Queensland doctors, including those in Mackay, will receive a $40,000 boost to train in General Practice under a new $20 million Miles Labor Government workforce attraction incentive scheme.

The incentive will bolster Queensland’s primary care services by incentivising trainees commencing their training from 2025 and 2026, to undertake General Practitioner training across Queensland.

The payment will also address some of the issues young doctors face when considering a career in general practice.

Typically, other medical specialties offer higher remuneration due to the different training system environments.

The initiative is in addition to the State Government’s Workforce Attraction Incentive Scheme which was established on 1 July 2023 to help drive recruitment success across the health system.

There are currently 38 people who have accepted jobs in Mackay under the scheme, relocating from as far as the United Kingdom, India, Ireland, Nigeria and New Zealand.

Premier Steven Miles addressed the media in Mackay earlier this week, saying that Queensland’s primary care system suffered from a “decade of underfunding by the former federal LNP government”.

“And our busy emergency departments are still paying the price – Queenslanders are showing up at emergency departments in their highest numbers ever, sicker than ever,” Premier Miles said.

“To alleviate that pressure, I am putting new GP incentives on the table to give our primary care system a much-needed helping hand.

“That means here in Mackay, we’ll see more GPs in the community, helping Queenslanders in need.

“That’s what matters to me, because it matters to Queenslanders,” he added.

“Delivering healthcare closer to home for the Mackay community is one of my top priorities and I am proud to be delivering that in my first budget as Premier.”

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Service and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman was also in Mackay, and said she is proud that the state government is focused on delivering the highest quality service and health outcomes for all Queenslanders.

“We know that the Mackay community is feeling the impact of GP workforce shortages, with patients experiencing longer wait times, delays in seeing their GP or not being able to access one at all,” Minister Fentiman said.

“Our government’s commitment of $40,000 will ensure more GPs are working in our communities and the GP workforce remains strong now and into the future.

“More GPs means better healthcare outcomes for patients and improved health and wellbeing for Queenslanders.”

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert added that the demand for our health services in Mackay is growing.

“We know our GPs provide invaluable care and they are usually the first point of call when you’re sick or need to access specialist care,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“This fantastic new initiative will give our doctors the extra incentive to train as GPs.”

RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins said, “The RACGP welcomes this important investment in training the next generation of Queensland’s GPs.

“It will help ensure we can get GPs into communities that need them.”

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Premier Steven Miles with local GP Dr Sarah Zatta, RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins and Minister for Health Shannon Fentiman. Photo credit: Annette Dew

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Four deserving CQUniversity students can look forward to an even brighter future, thanks to the Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Scholarship Program.

The first-year students were selected to receive the impressive scholarship, which provides not only financial support, but also lasting opportunities for students' career and professional growth, as well as personal development.

CQUniversity student Jordana Kelly was awarded a $9000 scholarship towards completing a Bachelor of Business, which she said was a relief off her shoulders.

“I work from home, so the financial relief from helping towards payment of tuition fees and textbooks means I can take time off with assignments,” Ms Kelly said.

“I have only moved up here in the last year, so the scholarship also means there will be chances to get involved in the community and meet new people.”

Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the Bank initiated the scholarship program in 2012 to support students to study, work and play while staying local.

“Scholarships are a crucial investment in people and their aspirations – they instil confidence in students to achieve their goals and give them the opportunity to achieve more than they thought possible – right here in the greater Sarina region,” Ms Franettovich said.

“This year’s recipients are studying a diverse range of bachelor and vocational courses, and their passion and commitment to their local community and career ambitions shone through in their applications.

“We look forward to seeing how these students grow throughout their studies, and they all have great promise as future leaders in our community.”

CQUniversity student Matthew Dorl received a $6000 scholarship towards his Certificate III in Electrotechnology and said he felt honoured for the opportunity.

“This scholarship will help with costs associated with my studies and maintaining tools, and I encourage others to apply next year, as the possible reward is worth the effort,” Mr Dorl said.

Also awarded with 2024 scholarships were Brooke Jense, who obtained a $9000 boost towards her Bachelor of Accounting, and Emma Simpson, who received a $6000 scholarship towards her Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade.

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Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May, Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich, 2024 scholarship recipients Matthew Dorl, Emma Simpson, Jordana Kelly, Brooke Jensen, Community Bank Sarina Manager Charmaine Matsen, director Rainee Shepperson and CQUniversity’s Associate Vice-President for North Queensland Rob Brown at the scholarship presentation. Photo supplied

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Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) has announced the launch of the EmpowerHER Collective, a bi-monthly networking initiative aimed at fostering a strong support system for women, both professionally and personally.

The inaugural event will take place on July 9 from 8.30am to 9:30am at Ocean International Hotel.

The EmpowerHER Collective will include professional development opportunities and promote the Women in Leadership programs managed by RDA GW.

RDA GW Chief Executive Officer Robert Cocco said the creation of the EmpowerHER Collective stemmed from the “overwhelming success of RDA GW's pilot Women in Leadership (WIL) program”.

“Participants of the program requested an ongoing platform to continue their support for one another, leading to the establishment of an online group,” Mr Cocco said.

“Recognising the importance of face-to-face interactions, RDA GW expanded this initiative to include in-person networking events.”

EmpowerHER is a collaboration with other Greater Whitsundays female-focused initiatives, such as The Just Saying Project (JSP), Kickass Women, and Women in Manufacturing.

The Just Saying Project Founder Fallon Drewett said the rise of women leaders in regional areas “can transform communities”.

"Regional communities thrive when women are empowered to lead,” Ms Drewett said.

“Their leadership brings a balance of strength and compassion, which is essential for addressing both economic and social challenges.

“JSP is thrilled to be collaborating with Regional Development Australia and the EmpowerHER Collective. It is important that women have spaces that celebrate their authenticity and the skills they bring to their workplaces and communities.”

Mr Cocco said EmpowerHER Collective’s main aim is to develop a robust support network for women, enhancing their professional and personal development.

“By creating a safe space for women to unite, the initiative hopes to foster a community where women feel comfortable sharing challenges and supporting one another throughout their career journeys.”

EmpowerHER is sponsored by Fierce Signage and STAR Radio, and the first event is open to all women in the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region.

EVENT DETAILS

When: Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Where: Ocean International

Time: 8.30am to 9.30am

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The first cohort of the Women in Leadership initiative from Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays, that sparked the EmpowerHER Collective. Photo supplied

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What started out as a typical summer’s day for the Dray family, soon took a miraculous turn where a series of events ultimately saved their son Jed’s life.

Mum Courtney, had taken her three children, Jed, Gus and Daisy down the road for a swim with their cousins.

As the day progressed, Jed began feeling unwell, he was a little hot and headachy. Courtney initially assumed he’d had a little too much sun. However, overnight Jed’s condition worsened and she decided it was time to take him to the hospital.

Courtney said, “I don’t know what made me decide, we were just getting in the car and going, but something just wasn’t right with Jeddy”.

She didn’t know it at the time, but that decision helped save Jed’s life.

That was miracle 1.

While his symptoms indicated he had heat stroke, he had contracted meningitis.

The severity of his illness was not clear when Jed presented to the emergency department.

The fact that the Doctors and Nurses took Courtney’s fears seriously, meant that he was treated for meningitis as a precaution and that early treatment helped save Jed’s life.

“Without them, Jed may not be here,” Courtney expressed. Jed’s dad Tom agreed, “He wouldn’t be here, we were so lucky”.

That was miracle 2.

The Proserpine Hospital realised that Jed needed specialist care and as soon as he was stable, they called for the RACQ CQ Rescue crew to get him to the Mackay Base Hospital as fast as possible.

“It all happened so quickly, Tom got ready to go with Jedd”, Courtney said.

Tom added, “Yeah, Court went home, packed some bags and organised the other kids and went to Mackay by road”.  The chopper crew, they really made you feel at ease, and when they gave Jed his toy, he just loved it, he clung to it the whole time he was in hospital”.

They didn’t know it at the time but were later told that Jed only had an hour to live.

That was miracle 3.

As Jed continued his recovery, he was getting stronger and healthier every day. The family remain grateful for the miracle workers who played a vital role in saving his life.

Jed doesn’t remember much about the chopper ride, but he won’t forget getting his stuffed toy. A helicopter fondly referred to as ‘Huey’. But not Jed.

“I called him Dustan straight way and he came with me everywhere”, Jed said.

From the life-saving interventions to the comfort of a cherished toy, the impact had on this family will last a lifetime.

And while the Drays love all three of their children, right now, Jed gets just a little extra attention as Courtney and Tom are so very aware of how close they came to losing him.

“Miracles don’t happen every day, but they happened more than once with our Jeddy. We are so very grateful to have him with us,” Courtney said.

“We can’t thank you enough, our boy is here with us, thank you” Tom Dray concurred.

“Without CQ Rescue, he wouldn’t have made it, we wouldn’t have got him there (Mackay) in time. They are our superheroes”, Mrs Dray said.

During uncertainty, the Dray family’s story serves as a testament to the power of hope, a mother’s intuition and the incredible individuals who make miracles possible. Jed’s smile is a constant reminder of the miracles that brought him back to his loving family.

RACQ CQ Rescue is in need of your support of their Annual Appeal.

“We are aiming to raise $200, 000 to keep us flying.

“We have until June 30 to reach our goal and are currently about $60,000 short.

“As a community, WE CAN DO IT.”

To donate, visit cqrescue.org.au

By RACQ CQ Rescue

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RACQ CQ Rescue is in need of your support to continue their mission and help save lives. Photo credit: RACQ CQ Rescue

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Mackay Regional Council’s 2024-2025 budget has included a rates increase in line with CPI with no reduction in services in a climate of escalating costs.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council understood that many people in the Mackay region were doing it tough, with cost-of-living increases putting pressure on household budgets.

He said council, like any business or household, was also being impacted by rising costs.

“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.”

The new budget, adopted by council today, includes a rates increase of 3.6 per cent, meaning the average residential ratepayer will pay $3623 per year. That equates to an extra $133 per year, or an extra $2.56 a week.

Mayor Williamson said council was also reducing the discount for payment during the discount period from 10 per cent to six per cent in the new budget to provide a more “socially equitable” rating structure.

“The most vulnerable ratepayers, many of whom must enter payment plans, aren’t eligible for the discount,’’ Mayor Williamson said.

“They are effectively subsidising ratepayers who receive the discount,’’ he said.

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.

The difference, of more than $7 million, can be distributed to council operations and ensure rate rises can be kept lower, meaning ratepayers not in a position to access the discount aren’t disadvantaged further.

Mayor Williamson said the budget delivered on council’s expressed desire over many years for rates increases to be in line with, or lower than, inflation.

“To be able to manage this in a climate of escalating costs while maintaining, or improving service levels, is a testament to the hard work of staff in driving efficiencies throughout the organisation,” he said.

“And once again, Federal Assistance Grants have been reduced, this time from $5 million last year to $4.5 million.”

The 2024-2025 budget forecasts $442.9 million in expenditure, including an operational budget of $313 million and more than $130 million for capital projects.

The budget delivers a modest surplus of just over $300,000.

“The budget reflects a large, modern, regional local government delivering extensive services and facilities,’’ Mayor Williamson said.

Mayor Williamson said this, of course, was the first budget adopted by the newly elected council following the local government elections in March.

CEO Scott Owen said the forecast surplus was financially responsible as it meant council was raising only the rates revenue it believed was needed to deliver infrastructure and services for the region.

“That is why we’re able to keep the rates rise at 3.6 per cent, which is in line with CPI, with no reduction in services,’’ Mr Owen said.

“We’re also able to deliver important projects as part of our capital works program and at the same time include ongoing investment in asset renewal,” he said.

“The budget is designed to ensure we are well positioned to meet the needs of the community, not only now, but well into the future as part of our Long-Term Financial Forecast.”

Maintaining And Renewing Ageing Assets Key Part Of Capital Program

Council’s new budget includes a capital spend of more than $130 million, includ-ing investment in key pieces of new infrastructure, as well as maintaining and re-newing ageing assets.

A big line item in the budget is $9.2 million for culvert rehabilitation projects.

“This is a good example of the costs involved in the continuous renewal and re-placement program to address the region’s ageing infrastructure,” said Mayor Greg Williamson.

“Much of the capital investment won’t be noticeable to ratepayers and residents as a lot of it is underground, but it nevertheless includes extremely important pro-jects,” he said.

“For example, there is $7.6 million for drainage projects and $9.3 million for sew-erage pump stations.

“There’s also $5.9 million for the Bloomsbury Water Supply Scheme in the north-ern part of our region.”

CEO Scott Owen said council had been successful in securing government grant funding for various capital projects, which lessened the burden on rate payers.

He said, for example, the Bloomsbury Water Supply Scheme had $2 million in grant funding.

“There is $5 million for completion of the Paradise and Webberley streets intersec-tion signalisation, which is under construction,” Mr Owen said.

“This project received more than $1.96 million in grant funding,” he said.

“There’s also $6.7 million for pavement improvement projects, $9.9 million for bridge projects and $5.5 million for flood protection works.”

Boosting Liveability With A Focus On Signature Projects

Signature projects aimed at improving the liveability of the region will receive a boost as part of council’s 2024-2025 Budget.

As well as $11.7 million for ongoing construction of the Northern Beaches Com-munity Hub, there is also $1.3 million to continue investigation work for stage two of the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike project.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Northern Beaches Community Hub project was the largest capital spend of the new budget.

“Stage 1A, including an undercover multipurpose court and nature play area, is al-ready under construction,” he said.

The Australian Government recently announced funding assistance of $15 million under its Growing Regions Program for stage 1B of this key piece of infrastructure to service the rapidly growing Northern Beaches area.

Stage 1B includes a library, meeting rooms and café.

The budget also includes $4.6 million for ongoing City Centre and Riverside im-provements, as well as $3.8 million for stage two of the Resource Centre of Excel-lence.

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Signature projects infographic

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Much is discussed about how employers need to focus on the employee value proposition (EVP) to attract staff, however on a personal level, it’s just as important for your career to know what you have to offer the market.

It’s widely acknowledged there’s a general skills shortage and that it’s more acute in some industries, therefore it’s mostly an employee’s market. It’s also reported that businesses are experiencing economic challenges and there’s an air of uncertainty. How are you as an employee positioned to respond to changes in the economic and employment landscape to make the most of opportunities for the career (and lifestyle) you want?

With the end of the financial year, it’s timely to undertake a personal career audit and these are some key questions to consider:

• What are your longer-term career ambitions? This helps with deciding on career moves. It’s tempting to take advantage of an offer with higher remuneration (totally understandable in the current economic climate), however, it’s worth considering if the move will help you in the longer term and not potentially put you in the career wilderness. Before making major decisions, take the time to reflect on how such a move will help or hinder your career ambitions, and where to next.

• What are you offering to the market? What is your level of capability? Is it where it should be for the type and level of roles you want? What are your current skills and expertise that you can offer to ensure you remain competitive in the employment market? Have you invested in yourself with further learning to keep pace with the way work is changing? Are you open to learning new skills to add to your professional toolkit? Are you able to adapt to new ways of working?

• What personal attributes complement your skills and expertise? Employers are hiring not only for skills but for the ‘right fit’ – values and culture. These are some of the core attributes that are highlighted by employers - reliability; adaptability; team player; willing to learn, consistency – and more, depending on the nature of the role. Also reflect on whether you bring a positive attitude to the workplace.

In simple terms, a personal career audit is a check in on where you are, where you want to be (by when) and what are you doing to get there. To assist with your personal career audit, and power up your purpose, engage with a trusted personal career guide. CareerForce Australia can provide that individualised support - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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A pioneering Moranbah program designed to equip local talent with cutting-edge

electrotechnology skills is creating career pathways into the mining industry while fostering thriving communities.

Anglo American – which operates five steelmaking coal mines in the Bowen Basin – partnered with Moranbah State High School (MSHS) and Major Training to deliver the electrotechnology course in the region.

The course provides an entry-level understanding of electrical systems, circuitry and safety while allowing graduates to carve six months off an electrical apprenticeship.

With a 100 per cent success rate, the 19 graduating students from Moranbah, Dysart and Clermont will get four credits towards the 20 credits needed to complete their Queensland Certificate of Education.

MSHS student Alexandra Ibbertson, who is about to finish the electrotech course, was also selected as a school-based trainee at Anglo American’s Moranbah North Mine in January.

She said the course and the traineeship had been invaluable for steering her to a career in the mining industry.

“It has shown me a full, in-depth scope of what will come if I end up as an electrician in the field,” she said.

“It’s taught me about safety, teamwork and how important it is to co-operate in a group.

“With Moranbah being such a small town and mining being the central focus of it, having courses such as these allow students to transition smoothly into the mining industry and help them secure apprenticeships for the future.”

Moranbah North Mine offers three school-based traineeships, four mechanical and four electrical apprenticeships, and six new-to-industry positions each year.

Moranbah North Mine general manager Paul Stephan said they had received more than 1,500 applications for the 14 apprentice and new-to-industry roles advertised last month and would advertise in August for the next intake of school-based apprentices.

“By hiring locally, we ensure we retain talent within our region, driving economic growth and

sustainability for years to come.

“It keeps kids connected to family and community while providing a talent pipeline to ensure we have sustainable operations going forward, and helps to keep our local businesses thriving.”

The Moranbah electrotech graduates were treated to a visit to the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCoE) in Mackay to celebrate the end of their course.

Moranbah student Bradley Oram said it was an eye-opening, hands-on experience that cemented his desire to work in the mining industry.

“I was leaning towards auto electrical but after this electrotechnology program, I’m definitely open to becoming a high voltage electrician.

“If you help get the kids into the industry, that’s obviously making the town more sustainable.”

Fellow graduate Brooke Foley said her electrician father had inspired her to pursue this career.

“I grew up helping him around the house which made me interested in it,” she said.

“Having courses like this in school, it builds the future generations to have the incentive to go into mining careers and follow the paths of their elders.”

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Moranbah State High School electrotechnology students Hayden Bell and Lincoln

Nicholas preparing for an underground simulation tour at Resources Centre of Excellence in

Mackay. Image supplied

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Queensland is intensifying its battle against Varroa destructor by employing six Varroa Development Officers (VDOs), an Extension and Engagement Coordinator, and establishing new surveillance hives for early pest detection.

While varroa mite Varroa destructor has not yet been detected in Queensland, it is currently in New South Wales and the State Government has identified that Queensland needs to be prepared for this pest.

The varroa mite is an insidious pest that poses a significant biosecurity threat to the common European honeybees whose pollination services add an estimated $14.2 billion to the Australian agricultural and horticultural industries each year.

Following the endorsement of the National Varroa Mite Response Plan earlier this year, Queensland along with other states and territories has shifted from attempting to eradicate varroa mite to managing it.

The newly advertised VDO positions will educate and support beekeepers on integrated pest management (IPM) techniques and offer practical support during the transition. Working closely with individual beekeepers and beekeeping clubs, the VDOs will provide hands-on assistance to build skills, understanding and resilience.

This approach aims to mitigate the impact of Varroa destructor on Queensland's beekeeping and pollination-reliant industries when it inevitably arrives.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said that Queensland is intensifying its efforts against varroa mite by appointing six Varroa Development Officers (VDOs) and delivering 19 workshops across the state over the next 12 months.

"We have joined with other states and territories in shifting our focus from eradication to management of varroa mite and will continue to safeguard Queensland's valuable honeybee industry and recreational beekeeping sector from this pest,” Minister Furner said.

Additionally, 19 workshops will be conducted for both commercial and recreational beekeepers. These workshops will focus on enhancing skills in detecting, monitoring, reporting and managing varroa mite for the long term.

"Biosecurity zone provisions under the Biosecurity Act 2014 restricts the movement of bees and bee related equipment into Queensland from a state or territory where varroa mite has been detected,” Minister Furner added.

"Through comprehensive training and practical support, we are fostering a more resilient and well-informed beekeeping community.”

Customised resources for Queensland’s beekeeping industry will be made available online free of charge.

Biosecurity Queensland is also enhancing surveillance along the Queensland-New South Wales border, focusing on the Gold Coast region and high-risk areas of Stanthorpe and Warwick, where pollination events are anticipated in early spring.

To provide early warning for Varro destructor in Queensland, 18 sentinel hives have been established in these key locations.

"This initiative is crucial for protecting our beekeeping and pollination sectors, which play a vital role in the agricultural success of Queensland,” the Minister said.

"It is crucial to continue protecting Queensland's bees, which in turn supports the sustainability of pollination-dependent industries.”

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$2 million in funding has just been announced by the Queensland Government in hopes of managing the State’s feral pig problem.

Feral pigs are widespread across Queensland and cause significant harm as pests. They degrade soil and water quality, threaten native species, spread invasive plants, harm agricultural crops and livestock and can even transmit diseases.

More than $2 million in funding has been awarded with four new feral pig management coordinators appointed with a focus on investing in a biosecure future for all Queenslanders.

Rachel Chay Deputy Director General & Chief Biosecurity Officer said “Feral pigs wreak havoc on agriculture and the environment.

“These grants not only mitigate the impact of feral pests but also create more jobs in regional areas, contributing to the overall economic health of our communities.

The two successful applicants - Desert Channels Queensland and South West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils were selected to receive funding through Round 8(a) which will see the employment of four feral pig management coordinators.

These coordinators will support the initiation and delivery of effective feral pig management bolstering local biosecurity efforts.

“This funding of more than $2 million has been dedicated to employing up to four feral pig management coordinators to support the initiation and delivery of effective feral pig management across the state,” Dr Chay added.

"This is a crucial investment in biosecurity and feral pest management in Queenslanders.”

The application period for Round 8(a) - Feral Pig Coordination - Biosecurity Preparedness closed on February 29, 2024.

Applications were received from various Regional Natural Resource Management groups, Regional Organisations of Councils and incorporated industry organisations.

This latest funding round under QFPI brings the Queensland Government’s total investment in controlling invasive plants and animals to more than $29.2 million over eight years. This initiative is further bolstered by a $14 million investment from the Federal Government.

For more information, visit  https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/business-priorities/biosecurity/invasive-plants-animals/qld-feral-pest-initiative

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$2 million has been awarded to combat the issue of troublesome trotters with a focus on investing in a biosecure future for all Queenslanders

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CANEGROWERS Mackay urged Mackay Regional Council (MRC) to reconsider its position on the agricultural land ratings categories, as council headed in to vote on the budget earlier this week.

CANEGROWERS Mackay Chairman Kevin Borg said that having spoken with MRC councillors both before - and since - the 2023-24 budget it seems that council have again ignored the inequitable rating system on rural and cane categories.

Sugarcane is on the brink of a revolution that will assist this region’s economy as it diversifies to renewables making it a stable source of renewable sources of fuels, fibres and foods.

There has been strong support from the State Government to develop the sector, but to realise any sugarcane based biocommodities, there is a real and urgent need to preserve land under cane.

Further, mills are an integral asset to our industry and need throughput to remain viable.

“Cane farming land is being challenged by the pressures of our city’s growth,” said CANEGROWERS Mackay Chairman Kevin Borg.

“The city has expanded, taking up a large portion of cane land in and around the alluvial delta of the Pioneer River. Some of the best, most productive growing land has now been taken up by housing, manufacturing facilities and concrete pathways.”

As a result of urban expansion, growers in these areas have been challenged by a double-whammy of high State Land Valuations, primarily based on the rising prices of nearby residential and industrial land.

To add insult to injury, a cents-in-the-dollar rating of cane land has been maintained by council that is more in line with what is charged for big Paget workshop enterprises rather than comparing it with other rural land uses in this region.

In farming, high valuations do not reflect the returns made from the land but is only an indicator of an unrealised value attached to it.

“The reality is, cane farms are quite different to many businesses. The price we receive for our sugar is such that growers simply cannot pass on their ever-increasing costs to absorb over-inflated rates bills. We are heavily exposed to the fluctuations of world market prices, making us price takers and not price makers. Most businesses can increase their prices to absorb cost increases. Cane growers absolutely do not have that liberty,” he said.

According to Mackay Sugar milling area data recorded by CANEGROWERS, since 2007 there has been almost 12,000 hectares of land taken out of cane production: a drop of 13.63%.

Mr Borg said he appreciated that Mackay Regional Council had reduced the cents in the dollar rate from 2.77 to 2.25 on the cane land category last year, which brought savings to some growers, but not to some 40% of growers who experienced steep rates increases- some to dizzying numbers well in excess of $10,000.

This went no way to apprehending the problem for those 40 percent that are unfairly impacted.

“We have heard from growers who have faced rates bill increases since the last round of land valuations, of over $18,000. This is unacceptable,” said Mr Borg.

According to research conducted by Queensland Economic Advocacy Solutions on behalf of CANEGROWERS, Mackay Regional Council has the highest rates on cane land of comparable Category 4/5 Councils.

“We recognise that council has to address meeting its own rising costs, but it does not solve that problem by beating a select section of growers over the head with almost unmanageable rates costs, just as the industry stands ready to offer a bio-commodity boon to the regional economy, with attendant manufacturing, educational and technical opportunities,” said Mr Borg.

“The ratings structure separated cane out from other rural land in 2007, privileging other agricultural pursuits over cane. That is unreasonable.

“Further, we urge Council to consider that the majority of cane farms are family-run enterprises that contain family homes.”

The State Government has issued the Guideline on Equity and Fairness in rating for Queensland Local Governments, which Queensland CANEGROWERS has encouraged all Local Governments to formally adopt.

It says that land used for similar purposes should be similarly rated.

“We aren’t asking for special treatment. We are asking for equitable treatment. We are asking for rating policies and practices that support farming – whether of livestock, cane, or any other produce,” said Mr Borg.

“This region has long known that it needs to be more economically diverse. We need Council policies that support the growth of cane farming alongside a growing regional population.

“Council has the power to determine its rating categories.

“We urge it to reconsider its approach on rural rating and bring the rates of those growers grappling with steep increases back to an acceptable level.”

* this article was submitted prior to the council budget meeting which took place the same time this publication was sent for print, meaning actions from the budget meeting were unable to be added to this story.

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Deputy Chairman and Mackay Area Committee Chairman Joseph Borg with CANEGROWERS Mackay Chairman, Kevin Borg and District Manager Michelle Martin

CANEGROWERS Mackay advocates for fair treatment in the land ratings debate, urging Mackay Regional Council to reconsider its policies affecting local cane farmers. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has urged unions to seriously consider a suggestion made by the company earlier this week in a Fair Work Commission hearing that the parties meet and explore the possibility of independent voluntary arbitration as a means of concluding a new enterprise agreement on fair and reasonable terms.

However, Wilmar claims that the two unions did not immediately take up the offer while the third rejected the option.

The offer to meet and explore the potential of the option of voluntary arbitration will now be put in writing by the company.

A Wilmar Sugar and Renewables spokesman said the company welcomed the assistance of the Fair Work Commission over recent weeks in trying to bring negotiations to a conclusion.

“It is since the Commission’s involvement that we have been able to close the gap between company and union positions, this week managing to specify the ranges within which each party believes agreement might be reached,” the spokesman said.

“At bargaining talks on Thursday, Sugar and Renewables indicated it was looking to an outcome between 14.25% and 15% over 3.5 years, while unions said they were looking to a range between 18% and 22% for a 3-year agreement.

“Unfortunately in the Commission conference today, the unions withdrew their 18% to 22% range, and instead reverted to a claim of 22%.

“Despite the gap having been expanded by unions, we remain committed to exploring all options to bring negotiations to an outcome, including voluntary arbitration,” he said.

“If the parties can agree on the parameters for voluntary arbitration, this is a certain way to test the arguments and the data. We have complete confidence in the information on which we have based our offer and we would expect unions would welcome the same opportunity.”

The Australian Worker’s Union (AWU) claimed that Wilmar “Is now not making an offer to their employees, instead offering a “window” which involves removing employees' right to take accrued RDO hours when they choose.”

A union representative said that despite unions providing indisputable data that the cost of living over the last four years has dramatically outpaced the wage increases Wilmar has paid to mill workers, and the published pay rates of surrounding mills, Wilmar has instead stuck to their “discredited, questionable figures” which include aggregate quarterly inflation figures to artificially lower the rate.

“I suppose we shouldn’t be surprised that Wilmar has got the figures wrong again, this is a company that claims four days of industrial action have delayed the start of the crush by several weeks,” AWU Northern District Secretary Jim Wilson said.

The AWU also claimed that at least one mill may have to stop for up to six hours a day due to Wilmar being unable to attract staff at the wages they offer.

“No doubt Wilmar will try to blame this on their workforce as well, and not the below industry standard rates they pay,” Mr Wilson said.

At time of print, a date for further bargaining has not been agreed by the parties.

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Gibson Creek Farm in April. Photo credit: Wilmar Agricultural Productivity Manager Peter Larsen

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Having worked in the radio industry for the better part of a decade I have given away my fair share of holidays, but at 28 years old, I’m ashamed to say I haven’t travelled since I became an adult. Any memories of foreign lands date back to when I was living on ‘the bank of Mum and Dad’. I always thought I’d love to explore the world with ‘the one I love’ but alas, I’m in my late 20s, single as hell, and still haven’t left the country since I was 11!

That’s all about to change for me personally because next year is the BIG one. The dreaded three-o. I’m not particularly good with change so I decided to disassociate and do three things I’ve never done before to mark my three decades of life. Travel internationally as a grown-up, go on a girl’s trip, and explore Thailand!

I’ve already got my money tin starting to save, despite not even having had my 29th birthday yet! But if reading this does anything for you, let it be the inspiration to start the group chat. Look at the travel hack videos and start planning an international trip with people you care about. It could be the bestie, the friendship group or the family. It could be for this year, next year or the one after that!

It really doesn’t matter, if you put $20 in a tin every week for a year, you’ve already got yourself over $1,000 so think how early it would be to pay off a trip to a paradise like Bali or Thailand within a year or two. We’re so lucky to have so many incredible places to see and visit in our own backyard which many of us partake in regularly, but sometimes I think we get so comfortable in our own home; at some point, we need to put ourselves out there and become the tourists. Explore something different and unknown. Push ourselves out of our comfort zones because that’s where our wisdom and experience grows.

Anyways, clearly, you can tell I’m excited for August 2025 and it makes thirty look a whole lot more appealing. Frankly, I take regular naps, focus on my fitness and use expensive night cream already so 30 is just shaping up to be my 20s with more money at this rate so I’ll take it!

At Star FM we’ve been giving one person in Mackay and The Whitsundays the chance to get in the draw to win a trip for two to London with Star’s Take Me To London. That one is being drawn on Saturday 29th of July on the Airlie Beach foreshore at the markets. If you’re in Airlie, pop down and see us for the big draw!

Kaley

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One of the best put-downs of Australians came from the late former New Zealand Prime Minister Sir Robert “Piggy” Muldoon, who said that “New Zealanders who leave for Australia raise the IQ of both countries”.

Meaning only stupid people would want to leave the Land of the Long White Cloud for Australia, so their departure would lift the average intelligence in New Zealand, but they would still be smarter than the average Aussie, so their arrival would lift the average intelligence here.

You’ve got to pay an insult that’s delivered with humour.

The New Zealand contribution to this nation’s intelligence can be debated but in these, more modern times, the discussion is more about artificial intelligence than clever Kiwis.

Artificial intelligence seems to have gone from science fiction and an obscure phenomenon that nerds discussed between themselves to suddenly taking centre stage in all sorts of aspects of our lives.

The future has arrived and it’s artificial. I’m not sure whether that’s a good thing but it is definitely a thing.

AI is already influencing most areas of life and this will grow, creating massive uncertainty in terms of jobs and people’s careers. It will create new jobs and destroy, or drastically alter, many others.

What will the impact be on real estate? Is there a ticking time-bomb under the seats of today’s real estate agents? Will AI do the job that agents currently do? Ultimately that is up to you, the consumer; the buyer and the seller will spell out what works for them and that will determine how things evolve.

The AI change is already being felt in some areas of real estate; agents who can’t write, now have the assistance of AI.

But what about other areas of real estate? Does it mean the end of open homes and private inspections? Will people just interact with some form of AI that answers their questions and gives them information? Will AI be the middle-man (or woman or cyber entity) between a buyer and a seller negotiating a deal.

At Gardian we are already working with AI and researching how it can help us improve our performance. Where this all leads, I don’t know but I do know that we are not planning on humans being obsolete.

A big factor in selling real estate is the person-to-person interaction, the relationship that is central when someone is buying or selling a property.

At one of our recent regular Gardian real estate training sessions, we discussed the importance of emotional intelligence.

Having emotional intelligence means picking up on someone’s feelings, the nuance of a conversation, having a human connection, and empathy for how someone feels and what they are going through.

This can apply to someone who is selling their late parent’s property that had been in the family for 40 years, people who are selling their property as part of their divorce, a buyer who is looking to downsize after their husband or wife passed away, first-home buyers who are emersed in the excitement of embarking on a life-long journey, a young family looking to upgrade to a property that can accommodate teenagers needing their own space.

The common element in all these scenarios is emotion; it’s not just a business decision. When you sell your BHP shares it’s not an emotional journey. That’s a business decision.

A seller needs to know that the agent not only understands them but also has the emotional intelligence to understand buyers and, through that, help get the best price for their property.

AI won’t replace good service or human connection and hopefully, Artificial Emotional Intelligence (AEI) is still a fair way off. Or is it?

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June is a month of merriment for St Catherine’s Catholic School Year 12 students who celebrated their School Formal on Thursday evening last week.

Friends gathered, parents with tears in their eyes looked on and school pride infused this special celebration to mark the nearing of the end of their school years and the beginning of adult life.

See the photo gallery at https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/shimmering-dresses-and-stunning-sunsets-at-st-catherines-catholic-college

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St Cath’s Year 12 students enjoyed their School Formal at the VMR last week. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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Hi Everyone

While Rach is away on holiday this week, I’m filling in this part of the paper and thought I would introduce myself and let you know what I’ve been up to.

I’m Daniel and I’ve been in the Whitsundays for almost four months now and the time has flown by! I’m originally from England but my family and I moved to Adelaide when I was seven and I had been living there until I accepted the position here.

I’m absolutely loving my job at Whitsunday Life Newspaper and what a beautiful place to start my journalism career. Since moving here, I’ve attended multiple events and have got a feel for the region, I think I’ve settled in quite well and I enjoy it here. But my absolute favourite is getting out and interviewing people. I find producing stories and putting it into print extremely satisfying. I’m sure some of you have seen me out and about already but if not, do say hi, I’m always up for a chat.

When I’m not working, I’m trying to stay active, I get down to parkrun every Saturday and that’s always a great way to start the weekend. I also want to take advantage of the amazing tourism opportunities we have here in the Whitsundays, I went to Whitehaven with my mum and dad but there’s many more things to do.

Lastly, I’d like to introduce Ruth, Ruth is the new cadet journalist with us at Whitsunday Life. She’s got a load of experience and I’m looking forward to knowing her as well as working alongside her. Say hi to her if you see her out and you can read her story on page 10 of this week’s paper.

Daniel

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