Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Mackay Regional Council, in collaboration with urban design and place activation consultants, is actively engaging with the Sarina community to rejuvenate the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct. A series of meetings and a comprehensive two-day workshop have been conducted, involving community stakeholders, councillors, and key council staff. The aim is to gather valuable feedback and ideas to inform the development of a draft precinct activation plan.
The Sarina Field of Dreams precinct, a beloved community space, is poised for transformation. The revitalisation efforts seek to enhance the precinct's appeal and functionality, ensuring it continues to serve as a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. The draft activation plan, once developed, will be circulated for broader community consultation, allowing for further input and refinement.
For more information and to stay updated on the progress of the Sarina Field of Dreams revitalisation, residents and interested parties are encouraged to visit the Connecting Mackay website at www.connectingmackay.com.au/sarina-field-of-dreams. The website provides details on upcoming consultation opportunities and avenues for community involvement.
Through collaborative efforts, the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct is set to embark on a new chapter, fostering a sense of pride and connection within the community.
Community stakeholders, councillors and council staff have already met in workshops and meetings to share ideas for the Sarina Field of Dreams revitalisation. Photos supplied
The current layout of the Sarina Field of Dreams parklands, which is the focus of council’s precinct activation planning. Image source: MRC website
“As green as possible,” is a lifelong commitment made by BB Print as Central Queensland’s #1 Printing Service and North Queensland’s first Sustainable Green Print accredited company. Known for their quality printing, community connection and sustainable processes, BB Print has built a name locals can trust.
The printing industry has transformed in recent years when it comes to environmental responsibility, and BB Print has been at the forefront. In 2013, the business became North Queensland’s first company to achieve Level 2 accreditation for Sustainable Green Print (SGP) – the Australian Printing Industry’s recognised certification program for environmental standards.
Office Coordinator, Nicola Kaye, is very passionate about sustainability.
“We strive every day to better our procedures to reduce the impact on our surroundings,” Nicola said.
That commitment was tested in 2020, when China stopped accepting Australian recycling waste.
“This became particularly challenging… We had to come up with a solution to allow us to recycle our paper waste such as trimmings, and this is when we discovered beneficial recycling to compress the waste.”
“This has reduced our general waste from 600kg to 150kg per week.”
And the innovation didn’t go unnoticed.
BB Print was named a finalist in 2022’s Resource Industry Network Awards.
“It was a really proud moment to be recognised within the resources industry amongst the big mining companies,” Nicola added.
Ready to make your print projects greener and sharper? Contact BB Print today!
The Mackay Regional Council has formally adopted the Economic Development Strategy 2025–2030, setting a clear roadmap for how the region will grow, diversify and attract investment over the next five years.
The strategy has been developed through close collaboration between council, community stakeholders, industry representatives and consultants. The strategy’s creation was guided by the Economic Development and Growth Strategic Advisory Committee (EDGSAC), which I have the privilege to co-chair. This process ensured the strategy reflects both community aspirations and the region’s economic opportunities.
Now adopted, the strategy will move into its next phase, prioritising and implementing the identified action items. EDGSAC will continue to play a key role in monitoring progress, ensuring accountability, and providing advice as council delivers on the strategy.
The strategy is built around several key pillars that will help strengthen the Mackay region’s economic base. These include:
• Live and Visit – enhancing liveability and ensuring a diverse mix of spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.
• Business and Investment – fostering a supportive environment for businesses and attracting new investment to grow jobs and industries.
• Industry Development – leveraging existing strengths while supporting innovation and diversification across sectors.
• People – building the skills, talent and workforce readiness required for a resilient future economy.
Practical action items sit beneath each of these pillars. For example, initiatives include attracting new industries to the region, supporting small and medium enterprises, strengthening the visitor economy, investing in place-making projects and working with education providers to build workforce capability.
The strategy also emphasises collaboration across government, industry and community to maximise outcomes. By working together, the Mackay region can harness its competitive advantages, from natural assets to emerging industries, and position itself for long-term prosperity.
Importantly, this strategy will deliver real benefits to the community, including more local jobs, stronger businesses, enhanced lifestyle opportunities and a more resilient economy. I look forward to working in this space with my fellow councillors, stakeholders and the community to ensure the Mackay region thrives over the next five years and beyond.
By Cr Nathenea MacRae
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) celebrates the recognition of GW3 Future Projects Lead Ms Jarrah Steen, who has been awarded the CRC TiME (Transitions in Mining Economies) Community Champion Award.
The award recognised her leadership and contributions through the Decarbonisation Accelerated Project and was presented at the CRC TiME Annual Forum Dinner in Darwin recently.
The award celebrates individuals and organisations driving excellence in collaboration, knowledge translation, and community-centred approaches that support positive mine closure and transition outcomes.
For Ms Steen, the award represents a collective win for the Greater Whitsunday region.
“This award is recognition of the collective effort of so many people in our region. From visionary leaders and dedicated industry representatives to passionate community members, we are all working together to reimagine the future of our region and its industries.
“I’ve simply had the privilege of holding some key pieces of work. For my team and the stakeholders who walk beside us in this work every day, it’s a moment to pause and celebrate the impact of our collaboration — and to feel seen and valued for the work we do behind the scenes,” Ms Steen said.
GW3 Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the award reflects the depth and impact of the work being delivered through Decarbonisation Accelerated.
“The Decarbonisation Accelerated Project has laid a strong foundation for positive regional impact. As a first-of-its-kind, long-term initiative in Australia, its success is being driven by strong collaboration, even as the full benefits are yet to be realised,” Ms Porter said.
“Our project team has taken the heat out of the decarbonisation conversation by focusing on the evidence that decarbonisation and mining can continue to co-exist in our region.
“By highlighting the region’s strengths and focusing on changes that make sound business sense, we’ve shifted the narrative from challenges to possibilities — delivering tangible benefits that reduce emissions and enhance long-term economic resilience,” Ms Porter said.
The Decarbonisation Accelerated Project is helping prepare the Bowen Basin and Greater Whitsunday region for the global transition to a low-emissions economy. The project builds on the strengths of traditional industries, such as agriculture and mining, while creating pathways for revenue diversification, new industry development, and long-term resilience.
To date, the project has:
• Delivered briefings to over 144 stakeholder groups and established 24 partnerships, securing 40% additional funding beyond the initial commitment from foundation partners.
• Provided direct support to more than 120 businesses.
• Reached over 600 participants through 10 key events.
• Seen strong impact from its Summit in 2024, with awareness and confidence in decarbonisation initiatives rising by up to 45%.
Initiatives delivered under the project include the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit, the Decarbonisation and Gas Scope Emissions Micro-credential with CQUniversity, the Greater Whitsunday METS Revenue Diversification Strategy, the METS & More Campaign, the Biomanufacturing Blueprint, and the Greater Whitsunday Reimagine Rehab Prospectus.
Looking ahead, Ms Steen said the award funds would be reinvested back into the work to continue to develop strong storytelling to share the progress, potential and people behind the decarbonisation journey in the region.
“Every step forward helps build momentum, and this award will support us in continuing to connect meaningfully and engage with purpose.
“I want to see a Bowen Basin that is thriving — economically, socially, and environmentally. A region where communities feel empowered to shape their own futures, where industries are future-fit and sustainable, and where the legacy of mining is one of regeneration and opportunity.”
The Decarbonisation Accelerated project is a partnership between Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE), along with major funding partner the Local Buying Foundation (LBF).
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) celebrates the recognition of GW3 Future Projects Lead Ms Jarrah Steen, who has been awarded the CRC TiME (Transitions in Mining Economies) Community Champion Award. Photo supplied
The South Sea Islanders Hut was the centre of culture and community last Sunday, as the Mackay and District Australian South Sea Islander Association (MADASSIA) and the wider public came together for the 2025 Family Fun Day. The event marked 25 years since the Queensland Government formally recognised Australian South Sea Islanders as a distinct ethnic group.
The day featured traditional dances, market stalls, cultural displays, music, food, and children’s activities, offering a vibrant celebration of heritage. Beyond the festivities, the gathering provided a moment of reflection and remembrance, honouring the contributions of past generations while reinforcing the unity and resilience of the community today.
Ms Elizabeth Warren of MADASSIA said the milestone held a deeper meaning for the community.
“It’s really important to our community because it is 25 years since the state government acknowledged our group as a separate ethnic group,” she said.
“It’s also about honouring our grandmothers, grandfathers, mothers, and fathers who worked so hard with the government to make this happen. Today is as much about remembering their achievements as it is about celebrating what has been done for us.”
Ms Warren added that the celebration had an educational purpose.
“It’s also about sharing our story so that generations to come, and even the wider public, understand our history. Many people don’t realise the contribution of South Sea Islanders to the sugar industry and the economic development of this region.”
MADASSIA President Dwayne Penola said the anniversary was both a celebration and a call to action.
“The biggest thing for me is getting our young people involved to keep this going,” he said.
“We’re not a community that likes to put our name out in bright lights. We just do our thing and make things happen. But recognition matters… not for the glory, but so that our young people know their story and can keep sharing it.”
Dwayne’s wife, Dorisina Penola, who helps organise events behind the scenes, reflected on the importance of passing history to younger generations.
“A lot of people know about blackbirding, but they don’t always understand what happened afterwards… the policies, the struggles, the deportations. That part of the story often gets lost,” she said.
“For our younger generation, it’s really important they know their family lines and feel proud of their identity. Even if you don’t look like your grandparents, you still carry that history and connection inside you.”
“We don’t tend to celebrate ourselves loudly… But gatherings like this are special because they help keep our traditions alive.”
Cr Namarca Corowa, Mackay’s first Australian South Sea Islander councillor, highlighted the significance of the day coinciding with Father’s Day.
“Our forefathers may not have ever been able to leave us wealth, but they left us resilience, faith, and identity. They showed us that a father’s role is not only to provide, but to guide, protect, and love his family,” Cr Corowa said.
“As the first Australian South Sea Islander Councillor in Mackay’s history, I feel the weight of that legacy. Our community, which once had no recognition, no voice, and no seat at the table, now has representation in the council chambers. Something not even my grandparents would have ever believed was possible.
“And as I always say, that is not my achievement alone, it is the fruit of our forefathers’ labour, our elders’ faith, and a community that refused to be silenced.
The eventful day ended on a note of unity, pride, and a shared commitment to honouring past generations while ensuring that stories and traditions continue into the next generations to come.
Treasurer Melanie Yasserie and Secretary Robin Mann with President Dwayne Penola of the Mackay and District Australian South Sea Islander Association.
2) Lenore Davis, Janette Bickey and Tasha Bickey
3) Elizabeth Warren, Charlene Williams and President Dwayne Penola
4) Dorisina Penola
The 2025 Family Fun Day celebrated 25 years of South Sea Islander recognition and heritage. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Last Friday, young people from across Mackay came together for a unique opportunity to connect, recharge, and embrace the outdoors at the Walk and Talk event hosted by the Mackay Youth Council at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.
The free event, aimed at 12- to 18-year-olds, encouraged participants to step away from screens, enjoy nature, and participate in light mindfulness activities designed to boost wellbeing and foster social connections.
“It’s important because we live in a world where at the moment we’re not as connected as we were,” said 15-year-old Youth Councillor Natacha MaKay.
“We can talk to each other all the time and see what each other is doing through social media, but we’re not really connected in person. I barely see my friends anymore because we mostly stay inside and just sit on our phones.”
Natacha explained that her advocacy within the Youth Council is focused on reducing media overconsumption and creating alternative activities for young people.
“My campaign was about spreading awareness of how prevalent doom scrolling is among teens today,” she said.
“We try to promote activities that are already existing and make them more accessible so people have an alternative instead of just scrolling on their phones.”
Participants also engaged in creative mindfulness exercises, including one Natacha described as the “superhero” activity.
“You had to choose a plant or a tree and relate its superpower to your life. When I did a test run, I chose a tree and thought about its strength and flexibility, then related that back to wanting to have more strength within myself,” she said.
Ethan Forde, another Youth Councillor, highlighted the mental health benefits of the event.
“Walk and Talk is a youth initiative founded by the Youth Council to get young people out, connect with nature, express themselves, and break the stigma around mental health,” he said.
“We also provided brochures with activities, goody bags, and even a gift card draw to make it interactive and fun.”
Both Natacha and Ethan stressed the importance of creating spaces for young people to connect outside of social media.
Natacha encourages her peers to practice being present.
“Learning to be bored is really important because it can help you discover more about yourself and spark creativity. Experiences and connections matter more than the time you spend on your phone.”
Participants at the event enjoyed a relaxed walk through the gardens, shared conversations, and practical strategies for managing screen time and mental wellbeing. It also offered Youth Council members a platform to inspire others while showcasing the importance of community engagement.
“This event is just one way we’re using the Youth Council to help young people connect, share ideas, and support each other,” Ethan said.
“It’s all about building a stronger community and giving everyone a voice.”
The success of last Friday’s Walk and Talk has set the stage for future events across the region, providing young people in Mackay with ongoing opportunities to connect, learn, and thrive beyond the screen.
Last Friday, Mackay Youth Council’s Walk and Talk brought teens together at the Botanic Gardens to connect, enjoy nature, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities promoting mental wellbeing, screen-free time, and community connection. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Artwork by an exciting emerging local artist will feature as the inaugural exhibition at Mackay’s newest Blueprint Gallery.
Artspace Mackay is proud to present Hymenophore, the debut exhibition by Liam Folie, which opened last Friday (September 5), at 9 Gregory Street in the City Centre.
Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood said Hymenophore explored Folie’s deep fascination with local fungi.
“Liam’s work focusses on the intricate structures found beneath mushroom caps – the gills, pores, teeth and folds that form the hymenophore,” Ms Heathwood said.
“This unique body of work invites viewers to look closer at the natural world and consider the hidden beauty in often-overlooked details,” she said.
The exhibition has been installed as striking vinyl drops in the shopfront windows behind the bus stop area, transforming the space into a vibrant public art experience.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Artspace Mackay’s Blueprint galleries were an exciting opportunity for emerging artists to showcase their digital art.
“This location joins existing Blueprint sites at Foodspace and Second Lane, which have already featured the works of inspiring established and aspiring digital artists,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Second Lane currently features beautiful works by the talented Venita Mooney,” he said.
“Venita’s work includes photographic landscapes significant to her and her family and the Mackay Indigenous community.
“Activating City Centre locations such as this is one of the objectives of council’s Place Strategy.
“The Place Strategy aims to bring to life and vibrancy to parts of our river front and city centre.
“This includes public art like this and activations such as City Heart Fridays.”
The exhibition launch coincides with a Public Art Walk hosted by Artspace Mackay this afternoon (Friday), celebrating the vibrant local arts scene.
Each round of Blueprint showcases five digital prints for a six-month period, providing a platform for young and emerging artists to bring their creative blueprints – the first layer of an idea – to life.
Applications for a new round of Blueprint will open in October 2025, and Artspace Mackay encourages up-and-coming artists to apply and be part of this innovative public art opportunity.
The full application criteria and an online submission form can be found at artspacemackay.com.au/blueprint
Liam Folie’s debut exhibition, Hymenophore, is featured at Mackay’s newest Blueprint Gallery on Gregory Street. The Blueprint Galleries are an opportunity for new and emerging artists to showcase their work. Photos supplied
When words fall short, 13-year-old Logan Ivory paints. His art speaks of resilience, identity, and mental health, creating stories that stir emotion, start conversations, and remind us that even the youngest voices can change the way we see the world.
“I use all the colours and shapes, but have a hidden message behind it about the mental health of people,” Logan explained.
“Art can be a way that you can express those feelings and also help other people through art.”
Representing Catherine McAuley College, Logan first won the Mackay University Now to Next award before going on to secure 1st place in the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation’s (QATSIF) Creative Arts Competition for the same piece. Out of 196 state-wide entries, he was the only Mackay winner.
Describing his winning artwork, Logan said “It had a nice feeling, but also a negative feeling at the same time… anger, sadness, happiness… all of them.”
This year, Logan has also been shortlisted for the Children’s Rights Queensland Award for Outstanding Contribution and Commitment to the Promotion and Advocacy of Children’s Rights in Queensland by a young person or a group of young people.
Despite being diagnosed with autism at age two, alongside anxiety and sensory challenges, he attended therapy three days a week until the age of five, when his speech developed enough for him to enter mainstream schooling.
“He’s always created artwork from around the age of two or three… it was how he could verbalise a feeling,” his mum Corissa said.
“The detail in his drawings started from the age of three or four… we’ve kept heaps of his books over the years… we're very proud.”
Rather than being limited by challenges, Logan has turned them into fuel. He served as a school leader in primary school before stepping up as Mackay’s youngest Youth Council member, and even contributed immensely to initiatives such as Autism Queensland and Walk for Autism.
“I know people that struggle with mental health,” he says.
“It’s fairly hard. It can be a bit difficult… but you just have to stay strong.”
To Logan, art is a universal language.
“It kind of gives them creativity… it warms them up… and that’s how they can also express their feelings to people,” he said.
His dream is to create spaces where art is free and accessible to all.
“I’d like to see people do art for free if they’re poor, so they can express what they’re feeling, then maybe people can understand that feeling and help.”
Proud of his Indigenous heritage, Logan recognises the importance of representing his history, family, and ancestors. But more than that, he advocates for children of all backgrounds to know their worth and embrace opportunities.
“This is super exciting for Logan,” Corissa said.
“It’s nice to see these artworks being appreciated and seen by many.”
At just 13, Logan is already connecting hearts across classrooms, communities, and the state. More than a canvas, his gift carries a mission, to advocate for mental health and the arts, ensuring that everyone feels seen, connected, and empowered through the universal language of art.
"Words can wound deeper than silence, echoing the pain of generations. This piece stands as a reminder that reconciliation begins with truth - in the words we choose the histories we honour, and the voices we uplift. Let us speak not to erase, but to heal." This artwork began with an array of a beautiful splash background, however as I painted the therapy of art evolved into a journey of self-hate, hurt and frustration. An immense amount of emotion was created in this piece. Can you feel it?
Logans award-winning piece. Photos supplied
Thirteen-year-old Logan Ivory uses art to express resilience, advocate for mental health, and inspire his community, turning emotions into powerful, award-winning creations. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Cash rate to hold in September
Higher inflation and resilient GDP has confirmed little chance of a September cash rate cut.
“After the August RBA cash rate cut, we’re not expecting a back-to-back cut in September -
especially after a higher read for inflation in the latest monthly indicator for July,” Mr Robertson said.
All eyes will now be on the quarterly inflation data - released late next month - to see just how long
homeowners will need to wait until they can breathe another sigh of relief.
“The Reserve Bank wouldn’t have been surprised by the rise in CPI in the monthly numbers due to
electricity rebates and other one-off factors, but core inflation was a little higher so the RBA will want
to see the full third quarter data out on October 29 before cutting again,” Mr Robertson said.
“Our next RBA rate cut is still forecast in November, but we are getting closer to the low in the
easing cycle, so jobs data and export demand will be important in this timing, and whether the RBA
need to keep cutting rates next year.”
US central bank rate cut imminent, while pace eases elsewhere
“The pace of central bank cuts elsewhere has eased as rates get closer to ‘neutral’,” Mr Robertson
said.
“However the US Federal Reserve is now expected to cut rates later this month after weaker jobs
data and after Federal Chair Jerome Powell gave his clearest message yet that a cut is imminent,
despite inflation trending higher.”
2nd September 2025
Evening Fixture Results
Coming close to the end of the season with only one week to go after this one, matches have been very close right across the 3 Divisions.
Division 1: Fish (Geoff Denman, Steven Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Birds (Emma Widdup, Trent Day, Anne Sheridan) 7-4, Geoff having a very tight win over Anne 13-11 in 5th Set.
Bears (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) defeated Ants (Vince Boeske, Barry Patterson, Robbie Richards) 6-5 with Robbie snuck home in the 5th Set against Josh 12-10.
Division 2: Cats (Will VanDaKaa, Graham Brake, Duncan Treloar) defeated Cows (Ian McKay, Tony Bowman) 9-2. Duncan had a close win over Ian in 5 Sets 11-5.
Dogs (Ivan Perkins, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson) 8-3 with Andrea on her own, she won all 3 matches without dropping a set.
Tigers (Allan Edwards, Janice Kent) defeated Horses (Syed Aminul Hossain, Ollie Hamelink) 6-3. Allan had a great battle with Syed coming out on top 11-8 in 5th Set.
Division 3: Stiga (Simon Hogan, Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 6-5 with Simon sneaking home in 5 Sets against Liz 11-9.
Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDaKaa, Marie Taylor) defeated Nittaku (Samuel Whelan, Noreen Frederickson, Melanie Theodore) 6-5 with Marie having a win over Samuel 11-7 in 5th Set.
Morning Fixture Results
Division 1: Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, Kevin Abbott, John McGee) defeated Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) 8-4 with Peter having a close 5 Sets with Judy and winning 11-9.
Tigers Paw (Bryan Marshall, Tony Bowman, Ross DeBoer) defeated Wolf Pack ( Pam Joyce, Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton) 7-5. Delma made a good come back after being down to win 11-9 in 5th Set.
Lions King (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher) defeated Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Fredrickson, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Coral having a great 5 Sets with Veronica by winning 11-9
Division 2: Python Spin (Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell, Kim Daffy) defeated Panther Pace (Frank Caruana, Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott) 10-2 with Louise and Gerry battling it out as always, with Louise sneaking home 11-7 in 5th Set.
Rhino Charge (Helen Ware, Josie Davis, Pam Kuene) drew 6-6 against Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Ian Dodds), with Josie coming back from 2 Sets down to win in 5 against Ken 11-7.
Division 3: Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Allison Day) defeated Spider Smashers (Laurie Bradshaw, Madge Saunders) 6-3. Sharon won close 5 Sets against Madge 11-8.
Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Peter Taber, Glenda Brookes) defeated Iron Rallies (Ron Johr, Trish Zamparutti, Robyn Giles) 9-3 with Cheryl winning in 5 Sets against Ron 11-6.
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
Noreen Frederickson
Sharon Muller
Josie Davis. Photos supplied
Airlie Beach has won Bronze in the Small Top Tourism Town category at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards in Canberra on Wednesday 3 September. This is a huge award on the national scale and Bowen was also a nominee for the Top Tourism Town.
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor was in Canberra for the announcement and said he was incredibly proud to see Airlie Beach recognised as the third best Small Tourism Town in the nation at the 2025 Australian Top Tourism Town Awards.
“This award is more than just a trophy as it reflects the passion, creativity and sheer determination of our local tourism operators, businesses, community groups and residents who all play their part in making Airlie Beach the vibrant and welcoming place it is today,” he said.
“What makes today even more special is that the Whitsundays was the only region in Australia to have two towns named as national finalists.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Whitsundays success at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards once again proves that the Whitsundays is a world-class tourism destination.
“From Bowen’s pristine beaches and rich history to Airlie’s gateway to the islands and the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef, our region offers experiences that are unrivalled anywhere in the world,” said Mayor Collins.
“To our operators, volunteers, community champions, and the many locals who welcome visitors with open arms, this is a victory for every person who calls the Whitsundays home.
“Together we are building a reputation second to none, and as we head full steam towards hosting sailing at the 2032 Olympic Games, these awards prove that the Whitsundays is not just competing with the best in Australia but proudly leading the way.”
Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth said it was a huge honour to end up with two towns listed as finalists to represent Queensland.
“With both Bowen for the top tourism town as a finalist, and then Airlie Beach winning bronze for the small tourism town is incredible outcome for the region. I'm very very proud,” he said.
“Bowen is going through a fair bit of growth at the moment with the potential of space tourism coming to Queensland, which is really, really exciting.
“We're seeing the biggest use of the Great Barrier Reef Marine, with about 130,000 more visitors than any other region along the Great Barrier Reef going out from Airlie Beach, which is incredible.”
“This award is very important to towns like Airlie beach and Bowen from an economic prospect.
“In Airle Beach, one in two jobs is in the tourism industry, so it's incredibly important. It's a fabric of our town and part of the region. The more that we can continue to grow it, the more economic success all of our businesses will have.”
Tourism Whitsunday CEO Tim Booth also said with the Skyway Project they expect to see more and more growth in the region, in particular Airlie Beach and he and the Tourism Whitsunday team look forward to next year’s awards with Gold in their sights.
Tourism Whitsunday CEO Tim Booth, Chair of Tourism Whitsundays Julie Telford, Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy, and Bowen Tourism and Business Visitor Services Coordinator Glenn Womal. Photo supplied
Queensland was represented at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards. Photo sourced: Facebook
In the spirit of community connection, Bowen Meals on Wheels received some extra helping hands this week as part of National Meals on Wheels Day.
Whitsundays Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins, Councillors Michelle Wright (Deputy Mayor, Whitsunday Regional Council), John Finlay (Division 6) joined Christine and the rest of the Bowen Meals on Wheels team to assist with meal deliveries across town.
The group spent the day delivering warm meals, friendly smiles, and cheerful conversations to local seniors — including Mrs Rodgers, who was delighted to catch up after missing the Bowen State School anniversary last weekend.
The initiative highlighted the incredible contribution of Meals on Wheels volunteers, who dedicate their time to ensuring older residents remain connected, supported, and cared for.
With heartfelt thanks extended to the Bowen Meals on Wheels team, the day was a reminder of the power of community spirit and the importance of looking after one another.
Mayor and Councillors join Meals on Wheels volunteers for the day. Photo supplied
Hi Everyone!
I’m back from my travels around Western Australia and the Northern Territory and I’m excited to get stuck in again.
The trip was nothing short of incredible. There were plenty of long drives, but even more unforgettable views, gorges, towns and people. I feel so grateful to have had the chance to see more of this beautiful country and to experience a true Aussie road trip.
Along the way I picked up plenty of travel stories, tips and advice that I can’t wait to share in Ruth2Reef as well as in Tripping, our travel magazine that comes out every two months.
One highlight that stood out for me was Ningaloo Reef. The colours there are the complete opposite of the Great Barrier Reef yet just as breathtaking. While snorkelling I had the chance to swim alongside two sharks and a pair of humpback whales, and I was surrounded by schools of vibrant fish. It was an experience I’ll never forget.
Another lesson I took from my trip was the importance of slowing down and living in the moment. It’s so easy to get caught up in work, stress and day-to-day worries, but spending time in nature without phone signal, reminded me how valuable it is to simply switch off and be present.
Ruth
"Happiness is not something you postpone for the future; it is something you design for the present." - Jim Rohn
At around midday on Sunday 31 August the Queensland Fire Department were made aware of a fire near Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach.
A smoke issue was given but Queensland Fire Department announced on Facebook that no properties were at risk, but the smoke should be avoided.
“Stay inside and close windows and doors as smoke could be harmful.” Was the advice given on the Facebook page.
A Queensland Fire Department spokesperson confirmed the fire was put out at around 4:05pm on Sunday 31 August.
The fire attracted attention on several Facebook groups. Photo source: Facebook
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue is urging for more foster carers to step forward.
Unfortunately, they have been left in the position where they have been turning away animals.
With every foster home already full, the rescue centre is struggling to keep up with desperate requests even for animals facing euthanasia.
The rescue centre covers vet work, food, and ongoing support, while foster carers provide love, safety, and a temporary home. Every time someone fosters, it means one more dog or cat doesn’t have to be turned away.
Carers don’t need to commit forever. It can be short or long term, and the network extends from Mackay to Townsville and west to Majors Creek.
To find out more or apply to foster, message the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Facebook page today.
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