Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Students with a creative flair are being encouraged to step forward and submit their artwork for the chance to see it projected onto the façade of Australian Parliament House. The opportunity is open to creative students in Years 5 and 6 across Dawson, with selected artworks set to feature as part of Canberra’s Enlighten Festival 2027, which will run from February 26th to March 8th and celebrate light, art and creativity. As part of celebrations marking 100 years of Parliament in Canberra, artworks from every Australian state and territory will be projected onto the Australian Parliament House façade. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said the opportunity would allow young artists to showcase what makes the Dawson region special. “Our part of Queensland is pretty hard to beat when it comes to inspiration,” Mr Willcox said. “We have the Great Barrier Reef, cane fields, beaches, rainforest, rivers, farmers, fishing, wildlife and some of the most unique communities in the country. “There is plenty there to put on the big screen, and in this case, the screen is Parliament House itself.” From the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and cane fields to local wildlife and communities, students are being encouraged to draw inspiration from the places, people, animals, plants and landscapes that make their part of Australia unique. Mr Willcox said he would love to see Dawson represented among the artworks selected for the national display. “I would love to see a slice of Dawson among them,” Mr Willcox added. “Imagine walking around Canberra at night and seeing Parliament House illuminated with artwork created by a student from Dawson. “That would be something to be proud of.” The program also provides students with an opportunity to engage with civics and learn more about the home of Australia’s democracy. Mr Willcox is encouraging schools, teachers and parents across Dawson to support creative Year 5 and 6 students to take part. Submissions close Thursday, October 29th. A student toolkit containing tips and templates, along with a fact sheet for parents, is available through the Parliament House website at aph.gov.au/StudentArtwork. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP is calling on creative Year 5 and 6 students across the region to submit their artwork for the chance to feature on Australian Parliament House during Enlighten Festival 2027. Photo supplied
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Mackay’s CBD and St Patrick’s Church on River Street were filled with officers in blue last Tuesday 29th September, as Queensland Police Service officers gathered alongside local representatives and members of the public to honour the lives of those who never came home from their shift. A march through the Mackay CBD was followed by a memorial service at St Patrick’s Church for National Police Remembrance Day. Officers and staff from across Mackay joined members of the community to honour those who lost their lives in the line of duty and reflect on their courage, dedication and sacrifice. Mayor Greg Williamson spoke about the community’s appreciation for police and the important role officers play across the region. He highlighted how police are often the first people the community turns to when there is a safety concern, while also recognising officers as members of local families and communities. “The people of Mackay call them when there's community safety at risk. And so, today, there's a chance for us, as a community, to join with the police force and say, We, as a community, really appreciate what you do.” “To the people who put their hand up to be in the police force, thank you. Thank you for what you are doing for us as a community, and for Queensland in general.” “Quite often, we take the police for granted, but that's who we call first, when there's a community risk apparent.” Mackay Whitsunday District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh spoke about the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice and the lasting impact their deaths have had on families, friends, colleagues and the wider community. He also reflected on the strong attendance at the memorial and the respect shown towards those being remembered. “Today we come together as one voice to remember those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.” “We gather not only to remember their courage, but also to acknowledge the profound impact their loss has had on families, friends, colleagues, and this community.” “It’s a privilege to see such a strong attendance here today, and it always demonstrates the enduring respect held for those that we remember.” “Please remember that today’s an opportunity to recognise the values of service, sacrifice and a reminder that behind every badge is a person.” “With honour they served.” On Tuesday 29th September, Mackay police officers, local representatives and community members gathered for National Police Remembrance Day. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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A one-year-old girl has tragically died following a fatal traffic crash in Dysart on Sunday, 27th September. Emergency services were called to Golden Mile Road at about 9.05am after a single vehicle left the road and rolled. The one-year-old girl was declared deceased at the scene. A five-month-old boy also sustained serious injuries in the crash. The driver, a 22-year-old Moranbah woman, sustained minor injuries. Police are appealing for anyone who may have information, including dashcam or CCTV footage, to come forward. The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. There were no further updates at the time of print.
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A thoughtful act of kindness is helping bring a little extra warmth to premature babies and their families at Mackay Base Hospital. My Hospital Foundation recently expressed their gratitude to the team Mackay Youth Justice Services, for a delivery of hand-knit premature baby beanies. The cosy hats were knit by a young person in connection to the service as part of their community hours, with help from Indigenous Service Support Officer Jackie T. “These beautiful handmade gifts have been donated to babies at Mackay Base Hospital and will bring comfort to families during a very special time,” a spokesperson said. “Acts of kindness like this make a real difference in our community. Thank you for your generosity and support.” The beanies are a reminder that even small gestures can make a big impact, with the young person's time and effort helping to support local families when they need it most.
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What Does Reef Side Buyers Agent Do?
Reef Side Buyers Agent works exclusively for the buyer — not the seller.
We help people buying homes, investment properties and holiday homes across the Whitsundays, Mackay and surrounding North Queensland areas.
From search to settlement, we help our clients find the right property, assess it properly, understand what it is worth, avoid potential issues and negotiate with confidence.
For buyers who don't live locally, we can also be their eyes and ears on the ground — helping them understand the property and the local market before making a major decision.
Our job is simple: represent the buyer and protect their interests throughout the purchase.
Who Are We?
We are Tyson and Rachael Griffiths, the people behind Reef Side Buyers Agent.
We're a local family raising our young family here in North Queensland, with more than 20 years of experience across building, housing, property and business.
That background gives us a practical approach to buying property. We don't just look at the listing — we look at the property, the numbers, the location and whether it actually suits what the buyer is trying to achieve.
We work with local buyers, investors, families relocating to the region and interstate buyers who want someone local representing them.
Buying in the Whitsundays or Mackay? Have someone on your side.
Reef Side Buyers Agent
0403 353 944
info@reefsidebuyersagent.com.au
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Two people have been identified as suspected of illegal building activity by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) following a three-day compliance operation across Mackay construction sites.
QBCC officers carried out 117 licence checks at 45 active sites as part of the campaign, which was aimed at checking licensing requirements and compliance within the local building industry.
The regulator said investigations were continuing into two cases. One person was alleged to have carried out building work without the required licence, while another was potentially engaging an unlicensed contractor.
A site was also found to have signage that did not meet requirements. The licensee received a warning and further information about their legislative responsibilities.
QBCC CEO and Commissioner Angelo Lambrinos said the regulator sought to educate licensees while taking action where necessary.
“Queensland’s building and construction industry is built on trust, professionalism and accountability,” Mr Lambrinos said.
He said most licensees were meeting their obligations, with compliance audits of active sites during 2025-26 recording unlicensed offending at just over one per cent.
“By conducting these audits, our officers play a critical role in identifying and addressing noncompliance, ensuring building works are being delivered to standards so that Queenslanders can feel confident about the people they hire.”
Mr Lambrinos said the QBCC would continue to focus on education and early intervention, while responding firmly to serious or repeated breaches.
“We prioritise early engagement and education, but we also take firm action on repeat or serious non-compliance.”
The Nationals are seeking to repeal recently introduced federal firearms laws and the proposed National Gun Buyback Scheme, with Dawson MP Andrew Willcox supporting the Bill in Parliament. Photo supplied
The Nationals are seeking changes to recently introduced federal firearms legislation, with a Bill to repeal the laws and abolish the Federal Government’s proposed National Gun Buyback Scheme being introduced in Parliament this week.
Nationals MP and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud is introducing the Firearms Legislation Amendment (Repealing Unfair Gun Laws) Bill 2026, which is being seconded by Federal Member for Dawson MP Andrew Willcox.
The proposed legislation would seek to reverse federal firearms and importation laws passed by Parliament earlier this year and end the proposed buyback scheme.
Mr Willcox said the legislation unfairly affected licensed firearms owners and questioned whether the proposed buyback would address illegal firearms.
“The people who will comply with this buyback are the same people who already follow the law, licensed firearm owners with registered firearms.”
“Does the Prime Minister seriously believe criminals are going to line up and hand their weapons in?”
Mr Willcox also raised concerns about the potential cost to taxpayers and the impact on regional communities, particularly farmers who use firearms for property management and feral pest control.
“This isn't just an issue for firearm owners. Every Australian taxpayer is being asked to foot the bill for a scheme that is unlikely to get illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals.”
He said the Nationals would continue to advocate for responsible, law-abiding firearms owners and welcomed Queensland’s decision not to participate in the proposed Federal scheme.
“It is great to see the Queensland Government standing strong and refusing to join Labor’s scheme.”
The Nationals’ Bill is backed by a petition with more than 71,000 signatures calling for the firearms laws to be repealed.
The proposed national buyback has not been adopted by all states and territories. Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and the Northern Territory have not signed on to the national scheme, while New South Wales and the ACT have committed to it. Tasmania and Western Australia have pursued separate state-based arrangements.
The Bill is expected to be considered by the House of Representatives this week.
By Cr Heath Paton
As someone who lives on acreage and keeps both parrots and poultry, the growing spread of H5 avian influenza across Australia is more than just another headline. Like many bird owners, I watch reports of the virus with a mix of concern and hope, knowing how much we value the health and wellbeing of our animals. While Australia's poultry industry remains free of the disease, the increasing number of detections in wild birds serves as a timely reminder that vigilance is essential.
Australian authorities are continuing to monitor the spread of H5 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, after 231 detections were confirmed in wild birds across the country (at the time of writing this).
The majority of cases have been recorded in South Australia, where 163 detections have been reported. Victoria has recorded 53 cases, followed by Western Australia with 10, New South Wales with four and Queensland with one. Importantly, there have been no detections of the virus in poultry or Australia's agricultural production systems.
Experts have confirmed evidence of local transmission among wild bird populations in South Australia and Victoria. A significant mass mortality event involving wild birds has also been reported in South Australia, reflecting patterns seen internationally as the H5 strain becomes established in wild bird populations.
Authorities say that while the virus is spreading among wildlife, Australia's poultry industry remains free from infection and strong biosecurity measures continue to protect commercial and backyard flocks.
As the disease becomes more widespread, national surveillance and reporting methods are changing. Rather than focusing on individual bird detections, reporting will increasingly concentrate on investigations, significant mortality events, affected species and disease trends over time. Officials say this approach will provide a more accurate picture of how the virus is spreading and evolving.
Members of the public are still being urged to report unusual wildlife illness or deaths. Reports are assessed according to risk and may trigger investigations and testing where necessary.
Health authorities have reassured Australians that the current risk to people remains low. Human infections with this strain of H5 bird flu are rare, no cases have been recorded in Australia and there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Community members who encounter sick or dead birds are advised not to touch them. Instead, they should record details such as the location and species involved, if known, and report multiple sick or dead birds or other wildlife to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Further updates, fact sheets and biosecurity information are available through the national bird flu information website, birdflu.gov.au.
For bird owners, farmers and wildlife lovers alike, the spread of H5 bird flu is a reminder of the importance of biosecurity, early reporting and protecting the animals that play such an important role in our lives and communities.
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Glenella Care residents have grown a thriving community garden with help from staff and a generous donation from Bunnings North Mackay. Photos supplied
A community garden at Respect’s Glenella Care Banksia Wing has gone from a simple pergola area to a thriving patch of greenery, thanks to the efforts of residents, staff and a generous donation from Bunnings North Mackay.
Over the past nine months, residents have worked to establish the garden after the pergola was completed late last year.
Residents put together a wish list of what they wanted to grow, with the team at Bunnings North Mackay responding by donating planter boxes, soil, tools, gloves, hats and a range of plants.
The donation included citrus trees, a passionfruit vine, gerberas, lavender, as well as fruit and vegetable seedlings including tomatoes, corn, peas and strawberries.
The project was led by the social care team, who worked alongside residents and Bunnings to bring the garden to life. During the planting day, residents got their hands in the soil, potting up plants and cuttings.
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Resident Paul said the results were already making an impression.
“It’s bloody good, all the veggies and strawberries are fantastic. I hope they grow well.”
Joy said she was looking forward to seeing the garden continue to develop.
“I can’t wait to see how it grows, we have our first flowers on the lemon tree and they smell great.”
For Rose, the garden has added another special touch to her favourite outdoor space.
“it’s a great addition to our outdoor pergola area. I love it and can’t wait to see everything grow.”
The garden will also benefit the wider Glenella Care community, with produce grown on site to be sold to staff and families during regular market days and in the home.
All proceeds will go back into the garden fund to support future planting.
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Glenella Care General Manager Debbie Vukasinovic said the contribution from Bunnings North Mackay had made a noticeable difference to the outdoor area.
“Bunnings North Mackay have really brought life to the outdoor area. A big thank you to the team for their contribution, our residents are very happy.
“We also look forward to the workshops that Bunnings plan to run with our residents over the coming months as part of our social care activity calendar.
“This type of collaboration is what makes aged care communities as special as they are.”
The project is another example of the community connections that can help bring local initiatives to life, with Bunnings North Mackay’s contribution giving residents the resources to create something they can continue to enjoy and care for together.
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Postie Bike Safari riders hit the road from Mackay on Saturday 15th August, embarking on a 2000-kilometre journey through outback Queensland while raising funds for Childhood Cancer Support. Photo source: Postie Bike Safari
A group of 56 riders hit the road from Mackay last Saturday, kicking off a week-long journey through outback Queensland, with the annual Postie Bike Safari set to surpass $1 million in total funds raised for charity.
Now in its 14th year, the Postie Bike Safari will see riders travel more than 2000 kilometres on postie bikes, supported by 12 vehicles, while raising funds for Queensland charity Childhood Cancer Support.
The event began in 2013 when organiser Greg Becke and his workmates brought together friends for their first charity ride.
“What started with 13 bikes and a simple idea has since grown into a passionate annual ride involving dozens of riders and raising over $1,000,000 for charity,” Greg said.
“In the past five years alone, the Safari has raised $620,000 for Childhood Cancer Support.”
The riders departed from Consolidated Plastics in Paget on Saturday 15th August, before travelling through small towns and rural communities across outback North Queensland.
For 50 years, Childhood Cancer Support has provided free accommodation, transport and support services to regional families travelling for childhood cancer treatment.
Mr Becke said meeting families supported by the charity had strengthened the riders’ commitment to their annual journey.
“I’m so proud of what a small group of passionate bike riders has managed to accomplish over the past 14 years,” said Greg.
“We pay for our own fuel, food and accommodation, and give up a week of work, but the generosity we receive along the way makes it all worthwhile. In the past few years, we have seen so many brave children, spoken to their mums and dads, and learned the hardship they face so far from home.
“We do it all for these families and when we see the smiles on the kids’ faces and talk to the mums and dads, it makes all the dusty bumpy roads and breakdowns worth it.”
The Safari will conclude in Mackay on Saturday 22nd August, with riders, families and supporters gathering at the Farview Tavern in Farleigh for an auction and celebration dinner.
The event has become a major annual fundraiser, with riders covering their own costs so that funds raised can go directly towards supporting families affected by childhood cancer.
With the cumulative fundraising total expected to pass the $1 million milestone this year, Mr Becke said the achievement reflected the generosity of communities along the route and the commitment of everyone involved.
To learn more about the initiative or donate to support the cause, visit fundraise.ccs.org.au/event/postie-bike-safari.
Mackay Regional Council will undertake a major clean-up and install surveillance equipment at Illawong Drive as part of a crackdown on illegal dumping across the region. Photo supplied
Mackay Regional Council is stepping up its fight against illegal dumping following a concerning increase in reports of waste being abandoned across the region.
A major clean-up and surveillance operation will be carried out at Illawong Drive in the coming weeks, with heavy machinery to be used to remove large volumes of illegally dumped waste.
The operation comes after Council responded to more than 560 reports of illegal dumping over the past 12 months, resulting in more than 545 kilolitres of waste being removed from the natural environment.
Mackay Mayor Williamson said the amount of waste being dumped across the region was alarming.
"To put that figure into perspective, 545 kilolitres is the equivalent of about 2270 household wheelie bins worth of waste being dumped across our region," Mayor Williamson said.
"Illegal dumping damages our environment, impacts the amenity of our communities and places an unnecessary financial burden on ratepayers.”
Individuals caught illegally dumping waste can face on-the-spot fines of up to $3454, while corporations can be fined up to $12,952.
Council will also install a range of surveillance measures at Illawong Drive and other known dumping hotspots, including night vision cameras, in an effort to identify and deter offenders.
"If people think they can dump rubbish under the cover of darkness and get away with it, they should think again," Mayor Williamson said.
"We will be installing surveillance equipment, including night vision cameras, and we will continue working with authorities to identify and prosecute offenders wherever possible."
Residents are also being reminded that Council provides alternatives for those needing to dispose of eligible waste, including waste vouchers which allow households to dispose of certain waste free of charge at Council waste facilities.
Council allocates approximately $750,000 each year towards providing the vouchers.
Mayor Williamson said residents had no excuse to dump waste illegally.
"Council provides a range of legal disposal options, including waste vouchers, to help residents dispose of waste responsibly," he said.
"Those who choose to illegally dump rubbish are not only harming the environment, they're shifting the cost of clean-up onto the broader community.
"Every item that is dumped illegally has to be investigated, collected and disposed of, and the cost of that work is ultimately borne by taxpayers and ratepayers rather than the people responsible."
Residents are encouraged to report suspected illegal dumping or abandoned waste to help Council identify problem areas and pursue offenders.
"Council is committed to investigating illegal dumping, but we need the community's assistance," he said.
"If you witness illegal dumping or come across dumped waste, please report it through Snap Send Solve or contact council on 1300 MACKAY."
It has been a significant week for Mackay, with the future of Mackay Base Hospital taking a major step forward and Queensland Road Safety Week reminding us of the responsibility we all share to keep each other safe.
The Queensland Government has unveiled the long-term masterplan for Mackay Base Hospital, providing a clear pathway for how our hospital will grow to meet the future needs of Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday.
Premier David Crisafulli, Health Minister Tim Nicholls, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and I were pleased to outline the masterplan and confirm what will be delivered as part of Stage One.
Stage One will deliver at least 128 new overnight beds, expanded emergency, maternity, birthing, surgical, endoscopy, neonatal and paediatric services, as well as a new Mackay Birth Centre.
It will also deliver more than 1,000 additional car parks and a rooftop helipad, addressing two issues that have been regularly raised with me by hospital staff, patients and local families.
Major construction is expected to begin in 2027 following detailed design and contractor procurement, with Stage One scheduled for completion by 2030.
Importantly, work is already happening, including recommissioning the hospital's on-site helipad and delivering a temporary 80-space fleet car park.
For me, this announcement is about giving Mackay a genuine long-term plan for our hospital.
Our region continues to grow and Mackay Base Hospital provides critical healthcare not only to our city, but to communities right across the wider region.
Mackay deserves quality healthcare close to home, and this masterplan gives us a clear pathway to build the capacity and services our community will need into the future.
While we welcome this investment in healthcare, this week is also Queensland Road Safety Week, running from 17 to 21 August.
It is a timely reminder that keeping people safe isn't just about having quality healthcare available when something goes wrong. We all have a responsibility to help prevent tragedies in the first place.
The Fatal Five dangerous driving behaviours remain speeding, drink and drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, fatigue and driver distraction.
Whether you're travelling across Mackay, heading along the Bruce Highway or simply driving a few streets home, a momentary decision can have lifelong consequences.
So please slow down, buckle up, put the phone away, never drive impaired and stop for a rest when you're tired.
Nigel Dalton MP
Member for Mackay
Community members and local representatives gathered at the Council Chambers last Monday to reinforce the importance of road safety during Queensland Road Safety Week. Photos supplied.
Road safety took centre stage at the Mackay Regional Council lawns last Monday 17th August as local leaders, police and community organisations came together to launch Queensland Road Safety Week.
Held at the Council Chambers on Gordon Street, the event brought together Queensland Road Accident Action Group (RAAG), Treadwell Tyres, Mackay Regional Council, Star FM and other community representatives to promote safer behaviour on the region’s roads.
Mayor Greg Williamson was in attendance and spoke about the importance of road safety in the region, highlighting the need for the community to work together to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities.
RAAG Admin and Grant Coordinator Tracey Costello said the volunteer organisation focused on supporting committees and communities through road safety initiatives and education.
“It’s about trying to educate everyone to stay safe on the roads because the fatalities are rising every year, and it all pretty much just comes down to us. It’s up to all of us to reduce it.”
RAAG also runs campaigns like the Fatal Five, while focusing on all aspects of road safety such as work visibility, roadside safety and wide loads.
Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards, who has worked in traffic policing since the early 2000’s, said road safety affects everyone and highlighted the far-reaching consequences of crashes.
“Anything we can do to reduce our rag toll is good.”
He said the increasing number of vehicles and drivers on Queensland roads, combined with modern distractions, had created additional challenges.
“There’s a lot more distractions these days than there used to be such as mobile phones, and a lot of other things that have a bad influence on drivers.”
Senior Sergeant Edwards also noted that safety on Queensland roads not only applies to vehicles with four or more wheels, but all motorised vehicles and devices, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, urging parents and riders to understand the rules around their use.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton drew on his 42 years of service in the Police force to highlight the devastating impact of fatal crashes on families.
“From my previous 42 years of service, I remember every fatal cash I went to. There was always a horrific investigation that followed, and it’s incredibly sad to deal with the families left behind.”
Mr Dalton urged motorists to focus on the Fatal Five – consisting of seatbelts, fatigue, speed, alcohol and drugs, and distractions.
“If we remove those five things away from our behaviours on the road, we'll reduce fatal features dramatically.”
The launch came as police continued high-visibility enforcement across the region.
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During a recent Operation Interpose traffic enforcement operation in Sarina, officers conducted 737 random breath tests, intercepted 18 heavy vehicles and issued 13 traffic infringement notices. Police also issued five notices to appear for alleged drug driving and unlicensed driving.
The operation included an alleged 137km/h speeding offence in an 80km/h zone on Sarina Beach Road, while police also intercepted an allegedly stolen vehicle on Broad Street.
The enforcement activity reinforced the message delivered throughout the launch: road safety remained a shared responsibility, with every road user playing a crucial role in reducing road trauma.
Mackay RSL Sub-Branch Inc President Ken Higgins OAM, Mr Burley’s daughter Mary-Anne, Mayor Greg Williamson, Lewis Burley and his son Steve. Photo source: Mackay RSL Sub-Branch Inc
Locals gathered at Jubilee Park on Saturday, August 15, to commemorate Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day and mark the 81st anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
The annual ceremony provided an opportunity for the community to remember the Australians and Allied forces who served and sacrificed during the war, while reflecting on the peace and freedom secured through their service.
Mackay’s last surviving WWII veteran, Lewis Burley, also marked his 98th birthday on VP Day, with his children, Mary-Anne and Steve, travelling from Sydney to celebrate the special milestone with him.
The occasion was also marked from above, with a lone Tiger Moth flying over Jubilee Park at 11am. Volunteers Michael and George represented the Tiger Moth Museum, carrying the respect of the Museum’s volunteers for those who served and gave their lives.
While Anzac Day remains Australia’s principal day of military remembrance, VP Day continues to hold an important place in the nation’s history, marking the Japanese surrender on August 15, 1945, which brought the Second World War to an end.
The ceremony served as a solemn reminder of the cost of war and the importance of continuing to remember those who served.
Lest we forget.
Photo source: Shutterstock
On Tuesday 18th August Mackay marked six decades since the Battle of Long Tan, with Vietnam veterans, community members and respected local representatives gathering at Jubilee Park to honour those who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War.
The Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony featured a parade, the Australian and New Zealand national anthems, wreath-laying and a poppy tribute, providing an opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who served.
The ceremony also placed a focus on carrying the legacy of military service into the future, with a naval cadet commanding officer delivering the guest address and younger members of the Australian Defence Force encouraged to take part.
The gathering provided a poignant reminder of the experiences carried by Vietnam veterans and the importance of ensuring their service and sacrifice continue to be remembered by future generations.
Lest we forget
Jetstar’s suspension of Brisbane–Mackay services from October 24th will change travel options for regional locals, prompting concern over affordability and connectivity. Photo source: Shutterstock
By Hannah McNamara
Mackay travellers have been left facing changes to their flight options after Jetstar announced it would suspend its Brisbane–Mackay services from October 24th.
The decision has prompted concern among local travellers, with some community members saying the low-cost service had provided an important alternative when travelling between Mackay and Brisbane.
One local resident claimed customers with existing bookings after October 23rd had received emails advising their flights would either be transferred to Qantas or refunded. These arrangements may vary depending on individual bookings, and travellers have been encouraged to check directly with their airline.
Another community member, who said they travelled through Mackay Airport monthly, described the change as a potential financial burden.
“As someone who flies here monthly it’s going to be a huge impact on my purse…”
“The [Jetstar] flight is always full. FIFO workers are always a part of the customers flying too…”
A spokesperson from Mackay Airport said, “We are disappointed Jetstar has decided to suspend its Brisbane–Mackay services from 24th October. We recognise that any reduction in air services can be frustrating and disruptive for passengers.”
The airport said broader aviation pressures were also contributing to increased operating costs.
“Airlines make their own commercial decisions about where and how they operate their networks, based on a range of factors. Ongoing global challenges, including significant fuel-price pressures on airlines, have contributed to higher operating costs and disruption across Australia’s aviation network.”
“Mackay Airport remains committed to supporting strong and sustainable air connectivity for our region and we continue to work constructively with our airline partners to support services for the community.”
In a statement on social media, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said Jetstar’s decision to suspend its Brisbane–Mackay route would affect regional travellers, with reliable air connections crucially important for businesses, medical appointments, tourism and families.
Mr Willcox said, “I can confirm that Jetstar Australia has decided to suspend its Brisbane-Mackay route, as rising operating costs mean the service is no longer commercially viable.”
He said he was taking action to discuss the decision with key stakeholders and push for the flights to return.
“I am taking immediate action. I am in the process of arranging a meeting with the CEO of QantasLink in Canberra next week to discuss the impact this decision will have on our region. I can assure everyone I will be pushing to have these flights reinstated.”
Mr Willcox also raised concerns about the impact on travellers facing higher costs.
“When the cost of everything keeps going up, it is often the low-cost options that hurt the most.”
“Our region cannot be left stranded by sudden service reductions.”
Photo for illustrative purpose. Photo source: Shutterstock
Mackay’s footy fans are being encouraged to kit up in their favourite team colours next month and help children and families facing cancer as part of the Fight Cancer Foundation’s Footy Colours Day.
A national fundraising initiative running throughout September, Footy Colours Day stands as an opportunity for thousands of Australians to come together to show their support for kids with cancer, and getting involved couldn’t be easier.
Schools, workplaces, sporting clubs, families and groups can choose a date, register for free via www.footycoloursday.com.au and create their own footy-themed fundraiser! It could be a morning tea, BBQ, pizza night, sausage sizzle or a few footy games; the only requirement is wearing your colours with pride and raising funds for the cause.
In 2025, 1,362 Footy Colours Day events helped raise almost $548,000 to support children and families affected by cancer, with all funds raised used to support vital cancer research and help keep parents, siblings and children together during an incredibly difficult time through providing accommodation for families who must travel for treatment.
So, whether you're backing the Cowboys, Broncos, Storm or something entirely different, get your team together and show your colours for kids with cancer!
Photos supplied
Mackay’s cycling community turned out in force for the 2026 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival, with rider numbers climbing 20 per cent on last year and the 25km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash reaching a complete sell-out.
Starting at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, the festival brought riders of all ages and abilities together for a weekend that combined cycling, family fun and plenty of local spirit.
A new community partnership model also put 13 local groups at the heart of the action, with volunteers helping marshal the course, cheer on riders and support activities throughout the festival.
With strong participation, local partnerships and plenty of colour on the course, the 2026 ride proved Mackay was more than ready to get on its bike!
The 2026 BMA River 2 reef Ride Festival rolled through Mackay this weekend, with riders turning out in force to celebrate the region’s biggest community cycling event, delivering an atmosphere organisers are calling the best in the festival’s history.
Participation numbers were up 20% on last year, with the 25km Queensland Country Health Fund Dash selling out completely as riders of all ages and abilities lined up at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens for a weekend of colour, community and celebration.
This year’s festival was powered by the event’s 13 local community group partners, whose members brought extra energy to the course, cheering, marshalling and fuelling riders from start to finish. New initiatives added even more vibrancy to the weekend including a free sausage sizzle for young riders at the Golding Kids colour Ride courtesy of Mackay City Central Scout Group, a finish line pit stop hosted by Pioneer Swimming Club and their swim families cheering riders as they crossed the finish at the BMA River 2 Reef Ride.
Nikki Giles, BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Director, said the festival’s new community partnership model was born from a desire to make it easier for local groups to access funding.
“This initiative came from a genuine desire to break down the barriers so many of our local groups face when fundraising or applying for grant monies,” Nikki said.
“We wanted to make it really easy for the people working tirelessly behind the scenes in our local groups to access guaranteed funding, without the added human resource load. In return for their volunteer role during the festival we guaranteed each of our community partners proceeds straight to their organisation’s bank account, plus the opportunity to earn $5 for every registration and jersey purchase where an entrant selected them from the dropdown menu in the registration portal.”
“It’s a genuine win-win. Our riders get a really memorable BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival experience and our community groups receive funds to put toward their 2026 initiatives,” Nikki said.
She added that the energy and community spirit on display over the weekend confirmed the new model had struck a chord with Mackay.
“The energy and community spirit out on course this year was alive and well from the moment our first riders rolled out,” Nikki said.
“Our riders were cheered from start to finish, our 13 community group partners and their members brought extra vibes to every corner of the course, and it truly felt like the whole of Mackay had come out to be part of something special. The support for this year’s ride has been phenomenal and shows just how much this event means to our region.”
Kate Sommerville, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, said BMA was proud to see the event’s community-first model deliver such a strong result in its first year.
“It has been fantastic to see this event go from strength to strength, and this year was truly a community event from start to finish,” Kate said.
“BMA is incredibly proud to support a festival that puts community wellbeing and local partnerships at its hear, and to see our local groups, volunteers and riders come together in these numbers is something truly special for the Mackay region.”
Kate said organisers were incredibly grateful to everyone who helped bring the 2026 festival to life.
“We are so grateful to all of our event sponsors, volunteers and community groups for supporting an event that supports the Mackay region,” Nikki said.
“This festival simply would not be possible without them, and we cannot wait to do it all again next year.”
The community is invited to lend support to help John return home. Photo supplied
A 42-night holiday in Bali has become an unforeseeable ordeal for 72-year-old Cannonvale local John Lyle, who suddenly lost the ability to walk and is now fighting to recover and return home.
John and his partner Kate were travelling through the Gili Islands in May when a series of falls was followed by rapidly worsening numbness and mobility loss.
After their travel insurance claim was rejected on the grounds that John’s condition was pre-existing – a decision Kate strongly disputes – the couple are seeking support, searching for a way to bring a lightweight wheelchair to Bali to help John on his recovery.
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