In the dynamic landscape of Mackay’s sugar industry, Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) is fast becoming a driving force for growers, fostering innovation and resilience among its members. This organisation, dedicated to activating agricultural excellence, addresses rising farming costs, promotes environmental sustainability, and champions water quality issues.

At the helm of QCAR's efforts in the Proserpine, Mackay, and Sarina areas is Sonia Ball, a woman whose life and career are deeply intertwined with the land and its stewards. Her journey from a bush kid in Darwin to a pivotal figure in the sugar industry highlights her unwavering passion for helping growers thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

Born in Darwin to parents who were buffalo shooters Sonia’s early life with five siblings was fun, rugged and adventurous. Being raised in the bush instilled in her resilience and a deep connection to the land.

Sonia’s first connection to the cane industry on moving to Queensland was through journalism, where she spent 18 years at the Daily Mercury, specialising in rural reporting.

"A large part of what I did there was rural journalism, and because I'm a country girl I have a real passion for telling the stories of the people who look after the land," Sonia recalls.

Her work allowed her to forge strong relationships with growers and industry stakeholders.

"I did a lot of articles with growers and stakeholders, and while you may think the sugar industry largely stays the same, it is complex and it always has something going on.

“It's always fascinated me how it evolves, and I quickly built knowledge and relationships in the industry."

After leaving the newspaper, her passion for the sugar industry led her to a communications role within the sector, where she worked for eight years before then joining Queensland Sugar Ltd (QSL) for another five years. At QSL, Sonia played a crucial role in educating growers about sugar marketing.

"I loved working with the growers; that's always been my passion."

She helped them understand the market dynamics and take control of pricing, ensuring they were better equipped to succeed.

After a brief hiatus to care for her unwell mother and recharge, Sonia joined QCAR with renewed vigour.

"I'd been going hell for leather for such a long time, so taking a break was a really good thing. It allowed me to find my passion again, and the new position with QCAR has reinvigorated my love of the industry," she says.

Sonia firmly believes that competition within the market benefits all growers, driving improvement and innovation.

"Growers should always have choice, and having competition in the market will make every entity better because they have to be—you can't continue to rest on your laurels," she explains.

Despite QCAR being relatively new in the Central Queensland region, it has a strong foundation and is well-established across the state.

"The experience behind QCAR is not new. The growers, knowledge, and experience in this organisation really is as good as you'll find anywhere," Sonia states.

QCAR’s approach is deeply rooted in listening to growers and incorporating their needs into the organisation’s strategies.

"We don't go from the top and say 'this is what we think you should have'; we go from the ground up and ask what it is they need.

“We're building and our growers are growing with us.

"There is a perception that we're not local, but I can tell you, I'm a local. I've been here for well over three decades and we now have a small cattle property at Ilbilbie.

“Our head office might be in the Burdekin, but all organisations have a head office somewhere. Our local office is in the heart of the CBD in Mackay. Of course I spend most of my time on the road visiting our growers and stakeholders and being involved in the communities of our three Central District regions.

“I am a local who is proud to know the industry and its people, and our Central District committee are all local growers. QCAR is here to stay."

Sonia is excited about the future of the sugar industry and the role QCAR plays in it.

"This is a real difference for growers; they've never had the whole kit and caboodle to weigh up before. The integration with ACFA has really strengthened QCAR as has our affiliation with AgForce, so our representation goes from face-to-face at the kitchen table right through to state and federal government."

QCAR is focused on sustainability and innovation, supporting projects that create additional revenue streams for growers through the bi-products of sugar.

"We're supportive of those projects to create additional sources of revenue for growers,” Sonia says.

“Let's start normalising reusing our products and making it a priority instead of constantly pushing the ideas aside. Let's make it more of the conversation and get these projects actually on the ground."

Outside of her professional life, Sonia and her partner Craig manage a rural property in Ilbilbie, where they run about 50 head of breeding cattle on 500 acres.

"Not all of it is pastured country; it's more like goat country. It's rough and it can be a bit dry, but we love it, and it is surrounded by beautiful cane country," she says.

Their weekends are spent tending to their cattle, chooks, and ducks, reflecting their enduring love for rural life.

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Central Queensland District Manager for QCAR, Sonia Ball. Photo supplied

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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Given the community-wide current cost of living crisis, Mackay Regional Council’s budget announcement last week cannot be seen as anything more than a slap in the face for the people of this region. It’s a disappointing impost on the community in difficult times.
It’s a double hit, too, with the steep 3.6 per cent rise in rates combined with a reduction in the on-time payment discount reduced from 10 per cent to 6 per cent. Obviously, council has costs to cover, but, equally, sometimes expenditure needs to be reined in in difficult times.
Farmers too, will grapple with the increases, and farming isn’t like other small businesses.  
If a shopkeeper faces an increase in their costs, they can absorb that cost into their pricing. There will be muttering from the customers, but the opportunity is there if the market will bear it.
For the majority of farmers, and most certainly for cane farmers, they do not have security of income. The income we derive from our crop is entirely driven by the world sugar price, and the mills’ capacity to process our crop.
As farmers, we can work on our productivity, getting the most tonnes of sugar per hectare that we reasonably can. We can work on choosing our varieties carefully, improving soil health, and making sure our plants are able to efficiently use nutrients and water. That, we can do.
Otherwise, we are at the whims of the market and weather, and the success of the supply chain.
It seems to be a struggle to get some to understand that fact, which is why, over the past year we have kept talking to our regional council about ratings categories and practices.
In 2023, new Land Valuations came into effect across the Mackay Region. Growers, particularly growers close to the urban concentration of Mackay, but also those in areas that are attractive to those looking for a rural residential lifestyle. Some of the valuations, driven by property sales nearby, more than doubled.
We appreciate that council reduced the rate from 2.58 cents in the dollar to 2.25 for the 23-24FY. It is positive for growers that experienced that small reduction. It is positive that some had increases under $100. Our concern is for the outliers.
Imagine your rates bill suddenly having an extra $10,000 on it. How do you meet that cost in a finite budget?
Yes, farmers do have the capacity to earn an income from the land on which their families live. However, the assertion that the region must get that amount from the cane growing sector shows a profound lack of understanding of the ups and downs of the sugar industry, of how it operates.
What happens if there is a drought? What happens if the region is hit by a severe cyclone? What happens if the world sugar price collapses? All have regularly happened over the past 100 years and will happen again. Council is not a feudal master entitled to extract as much as it can from residents, but should work within reasonable means.
To play one sector of the community off against another, to say another rating category would have to meet a shortfall in cane land rates revenue seems divisive. CANEGROWERS Mackay has found the language used by Council, burying a very human plight in a cascade of percentages to be dismissive and lacking any sort of compassion for people hit by steep increases, whether in farming or any other category.
The cane farm rate is 163 per cent over the average residential rate. The cents-in-the-dollar rate for cane farms is double that of other rural landholders. It is a rate comparable to a Paget industrial business, most of which enjoy the benefit of the resource sector economy. And I’ll guarantee none of those business premises are also the owner’s family home.
CANEGROWERS will continue to advocate on this issue on behalf of growers.
Moreover, as we come into a state election, we call upon candidates with an interest in the agricultural sector to find a new structure for assessing and protecting quality agricultural land that is challenged by inflated valuations caused by urban expansion.

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Cane farms are homes, as well as businesses.  Picture: Kirili Lamb

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The Fair Work Commission has ordered three unions to suspend industrial action at the Queensland factories of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables for six weeks after hearing submissions from unions and the company.

Fair Work Commission Deputy President Dobson had been asked by Sugar and Renewables to issue suspension orders after unions notified intention to mount a series of stoppages over coming weeks, further threatening company attempts to continue with the annual sugar season.

The company gave extensive evidence to the Commission on the impact of bans and stoppages, including the effect on regional economies and third parties in the sugar supply chain, particularly cane growers. The Sugar and Renewables spokesman said the suspension of industrial action relieves the immediate risk to the annual crushing season, and provides clear air for negotiations with unions on the enterprise agreement.

“Everyone in the supply chain can now make the necessary preparations to get underway and begin making up for lost time,” the spokesman said.

On Tuesday, Fair Work Commission Vice President Gibian, based in Sydney, heard an application from unions for a stay on the order made by Deputy President Dobson on Sunday night for suspension of industrial action in Wilmar Sugar and Renewables factories for six weeks. VP Gibian stood over the application until the unions’ appeal against DP Dobson’s decision is heard in the Commission on Friday. This means that the suspension order remains in place and no protected industrial action can proceed while it remains.

On Friday, 5 July, the Commission will hear an appeal by unions against DP Dobson’s decision on Sunday evening to order suspension of industrial action at Wilmar sites for six weeks.

After delays caused by industrial action and then rain, Wilmar reported that its factories are getting back into production quickly with the resumption of harvesting after the most recent widespread rainfall.

“As at 10.30 Tuesday morning, Kalamia, Inkerman, Proserpine, Plane Creek and Macknade were crushing, although Macknade faced early issues with excessive mud. Invicta is looking to crush Wednesday, and Pioneer should be in production by the end of the week,” a spokesperson said.

CANEGROWERS has welcomed the Fair Work Commission’s order to suspend industrial action at Wilmar sugar mills for a period of six weeks, with Chairman Owen Menkens calling on all parties to use the time to find a permanent resolution to the ongoing pay dispute.
 
“The Commission’s ruling will come as a huge relief to growers, many of whom have already been significantly impacted by this dispute,” Mr Menkens said. 
 
“It offers some certainty around crushing, at least until mid-August, so we can get on with the harvest while the milling company and unions continue to negotiate a fair resolution.”
 
Uncertainty created by the ongoing dispute has caused great anxiety within the growing community, Mr Menkens said.
 
“CANEGROWERS has been working with the affected districts to ensure grower concerns are addressed and to calculate the cost of ongoing disruptions to the crush.
  
“This dispute has dragged on for months and has already cost the industry a great deal due to stalling and delaying the crush across Wilmar districts, not to mention the stress it has caused to growers.
 
“We continue to support the rights of workers and employers to negotiate fair enterprise agreements, but as this dispute drags into the cane crushing season proper, there is a clear risk that growers’ livelihoods are being used as a bargaining chip by both sides. 
 
“The mill and unions are locked in a game of chicken, hurtling towards a mid-season collision and hoping the other side blinks. Cane farming families may well be the unintended casualties.
 
“The parties need to take any and all steps necessary to ensure there are no more disruptions to this year’s cane crush. 
 
“We need both parties to resolve the dispute now.”

Meanwhile, Wilmar received another blow last week, with two staff with more than 14 years of experience handing in their notice of resignation at Invicta Mill.

The AWU (Australian Workers’ Union) claims that these latest departures come as a direct result of Wilmar’s low wages and will leave Wilmar’s largest mill critically short-staffed.

The AWU reported that one Wilmar worker at Invicta, who asked not to be named for fear of repercussions, said the departing workers will lead to the mill struggling to maintain quality and reliability throughout the crush.

AWU Northern District Secretary Jim Wilson said these reports confirmed what workers, cane growers and the local community had been saying for some time.

“Wilmar’s greed is slowly strangling the sugar communities of our region,” said Mr Wilson.

“We have also heard that Wilmar has had to send a boiler operator and a boiler assistant from the Inkerman mill to Proserpine because they don’t have anyone trained to do the job down there.

“It’s time for Wilmar to send an adult into negotiations to get this resolved.”

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Plane Creek started crushing on Tuesday due to delays created by industrial action and wet weather. Photo credit: Wilmar Sugar and Renewables

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If you’re anything like me, it’s been a long while.

After today, I’m hoping to get a few lazy sleep-ins as I’ll be on holiday from the 4MK breakfast show for a couple of weeks. The boss said to me a few weeks ago to get some holidays in, so July it is.

For some people who have asked, including my dad who I spoke to on the phone yesterday, I won’t be travelling anywhere though. No road trips. No plane trips. No extended camping swag trips. None of that. Just my bed, the alarm clock set to off, and just relax.

A few people have said holidays are for getting away and exploring the country or another place overseas. I get that, but right now, I’m just keen to potter around Mackay and the Whitsundays for a fortnight.

Sure, I’ll probably take a drive up to Airlie for a look, and go for a swim in the chilly waters at Finch Hatton, plus have a few sneaky pies and steaks at a few restaurants around town too.

It all starts tonight with another basketball game at the Crater. The NBL1 season is nearly done, and we are looking pretty for the finals, so tonight we’ve got Cairns from 6:30. I’ll jump on the mic and volunteer my time to help this great sport. It’s a fun night.

I had a look through the diary to see if there are many things I need to get done over the next two weeks, and there are a few. Plasma donation this Monday, volunteer with Meals on Wheels Thursday, there’s a few board meetings to get to, and then the big event next weekend with the wedding of my hockey family mates Andrew and Emma. I was asked a couple of years ago to be the emcee at their wedding reception and of course, I said yes. I can’t wait for this day. In all seriousness, these guys are just beautiful together. Two people who go above and beyond for anyone, anywhere, and anytime. They make a great couple.

So, whatever you have planned for this weekend, enjoy it and stay safe. Oh finally, turn the alarms back on Monday too if you’re taking kids to school. Term 3 starts up, and you don’t want your kids to be late. They’ll be busting to get back to it. Honest!

Have fun.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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By Amanda Wright
At last week’s Mackay Regional Council annual budget meeting, tensions ran high as councillors debated the decision to reduce the early payment discount for ratepayers from 10 per cent to 6 per cent. This change, part of the 2024-2025 budget, effectively results in a significant rate increase for the majority of residents who traditionally take advantage of the prompt payment discount.
Mayor Greg Williamson acknowledged the challenges facing many in the Mackay region due to rising costs of living and household budget pressures. He emphasised that the council itself is grappling with escalating costs, likening its financial struggles to those experienced by businesses and households.
“This has been a tough budget to frame, but we’ve worked hard to keep the cost of delivering services the community expects down as much as possible so as to not burden ratepayers,” Mayor Williamson stated.
The newly adopted budget includes a rates increase of 3.6 per cent, translating to an average residential ratepayer paying $3623 per year—an additional $133 annually or $2.56 per week. However, for the approximately 80 per cent of ratepayers who benefit from the early payment discount, the rate increase will effectively be around 8.2 per cent.
Cr Peter Sheedy vehemently opposed the reduction in the early payment discount, expressing his concerns about its impact on the local inflationary spiral and household budgets.
"The decision by Mackay Regional Council to shave 40 per cent off the early payment discount used by about 80 per cent of ratepayers, taking it from 10 per cent down to 6 per cent, means a rate increase of 8.2 per cent for the large majority of ratepayers is unacceptable," Cr Sheedy remarked.
He criticised the council for not exploring alternative measures to drive efficiency and cut waste.
"As a newly elected Councillor with a focus on rate reform, I was opposed to the early payment discount being reduced," Cr Sheedy continued.
"I saw it adding fuel to the local inflationary spiral by the time its full effect flows through to households and renters. My endeavours to persuade Council to investigate a capping methodology were rejected by a majority of councillors who decided to stick with a system that will deliver a heavy blow with rate increases of as high as 60 per cent and 80 per cent for the second year in a row.
“Such blatant unfairness is why I wasn’t able to support the revenue policy statement and the rate schedule that flowed from it."
Cr Sheedy further highlighted the plight of ratepayers affected by a serious rating anomaly created last year, who are now facing another year of outrageously high rates.
"Ratepayers affected by the serious rating anomaly created last year, although small in number, are effectively being dealt a second dose of outrageously high rates that just cannot be justified. It’s deeply stressful for them but hard to make headway against entrenched opinions when the council refuses to take time and look at alternatives," he added.
Mayor Williamson defended the reduction in the discount as a move towards a more “socially equitable” rating structure, arguing that the most vulnerable ratepayers, who often enter payment plans, aren’t eligible for the discount and thus subsidise those who can afford to pay early.
“The 10 per cent discount in the current year’s budget equated to $19.91 million in revenue raised but then distributed back to ratepayers who could afford to use the discount. That will drop to $12.44 million in the 2024-2025 year due to the change to a six per cent discount,” he explained.
The $7 million difference will be redirected to council operations to help keep overall rate rises lower and mitigate disadvantages for those who cannot access the discount.
Cr George Christensen also opposed the discount reduction, arguing it unfairly penalises diligent ratepayers.
"The way the revenue was gathered for the rates should alarm every ratepayer and resident in our community," Cr Christensen said.
"The documents are touting a 3.6 per cent rates rise which aligns very neatly with the current CPI, but the average increase in terms of dollars that someone is going to have to pay is much, much higher, more than double the CPI."
Cr Christensen emphasised the disproportionate impact on the majority of ratepayers who pay early.
“It effectively affects 80 per cent of ratepayers, those who diligently pay their rates early, to an 8.2 per cent increase in their financial burden. It’s not just an increase, it’s a penalty on prudence and a tax on timeliness,” he stated.
Cr Bella supported the reduction as a measure of keeping the less fortunate in the community from being hit with a higher general rise in the cost of rates.
“There are those who struggle every day to send their kids to school, to fill their shopping trolley, they don’t have ready cash.
“Those who receive that 10 per cent discount do so at the expense of those who struggle.”
Cr May agreed and said it was important to vote on a budget that didn’t reduce services to the community.
“It’s not an easy decision to reduce that discount, however my part of the community certainly don’t want a reduction of services, and that would need to happen if the discount remained at 10 per cent.”
Mayor Williamson concluded the debate in chambers by saying, “If we increase the core value of the rateable property, that’s forever.”
“We’ve delivered a budget that doesn’t cut services, but has cut many departments back to the bone to trim as much as they can off the cost of operation.
“In keeping the general rate at the lowest possible level, it’s beneficial forever for that property.
“Ours was an equitable decision to deliver the lowest possible increase to the core value of the rateable property.”

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“It’s not just an increase, it’s a penalty on prudence and a tax on timeliness.”

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Cr George Christensen speaking at last week’s ordinary council meeting. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Real estate agents are manipulative, greedy, parasitic sneaks who exploit desperate Mackay home-buyers and create angst and trauma in the community by forcing up property prices beyond what people can afford.
Harsh. But is it fair?
The sentence seems to accurately paraphrase the current view of a fair portion of the real estate-buying community in this town.
Call me a sensitive little princess who can’t take fair criticism but, personally,  I don’t agree with that view … although I do feel there are some valid criticisms that could be made. And I want to talk about how auctions put those criticisms to bed.
Firstly, people need to understand that a listing agent like me is legally and ethically required to get the best price possible for their clients, the sellers of a property.
The code of conduct is very clear in stating that a real estate agent must “act in the best interests” of their client. Among other things, it means getting the client the best price you can achieve.
There is nothing in the code that says: “Make sure you consider housing affordability and try to keep the prices down so people are not priced out of the market.”
A listing agent’s job is to create competition that will ensure the best price is achieved. It is about finding fair market value and, in this town, market value is going up.
Having said that, there are some criticisms that I can understand. One is that people are not getting the chance to put an offer on a property before it is sold.
Sometimes that is because the property sells after the first open house and the buyers have simply not been fast enough to move. Other times a property is sold before the scheduled first open house and buyers feel they haven’t been given a chance.
It usually means that the seller feels the price offered prior to the open house is at or above expectations and they accept the offer because they don’t want to lose the buyer who has made that offer.
But there has also been a trend this year for properties to be sold “off-market” to southern buyers, often through buyers’ agents. While the agents are doing nothing wrong in that situation because they are simply acting on the sellers’ instructions, local buyers do miss out on the opportunity.
One of the big criticisms of agents is the lack of transparency and the denial of an opportunity to buy a property. And often when people do get the chance, it is a multiple offer situation where it is illegal to tell anyone what another buyer’s offer is. Buyers are told to submit their best and final offer and, when they miss out, don’t even know whether they got close.
That’s where auctions come into it. Auctions are transparent; you know what the other buyers are offering for the property. You get to respond to another buyer’s offer and compete openly for the property.
An auction is also scheduled. You know when it is going to be so you can plan for it.
The problem is that some Mackay buyers in the past have said they “don’t like auctions”. Now I’m going to be a bit brutal here; you can’t have it both ways people. You can’t complain about properties being sold quickly/missing out in multiple offer situations/ a lack of transparency and then say, “But I don’t want to bid at an auction”.
At Gardian we love auctions for all the reasons I have mentioned and we have had very successful ones recently where buyers realise they need to get organised and be ready to bid at auction.
They put on their big boys’ or girls’ pants, get pre-approved for finance, look at the building and pest report that we have provided and register to bid at auction.
In auctions, buyers and sellers are happy with an open, competitive process that allows a property to achieve fair market value. The good news for sellers is that if their price is not achieved they can pass the property in. And, for buyers, they are able to bid up to their budget and pull out if the bidding goes beyond that.
Buyers need to get pre-approved through their bank or a broker like Gardian’s experienced Mortgage Choice experts so that they can confidently bid at auction.
Usually, the building and pest report will be done and available so, as long as you are pre-approved by a broker, you are ready to go.
One of my favourite quotes about our democracy refers to our open court system, where “justice is not only done, it is seen to be done”.
Auctions offer a similar important transparency, where a fair sale is not only done but it is seen to be done.

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Eight-year-old Cindy, a Mackay local girl with big ambitions has recently advanced to the grand final of the Fashion vs Beauty competition, held in September 2024 on the Gold Coast.  

Cindy’s journey into the world of pageantry began when her mother entered her into the competition, where she effortlessly secured spots in both the Miss Photogenic and Miss Diamond International events.  
 
Under the guidance of Brooke Lee Modelling since September 2023, Cindy has embarked on a path she hopes will lead her to become an influencer, inspired by her aunty Jessica.

While her aspirations in modelling and influencing remain at her core, Cindy is also passionately committed to a cause close to her family’s heart - the #Love Your Ovaries Campaign.  

This campaign aims to raise awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research which is a cause deeply personal to Cindy and her family due to various forms of cancer affecting their loved ones.  

Cindy’s motivation for supporting the #Love Your Ovaries Campaign stems from her mother’s own health scare with pre-cancerous cervical cells and the recent loss of her Grandad Colin, who served in the war, to cancer.  

Currently, Cindy's Lola is bravely fighting cancer as well, which continues to strengthen her passion and commitment to raising awareness and funds for early detection research.

To support the cause, Cindy has initiated a GoFundMe page with the goal of raising $1,000.  

While she has made an initial contribution with donations from her mother and aunt Kelly, Cindy remains hopeful that her efforts will gather momentum and achieve her fundraising goal in time for the competition.  

Notably, all participants in the Miss Diamond and Miss Photogenic events will contribute to this charitable effort, with the organisers pledging to match the donations raised, making a significant impact on the #Love Your Ovaries Campaign.

Outside of her charity work and modelling pursuits, Cindy seems to be a major Queensland Broncos fan and says she likes to watch the footy.  

“I like watching football…I go for the Broncos…and I like Reece Walsh.”  

Looking forward, Cindy aspires to become a lawyer when she’s older, where she can ‘make lots of money’ and combine her love for glamorous styles and makeup whilst fighting for legal rights.

Cindy’s mother, Monique, expresses immense pride in her daughter’s achievements and her dedication to supporting the #Love Your Ovaries Foundation.

“I’m very proud and excited that Cindy went through the grand finale, it was a really good experience and modelling just seems to be her thing,” said Monique.

“Cindy suffers from separation anxiety ever since she was a baby and still hasn’t outgrown it but with modelling Cindy feels safe and knows that mum is just outside waiting during lessons and mum will never be far away.

“I was very surprised that Cindy accepted the invitation to the grand final.

“We’ve been through a lot and we’ve had a big impact with all different cancers so it’s a good one to help support.”
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To contribute to Cindy’s mission, please donate to: https://gofund.me/83ebcde1

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Eight-year-old Cindy is making waves in the modelling industry as she prepares to go to the Fashion vs Beauty competition held in September 2024 on the Gold Coast. Images supplied

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Mackay Regional Council is proud to be hosting a community flag-raising ceremony for NAIDOC Week complete with cultural performances, guest speakers, a Didgeridoo player and morning tea.
Everyone is invited to come along to this free celebration on Monday, July 8, at 10am in the Civic Precinct.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the flag-raising ceremony and morning tea was a tremendous tradition that kicked off council’s local NAIDOC celebrations in a way that unified the community.
“This is a wonderful event that brings our community together to celebrate Indigenous culture, history and diversity,” Mayor Williamson said.
“It’s always fantastic to have the community share their culture with performances from the Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers, Mackay Torres Strait Islander Dancers and local Didgeridoo player Lyndon Francis,” he said.
Following the flag-raising ceremony, the community is invited to the Yuwi Corporation Film Festival at the Dudley Denny City Library at 1pm.
The film festival promises a relaxing afternoon showcasing a variety of Indigenous short films.
Local Indigenous artist Leon Namai with also be an “artist in residency” at Mackay Regional Council Libraries during NAIDOC Week as he gradually puts a masterpiece together and shares the story behind his artwork.
Residents can speak with him and view his work in progress at Dudley Denny City Library from Tuesday, July 9, to Thursday, July 11, from 9.30am to 11am.

Leon Namai’s works will also be on display at Gordon White Library (July 1 to 14) and Dudley Denny City Library (July 15 to 31).
Finally, there will be a NAIDOC movie screening at Dudley Denny City Library on Thursday, July 11.  The movie will be Gurrumul, the story of celebrated Indigenous artist Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu.
Local community organisations will also host a series of activities and events, including an Elders Morning Tea, the Mr and Miss NAIDOC event, a NAIDOC youth fashion parade and plenty more. All the details can be found on the NAIDOC; Mackay and District Facebook page.
The week will culminate in the NAIDOC Street Parade to Queens Park on Friday, July 12.
Assembly for the street parade will be at 9am in Macalister Street for the commencement of the march at 10am.
The march will finish at Queens Park at about 11am where there will be a showcase of cultural performances and cultural food stalls for the NAIDOC Family Fun Day. About 60 community and cultural information stalls will be onsite until 3pm.

The 2024 National NAIDOC Week theme is “Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud”.
This theme honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and of the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Images from last year’s NAIDOC Week celebrations. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

Last Monday marked 30 years since the Mackay Birth Centre opened its doors to the region's expectant mums.  

On June 26, Hayden Powell and Jessika Novikov turned 30, their birthdays marks the anniversary of the first babies born at the centre.

Hayden was the second baby born on 26 June 1994 at the newly-opened birth centre, to parents Maria and Michael Powell. He arrived just three minutes after the first baby Jessika was born. Both were born nine days after the Queensland-first and midwife-led birth centre opened its doors on 17 June 1994.

Maria said it became “somewhat a race that day” to see which baby would be the first born at the new facility, a two-bedroom cottage on the grounds at Mackay Base Hospital.

Thirty Years Of Birth Stories

“My midwife Cathy was going backwards and forwards between the two of us labouring mums, between the two rooms, to see which baby would be born first,” Maria said.

“I only realised this when she gave gloves to Michael and said ‘put these on as I don’t know which baby is coming first and I might need some help!’”.

Fortunately, a second midwife arrived and helped Zoe Novikov deliver the centre’s first arrival, her daughter Jessika Brooke, at 7.47am weighing 6lb 8lz (3.12kg). Maria’s son Hayden was born just three minutes later at 7.50am weighing in at a healthy 9lb (4kg).

Maria said she had appreciated the homely and calm atmosphere at the birth centre and seeing midwife Cathy Styles consistently there for her prenatal visits.

“Cathy was someone I grew to know well and trust and our visits were always at the same little cottage throughout my pregnancy,” Maria said.

“My first son Rhys was born at Nambour Hospital six years before and I really didn’t want the same level of intervention – he was induced and I had pethidine and oxytocin. His birth was hard and fast and I didn’t want that for my second birth; I wanted it more natural.”

A two-kilometre walk on Bucasia Beach on her due date kick-started her 11-hour labour with Hayden.

“I’m really incredibly proud Hayden and Jessika were the first babies born at the Mackay Birth Centre,” she said.

“I kept all the newspaper clippings about him and Jessika being the first arrivals. I have fond memories of the paper taking photos of us as the centre’s first new mums – it was the day after they were born and we weren’t really feeling our best.”

The 30th anniversary of the Mackay Birth Centre was held in conjunction with the Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day on 2 June. Maria and Hayden along with Zoe and Jessika Novikov attended the celebrations to cut a birthday cake.

“It was also lovely to attend the 30th anniversary and to be reunited with Jessika and Zoe and to also meet the last baby born at the centre earlier this year. It’s really quite special to be the first and then to also meet the last baby born at that centre,” Maria said.

Hayden grew up in Mackay, completed his senior schooling at Holy Spirit College and an apprenticeship as a motor mechanic before working out at the mines. He also worked as a theatre wardsperson at the Mater Hospital before recently commencing work with Hastings Deering. He intends to study dietetics at university in the future to “help people” Maria said.

“He’s very settled and I'm so very proud of him,” Maria said.

“He's just such an amazing person and he still teaches me things - he's so much wiser at his age than I ever was at 30.”

Maria said she was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Mackay midwife and maternity services advocate Cathy Styles two years ago.

She hopes to one day sit on the birth centre memorial bench overlooking the rose garden at the Mackay Base Hospital to remember Cathy “who was there supporting me at one of the biggest and most special moments in my life.”

“It’s certainly a long and very special history for thousands of people who had their babies at the Mackay Birth Centre.”

Mackay Birth Centre midwives are still providing birthing services in a dedicated suite within our Women’s Health Unit, and antenatal services at Carlyle Community Health.

Plans for a new Birth Centre off-site from Mackay Base Hospital are currently being explored.

By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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First born babies, Hayden Powell and Jessika Novikov cut a birthday cake at the recent Mackay Birth Centre 30th anniversary celebrations. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

The Mackay Birth Centre celebrated 30 years of amazing care at the Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day on 2 June. Photo supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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By Hannah McNamara

Last Wednesday afternoon, tragedy struck the quiet streets of Robb Place in South Mackay, leaving the community in utter disbelief and sorrow.

Natalie Jane Frahm, a 34-year-old mother, tragically lost her life in an act of senseless violence allegedly perpetrated by Ryan Geoffrey Cole, 31.

Cole has been accused of fatally shooting Natalie in the head and chest as she arrived home in her vehicle, a scene witnessed by two young girls in the back seat of Ms Frahm’s vehicle, who fortunately escaped from the gunman with no physical harm.

The police investigation revealed that there was no known prior connection between Natalie and Cole, other than the fact that the two resided near one another.

James Trevor McGill, aged 66 courageously came to Natalie's aid but was also shot in the hand and sternum. Mr McGill sustained serious injuries but is now in a stable condition.

The incident unfolded on Wednesday 19 June at 4:36pm, prompting an intensive response from emergency services and police.

While many locals were attending the busiest day of the Mackay Show, Robb Place and surrounding streets were placed under an emergency declaration as police initiated a search for Cole, who fled the scene but was later arrested at a nearby service station along the Bruce Highway, allegedly in the drive-thru of a fast-food restaurant.

Mayor Greg Williamson commended the police for their effective response in apprehending the dangerous suspect so quickly.

Since the incident, QPS has confirmed that three firearms have been located at a Robb Place address, with one of those weapons reportedly identified as the firearm used in the homicide. Cole appeared before Magistrate Damian Dwyer in the Mackay Magistrates Court via video link charged with murder and attempted murder and was remanded in custody.

In the aftermath of Natalie's tragic death, tributes poured in from various quarters of the community.

Members of the boxing community expressed their deep sorrow over her passing, highlighting her infectious smile, dedication to Muay Thai, and her supportive presence among fellow gym-goers.

Natalie's memory will live on through the stories shared by those who knew and loved her as the community strives to heal and support one another in the wake of this heartbreaking loss.

A message to Natalie: “You were by far one of the most supportive people I’ve met and you were so genuine, you always had such a positive mindset and impact and always pushed others to do their best…you will always be with me in my heart... I love you so much Natty and I know you’re looking down on us and smiling,” – Tiffany Mulligan.

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Police cordoned off Robb Place in South Mackay last week following an alleged homicide. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Tiffany Mulligan (left) pictured with Natalie Frahm. Image source: Tiffany Mulligan (Facebook)

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A heart-warming gesture unfolded last Saturday during a formal wear shopping trip for one family, leaving a lasting impression of kindness and generosity.

Accompanied by his mother, a young boy tried on suits until he found the perfect one.

Satisfied with their choice, they decided to place the suit on layby and headed home.

Approximately an hour later, their day took an unexpected turn when the mother received a surprising call from the lady at the store.

A compassionate individual had visited the store and paid off the entire layby for the boy's suit as well as generously covering the cost of alterations.

Overwhelmed with gratitude and disbelief, the mother struggled to find words as she inquired about the person, only to learn that they wished to remain anonymous.

In a heartfelt message directed to the anonymous donor, the mother expressed profound thanks, acknowledging that their act of kindness had made a memorable impact. She vowed to pay forward this generosity, aiming to brighten someone else's day just as her family's had been.

Reflecting on the unexpected blessing, both mother and son remained stunned yet filled with appreciation.

“It really has made our whole year,” the mother said.

“I just want to say if the very kind soul who paid off my son’s Tarocash layby for his formal sees this, thank you so very much, your kindness will be remembered forever.

“There are still amazingly kind and good humans in this world who just want to make it a better place, so thank you!”

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I’ll let you in on a little-known secret about me.

Growing up, I wanted to be a lawyer. I love a robust debate.

I think it’s one of the reasons I enjoy sitting in regularly on Mackay Regional Council’s ordinary meetings when time allows. Being the same day that this publication goes to print can make attendance challenging, but I go when I can.

Balancing the demands of a fiscally responsible annual budget and maintaining high service levels and liveability in a progressive city like Mackay is no easy feat. Our councillors and the executive committee face a challenging task, and I do not envy their position. Announcing a rates rise is never a popular move, yet Mackay Regional Council has announced an increase of around $2.50 per week at its annual budget meeting earlier this week. This rise, in line with the CPI, is comparable to what other councils have announced recently.

For more details on the budget, turn to pages 10-11 of this edition.

Additionally, beyond just voting on budget figures, our councillors engage in robust debates that are far from easy. If you’ve never watched a council meeting, I urge you to do so via the council’s Facebook livestream. These debates offer valuable insights into our community’s issues, priorities, and future direction, such as finding out if a school has made an application to expand or if a new childcare centre has been given the green light. Listening to these discussions has even shifted some of my own viewpoints, showcasing the power of a well-argued, balanced debate.

Understanding the complexities faced by our councillors can foster greater appreciation for their roles and the decisions they make. I hope you take the opportunity to engage with these processes and gain a deeper understanding of our community’s governance. It’s easier to have an intelligent conversation about the cost of rates when you gain an understanding into where every dollar received by council needs to go.

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Time is running out to take advantage of the pet registration discount period.

All cat and dog owners who want take advantage of a discount on their pet registration fees will need to register their pet by June 30.

These fees are put towards the cost of running council’s Animal Management Centre, which provides care for lost pets until they can be reunited with their owners or adopted.

Council’s Local Laws Officers will be conducting spot checks of properties to ensure pets are registered.

If your pet is found to be unregistered, you could face significant penalties.

The discounted pet registration fees are as follows:

• Cat registration discount fee (entire cat) - if paid by June 30 - $32 (normally $55)

• Cat registration discount fee (desexed cat) - if paid by June 30 - $14 (normally $23)

• Dog registration discount fee (entire dog) - if paid by June 30 - $100 (normally $140)

• Dog registration discount fee (entire dog) for pensioners - if paid by June 30 - $46 (normally $90)

• Dog registration discount fee (desexed dog) - if paid by June 30 - $43 (normally $65)

• Dog registration discount fee (desexed dog) for pensioners - if paid by June 30 - $22 (normally $39)

For more details on how to register your pet, visit www.mackay.qld.gov.au/registrationinfo.

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Major infrastructure and commercial projects at Mackay Airport are being fast-tracked following approval of a multi-million-dollar loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF).

Up to $45 million will go toward wide-ranging runway, apron and taxiway surface upgrades as well as the highly anticipated Milton Street Precinct, taking shape as a new business, retail and entertainment hub less than 1km from the airport terminal.

North Queensland Airports Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the loan enabled investment in infrastructure that would unlock the next phase of growth at Mackay Airport.

“The extensive infrastructure upgrades that will be assisted by this loan across the next five years will set us up for ongoing success as our community develops and grows,” he said.

“This loan recognises our airport’s critical role across the region, contributing to industry development, tourism, freight and more. We are grateful for this support from the NAIF and look forward to showcasing these enhancements to locals and visitors.”

Works earmarked under the loan include a complete overhaul of Mackay Airport’s airside infrastructure, such as a planned overlay of the entire runway. Additional sections of taxiways and aprons will also be overlayed to reduce maintenance downtime and ensure continued safe operational standards.

The initial phase of the Milton Street Precinct will involve construction of roads and connection of services, creating 25,000m2 of serviced lots to cater to a mix of businesses.

Mr Barker said the precinct’s highly visible and central location just 3km from Mackay’s CBD offered significant potential.

“This is a rare and long-term opportunity for companies to get in on the ground floor and develop their business as part of the prosperous Mackay region, on a premier site,” he said.

The funding for the Mackay Airport upgrades forms part of a broad NAIF loan of up to $155 million for North Queensland Airports, operator of both Mackay and Cairns airports.

Projects tied to the NAIF loan are expected to deliver $1.4 billion in economic benefits across Mackay and Cairns during construction and operation, along with 500 direct and indirect jobs during construction and nearly 1,500 regional jobs once in operation. Works will be rolled out in stages to reduce impact to travelling members of the public.

Senator for Queensland, Nita Green, said it helped to keep rural and regional Queensland connected.

“As a regional Senator, I travel through the regional airports almost every week, I know first-hand how important these upgrades are for our communities,” she said.

“Whether you’re taking the milk run or travelling to capital cities for work or to see friends and family, it is these airports that people in rural and regional Queensland rely on.

“That’s why this investment is so important.”

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Artist impression of planned infrastructure upgrades. Image supplied

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The region’s second Finley Smith Memorial Cup was deemed a remarkable success on June 15 with over 150 attendees indulging in a full day of cricket, raffles and auctions at Harrup Park.

The Finley Smith Memorial Cup served as an opportunity to bring the community together in honour of Finley’s legacy and passion for cricket whilst also raising vital funds in light of Epilepsy awareness. On February 15th of 2022, Finley tragically passed away following an unexpected epileptic seizure, thus the Finley Smith Memorial Cup was created as a way to commemorate his life and raise awareness within the community.

Mayor Greg Williamson attended the event and delivered an inspiring speech, emphasising the importance of community support and honouring Finley's memory. In addition to Mayor Williamson, the Smith family was also present, including Greg, Vicki, Riley, and Michelie Smith.

With the support of the community, this year a grand total of $33,568 has been raised so far, with over $16,000 raised on the day itself.

Over the past two years, the Finley Smith Memorial Cup initiative has collectively raised $76,000 for epilepsy research.

The Marlins emerged as the champions, with the Heartbreak Kids securing a close second place in a display of their competitive spirit and skill. It was a fitting tribute to Finley's memory, as the community gathered to celebrate his life and passion for cricket and comradery.

Event organiser and cherished friend of Finley, Bridget Franettovich said, “We're deeply grateful to everyone who participated and contributed to making this event a meaningful and memorable occasion.

“We extend a heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported this year's event, from attendees to our dedicated corporate sponsors: Advance Physiotherapy, Aurizon, AM Lash & Beauty, Fiesta Rentals, Gardian, Get Real Workwear, Jessica Wilson Photography, Kennedy Amplifier Hire Service, Mackay Leisure Centre, Real Time Instruments, Toomas Drycleaners and Harrup Park.

“Their generosity and participation were instrumental in making this year's Cup a success.”

Looking ahead, the Finley Smith Memorial Cup has just been announced as an ongoing annual event and everyone is encouraged to mark their calendars for the Finley Smith Memorial Cup 2025.

“Our goal is to make next year's event even bigger and more impactful, continuing to bring our community together in Fin's honour and support of Epilepsy Queensland,” Bridget said.

“Fin was a remarkable individual, cherished for his infectious laughter, quick wit, and ability to brighten any gathering. His presence was truly special, and through events like the Finley Smith Memorial Cup, we aim to celebrate his spirit and impact on our community.”

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Mackay’s second Finley Smith Memorial Cup was held on Saturday, June 15 and was a major success, raising over $16,000 for Epilepsy Queensland. Photo credit: Jessica Wilson Photography

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