Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

North Queensland has seen a nice drop in temperatures this past fortnight, which is a welcome change to our growers who are still busy out in the field preparing for the start of the 2025 season. Our team has also been active on the ground, meeting with growers to finalise their pricing and provide updates on what’s happening in the market.

For those participating in the Managed Pool Plus for the 2025 season, you would have recently received an update detailing the pool’s valuation, pricing strategy, and market outlook.

While it's still early days, the pool is tracking well above the benchmark price, supported by strong base pricing in both the futures and currency markets. The use of option strategies allows for downside protection while maintaining the opportunity to benefit from potential market rallies.

Launched last year as a new pooling option for Wilmar growers, the Managed Pool Plus has attracted strong interest from those seeking a more stable approach amid market volatility. Nominations for the 2026 season are now open and will close on 30 June. I encourage you to contact a member of the team if you’re considering this option for your pricing next season.

In broader market news, the #11 sugar contract remains range-bound due to limited activity from both buyers and sellers.

Attention is centred on Brazil’s bi-weekly UNICA reports, which offer key metrics such as harvested tonnage, CCS, and sugar mix. Yield data comes from the monthly CTC reports. The May reports indicate the Brazilian harvest is running behind schedule, with lower-than-expected yields, CCS, and sugar mix. However, it's still early in the season, and recent weather-related delays may be offset in upcoming updates.

Given the current "watch and act" sentiment, we expect prices to remain within a broad trading range of 17.00 to 18.50 USc/lb. A weaker-than-anticipated UNICA update could push prices toward the upper end of that range, while further declines in oil prices could pressure the lower end by reducing ethanol parity pricing.

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Photo supplied: Wilmar Sugar and Renewables

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Queensland’s 2025 sugarcane crush is officially underway, with harvesters firing up across the Tablelands district this morning. It marks the start of a new season that growers hope will bring better fortunes after a tough run last year.

Around 28.5 million tonnes of cane are expected to be cut and crushed across 13 districts, from Rocky Point in the south right up to Mossman in the far north.

The crop is down slightly from last year, with recent widespread flooding across north Queensland causing major losses to plant cane, while prolonged cloudy weather also slowed growth in some districts.

Despite this, growers are hoping to turn the page on 2024, which was one of the most disrupted seasons in recent memory. Unseasonal rain, mill breakdowns and industrial action caused major delays that saw some districts harvesting into January – and around a million tonnes of cane left in the paddock.

“Growers are eternal optimists,” CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said.

“They’ve done their part, growing the best crop they can under the conditions. Now we will be working together with the rest of the supply chain to make this season work.”

While last season’s industrial disputes have been resolved, the reality is, multiple difficult harvesting seasons have had a cumulative impact on the profitability of farmers, Mr Galligan said.

“In the brief break since the last harvesting season we’ve been in urgent talks with the sugar manufacturers, and while we’re seeing a real willingness to tackle the problems and get things back on track, there are no quick fixes, unfortunately.”

Workforce shortages are also creating challenges, especially in regional areas where skilled mill workers, harvester drivers and haulout crews are in short supply.

CANEGROWERS is working with local offices and the Queensland Farmers’ Federation to help address these issues.

“There’s huge potential in this industry,” Mr Galligan said.

“But we won’t fully unlock it until we can consistently harvest the entire crop in most efficient and profitable time.”

With the first cane bins filling up, growers are crossing their fingers for dry weather, reliable mills, and a smooth run through the season.

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Turn this into a stand-alone breakout box to use more space - “They’ve done their part, growing the best crop they can under the conditions. Now we will be working together with the rest of the supply chain to make this season work.”

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Photo supplied: CANEGROWERS

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan

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A Mackay-Made Tale Of Warmth, Wonder And Painted Rocks

By Hannah McNamara

While a painted rock may seem like a small discovery to most, for some it’s a doorway to curiosity, joy, and unexpected connection. In Mrs Trilla and the Painted Rock, Mackay local and beloved toyshop owner Ally Blines captures that magic in a heartfelt and beautifully illustrated children’s book that celebrates creativity, community, and the quiet power of giving.

Inspired during the challenging days of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ally’s story doesn’t mention the virus by name. Instead, it gently explores themes we all understand as loneliness, creativity, and hope.

At its centre is Mrs Trilla, a warm, inventive character inspired by Ally’s own mother, who in her late 80s found herself unexpectedly housebound. Rather than retreat, she sewed quilts filled with memories, baked for neighbours, and became a quiet force of kindness during a time of great uncertainty.

“It’s really a tribute to all the creative, resilient women I know,” Ally explains.

“But mostly, it’s about my mum.”

Ally, who owns Let The Children Play Toyshop & Games Store, has long been a champion of the rock painting movement, hosting workshops where children and families decorated and hid small, hand-painted stones for others to find.

These “kindness rocks,” often inscribed with cheerful images or hopeful words, sparked delight in unexpected places.

“You’d see it happen in real time, where children would be overjoyed when they found one, or proudly placing one for the next person to discover.

“It’s just a wonderful experience.”

Though she jokes about not being “artistic,” Ally’s vision for the book was evident that Mrs Trilla and the Painted Rock would be a local labour of love.

One character, Postie Tina, is inspired by a real Mackay postie known for leaving hand-painted rocks in letterboxes along her route. Her joyful tradition brought smiles during lockdown and lives on in the story, capturing the spirit of unexpected kindness in everyday experiences.

Beautifully illustrated by Mackay artist Kate McKenna, thoughtfully laid out by Pop Press, and proudly printed by BB Print, Mrs Trilla and the Painted Rock is entirely a homegrown creation. Every page reflects the heart of the region, with illustrations even inspired by iconic local landscapes such as Cape Hillsborough and the enduring legacy of generational cane farms.

And while this childrens book was written during lockdown, its message resonates far beyond that moment in time. Whether a child or adult is unwell at home, recovering from an injury, or simply feeling alone on a rainy afternoon, Ally hopes the book encourages readers to turn isolation into imagination and kindness.

“Selflessness doesn’t have to be a big act,” she says.

“It can be as simple as painting a rock and hiding it for someone to find.

“I want readers to know that generosity can be given or found in the smallest gestures…and it truly makes a big impact.”

Available now in-store and online at Let The Children Play Toyshop & Games Store, this charming, thought-provoking book is the perfect gift for any child, or grown-up, who believes in the beauty of giving.

Purchase yours now at www.playmackay.com.au

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Mrs Trilla and the Painted Rock is a heartwarming, Mackay-made children’s book by Ally Blines that celebrates kindness, creativity, and community through the quiet magic of painted stones and the legacy of resilient locals. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Four exceptional young locals have done Mackay proud as finalists in the prestigious Seven News Young Achiever Awards Queensland, with one of them, Dominic de Moura McCarthy, taking home top honours.

Dominic, currently overseas in Brazil, won the Connecting Communities Award for his outstanding work as Co-Founder and Co-CEO of the Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc. (PAYA). The announcement, relayed to him by family via WhatsApp, was a surreal and humbling moment.

“It was a great honour and exciting feeling to receive this recognition,” Dominic said.

“To me, connecting communities means making sure people – especially young people from regional and underrepresented areas – have a seat at the table and a voice in shaping the future.”

Dominic’s work with PAYA includes organising Youth Leadership Summits across the Pacific, empowering over 100 youth leaders from 10 countries. The next summit is set for November in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

His message to aspiring changemakers from the regions is to “Just do it.”

“Make one small step today towards making it a reality. Small steps over time will add up to something bigger.”

Among the other finalists was Krystal Demaid, whose courage and determination have made her a pillar of inspiration in the face of adversity. Since becoming wheelchair-bound in 2019, Krystal has pursued para-sport with passion, competing in wheelchair basketball and conquering gruelling events like the 21km Mackay Marina Run.

Krystal reflected on the night with gratitude.

“The awards night went really well and it was amazing getting to meet so many inspiring people,” she said.

“To be a finalist was a huge achievement. I didn’t expect it – I just do these things as personal challenges, to help others and push myself.”

From fun runs to hand-cycling in the River to Reef Ride and competing in national wheelchair basketball leagues, Krystal’s resilience continues to inspire. She’s also a devoted advocate for disability awareness and mental health, mentoring others while training towards potential selection in the 2025 Women’s National Wheelchair Basketball Team.

Also flying the Mackay flag high were Alice Ruddell and Tristan Turnbull.

Alice, a physiotherapist and founder of Empower Health and Physiotherapy and A Rehab Diary, blends cutting-edge rehabilitation with powerful storytelling through her podcast series. Her approach integrates mental wellness into physical recovery, attracting global interest and elite awards.

Meanwhile, 23-year-old Tristan Turnbull is making waves as one of the youngest qualified Chemical Coordinators in mining, with clients like BHP and Anglo American. Through his consultancy, he champions chemical safety and compliance in high-risk industries, delivering training and mentorship across Queensland.

These four finalists represent the very best of Mackay’s emerging leaders - innovative, compassionate, and community-minded. Their stories are proof that regional Queensland is home to world-class talent. And while only one may have taken home the trophy for the region, all four are winners in the eyes of their community.

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Four inspiring locals were named finalists at the 2025 Seven News Young Achiever Awards Queensland, with Dominic de Moura McCarthy winning the Connecting Communities Award for empowering Pacific youth.

Krystal Demaid

Alice Ruddell

Tristan Turnbull

Dominic de Moura McCarthy. Photo source: 7News Young Achiever Awards Queensland

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RSPCA Mackay’s Million Paws Walk Leaves Lasting Paw Prints

More than 400 locals and their beloved pups gathered at Queens Park for the final RSPCA Mackay Million Paws Walk last Sunday, marking the end of an era with wagging tails, slobbery smiles, and community spirit. The event raised essential funds to support the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of dogs across Queensland – many of whom have faced cruelty, neglect, or abandonment. With the RSPCA caring for nearly 17,000 dogs between 2023 and 2024, the cause remains as urgent as ever. Mackay’s turnout was a powerful display of compassion and commitment. The final 2025 Million Paws Walk was one to remember – etched in paw prints and the hearts of many.

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The final RSPCA Mackay Million Paws Walk was a joyful celebration of community spirit and support for dogs in need, leaving a lasting legacy of love. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Find the pics here: https://tinyurl.com/2axhrhw8

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) has completed clean-up works at Harbour Beach, restoring safe public access ahead of a sunny weekend.

Over the course of four days, more than 55 truckloads of woody debris were removed across 680 metres of coastline. The works were carried out in response to community concerns following severe weather events, including the effects of Cyclone Alfred.

NQBP Acting Chief Executive Officer Carissa Mansfield said the organisation was pleased to support the Mackay community.

“While Harbour Beach sits outside our official port boundary, it’s located right alongside our operations, and we have a long-standing relationship with the Mackay Surf Life Saving Club who first raised the issue,” Ms Mansfield said.

“When we were approached, we were only too happy to help as part of our commitment to being a good neighbour and a responsible community member.”

Throughout the operation, beach access directly in front of the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club remained open, with other access points progressively reopened as debris was cleared.

The clean-up was carried out under all required approvals and in collaboration with Mackay Regional Council, local community groups, and environmental stakeholders.

“We sincerely thank the community for their patience and support during the clean-up,” Ms Mansfield said.

“It was wonderful to see the work completed just in time for locals and tourists to enjoy one of Mackay’s favourite beaches again.”

Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, welcomed the completed works as an important contribution to the region’s lifestyle and liveability.

“Mackay is renowned for its beaches, and the Surf Life Savers are an iconic part of our coastal identity,” he said.

“I’d like to thank NQBP and CEO Brendan Webb for taking proactive action in restoring safe and easy access to the beach.”

Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club President Brendan Smith also expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort.

“Our Club, as the ‘Guardians of Harbour Beach,’ understands the huge impact the beach’s condition was having on tourists and locals alike,” he said.

“We’re grateful to everyone involved for making this valued community space safe and welcoming once more.”

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NQBP Acting CEO Carissa Mansfield on-site at Mackay Harbour beach following the completion of works where more than 55 truckloads of debris were removed across 680 metres of coastline. Photo credit: NQBP

Before the clean-up: Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, Mackay Surf Life Saving Club Patrol Captain Paul Smith and NQBP Acting CEO Carissa Mansfield at Mackay Harbour Beach

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I can tell how my dog, Millie, is feeling just by looking at her. Millie is a smart, robust, ridiculously friendly and energetic mix of border collie, kelpie and some other dog or dogs that also love running and jumping.

She is generally unaware of the boundaries that exist between humans and dogs. Although she has been trained and taught to know she is at the bottom of the pecking order in our family (otherwise it would be chaos), she certainly feels she is a crucial part of that pecking order.

“I might not be Top Dog but I’ve got a place under the table, that’s for sure,” seems to be her position on these matters.

Due to my weakness and our kids’ manipulative and unwavering influence, Millie is also unaware of the boundaries that should exist between inside and outside, on the couch and off the couch. She is constantly there, listening to conversations, watching behaviour, picking up signals about the mood and direction of the day.

The signals she picks up determine how she feels and this is reflected in her demeanour. If there is laughter and fun and animated conversation, she is there wagging her tail and watching it all. She might trot off to get a ball to put at someone’s feet because, who knows, if everyone’s having so much fun we might as well do some catching.

But if I’m watching my footy team, her demeanour changes. She senses the tension in the air and curls up in a ball, tail between her legs. I can try to reassure her but she knows something’s not right. She seems to react the same way when I’m watching Federal Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen talking on TV—except I think she is actually frightened.

But one thing that never changes is that when you arrive home or see Millie for the first time that day, she is ecstatic. The enthusiasm and absolute joy is overwhelming and undeniable.

The difference when it comes to working in real estate is that I work with humans, not canines. Humans don’t arrive at an open house wagging their tails or with their tails between their legs. The mood is harder to pick.

When I arrive to do an appraisal at a seller’s house, they don’t greet me like Millie does. No licking, thank God.

The movie The Castle famously referred to “the vibe”, but it is true that in the world of business and sales, you do have to pick up the vibe—get a sense of the person you’re dealing with and perhaps the mood they are in.

You can’t pick some people’s mood. A person can have a naturally happy disposition or a grumpy one. So, unlike with Millie, you can’t assume anything from someone’s demeanour.

I’ve sold properties to people who seemed cranky and unimpressed with the property. Later they say how much they liked the place and how happy they were with how it was presented. Okay, sure.

Others seem happy and positive, but when you follow up, they say how much they hated the place.

But whether you are dealing with canines or the harder-to-interpret human species, there is one feature that makes relationships work: trust. Whether it’s a dog or a human, if they trust you, they’ll work with you.

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Mackay Launches New Events Calendar

Growing up in Mackay, I always dreamed of something like this. In my various roles organising events, I often found myself trying to avoid clashing with other major events or helping newcomers find out what was on. I’ve long wished for a one-stop-shop for events in our region – and now, I’m thrilled to say, we finally have it.

As a new initiative aimed at boosting community engagement and economic activity, we’ve officially launched the Mackay Events Calendar – a central hub for promoting all types of local events.

The initiative is led by council’s Economic Development team and the Economic Development and Growth Strategic Advisory Committee (EDGSAC) – co-chaired by myself and Cr Belinda Hassan. The calendar is designed to better coordinate and promote the wide variety of events happening across the region, from markets and music festivals to industry expos and community workshops.

This calendar is about showcasing everything Mackay has to offer - not just to locals, but to visitors and potential investors. By giving community groups, businesses and organisers a free, central place to list their events, we’re helping drive foot traffic, fill accommodation and support local jobs.

The Mackay Events Calendar is accessible via the council website and updates automatically by pulling events from most of the popular existing online platforms. The goal is to make event planning more strategic, reduce scheduling clashes and provide a clearer picture of what’s happening across the region.

As co-chair of EDGSAC, I see this calendar as aligning perfectly with our broader regional goals. It supports our strategy to grow a vibrant, resilient economy by making Mackay a destination for both visitors and investment. Events play a key role in that.

We encourage organisations to submit their events online. Whether it’s a charity fun run, school fair, church fundraiser, social club gathering or a major sporting event - all listings are welcome.

This calendar also empowers our community. It puts the power in the hands of locals to promote what they’re doing and be part of a bigger regional story.

The Mackay Events Calendar is now live at https://mackayevents.com.au

Cr Nathenea MacRae

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Renee’s Relentless Fight Through Stage 4 Melanoma

By Amanda Wright

When Renee Fenech felt a pea-sized lump in her upper arm in late 2023, she didn’t panic—but her instincts whispered that something wasn’t right. For months, she’d battled constant headaches while working full time in childcare, pushing through each day with little relief.

“I was told many opinions of what could be troubling my headaches,” she later recalled.

“Neck out, teeth grinding… but Panadol was not helping and my instincts knew something was wrong.”

A doctor initially dismissed the lump as “just a fatty tissue” that would grow. But it did grow, visibly and rapidly, and when another lump emerged in the same arm, Renee pushed for further tests. What followed was a diagnosis that shattered the life she knew: Stage 4 metastatic melanoma. The cancer had spread throughout her body, including her brain.

“I was sent to have a PET scan immediately that found I had metastatic melanomas all throughout my body,” Renee said.

“Meaning I had cancer and a tumour in my brain causing all that built-up pressure I had been experiencing.”

She was immediately admitted to Mackay Base Hospital, before being flown to Townsville for urgent neurosurgery. A large tumour was removed from the left side of her brain. But the operation was only the beginning.

In the weeks that followed, Renee's world unravelled. Her bipolar disorder, already a quiet companion, became unmanageable after the surgery. “My brain was unstable with my bipolar disorder distorting my thought process,” she said.

“I spent my 41st birthday there and celebrated with new friendships formed during my stay.”

For Renee, this was the culmination of a cancer journey that began years earlier. In 2016, she booked into a free mole check at her GP and underwent a biopsy for a suspicious spot on her right forearm.

“It would always start to bleed when scraped past things,” she said. The pathology confirmed it was a nodular melanoma, classified as Level 3 and malignant.

That discovery led to years of vigilance. Another melanoma was removed from her lower back in 2018, followed by one on her right shin in 2020. But each time, she healed, returned to work, and pushed on.

Until now.

The diagnosis of advanced cancer has completely upended her life. Renee now struggles to walk and has had to put her beloved childcare career on hold. Her treatments, four rounds of immunotherapy spaced three weeks apart, resulted in repeated hospitalisations due to severe side effects.

She also underwent Gamma Knife radiation therapy in Brisbane, only to experience another health collapse.

“I spent four weeks in hospital; one lung collapse, liver and pancreatitis affected which led into diabetes,” Renee said.

“It took six months to recover from that before I could start immunotherapy again.”

Through it all, one constant has remained: her mother. She has been her daughter’s carer, companion, and fierce advocate, visiting her daily in hospital, even when it meant relying on public transport. The shift in roles has been monumental, but unwavering.

“I would also like to say many thanks to the Trudy Crowley Foundation for their support to myself and my carer (mother),” Renee said.

“For their friendship and expert advice. And their friendly, open centre to allow people together fighting cancer to talk about their ways of dealing and coping in everyday situations and treatments.”

The Foundation’s fortnightly support groups have been one of the few places where Renee and her mum can catch their breath and talk honestly with people who understand. In a battle filled with unknowns, the comfort of community has become essential.

Theirs is a story not just of cancer, but of quiet endurance. A mother who shows up, every day. A daughter who fights to hold on to hope. And a disease that demands everything, yet still meets defiance.

Despite her setbacks, Renee is determined to one day return to the work she loves.

For now, she’s focused on recovery, on learning to walk again, gaining strength, and navigating a new world where even a short trip can be exhausting. But in sharing her story, she hopes others will listen to their own instincts and never stop asking questions.

“No one is ever really prepared for something like this,” she said.

“But I knew something wasn’t right, and I’m so glad I kept pushing.”

As May marks Melanoma Awareness Month, Renee hopes her story serves as a wake-up call for others to take their health seriously. Her journey has shown just how aggressive melanoma can be—and how crucial it is to act early.

She’s encouraging people to be vigilant: book regular skin checks, trust your gut when something doesn’t feel right, and push for answers if symptoms persist.

“If my story helps someone else catch it sooner, then something good can come from all of this,” she said.

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Renee (right) and her mum Trish at the Trudy Crowley Foundation, where they regularly attend support sessions. Renee’s immunotherapy is now in maintenance mode with monthly treatment and fortnightly blood tests. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

The scars left behind after Renee underwent brain surgery to remove one of the tumours, part of a life-saving operation in her fight against Stage 4 metastatic melanoma. Photo supplied

The radiation therapy brace Renee wore during targeted treatment on the remaining brain tumour was a confronting but necessary part of her complex cancer journey. Photo supplied

Renee receiving immunotherapy via drip during one of her many hospital stays. The treatment has come with serious side effects, but it remains a vital tool in her recovery. Photo supplied

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More than just a race, the 2025 BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival is a celebration of community, resilience, and giving back. Held 20–21 September at the Mackay Harbour, this iconic regional sporting event is proudly supported by naming rights sponsor BMA and the Mackay Regional Council’s Events and Attractions Fund.

This year, the festival takes a meaningful stride forward by supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), with $5 from every race entry going directly towards helping families with sick children.

Mackay Triathlon Club President Stephanie Allen said the partnership gives the event an even deeper purpose.

“Our club has been part of the community for over 38 years, and this year we’re aiming to raise $10,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities,” she said.

“It’s not only about racing, but about rallying together to help local families in their time of need.”

Stephanie emphasised that while hosting a large-scale event brings logistical challenges, especially around traffic safety, strong community and council support has allowed the club to implement new measures, including a dedicated lane closure for cyclists.

“These changes are vital not only for the safety of our athletes, but for the long-term future of this event,” she said.

“We want Mackay to have a high-calibre triathlon right here at home, without needing to travel hours away.”

Mayor Greg Williamson praised the club’s efforts and the broader vision behind the event.

“This is exactly the kind of event our Events and Attractions Fund is designed to support,” he said.

“Last year saw athletes from across Australia, and this year we’re expecting even more, including participants from New Zealand.”

He added, “It’s a fantastic partnership, and it’s just wonderful to see everyone involved coming together for the good of the region.”

For Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern Division, the partnership is incredibly impactful.

Samantha Baker, Community Engagement Executive for RMHC Mackay and the Whitsundays said the support means everything.

“Last year, over a third of the families who stayed at our Townsville House came from Mackay,” she said.

“The funds raised through this event will directly help families in our region when they’re facing some of the hardest days of their lives.”

For Brad Walz, the impact of RMHC was life-changing. After losing one of his twin daughters during pregnancy and spending weeks in hospital with his premature baby, he said the family room gave him a safe place to rest and recharge.

“Ronald McDonald House helped us so much…It meant the world to us during a very difficult time,” he said.

With race categories for all ages and fitness levels, plus opportunities for community fundraising, the 2025 BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival promises to be a true showcase of spirit, sport, and heart within the region.

To learn more or register, visit the official Mackay Triathlon Club website: www.mackaytriclub.com.au

EVENT DETAILS:

Saturday, 20 Sept | From 1PM
• Ocean Swims – 500m, 1000m, 2000m
• Kids Triathlon – Inspiring future athletes
• Event Village – Food, stalls, and live entertainment

Sunday, 21 Sept | From 6.30AM
• Triathlon Events – Sprint, Enticer & Standard (Olympic) distances
• Duathlon, Aquabike & Aquathlon – Fun for all fitness levels

KEY DATES:

• Entries open: 1 July 2025
• Early Bird closes: 31 July 2025
• Final entries close: 4pm, Saturday 20th September

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The 2025 BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival on 20–21 Sept combines sport, community, and charity, with $5 from each entry supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities

Brad Walz. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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When the call went out for a few strong arms to help relocate cupboards and supplies from inside St Vincent de Paul to the Mackay City Girl Guides hut across the road, the Mackay Brothers Football Club stepped up without hesitation.

“There was no fuss, no bother,” said Mackay volunteer Lisa Jamieson.

“All they needed to know was, ‘when and where do you want us?’” And with that, the Brothers arrived in numbers, ready to lend their strength to a good cause.

Demonstrating teamwork and comradery both on and off the field, the Brothers set about packing utes, lifting heavy items, and relocating everything swiftly and safely to its new home at the Girl Guide Hut.

“The comradery and teamwork came to the fore,” Lisa said, as the task was tackled with smiles and good humour.

True to the old saying, “many hands make light work,” the job was done in no time thanks to the club’s collective effort and can-do attitude.

This is just one of the many quiet yet powerful acts of kindness that reflect the heart of Mackay.

“It’s this community spirit that helps make Mackay such a great place to live, work and play,” Lisa added.

“A big shout out to Mackay Brothers Football Club.

“Much appreciated Brothers!”

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Local not for profit selectability will join forces with other Mackay community services in an effort to connect those experiencing (or at risk of) homelessness with essential support.

The team will hold a stall at the Together for Shelter expo to showcase the range of services selectability provides across the Mackay community.

Regional Coordinator Nicole Guzowski said making connections at local events was important for selectability.

“Participating in events like Together for Shelter helps us to better understand local needs,’ said Nicole.

“This helps us to tailor our supports to ensure they are effective and accessible.

selectability Mackay specialises in delivering NDIS individual supports, support coordination and recovery coaching, to group programs and supported accommodation.

“Everyone deserves a place to call home that is affordable, sustainable, safe and secure.

“We work with our recipients who may be at risk of homelessness to increase their capacity and address factors that can contribute to housing problems.

“This could be through tailored group programs around topics and activities that will work for YOU, including financial management, healthy cooking on a budget, and maintaining a tenancy.”

Throughout the expo, selectability will provide information and help to link people to a range of support services.

selectability provides services through the NDIS and other funding options for those who are not.

“Our team is available during the expo to find the right service to suit your needs, you can also contact the team via our website or drop in and see the team at the Mental Health Hub on 21 River St Mackay - no referral needed.”

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A picture-perfect Saturday morning set the scene for the 10th Open Day at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens — and what a celebration it was!

The Tropical Sun Lawn came alive with colour, community and curiosity as hundreds of visitors turned out to explore plant displays, get hands-on with nature activities and soak up the sunshine in one of Mackay’s most beautiful outdoor spaces.

From up-close wildlife encounters to educational exhibits, orchid sales and native bee demonstrations, there was something to delight all ages. Children were kept entertained with creative activities and competitions, including a visit from crowd favourite Parker the Library Van. Many young explorers proudly filled out their Nature Passports, tracking down at-risk native plants and entering the draw for prizes.

The atmosphere was buzzing with joy and learning, thanks to the incredible effort of community exhibitors and council teams — especially the dedicated Botanic Gardens and nursery crews, whose passion for local flora shone brightly throughout the day.

The 10th anniversary Open Day marked a decade of inspiring conservation, education and community connection. With vibrant displays, smiling faces and plenty of leafy love, it was truly a milestone to remember.

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Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Volunteers On The Frontline At Chances House

In the quiet corners of Mackay’s toughest nights, where hardship often casts a long shadow, a steadfast light burns bright. Behind every warm meal served, every hand extended in compassion, and every moment of dignity restored at Chances House stands a quiet army of dedicated volunteers. They are the heart of the mission, the pulse behind the purpose, and the reason why so many vulnerable people have somewhere to turn.

“There are so many organisations that wouldn’t exist without volunteers,” says Kayleigh Brewster, Founder and CEO of Chances House.

“We honestly couldn’t do it without them. They give their time, and we’re extremely lucky to have them.”

Chances House, Mackay’s only homelessness drop-in centre, is more than a shelter. It is a sanctuary of humanity and hope, where volunteers form the frontline of support for those living in crisis. Located at 2 Endeavour Street, this refuge offers daily meals, safe spaces to rest, healthcare assistance, case management, pet care, and vital resources like lockers, internet access, and clean clothes.

Kayleigh spoke passionately about the invaluable role these volunteers play.

“I just want to thank our volunteers for their hard work. I really can’t express my gratitude towards what they do for our community.”

The numbers tell a story of relentless dedication, with over 120,000 meals served, thousands of essential items distributed, and more than 800 nights of crisis accommodation provided.

At Chances House, every volunteer brings more than just time – they bring heart.

“Everyone’s background is valuable – especially those with lived experience or mental health understanding. Volunteers bring heart and insight to what we do,” Kayleigh adds.

Their empathy and lived knowledge allow Chances House to reach those who have often disengaged from mainstream services.

This spirit of service will be on full display next Thursday, 5th June, as Chances House participates in the Together For Shelter Expo. The event is a critical opportunity to broaden the reach of their lifeline services and connect with those who may not yet know help is available.

“It’s a really good opportunity for us to let them know we’re open, as well as what kind of services we offer,” Kayleigh explains.

“We know that people benefit from a hot meal, clean clothes, and all those essential things, so we really want to broaden our reach and make sure those who are in need can find us.”

Kayleigh’s gratitude extends to every volunteer throughout the region, spanning all organisations.

“There are many organisations that wouldn’t exist without volunteers; they play a very special role…I can’t thank them enough.”

For anyone wondering if their time, skills, or story could make a difference – Kayleigh’s message is clear: they can. And they do.

If you need their services, wish to volunteer, or want to donate, connect with the wonderful team at the Together For Shelter Expo, or reach out through their socials or website.

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At the Together For Shelter Expo, Chances House will showcase their vital services and connect with the community to expand their reach, offering hope and support to those in need. Photo source: Chances House

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May has been a significant month for Mackay, marked by substantial legislative advancements aimed at enhancing community safety and justice.

Expanding 'Adult Crime, Adult Time' Legislation

The Queensland Parliament has passed the second tranche of the 'Making Queensland Safer' laws, expanding the 'Adult Crime, Adult Time' framework. This expansion increases the number of offences subject to adult sentencing for youth offenders from 13 to 33 offences. Newly included serious offences encompass attempted murder, rape, arson, kidnapping, and trafficking in dangerous drugs. This legislative move ensures that young offenders committing grave crimes face consequences equal with the severity of their actions, reinforcing our commitment to community safety.
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Crackdown on Illegal Tobacco and Vaping Products

In response to the growing concern over illicit tobacco and vaping products, Queensland has introduced the nation's toughest on-the-spot fines. Individuals caught supplying or possessing illegal tobacco or vapes now face fines up to $32,260, while corporations can be penalised up to $161,300. Additionally, landlords who knowingly lease premises to illegal tobacco and vape traders may face fines up to $161,300 or one year in prison. These stringent measures aim to dismantle the black-market trade that endangers public health and undermines lawful businesses.

Boosting DNA Testing Capabilities

To address the backlog in forensic DNA testing, the Queensland Government has committed $50 million to expedite the processing of critical samples. This initiative involves outsourcing DNA analysis for rape kits, major crimes, and unidentified remains to accredited overseas laboratories. The move aims to reduce the current average processing time of over 440 days, ensuring timely justice for victims and reinforcing the integrity of our forensic services.

Engaging Communities on Domestic and Family Violence

On May 23, the Education, Arts and Communities Committee held a public hearing in Mackay to discuss the Domestic and Family Violence Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025. The forum provided a platform for community members, including representatives from the Mackay Regional Council and local women's services, to share insights and recommendations. This engagement is part of our broader commitment to preventing domestic and family violence and ensuring that legislative reforms are informed by those directly affected.

These initiatives reflect our unwavering dedication to making Mackay a safer place for all. By implementing tougher laws, enhancing forensic capabilities, and fostering community involvement, we are taking decisive steps to protect our citizens and uphold justice.

Nigel Dalton, Member for Mackay

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