Medical professionals are emphasising the importance for women to familiarise themselves with the signs of endometrial cancer as projections indicate a 50 per cent increase in cases by 2040. A Brisbane woman who was just forty years old at the time received a endometrial cancer diagnosis in 2021 and now shares her heartbreaking testimony, in hopes that it raises awareness for other women.

In Australia alone, approximately 3,300 cases of this cancer were diagnosed last year, marking a twofold rise compared to two decades ago.

Each year around 200 women have surgery at Mater to treat endometrial cancer.

Mater Private Hospital Brisbane gynaecological oncologist Dr Nisha Jagasia says, “We know that modern lifestyles mean that more people are living with obesity, which is a major health challenge in itself,” Dr Jagasia said.

“Early detection is essential. It is important to know the signs and risk factors of endometrial cancer.”

“Abnormal bleeding in pre-menopause, especially in women living with obesity, or any bleeding after menopause, should be investigated promptly.”

Victoria Asirifi was just 40 when she received an endometrial cancer diagnosis in 2021.

The social worker weighed 200kg at the time and had experienced heavy bleeding for “several months” before seeking advice from her general practitioner.

She received hormone therapy and also underwent gastric sleeve surgery to reduce the risk of the cancer spreading, losing 60kgs in weight.

Dr Jagasia performed an open hysterectomy on Ms Asirifi in April, which included the removal of her fallopian tubes and ovaries, preventing the cancer from metastasising.

“Many women don’t know the correlation between being obese and endometrial cancer,” Ms Asirifi said.

“The chances of giving birth to my own children are gone.

“I hope my story helps someone else who is sitting in silence.”

Endometrial cancer accounts for 90-95 per cent of all uterine cancer cases and Mater doctors are using Uterine Cancer Awareness Month to urge women to seek medical attention for these symptoms:

   • any bleeding in post-menopausal women
   • persistent or abnormal bleeding in younger women
   • discharge or pain in the pelvic area
   • blood in urine

Victoria Asirifi is urging women to familiarise themselves with the signs of endometrial cancer in hopes of raising awareness to prevent future cases. Photo Josh Woning

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There was no rest for the diligent RACQ CQ Rescue team last weekend as crews responded swiftly to multiple incidents across the region.

In a display of their dedication and timely expertise in aeromedical rescue, the first mission, initiated by Queensland Health involved transporting a male that was injured whilst operating machinery at a mine site near Coppabella. The patient was air-lifted in a stable condition.

The RACQ CQ Rescue Crew then flew to St Lawerance to retrieve a gentleman with a medical condition, before a quick turnaround saw the crew back in the air, being tasked to Hook Reef. Everyone was safe and sound after the Epirb activation.

The next mission had the crew resuming operations to assist an injured dirt bike rider in Cathu State Forest. With precise execution, a critical care paramedic and rescue crewman were deployed via winch to stabilise the patient who sustained back injuries. The patient was then safely airlifted to the awaiting helicopter in a stretcher.

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The dedicated RACQ CQ Rescue team had no rest after responding to multiple calls last weekend. Images supplied

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A 73-year-old man tragically died after falling approximately 10 meters from a bridge in Marian early Friday morning. The Mackay Regional Council contractor was working at the site when the accident occurred.
It was reported that the man was on shift early in the morning, when it is believed he fell between the gap of the George L Vickers bridge, which separates the railway line and road, with his body being discovered around 3am.
Mackay Regional Council CEO Scott Owen confirmed the sad news, acknowledging the death of a council contractor. He expressed that it was a sombre day for everyone at the council, and their thoughts were with the man's family, friends, and colleagues.
Mr. Owen stated that support was being offered to council staff affected by the incident.
Additionally, the CEO sent out a safety message video to all council staff following the tragedy. While the video was prompted by the incident, its contents focused on general safety measures rather than this specific workplace death.
The exact details of the incident are still under investigation. Police have stated that the death is not suspicious, and a report will be prepared for the coroner. Workplace Health and Safety Queensland arrived on-site later in the day to assist police with their investigation.

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The George L Vickers bridge, where a 73-year-old council contractor tragically fell to his death early Friday morning. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Detectives have charged two Dysart men for copper theft and equipment damage at a Tieri mine, totalling over $500,000 in losses.

The 57-year-old faces multiple charges, including receiving tainted property and drug production, while the 43-year-old was charged with theft.

Detective Sergeant Sheldon Livingstone emphasises ongoing investigations and urges community support in combating property crimes in Moranbah.

Both await trial at Moranbah Magistrates Court.

10-Day Blitz Leads To Knife Charge

During a multi-level operation in Mackay, a 20-year-old Beaconsfield woman was charged for carrying a flick knife in breach of Jack's Law.

The 10-day blitz aimed to enhance community safety by detecting and confiscating dangerous weapons. Police engaged with 237 individuals, educating them about weapon laws.

The woman was apprehended on Wood Street during the operation and is scheduled to appear in Mackay Magistrates Court on July 1.

Police will continue to conduct wanding operations in Safe Night Precincts to combat criminal activities and ensure public safety.

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At a time when big banks are cutting services, a local branch is celebrating its institution’s success in bucking industry trends, adding more accolades to its collection, and demonstrating that the customer-focused approach is a clear winner.

Queensland Country Bank, a member-owned institution, is distinguishing itself in an industry facing significant challenges, recently securing wins at the WeMoney 2024 Awards, including Customer Owned Bank of the Year, Best Flexibility – Home Loans, Best Rewards Credit Card, and Lender of the Year (Customer Owned Bank) – Car Loans.

These awards have bolstered their existing product and service recognition from Canstar, Mozo, and RateCity.

Mackay Area Manager Bill Paton said the ongoing accolades from multiple independent bodies in recent years support the success of their member-first model.

“One of the key differences for us is that we are a member-owned organisation so we can put people ahead of profits and deliver a genuine Member experience,” said Mr Paton.

“Such accolades and recognition from independent bodies is a testament to the success of our member-first approach, which enables us to reinvest our profits directly into the communities we serve, instead of paying dividends to shareholders.

“In light of the regional banking inquiry and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, maintaining the trust and reliability of our Members has never been more important.”

Mr Paton noted the challenges posed by the recent surge in branch closures across regional Queensland and emphasised the importance of maintaining reliable financial services for rural and regional communities.

This is especially vital in the Mackay region, given the  National Australia Bank’s (NAB) recent closure of its Sarina branch in April 2024.

“In the past three years, we’ve witnessed a notable increase in branch closures across regional Queensland,” said Mr Paton.  

“While other banks are scaling back their offerings, we’re instead focused on adapting to meet the evolving needs of our Members here in Mackay.

“We’ve seen a notable increase in online banking services, and with our Call Centre based in Queensland, our Members can rest assured knowing they can contact a local representative whenever they need support.

“However, we also understand that everyone has their preferred banking method and recognise the importance of providing face-to-face services for our Members in Mackay who prefer to come into the branch for that in-person contact and support.”

The bank’s people-first philosophy is also evident in its workplace, with Queensland Country Bank earning the ‘Great Place to Work’ certification for a second consecutive year.

“The staff at our Mackay branch truly embody the spirit and values of Queensland Country Bank, and are heavily involved in the local community,” said Mr Paton.

“As an organisation, we’re committed to ensuring our Members have access to the financial solutions they require and look forward to supporting the Mackay region for many years to come.”

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Stephanie Nahow, Kiera Duck and Bill Paton. Photo supplied

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Right now, either way, you’d be in heaven with show season going full on all this week.

For me personally, you can throw me any show-bags and I’ll be set for a winning day. Set me up on the roller coaster, or any machine that spins, rolls over and goes upside down? Well, you can forget it, because I’ll be guaranteed to bring up last week's smoko if I did. No one wants to see that, or even hear it for that matter.

Show season is one of those weeks that we all love. Sure, we get a public holiday. Sure, we get to have some fun with the family in the cool winter weather, and sure we spend a few bucks to make the economy click over a few times.

Last Sunday we had a ball at Finch Hatton for the 60th Pioneer Valley Show and wow what a day that was. I was lucky enough to be on the mic all day in the centre ring calling the shots for the horse riding and stud cattle. That just amazed me. So did seeing all the families love the entertainment and the fireworks was really a huge highlight.

So, this week it’s all happening at Mackay and of course Proserpine Friday and Saturday. If you get a chance to head out, take the family and make some great memories that will last a lifetime. I say that because when I first came to town in ’81, going to the Mackay show was the highlight of the week. I couldn’t wait for school to be done at Milton Street, so I could head down and run around at the showgrounds for some winter fun.

If you’re doing that with your kids, or even grandkids, have the best time. Take lots of pics, and leave your wallet open, and you really won’t have time to shut it again, if you know what I mean.

One other thing I will say is, please take a moment or three to thank the volunteers who put these events on. Without them, there wouldn’t be any shows. Months and months of planning have gone into them for your enjoyment. Give them a wave or a high five to thank them for what they’ve done. They are a credit to the region.

Oh, the last thing too. If you’re in charge of a little one, get them to drink some pink fizzy drink during the night. Why? Well, wait and see what happens at around midnight, when they are safely tucked in bed, and all of a sudden, the hotdog they ate for dinner wants to come up, and you’ve got to contend with the pink mess on the Bluey bedspread.

Enjoy the cleanup! Just saying! Have fun!

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You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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Farmers are typically your quiet achievers. They get in, get on, and get the job done.
It’s been a frustrating start to the season again. Marian Mill has been a few weeks late getting up and running, and Plane Creek has been on a delayed start as miller and workers negotiate on wages.
In the background, CANEGROWERS has been in communication with unions and miller, making sure that it is clearly understood that, while worker capacity to earn a living, and mill profitability are both important to keep the industry going, it is coming at a cost to the grower and harvester sector as start dates get pushed back. CANEGROWERS will continue to monitor the situation and make representations where we are able.
The crop needs to be harvested, and the industry really cannot afford season after season running into Christmas. Eating your Christmas cake out in the harvester is a pretty poor way to spend the day, and worse, throws out all your crop cycles and farm profitability to boot.
We’ve been in the background, quietly fighting an action for the interpretation of the Cane Supply and Processing Agreement (CSPA) clause on the calculation Initial CCS for Mackay Sugar growers. It’s an important matter, affecting cash-flow at the start of the season. The action, heading to arbitration, has been borne out of a clear understanding of the CSPA, and many years’ experience and success in managing and maintaining conditions for growers.
We’ve been talking to councillors about rates. We’ve been busy recruiting harvest workers from all across the nation to come work the crush in Mackay through a comprehensive media campaign. CANEGROWERS Mackay has put government funding to good use running haulout driver courses to increase capability in the workforce. We’ve been running workshops on irrigation and building your triple bottom line. And we’ve been working together with other research, productivity, government and economic development organisations to build the local industry’s productivity, profitability, and environmental outcomes.
There is a top professional team working at our Wood Street office, ensuring our members can come in, sit down and talk with the people who process their payroll, their insurances, who organise their farm leases, and who coordinate training across transport, chemical use, business and ag skills. People who will help them get advice on legal and regulatory matters. It’s a big job, and committed, caring member service is at the core.
Queensland CANEGROWERS has been successful in recent times in fighting hard for the supply chain affected by the closure of Mossman mill. For the extension of disaster funding for growers affected by Cyclone Jasper. Continuing to develop programs like the blockchain project that create traceability for Australia’s quality, sustainably produced sugar and sugarcane-based bio-commodities helps build brand and protect our markets.
As one of Australia’s largest and oldest grassroots-run grower organisations, CANEGROWERS typically doesn’t blow its own trumpet. As a not-for-profit, the organisation is very conscious that a large chunk of its funding comes from member levies.
Members trust us to invest these in the future of their agribusinesses: by fighting for the interests of growers, and the success of the industry. We owe it to members to make sure that happens, and that’s why 80% of growers put their faith in CANEGROWERS.
We put in the hard yards, talk straight, represent our members. And that earns the respect of governments, trade organisations and businesses from Australia and around the world, causing them to seek us out to discuss matters of policy, industry, and international trade. We have been the leading grower representative organisation for 100 years, and when you put the experience of over 80 elected representatives statewide together, it certainly attracts the attention of organisations we work with.
There’s a couple of mobs out there that have had a good go at duplicating what we do, and reckon they can do it better, but CANEGROWERS just keep being like that quiet confident farmer out in the paddock, tending the crop, working away in the shed keeping everything running. Farmers are good at that.

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Last week, CANEGROWERS Mackay presented to the Mackay Regional Council, providing an update on the status, challenges and opportunities for the region’s cane growing sector. Pictured are District Manager Michelle Martin, Chairman Kevin Borg and Deputy Chairman Joseph Borg. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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An Australian rural charity has been urgently assisting farmers who are battling increased levels of mental ill-health in recent months.  
 
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said primary producers are feeling overworked, underappreciated and anxious.
 
“In a recent Rural Aid study, one in two farmers said they’ve felt their mental health decline in the past year,” Mr Warlters said.
 
“76 per cent of our farmers rated their mental health as poor, very poor or average.”
 
“These numbers show that all is not well on the farm,” Mr Warlters said.
 
“It’s a sentiment echoed across the industry; Rabobank’s Rural Confidence Survey has shown farm confidence has plummeted in the past three months.”
 
Rural Aid’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager, Myf Pitcher, said weather conditions, biosecurity concerns, and disaster recovery are on farmers’ minds.
 
“Our counselling team is making a really important difference every day, we've been all over the country supporting primary producers,” Ms Pitcher said.
 
“From hay drops in South Australia, to water tank deliveries in Western Australia, and resilience and recovery conversations in Queensland, our mental health and wellbeing team have been working overtime to assist farmers with the challenges they’re currently facing.”

 
To donate to Rural Aid, or to find out more about Rural Aid’s mental health and wellbeing program, visit www.ruralaid.org.au or call 1300 327 624.

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OPINION PIECE

 
Returning from Western Australia earlier this week, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said it is now clear that this “Albanese Labor Government wants Australian farmers to flock off.”
 
“Make no mistake about it. They have decimated our fishing industry in Queensland, they are now attacking our live sheep exports in WA, and cattle exports will be next across Australia,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“Over 3,000 farmers, families, and children from all around Australia turned out to send Labor a message that ending live sheep exports will decimate their livelihoods.
 
“It’s very simple. Farmers move with supply and demand and change practices accordingly and the Government has no right to interfere in that market because of politics. 
 
“Australia has the world’s best practices in live export, and the world wants our product, so why is Labor standing in the middle of that.”
 
Mr Willcox travelled across Australia to see and listen to those personally affected by this “bad policy” and made sure he could arrive in WA on time to tour a live sheep export vessel so he could see the situation for himself.
 
“I unfortunately had to reschedule a lot of events in my electorate, but this decision is important and important to all of Australia,” Mr Willcox said.

“I made sure I arrived in time to tour the MV Dareen vessel and see for myself the state of the sheep and cattle and the cleanliness of the ship. I also had the opportunity to sit with Dr. Roeger who has been a vet on these vessels for over 30 years and hear about the misinformation being peddled by activist groups.
 
“I can confidently say the staff on these vessels care more about the welfare of the sheep and cattle than Labor does about Australia,” Mr Willcox said.
 
During the inquiry Mr Willcox was “bewildered” by Labor’s thought process that meat processing facilities would just pop up to process the frozen meat, when one hasn’t been built in WA for 30 years.

When asked why, Mr Willcox explained it is because it is purely not economical.

“The market for frozen sheep meat is not there, and there is no confidence in this Government.
 
“Confidence in investment is at an all-time low because what is stopping this Labor Government from interfering with an abattoir because they just don’t like the look of their feedlot pens.
 
“A dangerous precedent is being set here that Australians will allow this level of Government interference in a world market.”
 
Mr Willcox explained the emotional impact this is having on our citizens is real and that was felt in the hearing.

“It was very difficult at times to hear the stories of those living this nightmare and trying to make sense of this situation.”
 
“Of the $107 million compensation package that Labor has announced, we still have no clear indication how much of that will be placed into the mental health of the communities and who will deliver those services on the ground.
 
“Over 11,000 submissions have been made in under one week to the inquiry and a report to be handed down on the 21st of June.
 
“I am not sure about you, but the timeframes of which this inquiry has been stipulated is a prime example of the disrespect this Albanese Labor Government has for Australian farmers.
 
“We will continue pushing for a Senate Inquiry on this legislation because that is what our farmers and our communities deserve,” Mr Willcox said.

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One of the good Australian sayings is that someone or something is “punching above their weight”.
The term is often used to describe an ordinary looking bloke with a good-looking girlfriend or wife … “gee, he’s punching above his weight”.
The phrase, I imagine, comes from the world of boxing, where fighters are restricted to a weight division.
Which brings me to a local bloke by the name of Liam Paro. Born and raised in Mackay, Paro won the world title in his IBF light welterweight division against the Puerto Rican world champion, Subriel Matias, in Peurto Rico on Sunday.
It was an exciting bout all the way to the 12th round, with the boy from Andergrove taking it to his more-favoured opponent right through the fight.
The fight finished with a final round climax that showed off Paro’s skills, determination and absolute elite level of fitness as he clearly asserted himself as the better boxer.
He won the bout with a unanimous decision that means he is now the world champion, Mackay’s World Champ.
Now, I’m not going to say that Liam Paro was punching above his weight because that would suggest that his victory was a surprise, maybe with an element of luck.
That would be untrue and unfair on a world champion who has never been beaten … that’s right, 25 wins from 25 fights. The bloke is a legitimate, well-deserved world champion who is definitely not punching above his weight but, rather, is getting the rewards that hard work and talent can produce.
But he is a kid from Andergrove and now he’s a world champion and deserves the highest recognition from this city for what he has achieved … hopefully that will happen in the weeks and months ahead because he deserves to be celebrated.
No doubt, as his achievement sinks in, attention will turn to Mackay.
It will be interesting because Mackay usually flies under the radar. In real estate this city flew under the radar for years.
But as our economy grew and rental returns started growing a few years ago, some of us in real estate made the observation that southern investors would soon discover the opportunities here.
With the economy powering ahead, rental vacancies tightening and a trickle of southerners looking here for a sea change, local people had real estate to themselves for a while. Southern investors did not seem to know about us.
It started to change last year but this year the flood gates have opened and southern investors have turned their attention to Mackay in a big way.
Investors see great value in Mackay in terms of the relatively low-prices, high rental yields, high average incomes, low crime rates and livability of the region.
I had an open house on Saturday that attracted 35 groups of buyers. Those people were all local or a local person looking on behalf of someone who is moving to Mackay.
However, I had a further 40 or so inquiries from southern investors. We ended up with eight offers on the property, most of which coming from investors.
There will be plenty of people who think this is a bad thing and I understand that because the external competition is creating additional demand that is pushing prices up for local people trying to get into the market.
Unfortunately, in a free market economy, demand and supply decide the price of things and, at the moment, real estate investors think Mackay is under-priced and they are looking to take advantage of the opportunity.
So, whether we like it or hate it, there is a new reality and this is a hot market … Mackay is punching above its weight.

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Creating inviting outdoor living spaces through DIY projects can transform your backyard into a functional and aesthetically pleasing area for relaxation and entertainment.

Here are several creative ideas to inspire your outdoor makeover:

Cozy Outdoor Lounge: Begin with comfortable seating options like DIY pallet sofas or repurposed wooden benches with plush cushions. Add a handmade coffee table using a reclaimed crate or an old trunk topped with a custom-cut piece of glass.

DIY Hammock Corner: Create a cozy retreat with a hammock hung between two trees or posts. Customise it with handmade pillows and a small side table for books or drinks.

DIY Fire Pit: Build a fire pit using bricks or stones arranged in a circle. Line the bottom with gravel for drainage and safety. Enhance the ambiance with string lights hung overhead or solar-powered lanterns for eco-friendly illumination.

Vertical Garden Wall: Utilise a bare fence or wall by creating a vertical garden. Install wooden pallets horizontally and fill them with small potted plants or herbs. This not only adds greenery but also maximises space.

Outdoor Dining Area: Construct a sturdy dining table from reclaimed wood or pallets. Pair it with DIY benches or chairs made from old wooden crates or tree stumps - complete the setting with a handmade table runner, lanterns and outdoor dinnerware.

DIY Pathways and Walkways: Define pathways using materials like gravel, flagstones, or recycled bricks. Create a rustic look by embedding old railway sleepers or wooden planks for a natural, earthy feel.

Repurposed Outdoor Bar: Convert an old kitchen cart or dresser into an outdoor bar by adding shelves for storage and a countertop for serving. Use reclaimed wood or tiles for the bar surface and decorate with potted plants and hanging glassware.

Outdoor Movie Theatre: Hang a white sheet or use a blank wall as a projection screen. Set up seating with floor cushions, bean bags or homemade pallet sofas. Install outdoor speakers and a projector for movie nights under the stars.

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The last of Wilmar Sugar and Renewables’ four Burdekin mills were on track to start crushing earlier this week, on Tuesday.
General Manager Operations Mike McLeod said he expected the first bin to be tipped at Pioneer Mill near Brandon just after lunchtime on Tuesday, and the first raw sugar to be produced by Wednesday.
This means half of Wilmar’s mills will be in full swing by Wednesday, making sugar, molasses and renewable energy.
Inkerman Mill in Home Hill was first to begin the crushing season for the Wilmar group on Monday, 10 June. Despite an unexpected shutdown because of industrial action, Inkerman has already crushed 66,000 tonnes of cane and produced about 8,100 tonnes of sugar.
Kalamia and Invicta mills started crushing on Thursday, 13 June – a week later than originally planned because of industrial action.
Mr McLeod said Wilmar’s other four mills – Victoria and Macknade near Ingham, Proserpine on the Whitsunday coast, and Plane Creek south of Mackay – are all expected to be in production early next week.
The Sarina Distillery has been operating since 1 June, producing bioethanol for fuel and industrial products.
Mr McLeod said crews had worked hard to maintain throughput at the sugar mills that are operating, so growers could continue harvesting while fine weather prevailed.
“Everyone in the industry has an eye on the weather at this time every year, so we can’t afford to lose any time,” he said.
“Our people have worked hard to recover from the earlier stoppages and delays and, with everything going our way, everyone will have a good season.”
Wilmar’s eight mills are expected to process 15.59 million tonnes of sugarcane this year, to produce more than 2 million tonnes of raw sugar.
Representatives from Wilmar and union bargaining agents will meet for another round of bargaining for a new Enterprise Agreement on Thursday (20 June).
The parties will report back to the Fair Work Commission on Friday (21 June).

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Wilmar’s Plane Creek site near Mackay and Proserpine site are expected to be in production next week. Photos supplied

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Students and teachers from a range of different Mackay regional schools gathered for the annual Festival of STEM, which proved to be a major success last Wednesday as attendees gathered to engage in the Whitsunday STEM Challenge.

This initiative explores the future of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) to prepare and equip generations to come with the knowledge needed to work with an ever-growing world of technology.

The Festival of STEM in Mackay is in its 7th year of competitions and is a range of competitions for primary and high school students including F1 in Schools™, Pedal Prix, Robotics & Drones. These events are proudly supported by Mackay Regional Council and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).

F1 in Schools™ competition is the world’s largest STEM competition. Where students not only develop skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics but also problem solving, project management, communication, presentation marketing and entrepreneurism.

Mackay bats above its weight in these competitions and previously have had two teams of students' progress through the competition to qualify and attend the world finals.

Robocup has four categories junior and senior rescue challenges, soccer, and dance. These challenges promote a variety of skills that extend across a school curriculum including cooperative spirit, engineering, and IT skills, along with teamwork and organisational skills.

President of the Whitsunday STEM Challenge, Rowan Cahill said that, “the festival of STEM is all about giving an opportunity for all students across all sectors a chance to come together and showcase their abilities.

“It’s huge in the sense that these students will be looking at jobs in the future that at the current point and time don’t exist, with jobs that we can’t even foresee yet.

“The skills they learn, the teamwork, innovative thinking and problem solving is great but on top of that, as part of a lot of the competitions, they need to do presentations and interviews which means they’re learning communication skills and building their confidence.

“On the day, there was kids from state schools and private schools all gathered and working together because at the end of the day, they’re there to get involved and learn while also having fun.”

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Students from all types of schools in the region gathered at the big shed, Mackay showgrounds last Wednesday to engage in innovative STEM activities. Photo s supplied: Whitsunday Anglican School

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Get ready to be transported to Sudan as you engross this next film night of morality drama - Goodbye Julia.

Across the divides of rich and poor, Muslim and Christian, north and south, light-skinned and dark, Goodbye Julia tells the story of two women who forge an unusual friendship. It takes place in Khartoum during the last years of Sudan as a united country, shortly before the 2011 separation of South Sudan. Wracked by guilt, Mona — a northern Sudanese retired singer — tries to make amends for causing the death of a Southern man by taking in his unsuspecting widow, as her maid. Unable to confess her transgressions to Julia, Mona decides to leave the past behind and adjust to a new status quo, unaware that the country’s turmoil may find its way into her home and put her face to face with her sins. Winner of the 2023 Cannes Un Certain Regard – Freedom Prize.

In upcoming news, Film & Arts Mackay proudly presents an exciting line-up of 7 films.
Pinnacle Playhouse: 27th July as well as on ​22nd to the 24th of August at BCC Mt Pleasant Cinemas.

Bookings essential, please visit their website for more information.

What: Goodbye Julia
When: Friday 21st June 7:30pm
Where: CQU Conservatorium of Music Theatre
Tickets: www.trybooking.com/CSEBJ

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Step into Sudan's rich tapestry with Goodbye Julia, a compelling morality drama set against the backdrop of societal divides and unlikely friendships. Image supplied

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On Friday 24th May, about 100 members of Mackay 50's & Better celebrated their 30th year of community social events.

The party was held at Goosies North Mackay with what was described as a “lovely delicious 2-course luncheon”, with live music by guitarist Graham Day.

As hundreds of photos were displayed on the big screen, club members reminisced the special events and memories had throughout the years

Generous raffle prizes were gifted by Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert and Chris Ashmore of City funerals, plus several lucky door prizes made for an enjoyable day out. 

Copies of "Tilly's Book of Memories" were also reproduced for guests on the day, in commemoration of Tilly, who was a very active member of the club until her passing. She organised many holiday trips around Queensland and New South Wales, as well as humorous concerts and skits around Mackay. Her book provided many delightful memories and photos of their antics. 

Andrew Willcox MP, Bonnie Hull and Betty White shared their unique stories of their involvement over the years, reflecting on the fellowship of the social club.

Margaret Edwards gratefully said, “I thank each and every one of our host of volunteers who made our big day such a success.”

If you are interested in joining, membership is free however, new members have to complete a membership form for insurance coverage and concessional prices. All venues are wheelchair accessible. Please phone 0400 242 779 for more details.

The next mag and meal luncheon will be held on Thursday, the 27th of June.

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Members of Mackay 50's & Better gathered to commemorate three decades of shared memories and camaraderie. Images supplied

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