Mackay Central State School recently received a kind contribution from Councillor Alison Jones of the Mackay Regional Council.

Her generous donation of seeds, grown and preserved from her own garden has significantly enriched the school's new Seed Library.

This initiative was originally noticed by Mackay Regional Council Libraries, where a selection of seeds are made available at various regional locations for community members to borrow seeds instead of books, to promote a love for gardening and seed sustainability as well as educate local children and families.

Councillor Jones’s says the Seed Library operates on a simple yet impactful principle: “Just like using a book, you use the seeds and then return it.”

The Seed Library allows you to borrow a packet of seeds, grow your plants and then return collected seeds in the provided envelope once your crop has matured for the next person. This system not only supports local agriculture but also helps cultivate a shared resource of seeds that are well-adapted to the local environment.

Previously, the Seed Library at Mackay Central State School has benefited from a range of generous contributions. Avah Plater, who assists with the school's Garden group, notes that donations have come from various sources, including her own garden, Councillor Jones’s Garden and even local businesses like Bunnings, which has provided garden goods.

The school is actively seeking further donations of gardening tools, seeds or other garden-related items. Such contributions are vital for continuing to grow fresh produce, provide educational opportunities for students and promote environmental stewardship.

Ultimately, the Seed Library aims to foster a thriving, sustainable community and inspire a new generation of gardeners.

Councillor Alison Jones of the Mackay Regional Council donated a variety of seeds from her own garden to support The Seed Library initiative. Image supplied

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In a surprise announcement made last week, Julieanne Gilbert, the Member for Mackay, announced that she will not be contesting the upcoming State election in October. 
 
Mrs Gilbert said that it has been an honour to represent Mackay in State Parliament. 

“The world has changed immensely during this time, increased use of social media, the global pandemic and now we are combating the global cost of living pressures.  I have loved working in our community. 
  
“I have decided that it is time for me to pass the baton onto someone younger who will continue work for our collective betterment, she said.
 
“I would like to thank the Mackay community for their support.”

During a press conference held on Sydney Street, Mrs Gilbert sighted the opportunity to travel with her husband, Frank, as well as spending more time with her family as motivating factors for her retirement. She also said that this was her decision and she was not influenced by the Labor party to retire.

During her career as the Member for Mackay since 2015, there are a number of projects delivered for the Mackay community that she is proud of.

“Investment into our road systems to make our daily lives safer and get to our destinations quicker including the Vines Creek Bridges, Mackay Ring Road and Walkerston Bypass and a network of shared bike and walking paths,” she said.
 
“Our health services continue to grow to service our expanding population including, the rebuild of the Sarina hospital, the funding for the 128-bed expansion and multi-story car park at the Mackay Base Hospital.  The expansion of the Heart Catheter Lab which is saving the lives of locals.”
  
The former teacher also said that the region’s future workforce will come from students currently sitting in classrooms.

“A new classroom block at the Mackay Special School, the upgrade to the performing arts blocks at North Mackay SHS and the new teaching spaces at CQU TAFE will prepare and train our young people. 

“Even when you have not agreed with decisions being made at state government level, please know that each decision was made with the best interest of our community’s future at heart.

“Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends, ALP branch members, many volunteers, and my hard-working electorate staff for joining me on this journey.”
 
Premier Steven Miles visited Mackay last Friday adding his support to Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan’s nomination to replace Mrs Gilbert as the Labor candidate for the seat of Mackay.

Ms Hassan said she would take an unpaid leave of absence from her role as a councillor while campaigning for the state election.

After nearly a decade of service, Julieanne Gilbert steps down as Member for Mackay to focus on family and travel. Her Mackay Labor team L-R: Suzanne, Julieanne, Phil and Emily. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Premier Steven Miles (left) visited a social housing project in Mackay last Friday adding his support to Cr Belinda Hassan’s Labor party nomination for the state election

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The community came together in force this year to support the Crossroad Arts’ Annual Giving Program, smashing this year’s target of $17,500 out of the park.

The final tally included a generous $5,000 donation of matched funds from Golding as the 2024 Crossroad Arts Community Champion, Golding generously matched community donations $1 for $1 up to $5,000.

Last week the Crossroad Arts team and Ambassador Georgia Knoll visited a local Golding civil engineering infrastructure project for a behind the scenes site tour and to celebrate the success of this year’s Annual Giving Program raising a whopping $27,205, well above this year’s target.

This figure was made possible with thanks to the donations from numerous local businesses and individuals, many returning to support the Annual Giving program year after year.

Martin Brears, Lead Civil Engineer for Golding, shared the reasoning behind Golding’s decision to partner with Crossroad Arts as a community champion for 2024 Annual Giving Program.

Martin explained, “Golding as an organisation has always looked to support smaller regional charities and sporting groups in the communities where we work. A great opportunity to support a local organisation giving so much back to the community”

Golding Community Liaison Mark Cornelissen went on to discuss how they became connected with Crossroad Arts and the appeal of supporting this Mackay-based organisation.

Mark said, “We heard through the community about Crossroad Arts and just thought about what a great opportunity it would be to do something related to Regional Queensland.”

Golding delivers civil infrastructure, urban and mining services on the East Coast of Australia. Over the past 75 years, ongoing success has allowed Golding to expand its capabilities into New South Wales.

Crossroad Arts are dedicated to creating outstanding inclusive art experiences for all people to build stronger communities. Funds raised from the Annual Giving Program go directly to supporting local artists and programs. If you share their passion for inclusivity in your community you are invited to help them achieve their vision of Arts for All.

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Crossroad Arts Staff visit Golding’s civil engineering infrastructure project site to celebrate the $5,000 matched donation

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Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay residents were treated to a welcome, and a level of hospitality, that was second to none whenever they visited Matsuura.
“Our sister city relationship has remained strong since its inception in 1989, but the people of Matsuura are just tremendous – they welcome us with open arms, invite us into their homes and share beautiful meals with us,” Mayor Williamson said.
Planning is currently underway for the first citizen's tour of our Japanese sister city since December 2019 (the 30th anniversary tour).
Twenty Mackay residents can take part in the tour, which will be led by Mayor Greg Williamson and council CEO Scott Owen.
The 2024 tour, from December 13 to December 20, will be an immersive experience with outstanding hospitality in Matsuura, including a dinner in the home of a Japanese family.
Matsuura City Council has planned a full range of activities including a visit to J-Power, the city’s coal-fired power station. There will also be a day trip to Mount Fuji and a free day in Tokyo.
Council is currently looking for residents who would like to take part in the citizen’s tour. Costs start from $3845 per person and booking deposits are required by the close of business, on August 2.
Mayor Williamson said during the last Matsuura tour in 2019, a crowd of about 400 people welcomed their group to the city and the Matsuura Mayor, Yoshi Tomoda unveiled a new park called Sister Park.
“The park has a giant platypus-shaped playground and a giant plinth engraved with ‘Mackay Regional Council’,” he said.
“It was an overwhelming experience that was a real pleasure to be involved in and I hope we can put together a great group to share that experience this year. This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about Japanese culture as a guest – not a tourist – and meet the people of Matsuura.”
For more information and booking details, contact mackaysistercities@mackay.qld.gov.au

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Matsuura Mayor, Yoshi Tomoda and Mayor Greg Williamson unveiled a new park
called Sister Park in Matsuura in 2019

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Digital marketing agency Rebel Nation opened Expressions of Interest earlier this week for The Rebellion – a marketing mentoring and coaching membership tailored to regional businesses and markets.

The Rebellion will commence with a founding membership – which is an early round available only to local organisations – with a discounted price.

To be eligible for the founding membership round, an EOI must be submitted by August 16.

Rebel Nation Director Jade McAuley said the membership would bring together upskilling, community connection and guidance in one platform to “empower anyone who wants to upgrade their marketing skills to not just learn more, but to also learn how to put it into action – and improve your marketing”.

"After 20 years in marketing in a regional area, across a number of industries and business types and sizes, I’m pretty used to ‘getting my brain picked’ by people wanting to get advice or learn more about marketing – and I love being able to help,” Ms McAuley said.

“The Rebellion is now the next step in that – to offer an affordable marketing coaching subscription, starting with our local organisations first.

“Marketing is fun! And most people can actually do a really good job, with the right knowledge, tools, and some proper guidance and mentoring."

Members will work closely with experts in marketing and business to build and implement effective marketing strategies – particular to their own organisation. It is a completely digital experience, allowing members to benefit from the program from anywhere.

"Our aim is to bridge the gap between what marketing will suit your business’s goals and audience, and how to actually make that happen.”

EOI closes August 16 and can be made at www.rebelnation.com.au.

Rebel Nation Director Jade McAuley

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Final restoration works, including minor pavement and concrete repairs, have started on Mackay–Eungella Road.

Further significant repair works have commenced this month (July 2024) on the Eungella Range section of Mackay–Eungella Road, including the construction of a 62-metre-long, 2.4-metre high concrete sleeper wall at the base of the slope to provide protection from rock falls.

High tensile mesh and soil nails will be installed over two areas, and shotcrete will be applied to the water flow route to stabilise the slope face beside the road.

Further works on Mackay–Eungella Road, Eungella Range will include: clearing and scaling slope faces, removing scoured material and revegetation of slopes.

Works are expected to be completed by late 2024, weather permitting.

TMR spokesperson, Mr John Oppes, A/Regional Director Central Queensland said that the disaster event in January 2023 saw more than 1000mm of rain fall in one week, causing landslips at Eungella Range and Finch Hatton.

"Given the scale of the impact, it has not been a quick fix but since that time, crews have stabilised embankments above the roadway by securing and removing loose boulders, vegetation and other materials to reduce the risk of further slips, and repaired damaged bitumen, drainage, scours, headwalls and kerbs,” Mr Oppes said.

"These final restoration works are expected to be ongoing until late 2024.

"During this time, road users can expect intermittent delays.

“We ask all road users to pay attention around the roadworks, obey any directions from traffic controllers on site and not speed through the work sites.

"This is all part of TMR’s focus on rebuilding Queensland's transport network and we thank the local community for its patience while this work is completed."

For up-to-date information on road conditions, call 13 19 40, visit www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au or download the QLDTraffic app.

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Damage caused to the Eungella Range road by the rain event in January, 2023

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Yesterday, the highly anticipated GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race was set to begin, attracting 29 boats from South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. Among the entrants is the impressive 72-foot Antipodes, registered to the Royal Yacht Club of Hong Kong, and the largest entry, the 100-foot super maxi Wild Thing 100. The race also features the beautifully restored 1904 timber classic, the 33-foot Maritimo Katwinchar.

The official Skippers Briefing took place earlier during the week at the Southport Yacht Club Main Beach Clubhouse, followed by a lively Welcome Party. The GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race was scheduled to commence around 10am yesterday, with an epic offshore start line straight off the beach in front of Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise. The Race Village at Mackay Marina will be open from Saturday, 3rd August through to Tuesday, 6th August, welcoming competitors and spectators alike.

Adding to the excitement, a special 'Race within a Race' was planned to be held, featuring three VIPs hosted by three of the competing boats. The Mayor of Mackay Regional Council, Greg Williamson, was racing onboard GCCM Arctic Blonde, City of Gold Coast Councillor Shelley Curtis competing on Ocean Crusaders J-Bird, and COO of the race naming sponsor Gold Coast City Marina (GCCM), Andrew Chapman, sailing on the super maxi Wild Thing 100.

This friendly competition marked the growing sporting relationship between the two host cities. Each VIP would be live-streaming their racing experience from the start line at Cavill Avenue to the Gold Coast Seaway. They then were planned to take the famous 'step off the stern' into Gold Coast waters, being swiftly collected by one of the Southport Yacht Club's high-speed patrol boats.

The thrilling action is being captured from the air by professional camera crews onboard Gold Coast Helitours, with on-water live commentary by Sydney-based Bow Caddy Media. The coverage is also being streamed directly to the Sydney International Boat Show. For live tracking, spectator opportunities, and more information, visit the official race website at www.goldcoastmackay.com.

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William Baker was an adventurous, headstrong rule breaker; he also had a big and incredibly kind heart.

Like most teenage boys, he thought he was bulletproof and immortal, mum Kim Baker said.

The Baker family’s world fell apart when William tragically lost his life in 2022 following a serious traffic crash involving a van and motorbike at Blacks Beach.

Two years on, her grief still very raw, Kim said she finds comfort knowing that Will’s heart, lungs, liver and kidneys were donated to help save five people.

“From the minute we arrived in the ED that night I said ‘if he doesn’t make it, do everything you can to keep him alive and take his organs,’” she said.

“I guess it was instinct given my medical background as a nurse, but it also helped us find some good in the enormous and overwhelming grief.”

DonateLife Week, which is held from 28 July to 4 August, is the national awareness week to encourage more Australians to get behind organ and tissue donation.

As a donor family, Kim wanted to speak out to help raise awareness and encourage organ donation registration.

Four of the five recipients of William’s organs were women, including a baby, a teenager and a woman who had a rare form of liver cancer.

“I think sometimes that is seems so unfair; the recipients get another chance at life, to be able to function and be with their family, and William doesn’t,” Kim said.

“I know that is part of the grief process, but there’s also great comfort knowing that he lives on in others and that his sad loss gave others another opportunity at life.”

There are currently 1800 Australians on the organ waitlist and 14,000 more on dialysis for kidney failure. One organ donor can save the lives of up to seven people and change the lives of many more through eye and tissue donation.

Three months after William’s death, Kim wrote a confidential letter to the organ recipients describing their son and his love of skateboarding, fishing, travelling and snowboarding. She also detailed his love of fast-food including KFC and McDonalds.

The unwavering support of organ donation Mackay HHS clinical nurse consultant Donna Contor and DonateLife counsellors had also been vital as the Bakers came to terms with the loss of their son and the transplant process.

“She was and is always still there to offer us support, answer our questions or sit in silence when it’s needed,” Kim said.

“The DonateLife events like the annual Remembrance Service and Thank You days are important to donor families – they help validate our feelings and become a safe place to express our emotions.

“You meet other families and realise you aren’t alone in this process – we aren’t the first or the last to go through this and that everyone’s journey through grief is different.”

The Baker family travelled to the Cook Islands last month and participated in variety of William’s favourite activities including fishing, snorkelling and mud buggies. Kim and her daughter Brianna tackled Mt Kilimanjaro in June last year to celebrate William’s life and his love of snowy mountain tops.

Sadly, more than 50 Australians died last year while on the organ transplant waitlist.

“I really want people to spread the word about organ donation; to have the conversation with their families and then go ahead and register as organ and tissue donors,” Kim said.

“For someone who is seriously ill, an organ or tissue transplant can mean the difference between life and death, being healthy or sick.

“It only takes a minute, but lives really depend on it.”

Register at donatelife.gov.au or with three taps on your Express Plus Medicare app.

By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Eimeo mother Kim Baker and Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) clinical nurse consultant (organ donation) Donna Contor

Images of William Baker. Images supplied

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Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm has recently voiced concerns about the ‘unacceptable’ state of healthcare in the region, particularly focusing on staff turnover rates and the pressures faced by local hospitals and staff.

Ms Camm highlighted what she sees as a concerning trend at the Mackay Hospital and Health Service, attributing to the rise in staff turnover rates under the management of the Labor Government.

“We’ve seen an increase over the last four years under this current term of Labor, an increase of 3.36 per cent up to 8.21 per cent…that’s almost a 5 per cent increase in just four years,” said Ms Camm.

“We need our frontline services to be supported.

“Doctors and nurses are working extraordinary hours and I am contacted each and every day through my office by those nurses that are being asked to work extra shifts and are being asked to take on overtime because of the staff shortages that they’re experiencing at the health service.

“This is having an impact across our entire region and in particular, when you compare us to other regional health services, like Townsville, Central Queensland and Rockhampton or Toowoomba we are at the highest number and that’s insane,” Ms Camm said.

Nigel Dalton, LNP candidate for Mackay, criticised the current Labor Government’s management of healthcare facilities, arguing that expectant mothers are not receiving the necessary treatment and calling for administrative improvements to ensure better care, particularly in maternity services.

Dalton said, “What we’re really looking at here is a mother, an expectant mother, coming into the hospital to have a baby and not being able to get the treatment that they need.

“Mums and bubs are in need of the best treatment they can get.

“The management is coming from the Labor Government, so, in 2024 we need to show Labor the door and move on and get this 21st Century facility up to scratch with the administration so that we can get people treated much more sustainably throughout the period of their time, especially in the maternity section,” Dalton said.

Glen Kelly, LNP candidate for Mirani, highlighted the lack of hospital services in central Queensland, noting that many areas rely heavily on distant facilities in Rockhampton and Mackay. He emphasised the need for local hospitals to serve these communities, particularly for maternity care, and urged that this issue be addressed in the upcoming 2024 election.

In relation to the pressures of workload for understaffed hospitals, the Labor Government claims that ‘Queensland’s Satellite Hospitals Minor Injury and Illness Clinics have seen over 100,000 patients, diverting non-urgent cases away from busy emergency departments.’

Despite these claims, the State Government released recent data saying that the health system is improving across several key measures, including off patient stretcher time, ED wait time, and lost time per ambulance.
“The June quarter ED performance data showed 5,900 more patients were transferred off stretcher within 30 mins compared to this time last year, despite a record number of patients.
“Queensland emergency departments saw more than 592,000 patients in the same period, with 55.3 per cent of patients off-stretcher within 30 minutes,” the State Government said in a statement.
Queensland Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman commented that, “Despite record numbers of presentations across the board, the system is performing better on every measure.

“Despite a surge in serious presentations, respiratory illness and the busiest June quarter we’ve ever seen – more patients are being transferred more quickly into ED care.
“The median wait time in the ED for the June quarter was just 15 minutes – that’s a two-minute improvement and four minutes better than it was under the LNP.
“And average lost time per ambulance also dropped by more than four minutes.
“This is thanks to our hard-working paramedics, our hard-working ED doctors and nurses, and the extra investments we’ve been making.
“While there is more work to do, this data shows our investments and policies like nurse-led clinics, satellite hospitals, and the virtual ED are helping reduce pressures on emergency departments.”
Amanda Camm, Member for Whitsundays opposed that, saying “There is a significant focus on administration that is taking away from those doctors and nurses on the frontline.

“Some of that direction is coming out of south east Queensland and from the Labor Government who are more concerned about how things look than in fact what the numbers are showing us, which is that doctors and nurses are leaving and they are burnt out… it’s not acceptable.”

“We should have a world class health service given the royalties that come out of our region and what we’ve seen is that they do not value our frontline, they are not valuing out doctors and nurses, and that became very apparent in that maternity inquiry when I heard form frustrated whistle blowers who have gone unheard by this Labor Government.

“The numbers are declining and it’s getting worse… that’s the record of this Labor Government,” Ms Camm said.

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Amanda Camm, Member for Whitsunday, Nigel Dalton, LNP candidate for Mackay and Glen Kelly, LNP candidate for Mirani met last Wednesday at Mackay Base Hospital to discuss an alleged rise in staff turnover rates. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Kelly Cartwright OAM is a gold medal-winning Paralympic athlete who has found success as a 100m sprinter, long jumper and more recently as a powerlifter.
Dr. Brendan Burkett OAM is an Australian swimmer who won five medals at four Paralympics and was the Opening Ceremony flag bearer in Sydney 2000.
These legends of the sporting world will be the keynote speakers at council’s 2024 Accessible Active Living Seminar on Friday, August 16, at Harrup Park Country Club.
Running across two sessions, this free seminar will be packed with informative discussions and presentations aimed at educating sporting clubs, fitness groups and recreational activity organisers on how to become more inclusive and accessible for their communities.
The presentation session runs from 2.30pm to 4.30pm and then there will be panel discussions and networking from 5pm to 7pm.
All sessions will have Auslan interpreters.
Mayor Greg Williamson said this was the second year the seminar had run, and council was excited to have secured such high-profile speakers.
“Kelly and Brendan are truly inspirational individuals who achieved tremendous levels of success despite having suffered the loss of a limb,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Outside of sports, Kelly became the first above-knee amputee woman to climb to the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro in 2009, and Dr. Brendan has a PhD in Biomechanics,” he said.
“In 2000 he was awarded the Institution of Engineers Australia’s Professional Engineer of the Year Award and was the first person with a disability to work as an engineer on the oil rigs in the North Sea.
“These are amazing Australians with a wealth of knowledge and experience.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to hear their insights into improving accessibility and inclusivity in sports and recreation, especially in relation to grass roots clubs.
“I would encourage anyone with an interest in sport, recreation or accessibility to register for the seminar now – it’s not often that you get a free opportunity to hear from such high-profile advocates.”
The keynote speakers will join a dynamic group of local specialists in the fields of sport and disability advocacy to discuss the opportunities, challenges and barriers to participation in sport and active recreation.
Tickets to the 2024 Accessible Active Living Seminar are free and are available now via Eventbrite.
Kelly Cartright and Dr. Brendan Burkett will also be available to meet the public as special guests at the Mackay Disability Expo on Thursday, August 15, from 9am to noon at the Big Shed in the Mackay Showgrounds.
The expo is free to attend and will offer a crucial opportunity for people with a disability to find out about the latest products, services, technology, aids and equipment from dozens of specialist providers, organisations and agencies.

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Kelly Cartwright OAM (pictured) is a gold medal-winning Paralympic athlete who has found success as a 100m sprinter, long jumper and more recently as a powerlifter
Dr Brendan Burkett OAM (pictured) is an Australian swimmer who won five medals at four Paralympics and was the Opening Ceremony Flag bearer in Sydney 2000

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To celebrate a decade of waterway health and data, Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership showcased a vibrant display of river-themed artwork last Thursday, on July 25th.

The event was launched as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts ‘Submerged in Our Region’ exhibition which was held at Gallery 31 at CQUniversity’s Mackay City campus.

Partnership Chair, Charlie Morgan, said the achievement was significant.

“That is 10 years of community, 10 years of data, and 10 years of collaboration with likeminded stakeholders who think proactively about waterway health and regional sustainability,” Ms Morgan said.

She said community was at the heart of regional data, and the reason regional report cards were unique.

“We collate a huge range of data – more than $4 million worth annually – from data providers and Partners who operate in our region, or who are committed to learning more about our local waterways,” she said.

“In 2024 we have 36 dedicated Partners in the community, representing all sectors, including agriculture, conservation, tourism, government, industry and Traditional Owners.

The 2024 Report Card has revealed a range of waterway health scores from ‘A’ to ‘C’ across the region’s 18 key graded areas, reflecting results for five freshwater basins, eight estuary areas and five marine zones.

For only the second time in 10 years, there is no overarching ‘D’ grade to be seen in the region.

“This is certainly something to celebrate, with the ‘D’ of the Whitsunday Inshore Marine zone lifting to a ‘C’ in 2024,” Ms Morgan said.

The grade change increase was influenced by decreased concentrations of nutrients, chlorophyll-a (chl-a) and the incorporation of pesticide data.

However, Ms Morgan said after 10 years of data, the Report Card had also begun to highlight some challenging trends.

“Water quality grades are ‘moderate (C)’ for the seventh consecutive year in the O’Connell Basin, and the tenth consecutive year in the Pioneer Basin,” she said.

“Pesticides in both the Proserpine and Plane basins are ‘very poor (E)’ for the seventh year in a row, and the Murray/St Helens Creek estuary recorded its lowest chl-a score since the Report Card’s inception.”

Chlorophyll-a is a key indicator of phytoplankton biomass and activity, and can significantly impact the dynamics of aquatic ecosystems, including nutrient enrichment and algal blooms. Ms Morgan said it was a goal of the Report Card to identify regional issues, so improvements could be made.

“We really want to see these results used by the community to help drive investment into projects that will make a difference,” she said.

Ms Morgan said she was excited to celebrate 10 years with Partners and the wider community.

“The Submerged in Our Region art exhibition is a real celebration of community, with more than 140 entries received!

“We are so proud to bring art and science together to showcase our region’s beautiful waterways and the vital life and industries they support.”

Queensland Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef and Minister for Science and Innovation Leanne Linard commended the Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership for its ongoing efforts to improve water quality in the Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac region.

“This annual report card will provide a benchmark as the partnership continues its work to further improve water quality.

“We are investing $1.25 million annually across the five regional report card partnerships, with the Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership last year receiving $240,000 in funding.”

Healthy Rivers to Reef Executive Officer Jaime Newborn said that “We are always looking for innovative new ways to improve our waterways and to preserve and protect them so that future generations can enjoy them as we do.

“We know Mackay Isaac Whitsunday residents love waterways, so this exhibition is a testament to that, whether it be fishing, recreation, a stroll on the beach at sunset, we work and play on our waterways, so the role that this partnership plays is really important in providing the data that we need to make good decisions about our waterways.”

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Charlie Morgan, Chair of the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac Healthy Rivers to Reef partnership, Healthy Rivers to Reef Executive Officer Jaime Newborn with Gallery Curator and Director Glenda Hobdell and Deputy Chair of the partnership and Industry Rep Kevin Kane

The Exhibition featured a display of waterway themed entries, including everything from creative fashion based on rivers to sculpture, writing, mixed media, film and more. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Health practitioners learned how to put a spin on traditional exercises for brain injury
and rehabilitation patients at a dance program information session with Queensland
Ballet last week.

Allied health, orthopaedic, neurological, rehabilitation and geriatric clinicians were
invited to attend one of two modified dance sessions held at Mackay Base Hospital to
understand how ballet can support their patient’s health and wellbeing.

The specially designed dance rehabilitation programs, offered by the Van Norton Li
Community Health Institute (a division of Queensland Ballet), showcased the strength,
mobility and balance benefits dance has to offer.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Acting Director Medical Services
Research and Innovation Dr Pieter Nel said research suggested dance could improve
cognitive performance and reaction times, making it a useful treatment for a number of
conditions.

The Dance Health programs were underpinned by medical research and provide a
ballet program designed for patients in a hospital setting. The programs
showcased in Mackay were examples of how modified dance classes can be
useful treatments for a number of conditions including arthritis, dementia, brain
injuries, depression and Parkinson’s disease, Dr Nel said.

The two 60-minute dance rehabilitation classes were held on Tuesday 23 July
from 7.30am to 9.30am and were followed by an information session at 2pm in
the Brampton Room at K Block at Mackay Base Hospital.

The sessions provided clinicians in the Mackay HHS the opportunity to consider using
dance as a tool to enrich lives and positively impact the health and wellbeing of
patients, Dr Nel said.

The Queensland Ballet received $750,000 in funding from Queensland Health to
sustain and deliver a range of Dance Health programs through the Van Norton Li
Community Health Institute. These include Dance for Parkinson’s, Ballet for Brain
Injury, Dance for Arthritis, Dance Rehab and Ballet Serene (modified dance
classes in aged-care settings).

The modified dance programs were designed to help understand how dance
affects health and wellbeing, develop partnerships in regional communities,
supply unique training opportunities for health professionals and look for ways to
make dance more accessible.

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Dance participants Louise Mullaney (Mater), Charisma Pala, Kerri Nash, Van Norton Li Community Health head of community and education Lily Spencer, Hannah Heslin, Seona McDonald and Jessica Shepheard

Mackay HHS Acting Executive Director Research and Innovation Dr Pieter Nel and Director Van Norton Li Community Health Institute Zara Gomes. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Two exciting grant opportunities are available in the Mackay City and Waterfront area to create safer and more engaging places.
Applications opened yesterday on Thursday (August 1) for the City Safety Grant and the Make Your Place Mackay Waterfront Placemaking Grant.
The City Safety Grant aims to improve the late-night economy by delivering safety infrastructure within Mackay city, and the Make Your Place Grant facilitates inspiring and inclusive projects that connect the local community and encourage more activity in the city.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the grants were a great opportunity to bring placemaking ideas to life and improve community safety.
“We want to see our Riverside and City Centre precincts come alive and be a safe night-time environment for all patrons,” Mayor Williamson said.
“These grants are a fantastic incentive for our businesses and community to contribute and create places people want to visit,” he said.
A successful Make Your Place Grant recipient from the last round was the River of Life Festival, held at the Blue Water Quay and River Wharves on April 20.
This free community event was organised by a collective of volunteers and coordinated by Jamesly Gourley.
The festival featured local performers, a kid’s hub, dancing, artisan market stalls and food vans, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Pioneer River.
If you can see an opportunity to improve the safety of your business, or you’re a passionate community member that has an idea for a fun activation, apply for a grant today.
Read the guidelines for eligibility by visiting mackaywaterfront.com.au and apply by September 12.
For further information contact council’s Mackay City and Waterfront team via email at mackaywaterfront@mackay.qld.gov.au.

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The River of Life Festival, held in April at the Blue Water Quay and River Wharves, used
their Make Your Place Grant funding to host the successful free community event

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One of North Queensland’s most desired regions has welcomed a new era of beachfront luxury at Harbour Beach with seven exclusive homes officially hitting the market last week.

Located just seven kilometres from Mackay’s CBD, The Beach Collective by national developer Urbex offers luxury coastal living in Mackay, featuring low maintenance seaside residences that appeal to both local residents and interstate buyers seeking a high-end home with an absolute beachfront lifestyle.

Urbex Realty General Manager, Craig Covacich, is thrilled to launch the highly anticipated Beach Collective, one of Mackay's most desired developments, featuring seven luxury town homes.

“We’re excited to unveil a first in the Mackay market; exquisite beachfront properties of the highest quality and only 10-minutes from town,” Craig said.

“The homes respond to an emerging market who are seeking bespoke beachfront homes and the associated lifestyle benefits.

“Nationally, beachside living opportunities are scarce, driving high capital growth. Our beachside collection of homes offer an attractive yet affordable opportunity to secure a truly unique and limited way of life.”

The Beach Collective forms part of the Sol Precinct, Urbex’s Dunes Harbour Beach development, offering freehold two-level architecturally designed homes that prioritise convenience, functionality, and comfort.

Starting from $1.56M, the expansive four-bedroom, three-bathroom absolute beachfront homes all boast uninterrupted ocean view lines of the Coral Sea. They feature seamless indoor and outdoor living spaces, low maintenance landscaped areas, private plunge pools for maximum comfort, high-level finishes with luxury appointments and state-of-the-art appliances.

“Our discerning buyers, particularly those seeking prestige, are proving resilient to economic fluctuations and interest rate movements, unlike the broader market.

“We are setting a new standard in Mackay, offering locals and newcomers to Queensland an unparalleled opportunity to own an absolute beachfront masterpiece.”

Currently, two of out of the seven town homes are officially complete and available for inspection. The remaining five are offered as ready built home solutions with a 10 per cent deposit and the balance upon completion, increasing their market appeal. One of the two completed homes will serve as the brand- new sales suite, offering future residents and investors a unique opportunity to secure absolute beachfront property with an attractive six per cent yield over a three-by-three leaseback term.

Urbex's new Dunes Harbour Beach Sales Suite, located within The Beach Collective, is now open to prospective buyers. Visitors are encouraged to explore the beachfront living experience first-hand, enjoying stunning ocean views from both levels. Construction of new homes across the broader development is progressing smoothly, with several buyers finalising build plans and others already commencing construction.

Additionally, Urbex has submitted plans to the Mackay Regional Council for a high-end 63-room short-term accommodation resort. This proposed resort, featuring extensive commercial amenities on the oceanfront, aligns with the broader masterplan to integrate tourism and urban hubs, further enhancing the appeal and support for the development's growing community.

Supporting the local community remains a top priority with Dunes Harbour Beach recently hosting a series of free events including beachside yoga sessions, breakfast by the beach, and the popular Tunes in the Dunes showcasing local talent, which will continue until October 2024. The events have been warmly welcomed by Mackay locals, taking part in the activities and fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

“These events are our way of offering the community a place to connect and showcase the beauty of Harbour Beach.”

Located seven kilometres from Mackay’s CBD, Dunes Harbour Beach spans 57 hectares, boasting kilometres of beachfront with spacious homesites blended within areas of native bushland. Over 35 per cent of the development is committed to open space, conservation, and parkland to ensure Dunes remains a pristine destination.

With uninterrupted views of the Coral Sea, exclusive beach access, and close integration to the future planned tourism, dining and retail hub, The Beach Collective homes are officially for sale and interested buyers are encouraged to visit the new sales home. For more information visit https://dunesharbourbeach.com.au/.

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One of North Queensland’s most desired regions has welcomed a new era of beachfront luxury at Mackay’s Harbour Beach, with seven absolute beachfront homes officially on the market. Images supplied 

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The value of Queensland’s agricultural sector is projected to boom to a second-highest-ever valuation of $23.56 billion in 2024-25.
New AgTrends figures released last month show a promising year ahead, despite challenges such as declining cattle prices, drier conditions and major natural disasters in 2023-24 leading to a valuation of $22.1 billion for the year.
The valuation remains higher than the five-year average and showcases the resilience of Queensland agriculture, with a corresponding supply chain value estimated at $33.88 billion.
Cattle and calves once again took the gold medal as Queensland’s highest-valued commodity in 2023-24, contributing $5.71 billion to the state’s economy.
Meanwhile meat processing ($2.40B) and sugarcane ($2.06B) took the silver and bronze positions respectively.
The recent statistics highlight Mackay's significance in the agricultural landscape, supported by a remarkable GVP growth rate of 23%, which showcases the region's dynamic and expanding agricultural sector.
Sugarcane remains a cornerstone of Queensland's agricultural economy, with the Mackay region playing a critical part in its success. In 2023-24, sugarcane was the third highest-valued commodity, contributing $2.06 billion to the state’s economy.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said, “Queensland’s food and fibre is the best in the world, and our primary producers have showed remarkable resilience in delivering a bumper 2023-24 despite challenging conditions.
“While Queensland is officially drought-free, conditions were drier overall leading to tougher conditions for growers and graziers.
“Our traditional titans of beef and sugar remain a cornerstone of the Queensland economy, and it’s great to see strong growth for many growers, particularly for macadamias, sugar, chickpeas, apples and strawberries.”
Highest GVP in 2023-24 by LGA ($):
Toowoomba            $1.27 billion
Western Downs       $951 million
Bundaberg              $899 million
Burdekin                 $735 million
Cassowary Coast    $727 million
Highest GVP growth in 2023-24 by LGA (%):
Hinchinbrook          29%
Douglas                  24%
Mackay                   23%
Burdekin                 19%
Cairns                     12%
Highest commodities growth in 2023-24 (%):
Macadamias           86.3%
Chickpeas               37.1%
Sugarcane              32.7%
Sugar processing    23.9%
Apples                      7.4%
For the latest AgTrends statistics visit the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries‘ DataFarm website.

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Sugarcane remains a cornerstone of Queensland's agricultural economy, with the Mackay region playing a critical part in its success. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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