Chris Vrsaljko

L-R Glen Kelly MP, Maree Franettovich, Lachlan McBride (SLCMA Chair). Photos supplied

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Thick smoke rising from Marian Mill on Sunday afternoon drew attention across the Pioneer Valley, as emergency services responded to a fire within the Mackay Sugar facility.

Mackay Sugar confirmed the incident involved a blaze in the mill’s bagasse bin.

“There has been an incident today (Sunday 18 May) where a fire has become alight in the bagasse bin at our Marian Factory. The fire is now officially under control and all our people, employees and contractors, are safe and accounted for,” the company said. “Thank you to the emergency services teams for aiding and taking control of the fire before it escalated.”

Grower representatives have contacted Mackay Sugar to determine whether the fire damage will delay the start of this year’s crush. Mackay Sugar said a full investigation is now underway to establish the cause of the fire and assess any operational impact.

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Photo source: QCAR (Facebook)

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Did you know that already this year 28 Australian women have been killed as a result of domestic and family violence? This is not someone else’s problem – we all have a part to play in preventing this scourge on our society. So, what can you do to help?

The combined Rotary Clubs of Mackay have collaborated with several other local organisations to take action. Our mission is clear and powerful. We aim to inspire values of respect and accountability – especially among young men.

We also aim to increase reports of domestic and family violence – empowering victims and bystanders to seek help and speak out – and we want to mobilise the Mackay region, to stand united against domestic and family violence.

The program is about spreading awareness in schools and the community. Some 600 purple T-shirts have been distributed across 12 high schools in the Mackay region, carrying messages of “No to Domestic and Family Violence” and “Yes to Respectful Relationships”. An additional 500 T-shirts are circulating throughout the broader Mackay community. We are encouraging Purple Fridays across all five Fridays in May to visibly reinforce our message.

The Betterment Project will engage Year 11 and 12 boys in all 12 local high schools during the second week of May. Magistrate Damian Dwyer will address 209 students at the Bravus Breakfast on Thursday, May 29, at Ocean International, equipping them with a message to bring back to their schools.

And finally, on Friday, May 30, Mackay Police have generously agreed to close Victoria Street for the "Respect in Every Step: March to End Domestic Violence". The march will lead to Bluewater Quay, where we will hear from key speakers, including Amanda Camm MP, Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, Mayor Greg Williamson, a police representative and an additional guest speaker. We expect 575 students and a total attendance of more than 1000 people from the community.

Join us, and let our community know that domestic and family violence will not be tolerated! To register, please go to rotarymackay.org.au/index.php/dv

Cr Belinda Hassan

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Conference To Champion Culture Over Compliance

In high-risk industries, safety is more than a checklist—it’s a culture. That’s the message behind Resource Industry Network’s 2025 Safety Conference, set to take place on Friday 23 May at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.

Themed Safety Starts with Us, this year’s event serves as a timely reminder that safety leadership isn’t confined to policies and procedures. It starts with people—every team member, every day.

RIN’s annual Safety Conference has become the most trusted regional platform for exploring evolving safety priorities, especially for Central Queensland’s METS and resources sectors. Hosted by Bravus Mining & Resources COO Mick Crowe, the 2025 conference is designed to equip participants with knowledge, insight, and tools to help drive safety culture from the ground up.

"This event isn't just about checking a box; it's a strategic move towards ensuring your team's welfare and your organisation's future accomplishments,” said Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at Resource Industry Network.

With a program built around physical and psychological safety, the day will feature breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and thought-provoking presentations from leading voices in the industry. Participants will gain practical insights into how human connection and wellbeing underpin safety outcomes—factors that affect productivity, morale, and long-term organisational success.

“This conference provides a platform for safety professionals and leaders to move beyond compliance and engage with the deeper drivers of a positive safety culture,” Mr Kirkwood added.

The 2025 speaker line-up includes David Provan from Forge Works, a recognised name in safety leadership, and Naomi Armitage from Humanology Group, known for her work in organisational psychology and human-centred design.

Tailored to Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) professionals, supervisors, and managers across the sector, the conference is ideal for those committed to advancing workplace safety through real, human-led change.

“Attending this event is a signal to your team that their wellbeing matters—and that leadership is willing to invest in long-term cultural improvement,” Mr Kirkwood said.

RIN’s Safety Conference 2025 is made possible thanks to the generous support of Major Partners: Aurizon, FMS Group, Local Buying Foundation, Mackay Regional Council, and the Office of Industrial Relations.

For further information, contact Sonia at sonia@rin.org.au or call 0419 413 787.

Event Details
What: Safety Conference 2025
When: Friday 23 May 2025
Where: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, Halls 1 & 2
Address: 258 Alfred Street, Mackay QLD 4740
Time: 6:45am – 4:30pm

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Mackay Players Serve Up May Mayhem

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures May 13, 2025:

Division 1:

Panther Prowlers (Doug Dungavell, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) drew Ghost Spin (George Camilleri, Branko Vucurovic, Kevin Abbott) 6-all. Doug d George -6, 9, -6, 8, 8.

Ant Warriors (Allan Robins, Judy Zahn) d Cosmic Sorcerers (Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) 6-4. Allan/Judy d Pam Coral -11, 11, 9, 10.

Star Lords (Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) drew Phoenix Fire (Donna Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Noreen Fredericksen) 6-all. Donna d Geoff 7, -2, -12, 9, 12.

Division 2:

Novas Smashers (Marie Taylor, Louise Gould, Frank Caruana) d Eclipse Spin (Helen Ware, David Muir, Virginia Clayton) 8-4. Virginia d Marie -6, -7, 9, 7, 7.

Orion Orbiters (Ross deBoer, Kim Daffy, Robyn Bushell) d Astro Aces (Iris Grasso, Frank Caruana, Chris Collins) 9-3. Iris d Kim 8, 10, -6, -3, 11.

Division 3:

Bat Serves (Kim Challender, Madge Saunders, Ron Johr) drew Captain Spins (Josie Davis, Sharon Muller, Myles Dutton) 6-all. Sharon d Kim -7, 9, -6, 5, 8.

Iron Rallies (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Laurie Bradshaw) drew Spider Smashers (Gerry Synnott, Cheryl Pearson, Glenda Dutton) 6-all. Cheryl d Laurie 6, -9, -7, 8, 5.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results May 13, 2025.

Division 1:

Pixel Players (Jacob Whelan, Lily Boland, Andrew McHugh) d Code Crackers (Emma Widdup, Lee Brake, Geoff Cowan) 8-3. Emma/Lee d Lily/Andrew 10, -5, 5, -13, 8.

Data Dashers (Josh Brown, Barry Patterson) d Byte Bouncers (Anne Sheridan, Graham Brake, Ian McKay) 6-5. Josh d Ian -9, -10, 3, 6, 7.

Pixel Paddles (Mick Ruhl, Robbie Richards, Trent Day) d Tech Titans (Ivan Perkins, Neil Brown, Geoff Denman)  9-2. Neil d Robbie -10, -7, 9, 7, 10.

Nano Nets (Vimal Chilukuri, YiLin Jiang, Vince Boeske) d App Attackers (Andrea Nicholson, Steven Whiting, Graeme Walker) 6-5. Steven/Graham d Vimal/YiLin -7, 9, 7, -9, 4.

Division 2:

Giga Gamers (Allan Robins, Peter Goodson, Liz Burton) d Stream Strikers (Melanie Theodore, Ross deBoer, George Camilleri) 7-4. Peter d Ross 5, -7, 9, -12, 4.

Quantum Quick  (Mark Sleeman, Rymer Tabulo, Ollie Hamelink) d Cloud Chasers (Rod Hamelink, Syed Aminul Hossain) 7-4. Syed d Mark -7, 7, 7, 8.

Rambo Rallies (Will VanDeKaa, Noreen Fredericksen, Tiffany Camilleri) d Turbo Techs (Val Austin, Steve Mathieson) 8-3. Will d Steve -6, 9, -13, 10, 5.

Mega Movers (Craig VanDeKaa, Duncan Treloar, Mark Stam) d Circuit Cyclers (Janice Kent, Simon Hogan, David Symons) 6-5. Craig d David -9, -5, 7, 10, 8.

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Sharon Muller lines up her shot in a tight five-setter at Mackay Table Tennis

Kim Challender played a key role in Bat Serves’ 6-all standoff with Captain Spins

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Serious Crash Under Investigation, Laguna Quays

Police are investigating a serious two-vehicle crash that occurred last Sunday, May 18, at Laguna Quays near Proserpine.

Around 10.25am, a group of motorcycles had been travelling southeast along Kunapipi Road when a Honda VT400C collided with a silver Holden Colorado coming from the opposite direction.

A second motorcycle, a Kawasaki VN800 carrying a pillion passenger, lost control and crashed into a nearby ditch. The rider of the Honda, a 40-year-old Strathdickie woman, was airlifted to Mackay Hospital in critical condition.

Two others sustained minor injuries. Police have appealed for witnesses or relevant dashcam or CCTV footage to assist with inquiries.

Reference: QP2500856292

Drugs And Firearms Seized

Mackay detectives charged a woman earlier this month following the alleged discovery of drugs and a firearm. Around 9am on May 3, police executed an emergent search warrant at a Nebo Road hotel, allegedly uncovering dangerous drugs, including methylamphetamine, methylenedioxymethamphetamine, and suboxone, along with utensils and ammunition. A firearm was also allegedly found in a gold Prado outside.

A 43-year-old Carruchan woman was charged with four counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of unlawful possession of weapons, authority required to possess explosives, unlawful possession of suspected stolen property, and possessing utensils.

She has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on July 16.

Reference: QP2500762179

Home Break In And Attempted Car Theft, Seaforth

Police are seeking public assistance following a home break-in and attempted car theft in Seaforth. Around 2am on May 15, two people reportedly forced entry through a locked door into a Prince Charles Avenue home, stealing keys to two vehicles parked outside.

The resident was alerted by noises and saw the offenders attempting to enter both vehicles. When verbally challenged, the pair fled the scene with the stolen keys. They are described as males, approximately 19 years old, wearing baggy clothing.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police immediately. Authorities also remind vehicle owners to store keys securely and out of sight, especially overnight, and to report any suspicious activity, no matter the time.

Reference: QP2500834087

Stolen Caravan And Holden Colorado, Blacks Beach

Police are investigating the reported theft of a utility and caravan from a property on Cavanagh Drive, Blacks Beach. The incident occurred sometime between 4am on March 29 and 12am on April 8.

The stolen vehicle is a blue Holden Colorado utility with registration 667ZDV, and the caravan is a 2018 Golf Savannah model bearing registration 514UGL. Both were locked and secured in a driveway, with the caravan attached to the vehicle.

Police are appealing for any information about the offence or the current whereabouts of the stolen items.

Reference: QP2500604597

Update: Fatal Traffic Crash, Alligator Creek

35-year-old Hay Point man, Izaac Raymond William Addis, has been charged with manslaughter following extensive investigations into a fatal crash on January 7.

Just before 5pm, it was alleged that a black Holden Utility drove dangerously on Hay Point Road, veered into oncoming traffic, and collided with a silver Kia sedan. The 58-year-old Ooralea man, Nick Evangelista, who was driving the Kia, died at the scene.

The accused appeared in Mackay Magistrates Court on May 14 via videolink from Mackay watch house. Bail was denied by the magistrate and the accused was remanded in custody.

Reference: QP2500039449

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A 43-year-old Carruchan woman was charged after police allegedly uncovered drugs, a firearm, and ammunition during a search of a Nebo Road hotel in Mackay on May 3. Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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Meet CQUniversity’s Newest Chiropractor, Mr Vincent Bones

As National Spinal Health Week (26 May – 1 June) highlights the importance of a healthy backbone, CQUniversity is proudly turning the spotlight on a graduate whose name is as fitting as his career – Master of Clinical Chiropractic alumnus Neil ‘Vincent’ Bones.

Yes, Bones is his real surname. And no, you couldn’t script it better.

After completing his studies at CQU’s Mackay campus, Vincent is ready to make his mark in the chiropractic field, offering a fresh pair of hands to a profession dedicated to keeping Australia’s spines aligned and strong.

Freshly qualified and already putting his knowledge to good use at Grays Chiropractic and Wellness in Mackay, Vincent is quickly becoming a spine-alignment sensation in his local community.

“I get the ‘you were born for this’ comment a lot,” Vincent laughed.

“It’s a great icebreaker with patients – and a good way to keep things light in the clinic.”

But Vincent’s path to chiropractic wasn’t always obvious, in fact it seemed to be quite whimsical.

While sport and staying active were always part of his life, he never had seen a chiropractor personally before starting the course.

"Everyone, including all my classmates, thought I was a little crazy for diving into something I had zero background in. But from day one, I started learning, experiencing it firsthand, and seeing the real benefits of chiropractic care,” Vincent explained.

“So, no – it wasn’t love at first sight. But now? I’m all in, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything."

So, it wasn’t a predetermined calling, but a health challenge during his final year of high school that shifted his career perspective.

“I was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, and that really made me take my health seriously,” he said.

“That experience gave me a deeper appreciation for wellbeing, and probably played a part in wanting to help others feel their best too.”

During his time at CQUniversity, Vincent immersed himself in anatomy, biomechanics and hands-on clinical training, and it has all paid off as he has transitioned from student to practitioner, a move he describes as both exciting and fulfilling.

“I’m passionate about helping people move better, feel better, and live better,” Vincent said.
“Whether it’s a small difference or a big one – if I can improve someone’s quality of life, that’s what drives me.”

Now focused on building his experience, Vincent is aiming to become a trusted practitioner in his community – someone people can rely on for honest, quality care.

In the long term, he’s open to working with athletes, expanding his practice, or even opening a clinic of his own.

As National Spinal Health Week shines a light on the importance of maintaining a healthy spine, Vincent’s story serves as a timely reminder of the growing need for passionate, knowledgeable chiropractors in regional communities.

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Thinking of a career that makes people feel better – inside and out? CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Science (Chiropractic) and the subsequent Masters of Clinical Chiropractic offers the skills, support, and clinical training to launch your career in one of Australia’s most in-demand health professions. Photos supplied

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