Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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The humpback whales have arrived to the Whitsundays on mass and the breeding season has begun.
A female who wants to mate will slap her pectoral fins on the surface and make a trumpeting noise to signal to the males.
Males in the Whitsundays are often in pods of 2 - 4 males. If they hear a female signaling, they will move very fast in her direction. Often multiple groups can be seen moving towards her at speed.
Once the males reach the female, they will chase her demonstrating their fitness and endurance, trying to be the fastest, the best singer and the most acrobatic. Their song lasts 30 minutes, but will repeat it over and over to show their fitness. They perform large breaches landing on their backs to appear bigger and gain attention. They will try to outrun the other males. They can be aggressive to other males below the surface and tail slap on the surface to try to warn the others off.
This is a heat run and can last over 24 hours.
One a female has selected a male they will swim together and move in motions like diving and rolling that resemble a playful courtship. It’s very gentle and tactile with the male gently caressing the female with his pectoral fins. It’s still up to the female if she actually mates with the male.
Once pregnant the female will return to the feeding ground to gain body condition. The male will remain in the breeding ground looking for other mating opportunities.
Whales are now being spotted on most boat tours, ferry trips and mainland vantage points and from balconies on islands like Hamilton Island.
To see photos and videos of recent sightings go to the Whales of the Whitsundays Facebook group.
Contributed by Kellie Leonard - Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays
Photo credit: Glen Bradford
There is no doubt, the Maori Wrasse (Cheilinus undulatus), is one of the most popular fish on the Great Barrier Reef. And for good reason.
It is renowned for its large size, striking colours and friendly personality. An encounter with a Maori Wrasse will make your day.
Maori Wrasse are so named for their distinct facial markings which resemble those seen on traditional Maori warriors in New Zealand. The males are most easily identified by their large size and large, prominent hump on its forehead.
This hump contains an air and oil combination which acts in part as a flotation device which counteracts the weight of their pronounced jaw.
A male Maori Wrasse can live up to 25 years, grow up to an impressive 2.3m and weigh up to 190kg.
The female Maori Wrasse normally grows to around 1m and can live up to 32 years of age, yet they have a very slow breeding rate as they do not mature until they are around 4 to 6 years old.
The Maori Wrasse are protogynous hermaphrodites: That basically means that most Maori Wrasse start life as a female but transform into a male at a specific point in their lifecycle.
Maori Wrasse have a varied diet of small fish, crustaceans and marine invertebrates. They have a noteworthy set of teeth known as “protractile” teeth, which means they can project outwards to better catch passing prey. The Maori Wrasse have very strong jaws that they use to crush shells, and they have even adopted the method of banging shells on rocks to crack the shells. They are also known for being one of the few predators of the sharp-spined, toxic crown-of-thorns starfish, which helps protect the Reef from this prodigious coral eater.
Due to past hunting pressure, the Maori Wrasse is a fully protected species on the Great Barrier Reef as they are a highly endangered species.
Contributed by Whitsunday Conservation Council.
Queensland is one of the few places on Earth where the extraordinary platypus can still be spotted in the wild. With its iconic duck-like bill, dense waterproof fur, and venomous spurs on its ankles, this enigmatic mammal is a living relic, one of the most evolutionarily distinct creatures on the planet. Yet, for all its unique adaptations, the platypus is highly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Once widespread across Eastern Australia, populations have been steadily declining, particularly in the Murray-Darling Basin. The catastrophic 2019–2020 bushfires wiped out thousands of animals along the East Coast, leaving rivers choked with ash and debris. These waterways, vital for hunting and shelter, became treacherous for platypus and other aquatic species.
Highly sensitive to their surroundings, platypus require clean rivers and secure burrows along riverbanks to feed, breed, and shelter. Alarmingly, research from the University of New South Wales shows that suitable platypus habitat has decreased by 22 per cent over the past 30 years.
Each decline is a stark reminder of how fragile Australia’s ecosystems are. Protecting waterways, restoring habitats, and raising awareness are vital to ensuring that this evolutionary marvel, continues to thrive in its ancestral home.
Fun Fact: Platypuses are smaller than you might think: males are around 50 cm long and weigh 1.5 kg, while females are usually 40 cm long and 1 kg.
A wild Platypus in Eungella National Park. Photo Credit: Ruth Puddefoot.
In the quiet backstreets of Jubilee Pocket, just minutes from the bustle of Airlie Beach, a grassroots movement is working tirelessly to keep the Whitsundays pristine. At Eco Barge HQ, visitors are invited to step inside the world of marine conservation and witness how one community is safeguarding the Great Barrier Reef.
The Eco HQ Experience Tour, held every Tuesday morning, offers more than a window into conservation; it immerses participants in the frontline of environmental action. Over 90 minutes, visitors trace the journey of discarded plastics and marine debris. Inside the Ocean Trash Recycle Shack, individuals are shown how bottles, ropes and fragments of plastic are transformed into new creations, from jewellery to artwork, and you can be at the heart of the action.
The tour also introduces visitors to the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, where sick and injured turtles are treated before being released back into the wild. While sightings depend on the condition of the patients in care, the story of each turtle offers a stark reminder of the threats facing marine life.
Eco Barge founder Libby Edge says the experience is about connection as much as education.
“What we’re doing at Eco HQ is incredible – from protecting our islands from marine debris to caring for sick and injured turtles. I wanted to open our doors so visitors and locals can see behind the scenes, learn about our programs, and discover just how much difference a community can make.” – Libby Edge, Founder, Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc.
Set against the backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef, Eco HQ is more than an education centre; it is a call to action. By the end of the tour, visitors leave not only with knowledge, but with the understanding that every choice, every bottle, every bag carries weight in the ocean.
Book your tour today by heading to the Eco Barge Clean Sea’s website: https://www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au/tours/
What: Eco Barge Clean Seas Experience Tour
Where: Eco Barge HQ, Boatyard Rd, Jubilee Pocket, QLD
When: Every Tuesday at 10am (1.5 hours)
Price: $30 Adult | $20 Child
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The Mackay region’s ingenuity and resilience were on full display at the 2025 Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards Gala Dinner, held Friday 22 August at the MECC. The black-tie celebration, hosted by Ed Kavalee and backed by live music from the Luke Miller Band, showcased the best of the mining equipment, technology and services (METS) and resources sector.
Seven awards recognised excellence across safety, culture, community, manufacturing, innovation and inclusion, with standout winners including FMS Group, Richglen, Gardian, IQ Solutions, M&P Services, North Queensland Bulk Ports, and Glencore’s Colin Hoyle.
RIN General Manager Dean Kirkwood praised the sector’s ability to adapt under global and economic pressures, while Chair Tim Magoffin highlighted the region’s role as a leader across industries from mining to renewables.
The night also carried moments of deep emotion, as Gardian Director Luke Phillips dedicated his community award to his late brother Peter, a driving force behind the company’s culture.
Award winners gathered on stage with Resource Industry Network Chair Tim Magoffin to celebrate excellence across the METS and resources sector. Photo credit: Liz Andrews
Amber’s fourth birthday was made extra special last week when Mackay Northern Beaches police paid her a surprise visit. The young fan, known for her love of all things police, was thrilled when officers stopped by to celebrate her big day.
During the visit, Amber had the chance to meet the officers, explore the police car, and even sit in the driver’s seat, beaming from ear to ear. The surprise brought smiles, laughter, and unforgettable memories for the birthday girl and her family.
Mackay Police shared their well-wishes for Amber, saying they hoped her birthday would be one she would always remember. The visit highlighted the strong connection between local police and the community, showing how even a small gesture can make a big impact.
For Amber and her family, the day was a perfect blend of fun, excitement, and community spirit – proof that sometimes, the best birthday gifts come with flashing lights and sirens.
This Sunday we celebrate Father’s Day – a chance to honour the dads and father figures who help shape our lives.
There’s so much weight carried on the shoulders of men. Often, the expectation is to be the breadwinner, yet many step up as incredible caregivers too. From fathers and uncles to grandfathers and mentors, men play a powerful role in raising children, teaching resilience and encouraging courage in everyday life.
I see this balance in my own family. While I hover nervously when our little one takes a risk, my husband is the steady voice saying, “brush it off” and urging him to get back up. That contrast – comfort and courage – is what helps children flourish.
Last year, when I was in the thick of chemotherapy, he played both mum and dad. Because I was cytotoxic, he took on every hands-on role – from baths to nappy changes – all while keeping our family running through my three-weekly chemo cycles. He really is the best dad, and this note is dedicated to him, and to all the father figures who step up with love, patience and strength.
Happy Father’s Day – and here’s one for the dads: Why don’t skeletons ever fight each other? Because they don’t have the guts.
Amanda
In a bid to ensure the safety of the region’s children, Queensland has drawn a line in the sand against predators, taking a landmark step with the introduction of Daniel’s Law to Parliament — the state’s first public child sex offender register.
Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, welcomed the landmark reform, saying it will put the rights of victims and families ahead of offenders by giving parents the tools they need to better protect their children.
“Nothing is more important than the safety of our kids,” Mr Dalton said.
“For too long, convicted predators have been able to hide in the shadows. Daniel’s Law will shine a light on repeat offenders and give parents the information they need to make informed decisions for their families.”
The Bill sets out a three-tiered disclosure framework, closely modelled on the proven West Australian system:
Tier 1: A publicly accessible website naming offenders who have failed to meet reporting obligations and whose whereabouts are unknown. Full name, photo and year of birth will be listed.
Tier 2: An online application allowing Queensland residents to view photographs of reportable offenders living in their area.
Tier 3: An application process enabling parents and guardians to confirm if a particular person with unsupervised access to their child is a registered offender.
Reportable offences include grooming a child under 16, indecent treatment of a child, and the production or distribution of child exploitation material.
The law honours Sunshine Coast teenager Daniel Morcombe, who was tragically killed in 2003, and reflects two decades of tireless advocacy by his parents through the Daniel Morcombe Foundation.
Mr Dalton said the reform demonstrates the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to child safety, delivering change within its first 10 months in office.
“Daniel’s Law is one of the most significant child safety reforms in Queensland’s history,” he said.
“This is about transparency, accountability, and protecting children who cannot protect themselves. As a father and as the Member for Mackay, I am proud to support this law.”
Safeguards will also be built into the framework, with new offences introduced to prevent the misuse of information, ensuring the register is used strictly for child protection and not for vigilantism.
Daniel’s Law will be reviewed by a Parliamentary Committee before returning to the House, with the Government committed to making it law before the end of the year.
Queensland has introduced Daniel’s Law, the state’s first public child sex offender register, in a landmark move to protect children and empower parents with vital information. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
It’s not every day you see police horses patrolling the town with their respected riders from Queensland Police Service. But that’s exactly what Mackay locals experienced this week, when two mounted officers from Brisbane arrived in town after completing patrols in Airlie Beach.
Children reached out to pat the horses, parents snapped photos, and plenty of locals were left starstruck at the sight of Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte with police horse Lance, and Constable Debbie Brunschlight with police horse Karma.
“We do all sorts of ceremonial work, like opening big shows with government officials, but the horses are also a strong presence in the community,” Constable Brunschlight said.
“They’re beautiful animals and people love coming up to meet them.”
The mounted officers are affectionately known as “peace-keepers,” using their elevated position in crowds to spot issues before they happen. Just last weekend they were on duty at the Australian March, ensuring community safety and keeping the event calm and family-friendly.
Sergeant Bassingthwaighte said Mackay’s response had been overwhelmingly positive, and crime noticeably quiet.
“It’s great to see how much people enjoy the horses. I think they appreciate the extra police presence, and in a bit of a different way. It’s been very popular,” he said.
“They are a combined one and a half tons of deterrence. Everyone’s been very well-behaved around them, which is part of their attraction, and they encourage good behaviour.”
Speaking about his own pathway into the mounted unit, Bassingthwaighte credited his rural upbringing.
“I grew up on a cattle property when I was younger, then worked in the city for a while. When I decided to join the mounted unit, I had to brush up on my riding skills and pass an assessment to get in.”
The Brisbane-based officers and their horses wrapped up their Mackay patrols on Wednesday, leaving behind plenty of smiles and lasting memories of Queensland Police’s unique four-legged peace-keepers.
Sergeant Ben Bassingthwaighte with his horse Lance and Constable Debbie Brunschlight with her horse Karma patrolled Mackay, delighting locals and providing a commanding, community-focused presence. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Dangerous Driving Charges Laid
Queensland Police have charged a 24-year-old man after a series of driving offences in Mackay earlier this month.
At around 6pm on 5 August, police responded to reports of a Ford Falcon being driven dangerously near Mackay Harbour. The vehicle was located with a blown rear tyre and subsequently seized for mechanical inspection.
It is alleged the man drove dangerously along the Mackay breakwater, overtaking vehicles, crossing unbroken lines, and performing dangerous acts at the end of the breakwater.
The 24-year-old man, from Walkerston, was arrested on 13 August and charged with multiple offences, including:
• Dangerous operation of a vehicle
• Offence relating to operating a vehicle during number plate confiscation
• Offence to remove, tamper with, or modify a number plate confiscation notice
• Driving on a P2 licence without green P plates
• Driving or parking a light vehicle on the road while defective
He is due to appear before Mackay Magistrates Court on 1 September.
The Ford Falcon involved in the incidents has been impounded.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Moranbah Man Charged Over Burglary And Property Damage
A 37-year-old Moranbah man has been arrested and charged following an alleged break-in and wilful damage incident on 27 August.
Police allege that at approximately 5:30pm, the man entered a dwelling on Shannon Drive, Moranbah, causing extensive damage to the property.
The man was scheduled to appear in Emerald Magistrates Court on 28 August.
Reference: QP2501521135
High-Speed Drink Driver Intercepted On Peak Downs Highway
Police have charged a man after he was allegedly caught driving at high speed while under the influence of alcohol in Coppabella on Friday, 22 August.
Shortly after 6pm, officers conducting patrols on Peak Downs Highway observed a Toyota Hilux ute travelling at excessive speed. It is alleged the 32-year-old man from Jimboomba was recorded driving at 148km/h in a 100km/h zone before being intercepted by police.
Further testing allegedly revealed the driver was over the legal alcohol limit, returning a breath analysis reading of 0.118.
The man has been issued with a Notice to Appear in Moranbah Magistrates Court on 18 September.
Police continue to remind motorists: if you plan to drink, plan not to drive.
Moranbah Man Charged With Assault
Police have charged a 28-year-old man following an alleged assault at a licensed premise in Moranbah on 17 August.
It is alleged that at around 12:30am, the man assaulted a 21-year-old at a venue on Griffin Street. The victim was taken to Moranbah Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The 28-year-old Moranbah man was arrested at a local address on 18 August and has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm.
He is scheduled to appear before Moranbah Magistrates Court on 18 September.
Reference: QP2501451397
Photo source: Queensland Police Service
By Hannah McNamara
In a moving act of gratitude and resilience, five years after a devastating traffic crash near Calen left him almost completely blind, Queensland Police Service officer Senior Constable John Kenworthy has returned to Mackay.
His visit carried great significance, not only to thank the Mackay Base Hospital Emergency Department staff who treated him and his wife, but also to reconnect with the community where his life changed forever.
Senior Constable Kenworthy said he recalls his time working in Mackay like it was yesterday.
“The reason we came up to Mackay was as a work promotion, a specialist role… in the road policing unit, near highway patrol,” he said. “I loved the working environment. I loved the office.
“I loved the locals – the Mackay locals are fantastic.”
On the day of the crash in 2020, he was riding a police motorcycle when he responded to a call.
“I’ve left the road, gone through a barb wire fence, which has come up into the helmet and caused both of my eyes to rupture.”
“From that moment I’ve become blind as a result.”
Flown to Brisbane for specialist care, he spent months in hospital. Listening back to his helmet camera later inspired him to reconnect with those who helped him that day.
“They didn’t choose to be on that road at that time, neither did I, but for whatever reason our paths crossed,” he said.
“They’ve all graciously accepted to come and meet me… it was just the fact that we were coming back up that I’d also like to close that circle.”
Visiting Mackay Base Hospital again for the first time since the crash, he described the reunion as moving.
“It was just overwhelming, they were so engaged, and interested to hear my story.
Despite the challenges he now faces, his commitment to serving as a police officer hasn’t withered.
“I still work as a sworn police officer in Brisbane. I still go to work and contribute to the organisation, which I’m really proud of.”
And now, he has turned his experience into purpose, by championing the message of road safety.
“You often think about the fatality rate as a number on the news every night… but it’s more than a number.
“It’s a family affected for the rest of their life.
“I just wonder when, as a community, we’re gonna wake up and say ‘we really need to look at this in a different light.’”
His wife, Sarah, recalled the first moments she heard of the crash.
“The phone rang and it was a police officer that was on site with John… he said ‘your husband’s got a tiny scratch on his face.’”
“He said ‘we’re taking him to hospital though, he should be fine…’”
“I’m grateful the officer said that, because it really kept me calm until I could process what had actually happened.”
“As I approached the Emergency Department today I actually burst into tears…it brought back a lot of really tough memories.”
Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards, Mackay Whitsunday District Highway Patrol Officer in Charge, said John’s resilience has inspired colleagues across the state.
“As you would expect, the entire office was devastated when we heard the extent of John’s injuries… most people would probably curl up into a ball, but John’s just out there doing everything he can.
“He inspires not only myself, but everybody in the office and it’s always a joy to see him.
“He’s just truly an inspirational man and Sarah’s a truly inspirational woman.”
For Senior Constable Kenworthy, gratitude remains at the heart of this return for those who assisted him on that fateful day.
“They are heroes. There’s no doubt about it.”
“I just thank them all... I don’t know how to put it into words.”
Senior Constable John Kenworthy and wife Sarah Kenworthy paid Mackay Base Hospital a visit, in gratitude and honour of the assistance they received on the day of the crash. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Vandals have destroyed an area of important vegetation along a local foreshore for the second time in two years.
Council officers have finalised an investigation into the apparent poisoning of trees along the foreshore at Belmunda, deeming the incident “extremely significant”.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the area, near Macartney Drive, had only just been replanted after an earlier act of environmental vandalism in 2023.
“About 20 young trees, which were planted a little over 12 months ago, appear to have been poisoned with a herbicide,” Mayor Williamson said.
“It’s extremely disappointing that this kind of environmental destruction has happened again in this area,” he said.
“This kind of act not only has an impact on this coastal ecosystem, but also a financial impact on ratepayers.
“Foreshore vegetation plays an important role in erosion control and providing wildlife habitat.”
Mayor Williamson said the financial cost of responding to this vandalism was expected to be close to $20,000.
Council has today supported a recommendation to replant 100 trees to replace the 20 that were damaged or poisoned.
A 6.0m x 1.5m billboard sign will be erected in the affected area and remain in place for at least five years.
Council’s Vegetation Vandalism Policy states that responses to any acts of environmental vandalism should be adapted to meet the perceived motivation.
Mayor Williamson said it was vital the community alerted council of any potential environmental vandalism and provided evidence where possible.
“In this instance, there wasn’t enough evidence to be able to prove who was responsible for this act and we would encourage anyone with information to contact council,” he said.
A site inspection at Belmunda showed evidence of poisoning along the foreshore. Photo supplied
Last Thursday, Council started work to clear trees and other vegetation from the large open drain, which runs alongside Bridge Road.
Over the course of several years, mangroves have established in the tidal drain on Bridge Road, South Mackay.
Director Infrastructure and Operations with Mackay Regional Council, Simon Taylor said the clearing is expected to improve the efficiency of the drain during flood events where tidal conditions are favourable.
“There are restrictions around the removal of mangroves,” Mr Taylor said.
“These types of trees can’t be cleared without special approvals from the State
Government, which we have obtained.”
Mr Taylor said the aim is to complete clearing before the start of the wet season.
“Having this drain cleared will assist flood water to drain away from our
residential areas and important community assets under favourable tidal conditions.
“It is important to note that the drainage works do not remove flood risk associated with potential storm surge events accompanying tropical cyclones and residents of low-lying areas are encouraged to review our Emergency Action Guide
"Council will continue to work closely with the State Government on the future maintenance of the drain."
The section between Casey Avenue and Leisure Court will be cleared first.
The work is expected to take about two months, weather and tides permitting.
Council has begun clearing mangroves and vegetation from the Bridge Road drain in South Mackay to improve flood flow ahead of the wet season. Photo supplied
Council’s Mackay Region Economic Development Strategy 2025-2030 highlights the need to prioritise housing as a key driver of the regional economic engine.
The strategy was adopted at today’s (August 27) ordinary meeting of council.
Economic Development and Growth Strategic Advisory Committee (EDGSAC) Co-chair Cr Belinda Hassan said while housing availability was undoubtedly a vital social need, consultation on the strategy had also revealed that it was one of the main roadblocks for accelerating economic growth.
“Without enough suitable places for people to live, it’s harder to attract and retain the workforce needed for both established industries and the new sectors our region is investing in,” Cr Hassan said.
“This strategy outlines some essential actions to address this need, including advancing new housing developments to meet population increases and supporting the delivery of short-term accommodation options for project‑based workforces, such as construction crews,” she said.
“We also need to ensure that we are streamlining our housing approvals and aligning development incentives with regional workforce needs.
“If our housing supply doesn’t match the accommodation needs and income levels of incoming workers, those workers will look to other regions.”
EDGSAC Co-chair Cr Nathenea MacRae said the strategy addressed four economic priorities – advocacy and leadership, enabled economic environment, workforce development and precincts and property.
“Each priority includes practical actions designed to open up opportunities for investment, support new and existing industries, and strengthen our local economy,” Cr MacRae said.
“These priorities aren’t just long-term aspirations – they’re real projects that will work together to deliver balanced growth,” she said.
“That means matching industrial expansion with the housing, skills and infrastructure needed to make Mackay an even better place to live, work and invest.”
Cr MacRae said workforce development was one example where the Strategy connected economic growth with community benefit.
“We know liveability is one of our biggest drawcards,” she said.
“By marketing Mackay’s lifestyle to attract skilled workers and ensuring housing is available to support them, we’re building the foundations for a strong and sustainable future.”
She said the strategy was built through collaboration with industry and business networks across the region.
“Leaders from mining, agriculture, construction, tourism, biomanufacturing and beyond – alongside local business networks and community groups – have helped shape this plan.
“Their input ensures the strategy reflects what really matters to our region and focuses on projects that will deliver the biggest impact for our community.”
Mackay Region Economic Development Strategy 2025-2030 includes a series of priority initiatives that emerged from stakeholder workshops and consultations.
These initiatives include:
Expediate planning of the Mackay State Development Area to increase future industrial land supply and unlock investment in emerging industries such as biomanufacturing.
Establish a coordinated and consistent advocacy framework for the Mackay region that presents a clear and unified voice to attract investment and government support.
Identify, prioritise and advocate for key enabling infrastructure, such as Mackay Airport Intermodal Transport and Logistics Hub, Mackay Ring Road and Port of Mackay Capabilities Project, to support future industrial expansion.
Review, refresh and promote the Mackay Waterfront Priority Development Area to unlock high-value, mixed-use development and create vibrant residential, commercial and recreational spaces.
Proactively work with the region’s traditional industries to identify initiatives that support improved productivity, cost efficiencies and innovation.
Continue to drive projects that enhance the liveability of the Mackay region, growing the residential population base and attracting visitation.
The Mackay Region Economic Development Strategy 2025-2030 is available online on the Discover Mackay website.
The BMA CQ Rescue team had an early start last Sunday morning, after responding to a mayday call just after 6:30am involving a yacht in distress near Keswick Island. Upon arrival, the crew found the vessel on its side with a man lying on the deck.
“With nowhere to land, our RCO was winched down to assess the situation,” a BMA CQ Rescue representative commented.
The patient was then winched back to the helicopter, where a Doctor and Paramedic provided care. He was found to have broken ribs and cuts and bruises.
The man was flown in a stable condition to Mackay for further treatment, with the quick response highlighting the critical work of the rescue team.
The BMA CQ Rescue team quickly responded to a mayday call near Keswick Island, winching a man with broken ribs and injuries from a capsized yacht to safety before flying him in stable condition to Mackay. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue (Facebook)
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