A simple act of kindness has prompted a heartfelt message of gratitude from a local family, after a frightening fall at the Sydney Street Market car park reminded them just how powerful community spirit can be.

The incident occurred when a local woman fell in the car park, leaving her vulnerable and in pain. Within moments, members of the public stepped in to help, offering calm support and practical assistance while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

Strangers stayed with the woman and her husband until the ambulance arrived, ensuring they were not alone during a stressful and uncertain time. Water was brought to help keep them comfortable, and blankets were placed beneath the woman to protect her from the heat of the road as she waited for medical care.

Her daughter later shared a message of thanks, saying the situation could have been far worse without the quick thinking and compassion of those who stopped to help.

“Thank you to the wonderful people who helped my mum today at Sydney street market car park when she fell,” she said.

“Without such wonderful people like those who helped her and dad, stayed with them until ambulance arrived, got water for them and blankets to put under my mum so road didn't burn her, she would have been worse off.”

The woman has since returned home. While she is sore and bruised, she is safe and recovering – a result her family credits in no small part to the kindness shown by complete strangers. In a moment of distress, their care and compassion reflected the very best of the local community.

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Image for illustrative purposes only

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Hi lovely readers,

This is our second last edition of the year, and what a wonderful year it’s been.

Next up is our special Christmas edition which is always a joy to read, so be sure to grab your copy.

Last Sunday Adam and I were meant to celebrate our 1st wedding anniversary… although we both completely forgot until the day after (LOL).

Life has been pretty busy lately, so it somehow missed our radar… but hey, that’s life sometimes!

This past week, I spent a little time in hospital. It’s nothing too major, so please don’t worry about me. Adam always finds a way to make me laugh, even in the toughest moments, so it wasn’t all doom and gloom… and that’s one of the many things I love about him.

While I missed home for a few days, I was incredibly well looked after by the wonderful staff, nurses and doctors at Mackay Base Hospital. Their care and kindness, especially during this busy Christmas period made my stay a positive one, and for that I'm so grateful!

My prayers also go out to the victims and families affected by the recent attacks in Bondi, Sydney. Nobody deserves such harm, and my heart goes out to all who are grieving.

May the peace of God comfort them in this difficult time.

Scripture of the week: "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." – Philippians 4:6-7 NKJV

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Suns Deal Drives Regional Growth

Council has locked in a major win for the region, confirming the extension of its successful partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS Football Club (GCFC) through to 2028.

The announcement follows news of a half-billion-dollar investment in the Mackay region by Certainty Wealth, which includes the proposed development of 1,100 residential lots.

Certainty Wealth Managing Director Damien Gwynne said the company’s decision to invest in Mackay was directly influenced by council’s partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS, highlighting the role the collaboration has played in strengthening the region’s profile and appeal.

“In 2024 we were brought up by the Gold Coast SUNS on a business delegation to explore Mackay as a potential investment opportunity,” Mr Gwynne said.

“We will invest more than half a billion dollars in the region over the next seven years – retirement villages, childcare, commercial centres – and that’s all because of that one business delegation,” he said.

Within 13 months of the delegation, Certainty Wealth are 25 per cent of the way through constructing stage one of the Riverbend estate at Mirani near Platypus Beach.

They have also settled on land at Sarina, which will be a master-planned community with more than 1000 dwellings called The Crossing.

Mr Gwynne said The Crossing would change the face of Sarina.

“It will include residential lots, townhouses, retirement village, childcare centre, retail centres, plus a whole bunch of community infrastructure that will assist the existing residents of Sarina,” he said.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the new agreement reinforced council’s commitment to delivering economic, social and sporting benefits for the Mackay region.

“Since 2019, the partnership has positioned Mackay as a premier destination for elite women’s sport, with annual AFLW matches at the Great Barrier Reef Arena attracting thousands of spectators and showcasing the region on a national stage,” Mayor Williamson said.

“AFL participation in Mackay has grown by 15 per cent during this period, with female participation increasing by 20 per cent, highlighting the positive impact of the collaboration on grassroots sport,” he said.

The renewed three-year agreement will see council continue as Official Partner of the Gold Coast SUNS and Official Gold Coast SUNS AFLW Destination Partner.

Key deliverables of the extended partnership include:

• Hosting one AFLW match annually at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
• National brand exposure through apparel branding and signage at AFLW and AFL matches.
• The creation of Discover Mackay Week, showcasing the region through SUNS platforms and match-day activations.
• Economic development opportunities via corporate networking events and boardroom lunches with SUNS partners.
• Community engagement through AFLW player appearances, academy camps and grassroots football programs.
• Consumer promotions such as the “Live the Dream” initiative, giving Mackay girls the chance to experience life as an AFLW player.
• Leadership development sessions run by GCFC executives and high-performance staff.

Gold Coast SUNS Deputy CEO Simon Fitzgibbon welcomed the extension which will see the relationship between the organisations span beyond a decade.

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Mackay Regional Council. The council has been an influential supporter of our club, in particular our AFLW program, for almost a decade,” Fitzgibbon said.

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Council has extended its partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS through to 2028, a move credited with driving major investment, boosting grassroots sport, and elevating Mackay’s national profile. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Opinion Piece By Andrew Willcox MP

Australia went to bed wounded, and woke up confronting a truth we should never have had to
face.

What unfolded at Bondi was not just an act of violence. It was an act of terror. It was an attack
on innocent people, on a community gathered in peace, and on the values that bind us together
as Australians.

My first thoughts are with the victims, those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and the
families whose worlds have been shattered forever. No words can ease that pain. I also extend
my deepest respect and gratitude to the police officers, paramedics, doctors, nurses,
lifeguards, and everyday Australians who ran towards danger without hesitation.

Among the horror, there was extraordinary courage. Ahmed al Ahmed, a local fruit shop owner,
did not run from danger. He ran toward it. With no thought for his own safety, he tackled an
armed attacker from behind, wrestled the weapon from his hands, and helped stop further
bloodshed. In doing so, it has been reported by media that Ahmed was shot twice and required
surgery, yet his actions likely saved countless lives.

His bravery reminds us of something fundamental about Australia: that decency, courage, and
moral clarity still rise in our darkest moments.

Australia is grieving. Australia is angry. And Australia has every right to be.

This attack occurred as members of the Jewish community gathered to celebrate Chanukah by
the Sea. What should have been a moment of light, faith, and joy was transformed into horror.
We stand with Australia’s Jewish community today and always. Antisemitism has no place in
this country. It never has, and it never will.

But we must also confront an uncomfortable truth. This tragedy was not unimaginable. For
many Australians of Jewish faith, it was feared.

Since 7 October 2023, antisemitism has surged across Australia. We have seen hateful
protests, intimidation outside synagogues, Jewish schools requiring security to function, and
vile slogans shouted openly in our streets. Before the shameful scenes on the steps of the
Sydney Opera House in October 2023, many Australians would have said such hatred could
never take root here. That complacency was a mistake.

The warnings were there. They were repeated. They were ignored.

Leaders of the Jewish community sounded the alarm. International allies sounded the alarm.
Even foreign heads of government warned that failing to confront antisemitism early would only
embolden it. Yet the Albanese Government responded with hesitation, equivocation, and
silence when moral clarity was required.

Hatred does not disappear when it is tolerated. It grows.

Australia is a successful multicultural nation because we share a social contract. We welcome
people from all backgrounds, faiths, and cultures, but we ask something in return. We ask that
people respect our laws, our freedoms, and one another. We ask that grievances from overseas
are not imported and weaponised on Australian streets. We ask that loyalty lies with Australia,
not with extremist ideologies or foreign conflicts.

The vast majority of migrants honour that contract. They work hard, integrate, contribute, and
enrich our country. They are valued members of Team Australia.

But it is no longer honest to pretend that our immigration system is immune from failure.
Under Labor, immigration has surged to levels that are unsustainable. More than 1.2 million
people arrived in Labor’s first term alone, with two million expected by the end of the second.

Housing is stretched. Hospitals are under strain. Schools are full. Infrastructure is lagging.
These pressures affect Australians of every background.

A sustainable immigration program is not defined by volume, but by the values and social
cohesion it preserves.

A successful immigration program does not just count numbers. It enforces standards. It
ensures that those who come here accept equality between men and women, freedom of belief,
freedom of speech, and the rule of law. It does not turn a blind eye to extremism, radicalisation,
or imported hatred out of fear of political backlash.

What we have seen in recent times is a failure to uphold those standards. We have seen people
who reject Australian values, glorify violence, and openly express hatred toward Jewish
Australians. That should never have been allowed to take root here.

Raising these concerns does not make someone racist or anti-migrant. It makes them honest.
Australians are generous people. But generosity without boundaries is not compassion, it is
negligence. A government that refuses to police its immigration system properly, or confront
antisemitism decisively, is not being inclusive. It is failing in its most basic duty, which is to keep Australians safe.

This attack has forever changed our nation. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can
decide what happens next.

We must strengthen laws against hate crimes. We must enforce existing laws without fear or
favour. We must ensure migration settings serve Australia’s interests, not ideology. And we must
say, clearly and without apology, that antisemitism, terrorism, and extremist hatred will be met
with the full force of the law.

Australia deserves leadership that is honest, courageous, and prepared to act early, not issue
statements after lives are lost.

Today we mourn. Tomorrow we must act.

For the victims. For their families. For our Jewish community. And for the future of a nation that
should never have allowed this to happen on its shores.

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Mackay Regional Council has raised concerns after the recently upgraded skate park in Bucasia was vandalised only weeks after the revamp was completed.

The popular community space, praised by residents for its fresh new look, has already been targeted by graffiti — a setback council describes as both frustrating and disheartening for the wider community.

Mayor Greg Williamson says the impact of this type of vandalism isn't insignificant.

"There's the cost to ratepayers for crews to have to go back and fix up this defacing of public assets, but it also means they're being pulled from other jobs and projects," Mayor Williamson said.

"The fact that they are having to go and fix up something that should never have needed to be fixed up in the first place is infuriating.

"Aussie culture is that we we don't dob people in, but this has to stop. If you see it, please report it."

Reports can be made through the Snap, Send, Solve app or call 1300 MACKAY.

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Mackay Regional Council has condemned fresh graffiti at the newly upgraded Bucasia skate park, calling the vandalism an unnecessary cost to ratepayers and urging locals to report any incidents. Photos supplied

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Queensland Government Extends Support for Greater Whitsunday Regional workforce collaboration Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) has welcomed the Queensland Government’s announcement of continued funding for the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee (RJC), securing the program through to 2027.

This extension confirms GW3 as the host organisation for the Regional Jobs Committee program until 2027 and reinforces the vital role the committee plays in aligning local industry needs, training pathways, and regional workforce development.

The program is designed by locals, for locals, providing a coordinated approach to identifying unique skilling challenges and strengthening connections between industry, government, training providers and community organisations.

The Greater Whitsunday RJC forms part of a statewide network of 12 Regional Jobs Committees operating from Cairns to the Gold Coast. Together, these committees deliver region-specific skilling and workforce solutions that respond directly to local needs and support long-term economic growth.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer, Ms Kylie Porter, said the commitment demonstrates the importance of proactive workforce planning as local industries continue to evolve.

“We are delighted the Queensland Government is continuing to invest in regional workforce development through the RJC program.

“This extension ensures we can keep driving a coordinated, industry-led approach to skills, training, and workforce attraction across Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday.

Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee Chair, Ms Carissa Mansfield, said sustained funding provides important certainty for industry and partners.

“Workforce remains one of the biggest challenges facing our region. The continuation of the RJC program means we can keep bringing local voices together to address barriers to training, participation, and business growth.”

Member for Mackay, Mr Nigel Dalton, said the Queensland Government is committed to supporting strong regional jobs and skills development.

“The Greater Whitsunday RJC is delivering real impact by strengthening local training pathways and helping businesses connect with the support they need. Extending this program through to 2027 ensures continued investment in regional jobs, industry alignment, and sustainable economic growth.”

“This funding reflects our commitment to ensuring local people have access to local opportunities, and that regional communities are supported to thrive.”

The Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee is proudly supported and funded by the
Queensland Government.

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Continued Queensland Government support for the Greater Whitsunday Regional Jobs Committee. Photo supplied

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Mackay residents are being encouraged to put their hand up to help shape the future of the Bruce Highway, with Expressions of Interest now open for regional representatives to join the Bruce Highway Advisory Council.

The State Government has opened applications for the next round of regional representatives, including one position for the Mackay Whitsunday region, as part of its commitment to improving safety, reliability and long-term planning along Queensland’s major north–south transport corridor.

The Bruce Highway Advisory Council brings together regional representatives and industry experts to help inform priorities for investment and upgrades, including the $9 billion Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and the development of a statewide Fatigue Management Strategy.

Chaired by the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, the Council includes stakeholders from Pine River to Far North Queensland and plays a key role in identifying local issues and directing where funding should be prioritised.

The six regional representatives will join five peak industry bodies on the Council, including the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland, Queensland Trucking Association, Queensland Farmers' Federation, Queensland Tourism Industry Council and the Local Government Association of Queensland.

Regional representatives are appointed on a voluntary basis for a 12-month term and may reapply if they wish to continue. The government said the process ensured a diverse mix of local experience and industry expertise was brought to the table.

Expressions of Interest are open for representatives from six regions, including Far North Queensland, North Queensland, Mackay Whitsunday, Fitzroy, Wide Bay Burnett and North Coast.

Applications for the Bruce Highway Advisory Council close on the 23rd of January.

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Help the Queensland Government improve road safety by joining the Bruce Highway Advisory Council as a voluntary member for a 12-month period. Photo supplied

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Mackay To Become Specialist Cancer Service Hub

The Queensland Government has confirmed major progress on its fully funded Hospital Rescue Plan, unveiling clear timelines for hospital upgrades and new facilities across the state — with Mackay set to benefit as part of a strengthened regional health network.

The plan has reached a significant milestone, with masterplans finalised for key hospital projects including Townsville University Hospital, Toowoomba Hospital, Coomera Hospital, Redcliffe Hospital and Bundaberg Hospital, alongside confirmed planning details for major upgrades at hospitals across Queensland.

The Government said the plan was introduced after inheriting what it described as a failed and under-funded health infrastructure program, which resulted in major delays, missing services and $7 billion in cost blowouts.

Under the Hospital Rescue Plan, the government is delivering a coordinated and fully costed approach to hospital construction and upgrades, aimed at restoring health services and delivering urgently needed hospital beds across Queensland.

While Mackay is not listed for a major hospital expansion under the current tranche of projects, the region is expected to benefit directly through the Queensland Cancer Plan, which will establish Mackay as one of several specialist cancer service hubs across the state. The network will support regional hospitals and improve access to cancer care for communities outside Brisbane.

As part of the statewide plan, specialist cancer hubs will be established in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Wide Bay, Darling Downs, Brisbane and the Gold Coast, helping reduce the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.

Across Queensland, the Hospital Rescue Plan will deliver at least 2,600 additional hospital beds through new hospitals, expansions and upgrades, representing the largest hospital infrastructure investment in the state’s history.

Major hospital projects are already moving forward, including expansions at Townsville University Hospital, which will deliver at least 165 new beds by 2028, and Bundaberg Hospital, which is set to receive more than 200 new beds along with an expanded emergency department and improved maternity services by 2031.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the government was focused on delivering hospital beds and services when Queenslanders need them most.

"Our fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan is delivering new and expanded hospitals, 2,600 new hospital beds and health services when Queenslanders need them most," Minister Nicholls said.

"After Labor’s decade of decline that left the system in crisis and without a credible path to building the hospital beds needed, Queenslanders are starting to see the results of getting our hospital build back on track with masterplans, designs and construction moving forward.

"We’ve put to bed the poor planning, delays and cost blowouts we inherited and we’re now delivering the hospital beds Queensland needs now and into the future."

Queensland Health Implementation Lead Sam Sangster said extensive planning was underway to ensure hospital projects met the needs of local communities across the state.

“These masterplans mark an exciting first step in the process where Queenslanders will begin to see work intensifying on sites across the state,” Mr Sangster said.

“It’s important to take the time to properly plan these major projects to ensure we leave a lasting legacy through sustainable infrastructure that caters for staff, clinicians, patients and their families.”

The Queensland Government said the Hospital Rescue Plan marked a turning point for health infrastructure delivery, providing certainty for communities like Mackay through improved access to specialist services and a stronger statewide hospital network.

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The Government is determined to deliver the resources Queensland hospitals need. Photo supplied

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In celebration of 20 years, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has introduced an additional higher education scholarship as part of its Community Engagement Program, allowing more students to receive a share of $39,000.

For eligible degrees and apprenticeships at CQUniversity in 2026, the program includes three $9000 scholarships for undergraduate degrees and two $6000 scholarships for apprenticeships, providing not only financial assistance but also opportunities for professional development and growth.

Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich highlighted Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to supporting local talent, describing the scholarships as “an ongoing investment in the personal growth and skills development of young people in our region, marking two decades of community impact."

“Scholarships show students that their community is behind them, allowing them to stay close to family, friends and support networks while pursuing their studies and careers,” Ms Franettovich said.

“This initiative creates opportunities for networking, mentoring and connection with local businesses - key elements in building a strong foundation for their future.”

Higher education scholarships are available for a range of fields for those commencing their studies in 2026, including accounting, agriculture/agribusiness, business, digital media, environmental science, health, information technology, law, nursing, science and teaching.

In addition, scholarships are offered for first-year apprentices in automotive engineering and technology, building and construction, electrical, manufacturing engineering and technology, hairdressing, horticulture, hospitality and mechanical trades.

2026 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity Scholarship applications close 28 February. To find out more information and request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.

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(L-R) Community Bank Sarina (CBS)’s Josie Dahtler, CBS Board Director Rainee Shepperson, 2025 CBS scholarship recipients Neve Macdonald, Fletcher McFadzen and Taylah Hayles, CBS Board Chair Karen May, CBS Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich and CQUniversity Associate Vice-President NQ Prof. Rob Brown.

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year!  There are lights on Christmas trees, topped with bright stars.  Everything is merry and bright.  Have you ever noticed that there is a definite theme of “Light” at Christmas time?  But here is the catch; It is at night that the lights are on and shinning in all their glory.

About 700 years before Jesus Christ was born the prophet Isaiah wrote about him; For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah also said; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.   And here is my point; The darkness!  Christmas is a joyful time, but we realize that there are people for whom Christmas is a time of great sadness because things are not the way that they should be.  The message of Christmas is most authentically for the people living, not just in darkness, but in deep darkness.

That might be YOU this Christmas.  However, into that darkness, Christ wants to enter and transform it.  God loves you and waits for permission to be born in your life and for you to experience his magnificent transformative light.

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What’s all the fuss about Christmas?  We see our city dotted with Christmas lights each December, pointing to some great thing, and the Christian belief is that great thing is Jesus.  Christmas is the annual celebration of the birth of Jesus, some 2,000 years ago in the tiny town of Bethlehem.

Christian tradition approaches Christmas with four great themes – hope, peace, joy and love – four things greatly needed.

Hope is that we are not consigned to a random life of trouble followed by oblivion, but that God is real, and that God’s promise of salvation would be fulfilled.  And it was, in Jesus.

Peace is between us and God.  How we wish it was the cessation of war, all the way from global conflicts to our homes.  But this peace which Jesus brings is between us and God.  If we could all grasp that, perhaps the other wars would cease.

Joy is not the fleeting happiness we pursue, but the deep abiding thing that rises within us because we know that God really is with us, even in the darkest of times.

Love is the sacrificial love of God, and this is the love that Jesus brought, demonstrated, and ultimately enacted as he was crucified on a Roman cross.

Christian belief is that Jesus was (and is) the Son of God, who came among us to reunite us with God.  Hence his birth is something truly worth celebrating.

Blessings to you this Christmas, whatever your circumstance may be.

• Rev Wayne McHugh of Northside Worship Centre

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As we head into Christmas — the season of full trolleys, long wish lists, and the annual mystery of
“what on earth do I buy Aunty Carol this year?” — we want to offer something a little different: a
message of hope, grounded in the reality of the work we do every single day.

The truth is, the last two months have been some of the hardest we’ve ever faced. More animals
needing refuge, more people reaching breaking point, and fewer resources to stretch across growing
needs. Our volunteer foster carers have done what they always do: opened their homes and their
hearts. Because every animal deserves safety, and everyone deserves a second chance.

Right now, around 80 pets are in our care — from scared little kittens to old dogs who just want a
soft bed and someone to finally choose them. And every year, the Christmas period hits rescues
hard. We see pets bought on impulse and surrendered once the novelty wears off, and animals
abandoned when families travel or move. It’s heartbreaking and preventable.

So this year, we’re inviting Mackay locals to think differently about giving. Instead of buying
another gift that ends up in a drawer, consider donating to a local charity — ours or any that speaks
to your heart. A small contribution can keep an animal safe, fed, desexed, and given a real chance at
a happy life. That’s a gift that lasts far longer than a pair of socks.

And if you are thinking about adding a pet to your home this Christmas, we ask you to choose
adoption — and choose it with your eyes wide open. Pets are not presents. They’re long-term
companions who feel every high and every hardship right alongside us.

Despite the challenges, we remain hopeful. The generosity of this community has kept us going
through one of our toughest periods, and for that, we’re deeply grateful. From all of us at Mackay
Pet Rescue Inc., we wish you a Christmas filled with compassion, rest, and a reminder that kindness
is still the most meaningful gift you can give.

Warm wishes,
Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.

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Queensland students are celebrating a significant year of achievement, with Year 12 results released this week alongside encouraging improvements in attendance and academic performance across other year levels.

A total of 57,909 students graduated from high school in 2025, with 93.4 per cent achieving a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE). In addition, 1,192 students received a Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement (QCIA), recognising learning pathways for students with disabilities that affect their education.

Around half of eligible Year 12 graduates received an ATAR, with almost one in four achieving an ATAR of 90 or above, highlighting strong academic outcomes across the cohort.

Attendance across Queensland state schools has also reached its highest level since 2021, rising to 87.3 per cent despite disruptions caused by severe weather events throughout the year. This increase represents approximately 500,000 additional days of learning compared with 2024.

Schools also recorded notable improvements in English and mathematics results for students in Years 7 to 9, with report card outcomes among the strongest seen in recent years.

The Government has focused on lifting attendance and results through targeted support and new initiatives aimed at strengthening literacy and numeracy outcomes. Measures include new online teaching resources, a renewed emphasis on reading with 2025 designated as the Year of Reading, and the rollout of phonics and numeracy testing in Year 1.

Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek congratulated students on their achievements and acknowledged the broader school community for its role in supporting learning outcomes.

“Congratulations to all Year 12 students receiving their results today,” Minister Langbroek said.

“Queensland graduates should be incredibly proud of their achievements, and I want to thank all the parents, teachers, principals and school staff who have supported them along the way."

Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority Acting Chief Executive Officer Claude Jones also praised the graduating cohort and the flexibility of the education system.

“Today we celebrate the class of 2025 – an inspiring group of young people,” Mr Jones said.

“Many of these young graduates will move on to further education or training, while others are stepping straight into the workforce. That’s the strength of the QCE system — it provides opportunities and pathways for all students.”

Statistics from the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority show that more than 40,000 students achieved a VET qualification, while 1,683 completed a university subject while still at school, underscoring the diverse pathways available to Queensland students as they transition beyond the classroom.

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Queensland students are celebrating a standout year, with strong Year 12 results, improved attendance and rising English and maths outcomes across the state. Photo source: Unsplash

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Three regional students have been given a welcome boost to their artistic ambitions, receiving a combined $7500 in creative arts bursaries.

The Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary, the MECC’s Jack Sturgeon Bursary and the Friends of the MECC Foundation Families Bursary were presented by Mayor Greg Williamson during a morning tea on Wednesday, December 10, acknowledging the promise and dedication of Mackay’s emerging young artists.

Mayor Williamson congratulated the recipients and praised their dedication to the arts.

“These bursaries are an investment in the next generation of creative talent,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Ashling, Jaxon and Nerida have shown incredible passion and commitment to their craft, and we’re proud to help them take the next step in their artistic journeys,” he said.

Ashling Scanlon received the $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary for 2025.

A recent St Patrick’s College graduate, Ashling will study a dual degree in Education and Creative Arts at QUT in Brisbane.

“This grant will enable me to purchase materials so I can further expand my experimentation with art and support my education as a whole,” Ashling said.

Ashling is a multi-disciplinary artist, focusing on oil and water-based figure painting, while also exploring acrylics.

Jaxon Anderson was awarded the $3000 Jack Sturgeon Bursary, sponsored by the MECC and Friends of the MECC.

Jaxon, also a St Patrick’s College graduate, has been accepted into the Diploma of Musical Theatre at Queensland College of Dance and a Bachelor of Acting at Queensland Conservatorium.

Jaxon has performed in Mackay Musical Comedy Players productions since age 11 and hopes his studies will lead to a career in musical theatre across Australia and beyond.

Nerida Hansen received the $1500 Foundation Families Bursary, thanks to the Friends of the MECC. Nerida, a seasoned performer with 14 years of experience, has appeared with Opera Australia, Mackay Musical Comedy Players, Kucom Theatre and more.

She will study a Bachelor of Theatre (Musical Theatre) at CQUniversity’s Conservatorium of Music.

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Mayor Greg Williamson, centre, presented the Jack Sturgeon Bursary to Jaxon Anderson, accepted on his behalf by Kyra Geoghegan, the Foundation Families Bursary to Nerida Hansen, second from left, and the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary to Ashling Scanlon. Also pictured is Artspace Mackay Foundation bursary judge Leonie Wood.
Photo supplied

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Australian Agriculture on Track for $100 Billion

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Australia’s agriculture industry is on track to reach a record value of almost $100 billion this financial year, according to new figures released earlier this month. The latest ABARES Agricultural Commodities Report forecasts the gross value of agricultural production to rise to $99.5 billion in 2025-26, with fisheries and forestry included pushing the total to over $106.4 billion.

Exports are also expected to reach a record $83.9 billion, reflecting strong international demand for Australian produce. Industry leaders credit this milestone to the skill, resilience, and hard work of farmers, alongside ongoing support from the Albanese Labor Government.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said: “It’s been a significant year for our farmers and producers, and thanks to their hard work, innovation and commitment to excellence, the value of our agriculture industry is on track to reach almost $100 billion this financial year.

“Our Government is backing our farmers and producers to reach this record result by expanding trade opportunities, supporting them to boost their climate resilience, and by strengthening our biosecurity system.

“This is supporting our farmers to supply their world-class products to communities across Australia and around the globe, to employ more people in our regions, and to strengthen our local economies.

“Our commitment to working with farmers to progress their priorities and to deliver support when they are facing challenges, particularly during drought conditions, never stops.”

The growth comes amid ongoing efforts to diversify markets, remove red tape, and strengthen biosecurity, while $1 billion in new concessional loan funding through the Regional Investment Corporation aims to support farmers facing financial pressures.

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Farmers across the country are celebrating a record year, with strong exports and robust local production driving Australia’s agriculture sector toward a historic $100 billion valuation in 2025-26. Photo source: Unsplash

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