Mater Mothers’ Hospital in South Brisbane urgently needs donations of ‘cuddle hearts’ to give its tiniest patients the best start to life.

The Neonatal Critical Care Unit is looking to restock the cupboards with the fabric hearts, which are two heart-shaped pieces of material (soft cotton or flannelette) sewn together.

Mater Neonatal Critical Care Unit Education Coordinator Julia Maguire is calling on crafty volunteers to turn on their sewing machines and lend a hand.

“One fabric heart is given to the mother and placed on her chest to pick up her scent, with the other heart placed close to the baby for the same reason,” Ms Maguire said.

“The hearts are then swapped so mother and baby are left with each other’s scented heart.

“The little cuddle hearts help a mother’s milk come in when she is apart from her baby, while the scent of the mother also has a calming effect on the baby.”

Sewers in Mackay can donate specially stitched cuddle hearts to help mums with sick and premature babies in Brisbane.

Ms Maguire said while donations are always welcome, for safety reasons it is important to stick to strict sewing instructions (available on the Mater Mothers’ website) when making the cuddle hearts.

Mater Director of Neonatology Dr Pita Birch said: “Smell is such an important sense and one that has been shown to be critical in developing and strengthening the bond between baby and parents."

Every year almost 1700 sick and premature babies are cared for in the Mater Mothers’ Neonatal Critical Care Unit.

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Mater Mothers' Hospital Lactation Consultant Kerryn Dadge with mum Melissa McCallum. Photo credit: Annette Dew

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Reef Catchments and Drought Hub recently hosted a highly successful workshop in Sarina, designed to help local farmers tackle the challenges of transitioning their agricultural businesses to the next generation. Led by renowned succession expert Scott Patterson, the Succession Planning workshop offered practical strategies tailored to the realities of farming life.

Scott used real-world case scenarios to deliver practical insights that deeply resonated with attendees. Farmers gained a clearer understanding of succession planning, the differences between business management and ownership, and the importance of structured processes.

Discussions covered key barriers to successful succession, trading versus holding assets, and strategies for ensuring a smooth transition. The relaxed atmosphere encouraged open conversations, with the key takeaway being to _‘start planning and communicating now.’_

In response to the positive reception, Reef Catchments and Drought Hub are excited to announce two additional workshops in Proserpine and Sarina in March 2025. These sessions will again focus on equipping farmers with the tools they need to navigate succession planning in a practical and supportive environment.

Reef Catchments Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator Kellie Harmsworth notes, “Planning for the future is key to keeping family farms thriving for generations.

“These workshops help farmers take proactive steps to secure their legacy—giving them the tools and confidence to start important conversations now, so they can avoid challenges down the track and keep their properties productive and successful for years to come."

An online condensed version of the 2024 workshop is available on Reef Catchments’ YouTube page for those who want a preview of the topics covered.

_For more information, please contact Reef Catchments Project Officer Rachel Taylor: rachel.taylor@reefcatchments.com or 0419 778 402._

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Since its founding in December last year, Purrrfect Treasures has been dedicated to rescuing and rehoming surrendered, dumped, or abandoned cats and kittens in need of a loving family. In just a short time, the not-for-profit organisation has already made a significant impact, recently celebrating the adoption of 10 cats in a single adoption day.

Purrrfect Treasures hosts ‘Cat Haven’ adoption days every Saturday from 10am to 2pm at Petstock, providing potential adopters with the perfect opportunity to meet their future feline companions.

With cat dumpings on the rise over the past five years, rescues like Purrrfect Treasures play a crucial role in giving these animals a second chance. Through the dedication of carers and supporters, many cats and kittens find the safe, loving homes they deserve.

Karina Baulch, Secretary for Purrrfect Treasures, encourages potential adopters to look beyond a kitten’s appearance and focus on forming a meaningful connection.

"We encourage everyone to not just pick for looks, but for the connection that they have with the kitten."

To ensure each cat is ready for their forever home, they receive their first vaccination, are desexed, and microchipped before adoption. The adoption fee is $280, plus a microchip transfer fee, and while council registration is recommended, it is not required.

The organisation’s success relies heavily on community support, with donations and foster carers playing a vital role in saving more lives.

"The more donations and carers we have under our rescue, the more cats we can save."

Those eager to support Purrrfect Treasures can email ptcathaven@gmail.com, donate via the QR code, or contribute in-store at Petstock Mackay.

If you're ready to adopt or want to help, visit Purrrfect Treasures on Saturdays at Petstock and follow them on Facebook: PTCatHavenInc to stay updated on upcoming events.

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Purrrfect Treasures hosts ‘Cat Haven’ adoption days, providing potential adopters with the opportunity to meet and connect with rescued cats and kittens in need of a loving home. Follow their Facebook page to stay up to date with upcoming events.

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Captured in stunning detail by Belinda Eckford, this breathtaking image showcases a powerful wedge-tailed eagle in flight, clutching its latest meal. Taken approximately four hours west of Mackay, near Clermont, the photo highlights the raw beauty of nature in the Australian outback.

Belinda described the experience as surreal, watching the mighty bird soar effortlessly. As Australia’s largest raptor, the wedge-tailed eagle is an awe-inspiring sight, a true symbol of the rugged wilderness.

Thank you, Belinda, for sharing this incredible moment!

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Mackay Regional Council began refurbishment work on Brewers Skate Park in Sarina earlier this week.

The project includes refurbishing four of the existing ramps to ensure the skate park remains a popular and safe recreational space for the community.

To minimise disruption, temporary fencing will be placed around two ramps at a time, allowing half the skate park to remain open while work is being carried out.

A new half pipe will also be installed to replace the one that was vandalised last year.

Work will take place on weekdays, during school hours, to minimise disruption to the community.

The project is expected to be completed by late February, weather permitting.

Council appreciates the community’s patience as it works to improve this popular facility.

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Long pants and sturdy shoes might help avoid a trip to the ED as yard clean ups begin across the region after recent wet weather.

Residents are being urged to be vigilant with an increase in snake bite presentations recorded across the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) with snakes on the move due to high temperatures and floodwaters.

There have been 27 snake bite presentations at Mackay Base Hospital since December last year. There were 11 patients treated at the hospital in December 2024 and 13 in January 2025, an increase from 16 patients in total for the same two-month period in the previous year.

A man is in a stable condition at Mackay Base Hospital after a snake bite at Blacks Beach earlier this week. Last weekend there were two patients taken to Proserpine Hospital after snake bites, both of which required transfer to Mackay Base Hospital for antivenom treatment. One of these patients, a woman in her 40s, was bitten at home and later transferred from Proserpine Hospital by rescue helicopter on Sunday. She remains in a serious condition in the Mackay Base Hospital.

Mackay Base Hospital Emergency Department Senior Medical Officer Dr Nirindu Weerakoon said all snake bites should be treated as a medical emergency, regardless of whether you think the snake is venomous or not.

People who are bitten can often feel very well with little to no symptoms, Dr Weerakoon said.

“Some potential symptoms that you might get are headaches, bleeding from the bite site, double vision, sometimes difficulty with breathing or stroke-like symptoms,” he said.

“The worst-case scenario is cardiac arrest. Knowing snake bite first aid is critical and can save a life.”

Dr Weerakoon said the most important thing to do in the event of a snake bite was to apply a pressure immobilisation bandage as soon as possible.

“Always call 000 or get someone else to go for help. As long as you are not in danger of being bitten again, remain where you are,” he said.

“Venom travels through your lymphatic system so the more you move the faster it is pumped around your body.”

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Valentine’s Day is more than just roses…though you’ll find plenty of those too at Blossoms Flower Boutique. Now under the new ownership of Frances Deguara, this boutique is THE one-stop-shop for thoughtful gifts, fresh flowers, and locally made treats.

From elegant lilies and sunflowers to handcrafted fudge and gourmet Poppy’s chocolates, there’s something for every taste. Blossoms Flower Boutique also features the ever-popular Ecoya candles, adorable teddies, and custom hampers filled with authentic local and Australian-made treasures.

This Valentine’s Day, elevate your gift-giving with a selection of romantic bouquets and gifts that truly express your love. While you’re picking out that perfect gift, why not treat yourself to a freshly brewed Merlo coffee and enjoy the warm, welcoming atmosphere in-store?

Whether you’re looking for the ideal bouquet, a unique gift, or a sweet treat to make the day special, Blossoms Flower Boutique offers a welcoming space filled with handpicked options designed with love.

_Visit the boutique or check out their brand-new website at www.blossomsflowerboutique.com.au today and discover something meaningful…just for you or your special someone!_

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Love is in the air, and what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with an unforgettable dining experience at Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant? Nestled on River Street in Mackay, this charming spot offers the perfect blend of exquisite Asian cuisine, warm hospitality, and a relaxed atmosphere beside the Bluewater Lagoon.

For those looking to impress their special someone, the restaurant’s special Valentine’s Day set menu delivers exceptional value, featuring a selection of beautifully crafted dishes designed to delight the senses. Whether indulging in a leisurely lunch or a candlelit dinner, couples can savour fresh, flavour-packed meals while enjoying the tranquil ambiance.

If a night under the stars sounds more appealing, why not take the romance on the road? The full menu is available for takeaway, making it easy to plan a picnic by the river or a beachside feast with your loved one. And for those who prefer a cozy night in, their home delivery service ensures a stress-free evening of great food, good company, and perhaps a little Netflix and chill.

With a menu bursting with authentic flavours, expertly prepared dishes, and a setting that feels just right for love, Tropical Phoenix Garden is the ideal destination for Valentine’s Day—whether you’re dining in, heading out, or staying home. Book ahead to secure your spot or place an order for the ultimate romantic feast.

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A huge thank you to the rescue services and local emergency stars who stepped up to support flood-affected areas. Your generosity and hard work did not go unnoticed! Amanda Camm MP, gave a special shoutout to Britt and the Mackay team from Ergon Energy Network, after the crew gifted her a pair of gumboots during her visit to Ingham.

Photo sources: State Emergency Service - Central Region and Amanda Camm MP (Facebook)

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How good is it to finally see the sun?! After what felt like a never-ending stretch of rain and gloomy skies, I was beginning to forget what natural light looked like. Just when I thought my washing might never dry again, the sunshine decided to make a grand return—right as I boarded a plane to New Zealand, of course. Timing, right?

This trip isn’t for a holiday, though. Two of my beloved family members have been diagnosed with aggressive cancers, and both have been told their conditions are inoperable. Their treatment—radiation and chemotherapy—is purely palliative, focused on quality of life rather than a cure. It’s heartbreaking, and to be honest, it’s a lot to process.

In the meantime, our brilliant journalist Hannah will be taking the reins on this editor’s note. She recently marked her first anniversary with us, and I’m so proud to share that she’s been nominated for the JSP Women’s Awards in the Rising Star category.

Next week, we’re celebrating all the phenomenal women nominated for this year’s JSP Women’s Awards. What started as a simple blog by Fallon Drewett has grown into a powerhouse of female empowerment, storytelling, and connection. It’s a space where women lift each other up, swap stories, and remind the world that we are strong, capable, and—most importantly—never alone in the challenges we face. If you need a dose of inspiration (or just a reminder that you are an absolute queen), this special feature is one not to miss.

Speaking of inspiration—flipping to pages 26-27 and seeing all those sweet, squishy newborns gave me a moment of nostalgia. That is, until I remembered my ‘baby’ is now a fearless, furniture-climbing, boundary-pushing little tornado who is just over a month away from turning two. How did that happen?! One minute, you're rocking them to sleep, and the next, you're negotiating with a tiny human about why Marmite doesn't belong on the cat.

Enjoy this week’s edition, and I’ll be back with you in a couple of weeks!

Amanda

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Mackay Regional Council will consult with the community to determine the ideal location for an off-leash dog park in Slade Point.
Four potential locations for the new off-leash dog park have been identified including a stretch of beach accessible from Swallow Street Park, Lamberts Beach Lookout Park, Cumberland Park and Wren Street Oval Park and the adjoining Swift Street Reserve.

Mayor Greg Williamson said he supported the development of an off-leash dog park in Slade Point as it was aligned with council’s vision of providing accessible spaces where residents and visitors can live, visit and play.
“Council moved a motion to develop a community consultation plan for this facility at an ordinary meeting of council on October 30, 2024,” Mayor Williamson said.
“This was in response to a petition that was signed by 68 residents,” he said.

“The project will provide a dedicated space where dog owners in Slade Point can exercise their pets off-leash within a safe and controlled environment.

“Currently, the nearest off-leash dog parks are located in North and East Mackay, meaning residents have to drive across multiple suburbs to access these facilities.

“We are looking forward to meeting with the local community to gather feedback on the best location for the proposed off-leash area through a formal community engagement process.”

_Council will hold a community consultation session at Slade Point Community Hall, 4 Wren Street, Slade Point on Tuesday, February 18, from 4pm to 6pm to discuss the options with residents._

If you can’t make it to the consultation session, you can learn more and share your feedback at connectingmackay.com.au/slade-point-off-leash-dog-park.

The online survey will be open from 9am on Wednesday, February 19, until 11.59pm on Wednesday, March 5.

Buoy What A Good Idea!

By Ruth Puddefoot

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The Great Barrier Reef offers breathtaking views both above and beneath the water's surface, but it also harbours delicate ecosystems increasingly threatened by various growing pressures.

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These combined stresses undermine the reef's resilience, impairing its ability to recover from significant disturbances, such as frequent coral bleaching events predicted to occur more often in the future.

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The Great Barrier Reef, along with its surrounding island national parks, is home to numerous well-established fringing reefs, which are especially vulnerable to anchor damage. A single drop of an anchor can cause immediate harm, and while recovery may take years, the coral may never fully return to its previous state.

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The government’s Reef Trails project is a vital initiative for safeguarding the reef, serving two essential purposes. First, it designates areas where boats should refrain from anchoring, helping to prevent damage to fragile ecosystems. This is achieved through the use of white pyramid-shaped buoys with blue labels, which clearly mark no-anchoring zones.

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Second, the project offers an effective alternative by installing moorings, enabling visitors to experience the reef responsibly and sustainably.
Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell explained how the project has been a huge success so far:

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“We're getting to a point of capacity in terms of what we can put out in the Whitsundays,”

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“But there's certainly more work we can look at across the Great Barrier Reef to the north and south.”

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Marine Park Ranger Max Van Der Leden stated the moorings will be upkept by contractors, with the help of ranger dive inspections, to clean and replace as quickly as possible when needed.

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Owner of bareboat charter company Whitsunday Escape and President of the Whitsunday Bareboat Operators Association, Trevor Rees, stated that using these moorings allows boaties to safeguard fragile coral formations and seagrass beds that could otherwise be impacted by anchoring.

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“We thank the Queensland Government for expanding public moorings, as they minimise accidental harm and encourage responsible boating habits, particularly in disbursing vessels and discouraging crowding at other anchoring points.

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“The moorings will play a vital role in maintaining the Reef’s natural beauty and ecological health, ensuring it remains a treasure for future generations.”

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Online maps showing the locations of public moorings on the Great Barrier Reef are available: Public moorings and no anchoring areas | Environment, land and water | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au)

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Hi Everyone,
I wanted to start by saying how truly touched I was by all the kind messages I received about last week's Ruth 2 Reef feature, and I am thrilled by how many of you are eager to share your own environmental stories with the paper!
This week in the feature (pg18 & 19), we have had some wonderful contributions from local environmental organisations and initiatives, each doing fantastic work to protect the beautiful Whitsundays, and amid the recent weather, it is always nice to have some uplifting community stories to share.
The environment has always been important to me, having grown up in the small village of Tewin in the UK, with a family who consistently instilled the importance of looking after nature from a young age during our hiking and camping holidays.
Though I'm no longer the 12-year-old girl who would quietly pick up litter after her friends had left, as I've grown older, the values taught by my family have stayed with me. The principle of never leaving an environment worse than you found it is still something I strongly believe to this day.
It had always been a dream of mine to visit the Great Barrier Reef, and having the opportunity to live on its doorstep, explore the marine life, and learn about the incredible environmental projects underway is an experience that will stay with me for a lifetime.
I think 12-year-old Ruth would be very proud.
Ruth
“The more connected you are to your future self, the better you live in the present.” - Benjamin P. Hardy.

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Two young lads, Rory and Luke got out their shovels and helped fill as many bags of sand as they could for locals in distress during the recent torrential rain event. With the flood waters encroaching and the rain still coming down, residents in Bowen went out to the local council deposits seeking sandbags to protect their doorways from the threat of floodwaters.
Many hands made light work as Rory and Luke pitched in to get as many bags filled and delivered as they could. Helping to fill and load the bags for a disabled person who couldn't make the trip to the local sand deposit site themselves, the boy’s kindness and fast action helped others at a time of need and enabled them to build a barricade about their doorways.
“We’re just helping out,” said Rory.
“She’s wet, ain’t she!”
“People don’t realise how heavy sandbags are and just we just really wanted to help out someone who otherwise couldn't protect themselves from the floods.” Luke said.
Victoria, mum of Luke said, “They're both lovely kids and really good boys.” And it's a sentiment reflected by this community, helping and supporting each other is the way to go while the rains are coming down.
The two young men managed to fill, load, and deliver 30-40 sandbags, enough to fill their ute’s tray.
Thank you, Luke and Rory for pitching in and helping out by getting sandbags to the person in need.

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The two boys happily filling sandbags. Photo Supplied: Victoria Austin, credit Erin Byrnes

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A woman was rushed to hospital after being bitten on the foot by a snake on Sunday evening, around 7:26 at her home in Proserpine. Paramedics were called and she was rushed to Proserpine Hospital. She was then airlifted by CQ Rescue Helicopter to Mackay Base Hospital for further treatment
The quick and decisive actions of those around her were crucial in ensuring she received timely medical care. Her partner David, who called the ambulance, wanted to verify his fears about the bite and asked about the snake on Facebook. Commenter Adam, identified the snake as a Taipan, one of the world's deadliest snakes, confirming the dangerous nature of the bite. Thanks to David’s immediate action of phoning 000, the Proserpine Ambulance staff provided excellent care as the situation unfolded.
“Generally, for snake bites we will apply a pressure bandage, but most of the time it’s just trying to get them to hospital.” Ambulance media responded, noting that because David had been so practical, they just had to focus on keeping the woman calm and responsive while they transported her to the hospital’s treatment facilities at speed.
Thanks to the coordinated efforts of all involved, everyone is now hoping for the woman's full recovery. The incident underscores the importance of staying vigilant for snakes in the region as 10 people died from snake bites last year, seven of those from Queensland. This case serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by snakes, especially during this warm, wet weather when they are more active.
Call 000 in the case of a snake bite and follow their instructions while you wait for an ambulance.
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The Taipan is one of the world's deadliest snakes. Stock image, illustration only

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