Community News

Then & Now  A Snapshot Through Time

Then & Now A Snapshot Through Time

Sports Day in 1984 Sports Carnival in 2025 A newsletter in the 1980’s A newsletter in 2024 The Year 5 Last Supper performance in 1985 The Year 1 Last Supper performance in 2025 Rugby League in the 1980’s Rugby League in 2025‍

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WELCOME A Message From The Principal Katherine Nelson

WELCOME A Message From The Principal Katherine Nelson

As the proud principal of St Catherine’s Catholic College, I would like to extend a welcome to community members to learn more about our College, and to join us for the 100 year celebration. In 1925, the Sisters of Mercy founded St Catherine’s School in Marathon Street. Many of our current students have parents and grandparents who attended the school and who have fond memories of their schooling. Catholic schools were originally founded to provide for those who might not otherwise gain an ade

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Nurturing Young Minds At St Catherine’s

Nurturing Young Minds At St Catherine’s

At St Catherine’s Catholic College, education begins with a strong foundation. The school is committed to nurturing students from Prep through to Year 12, helping them grow academically, spiritually, socially and emotionally. The Mercy Precinct, named in honour of the Sisters of Mercy who founded the school in 1925, is home to Prep to Year 2 students. This dedicated area includes spacious classrooms and shaded outdoor play areas featuring mini soccer fields and imaginative play spaces designed t

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Progressing With Purpose

Progressing With Purpose

At St Catherine’s Catholic College, the primary school program for children in Years 3 to 6 lays a strong foundation for academic success and personal growth within a supportive and inclusive environment. With a focus on educating the whole child through head, heart and hands, students are guided through these important years by dedicated classroom teachers who support both their wellbeing and academic development. Literacy and numeracy remain central to the curriculum, but the learning experien

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Hospital’s New Benches Represent Stand Against Domestic Violence

July 25, 2024

Two bright red park benches at Mackay Base Hospital will remind patients and visitors that ‘taking a seat will also help take a stand’ against domestic violence.
The red benches are being officially launched by Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) on 23 July and will be installed in two high-profile locations at the hospital; one at the front of the emergency department, the other near the hospital’s front entrance on Bridge Road.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service Executive Director Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health and Community Engagement Kerry Maley said the red benches aimed to encourage discussion about what family and domestic violence can look like and how the community can help those impacted by it.
"We believe that everyone has a responsibility to play a role in raising awareness about domestic and family violence,” Ms Maley said.
"People may not have violence in their lives, but everyone can offer support or intervene if it's safe to do so and that's why we want the benches in prominent places at our hospital.”
Ms Maley said all too often people who attend the hospital have experienced a form of domestic and family violence. There were increasing numbers of domestic and family violence presentations to Mackay Base Hospital every year, with many seeking assistance and support, she said.
The Red Bench project is the brainchild of the not-for-profit group Red Rose Foundation, which works towards ending domestic violence-related deaths in Australia.
Mackay Hospital Foundation general manager Kristi Algate said the foundation was proud to grant funding for the purchase of benches which also feature a QR code link to support services and a plaque reading ‘Change the Ending: Let’s Stop Domestic and Family Violence’.
There are eight red benches in various locations across the Mackay region including at Mackay Regional Council, Mackay Women’s Services and Caneland Central.

Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan, Cr Alison Jones, Kerry Maley, Mayor Greg Williamson, Kristi Algate and Brian Sullivan. Photos supplied
Brian Sullivan, Kerry Maley, Sandi Winner and Kristi Algate
One of Mackay Hospital’s new red benches near the Emergency Department

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Celebrating A Legacy Of Learning St. John's Catholic Primary School Turns 100

July 25, 2024

St. John's Catholic Primary School in Walkerston marked a memorable occasion last Friday as it celebrated 100 years of education.

The event was a nostalgic journey through time, featuring a special memorabilia display adorned with past school photos, uniforms and historical artifacts in honour of the past generations of students and staff.

St. John's Catholic Primary School in Walkerston was first established in 1924 by the sisters of Mercy, with 111 students in attendance. Now, in 2024, the school accommodates 347 students across 14 classes with a focus on growing and expanding for the students of tomorrow.

Among the special guests present on the day was Pauline Stevens, a centenarian and former student of the school after attending St. John’s briefly in 1933. At an impressive 100 years old herself, she fondly remembers her time there, recalling the kindness of the nuns and teachers who left a lasting impression on her.

The celebration was symbolically bridged between past and present as Georgia, the youngest current student, joined hands with the oldest former student and school principal to cut the ceremonial cake.

St John's Catholic Primary School Principal, Nathaniel Rice reflected on the school's evolution, emphasising the importance of adapting to changing times while maintaining the school's core values and traditions.

“Schools are an ever changing and evolving system, so keeping up with the times is really important for us,” he said.

This statement was echoed by school captains Indee and Harry, who marvelled at the transformations in uniforms and the school's physical appearance over the decades.

“It’s very surprising how the uniforms have changed over the years and even the look of the school,” they remarked.

St. John's Catholic Primary School celebrated 100 years of education last Friday with a special memorabilia display along with a cake that was cut from the oldest and youngest student to attend the school. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Birri Gubba Sovereign Nation Hosts Inaugural Membership Day

July 25, 2024

The inaugural membership day of the Birri Gubba Nation was held on Saturday, 13th July 2024, at Conway Beach. Event organisers said this significant event marks the first step in building a peaceful future for a nation to be proud of and to pass down to future generations. The Senior Tribal Council joined eager participants in this foundational journey, moving forward together in the development of this re-emerging nation.
Blessed with clear blue skies and a light breeze on the beachfront, Senior Tribal Elder Diwah Banbure delivered a moving speech. Her courage in sharing her story was warmly received by a caring and highly engaged community. Chief Minister Kowah Banbure and Minister for Foreign Affairs Glaree Banbure also addressed the attendees, emphasising the importance of community and unification.
The first intake of members attended the ceremony, submitting membership applications and swearing the Birri Gubba Oath. The events culminated in a traditional cleansing ceremony, during which a sea eagle circled overhead, with organisers saying this perfectly symbolised the nation's spirit.
The Birri Gubba Sovereign Nation was formed on 8th March 2023 at Conway Beach, with its government established on 11th March 2023. Founders said that the nation is grounded in International Law, with the principle of "do no harm" at its core. Official documents were sent to national and international authorities informing them of the re-emergence of the Birri Gubba Nation.
The Birri Gubba flag, Coat of Arms, and postage stamps were all designed by Senior Tribal Elder Diwah Banbure (Patricia Brimble), an internationally renowned First Nations artist.
For updates on the progress of the Birri Gubba Nation, you can follow them on Facebook and Telegram at https://t.me/BirriGubbaSN.

Participants of the inaugural membership day of the Birri Gubba Nation at Conway Beach. Photos supplied

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COUNCIL COLLABORATES WITH VOLUNTEERING QUEENSLAND TO EMPOWER YOUTH

July 25, 2024

In an exciting initiative to foster youth engagement and community involvement, Mackay Regional Council has joined forces with Volunteering Queensland to fund the CHC24015 Certificate II in Active Volunteering program at Mackay State High School.
The program marks a significant step forward in empowering the youth of Mackay to become active contributors to their community while developing essential skills and experiences that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Students at Mackay State High School undertaking the Certificate II in Active Volunteering will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the principles of volunteerism and practical experience within a variety of volunteer-involving organisations.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the students would be matched to existing volunteer roles within council that aligned with their career aspirations or areas of interest.
“We are proud to be able to offer volunteer roles at council that are not only inclusive, safe and well supported by knowledgeable staff members, but also appeal to so many interest types,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Whether the students have an interest in technology, horticulture, the arts, history, hospitality or the entertainment industry, we can offer them some valuable experience in roles that benefit our local community,” he said
“Hopefully they will continue volunteering after they have completed their placements or use their new skillsets to attain future employment.”
Volunteering Queensland CEO Jane Hedger said the initiative highlighted the great work of Mackay Regional Council in supporting local youth into meaningful community engagement.
“We are delighted to see young people given the opportunity to contribute to their own community to both give and receive the multitude of benefits volunteering provides,” Ms Hedger said.
The CHC24015 Certificate II in Active Volunteering program equips students with practical skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving, while also instilling a sense of civic responsibility and empathy for others.
The partnership between Mackay Regional Council and Volunteering Queensland underscores a shared commitment to youth whilst building a vibrant and inclusive community where everyone can contribute and thrive.
For more information about the CHC24015 Certificate II in Active Volunteering program, please visit Volunteering Queensland website www.volunteeringqld.org.au

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Police Seek Witnesses Following Mirani Traffic Fatality

July 25, 2024

Police will prepare a report for the coroner after a man died following a single-vehicle traffic crash at Mirani, west of Mackay, on Friday, July 19.
Initial investigations indicate at approximately 12.30pm, a white Madza BT-50 utility was travelling along Mackay Eungella Road when it left the road and crashed.
The driver and sole occupant, a 79-year-old Pinnacle man, sustained life-threatening chest injuries.
He was transported to Mackay Base Hospital where he later died the following day on July 20.
Police are appealing to witnesses or anyone with relevant vision to come forward.
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating.

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Mackay Ranks Among Queensland's Top Five Spenders In Local Government Elections

July 25, 2024

During the local government elections held on March 16, the Mackay Regional Council emerged as one of the top spenders in Queensland, according to the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ).

With a reported expenditure totalling $515,793.33 and a donation total of $217,177.60, Mackay joined the ranks in the top five of major urban areas such as Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast in campaign spending.

Comparing Mackay's expenditure with other major regional areas, Townsville reported an expenditure of $331,648.04 with donations totalling to $272,689.54. Cairns spent $365,583.79 and received $91,009.49 in donations. Rockhampton's expenditure was $25,898.32, with donations amounting to $4,013 and Toowoomba reported $176,855.04 in expenditure and $38,028.50 in donations.

Only Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast surpassed Mackay in election-related expenditure showcasing the city's significant investment in its electoral campaign.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen emphasised the importance of candidates submitting election summary returns.

“Disclosure of gifts and money spent during the election period provides transparency and ensures the integrity of the election process,” Mr Vidgen said. 

“The election summary return shows all electoral expenditure incurred for an election and is required, under the Local Government Electoral Act 2011, to be returned within 15 weeks of an election being held.”

Vidgen noted that while most candidates have now submitted their election summary returns, there are still approximately 100 outstanding and lodging an election summary return is a requirement for all candidates.

“It’s important to note that even if a candidate hasn’t incurred any electoral expenditure or received any gifts or loans that the return must still be lodged,” he said. 
 
“It’s great to see that all elected candidates have complied with this obligation.”
 
The ECQ issued nearly 100 fines to candidates for failing to lodge an election summary return following the 2020 local government elections. 


Local government areas with the highest electoral expenditure were:
Brisbane City Council – $4,350,444.58
Gold Coast City Council – $590,757.42
Sunshine Coast Regional Council – $525,782.93
Mackay Regional Council - $515,793.33
Logan City Council – $455,383.15

Mackay emerged as one of the top five spenders in Queensland's local government elections

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MP CALLS FOR REVIEW ON TEMPORARY FISHING LICENCES

July 25, 2024

Opinion Piece

“The State and Federal Labor Governments must be held to account for their disastrous and mismanaged phaseout of commercial gillnets across Queensland, which is now seeing our local fishos consider walking away permanently,” Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said.

The local MP has said that the ban on commercial gillnets was announced amid pressure from international activist organisations.

“It was not backed by any scientific reasoning, and there was no consultation with industry experts or the local men and women whose livelihoods are being destroyed,” Mr Willcox added.

“As your Federal Member, I am calling for a review of the unworkable and ludicrous restrictions that are being placed on those who hold a temporary NX fishing licence.

“The introduction of the temporary NX licences were touted as a lifeline for our local fishos, however the restrictions and increased regulatory requirements are seeing an increasing number of people leaving the industry completely.”

Mr Willcox added that these fishermen and women are being pressured out of their industry.

“An industry that has supported them, their families, and entire communities for generations, and we are seeing small businesses who rely on this industry really hurting,” he said.

“Since this ban was announced, I have held extensive consultations with local fishermen and women, I have called for a Senate Inquiry into the ban of commercial gillnets, which the Labor party and the Greens voted against, and I have attended community rallies organised by those whose industry is being shut down.

“I invited the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, and the Prime Minister to visit our electorate and talk to our local fishermen and women, an invitation that they have ignored.

“This decision made by the State and Federal Labor Governments is a betrayal to our regional communities that rely on our fishing industry.

“This harsh government intervention and inadequate rollout of the temporary NX licences is jeopardising the lives of our fishers.

“As your Federal Member, I will continue to do everything in my power to fight for the people living and working in my electorate of Dawson and to hold those in power to account.”

Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox addresses major concerns regarding local fishers potentially facing an uncertain future as government fails to consult on gillnet ban. Image supplied

QUEENSLAND FISHOS UNABLE TO STAY AFLOAT

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Take Time Out To Celebrate Success – Big Wins And Small Achievements

July 25, 2024

In my observation, we do seem to spend a lot of time focussing on the negatives in our careers (and lives). The negative mindset is so often our ‘go to’ – what we haven’t achieved, and comparing ourselves to others can rapidly become a downward spiral and so de-motivating.

Being purposeful about celebrating our achievements, however small, and not comparing ourselves to others can boost motivation. Comparing ourselves to others is a risky distraction and potentially can derail the pursuit of our own goals.

Sometimes we need a jolt to do a personal reset to reinforce a positive mindset and build it into our personal toolkit.

Here are some strategies to help you focus on the positive and acknowledge your successes.

1. It’s about you and your goals
Identify goals that are specific to you and what you want to achieve. Celebrate when you reach milestones on your journey (and avoid comparing it to others).

2. Celebrate you!
Celebrate and enjoy what makes you unique. Forge your own path, which may be different from others, and acknowledge that your achievements are valuable on their own.

3. Create a personal reward system
Develop a reward system that works for you. Treat yourself to something enjoyable (it doesn’t need to involve big $) when you accomplish a task or reach a milestone, regardless of how it compares to others’ achievements.

4. Practice daily gratitude
Whether it be a gratitude journal where you note down things you’re thankful for each day, including small wins, and/or reciting gratitude mantra to start your day, this practice put the focus on reinforcing a positive mindset.

5. Know and work to your strengths
Identify your strengths and acknowledge these in your positive self-talk. Leveraging your strengths boosts your confidence and self-esteem.

6. Make your goals visible
What does success look like for you? Create a visual (e.g. picture board) and use it to track your achievements. Seeing your progress visually is strong motivation and reinforces your value on the journey. Celebrate the progress you have made over time.

7. Celebrate overcoming challenges
Celebrate any lessons learned. Obstacles are a part of the journey, and overcoming them is an achievement in itself.

8. Find your cheer squad
Surround yourself with a trusted few who will cheer you on and share in celebrating your success. Your cheer squad also will support and uplift you through the challenges.

Ultimately you are the judge of your own success (not others). Give yourself permission to celebrate your successes and accomplishments – big and small. By purposefully including these practices into your personal toolkit, you will learn to celebrate your journey – as well as the destination.

Sometimes working with someone else can give you more clarity on your strengths and desired milestones, this is where we can help. Contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to find out how.

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#ForkCancer This August

July 25, 2024

Cheree Ridolfi, a compassionate Mackay local, is spearheading a significant effort in the fight against cancer with her upcoming #ForkCancer Longest Table event on Saturday, the 3rd of August. This initiative aims to raise crucial funds for life-changing cancer research, addressing a sobering reality where approximately 444 Australians are diagnosed with cancer every day.

Having witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of cancer on her loved ones, Cheree's commitment to fundraising has been driven by a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by this relentless illness.

"Every dollar raised counts towards making an impact in someone's life. I'm hoping to reach $5,000 so it can be doubled, because that will mean a whole treatment for somebody,” she said.

Thanks to Key Solutions Group, whose recent donation of $520 jumpstarted her efforts, local businesses and sponsors such as Epiroc, Debbie’s seafood and The Golf King Superstore have also jumped on board, offering discounts and vouchers to support her fundraising efforts.

Scheduled for Saturday, August 3, the evening promises an atmosphere of elegance and camaraderie, featuring cocktail attire, gourmet nibbles, and lively auctions.

Cheree warmly invites everyone to donate, participate and celebrate together, highlighting that each contribution not only supports ground-breaking research but also fosters a supportive environment where hope is reignited and stories are shared.

For those interested in contributing, please visit www.thelongesttable.com.au/fundraisers/chereeridolfi or scan the provided QR code.

For any other donation or event enquiries, please email Cheree at: chereeridolfi@icloud.com

Cheree Ridolfi will hold a #ForkCancer Longest Table on August 3, raising crucial funds in support of cancer research. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Diverse Skillset Strengthens Regional Development Committee

July 25, 2024

Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) announced the appointment of five new committee members, including new representatives from Mackay and Isaac Regional Councils following the election results.

Previous committee member Stephen Cutting has stepped into the role of Deputy Chair.

RDA GW CEO Robert Cocco said that the new committee members would be an “excellent complement to the existing committee’s skillset”.

"With extensive backgrounds in strategic planning, financial planning, community engagement, and management, their diverse skillsets will provide invaluable insights and be crucial in connecting with our stakeholders and working further towards our strategic goals," Mr. Cocco said.

RDA GW Chair Jeff Stewart-Harris said he was “excited” to welcome five new committee members - Al Grundy, Tony Bale, Kevin Kane, Melissa Westcott, and Belinda Hassan.

“Each brings a wealth of experience, diverse perspectives, and a passion for regional development that will greatly enhance our efforts,” Mr Stewart-Harris said.

“Together, we will work towards advancing economic growth, creating new opportunities for our region, and making a positive impact in our community. I look forward to the collaboration and achievements ahead.”

To stay up to date with RDA GW news and the new committee, visit www.rdagw.org.au.

New Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays Chair- Jeff Stewart-Harris

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Community Bank Sarina Is Championing Business For Good

July 25, 2024

In an evolving world, businesses must adapt to meet new challenges.

Sarina and District Community Financial Services Limited, the operator of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, has achieved certification as a Social Enterprise by Social Traders Australia. But what exactly does this entail?

Social Traders is an organisation in Australia that plays a significant role in supporting and certifying social enterprises. This certification is crucial because, as a certified enterprise, you give stakeholders assurance that you're creating genuine impact through trade.

Social Enterprises, like ours, are driven by a dual purpose: to generate profit for purpose and create meaningful societal impact. This resonates deeply with our core mission at Community Bank Sarina, where we have invested $3.8 million since 2005 to uplift our community.

This certification marks a significant milestone for us, making us the first Community Bank company in Queensland to achieve this recognition.

Through our Community Engagement Program, we channel our profits into initiatives that benefit our community, including community grants, sponsorships, donations, and scholarships. By doing so, we bolster the resilience of our region and create an environment where people succeed. If you want your banking to have a meaningful impact, look no further.

While offering a comprehensive suite of banking products and go beyond financial transactions. Our customers not only achieve their financial and lifestyle objectives with us but also contribute directly to positive change in their community.

As Social Enterprises emerge as the business models of the future, we take pride in our ability to invest directly in the prosperity of our community. We strive to be a business for good.

If you would like to learn more about us, come in to see the Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Branch team at 37 Broad Street or call us on (07) 4943 2634 to talk about how we can help.

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Sarina Show Celebrates 60 Years

July 25, 2024

Nothing beats a country show – the fanfare, the flavours and the family atmosphere has made the two-day Sarina Show and Rodeo a favourite amongst locals and visitors since starting in 1964.

Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has supported the Sarina Show Society for many years, continuing in 2024 with a Gold Sponsorship.

The 2024 Sarina Show and Rodeo, on 3-4 August, will have displays and exhibits, stud cattle, prime cattle and ring events, as well as the always popular rides and excitement of the sideshow alley. Fireworks and a Rodeo are held on the Saturday night, with live music to follow.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said the Bank was proud to continue investing in the highly anticipated local tradition.

“The Sarina Show and Rodeo is such an important event in our region that promotes community connection and celebrates our local fine arts and agricultural achievements,” Ms May said.

“Our community is proud of what our local show has become, and our investment assists the event in staying sustainable and improving year after year, benefiting our customers and the wider community.

“Community Bank Sarina is committed to contributing our profits to hundreds of community strengthening initiatives, aligning with our vision of fostering a strong, resilient region where locals are connected and empowered.”

Community Bank Sarina has invested in the greater Sarina community and provided support to youth and education through a wide range of sponsorships, community grants, scholarships and donations to the tune of over $3.8 million since opening in 2005.

To find out more about the Sarina Show Society and get tickets to this year’s show, visit their website https://www.sarinashowsociety.com.au or visit the Sarina Show Society Facebook page.

Community Bank Sarina mascot Piggy having a wild ride at the Sarina Show and Rodeo

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Mill Pay Dispute “Costing Farming Families Millions” 

July 25, 2024

CANEGROWERS has welcomed news that Wilmar and unions representing workers at the company's nine Queensland sugar mills have accepted a mediation offer from the Fair Work Commission.
 
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said he hoped the move signalled the beginning of the end for the long-running pay dispute that is affecting half of the industry and threatens to completely derail the season.
 
“Sugarcane farming families have been losing $4 million a day due to strike action at Wilmar mills, and we’ve seen the crush fall up to 20 per cent behind schedule in some districts,” Mr Menkens said.
 
“It's been clear for weeks that the parties had reached a stalemate in negotiations, so it’s well past time that we got this issue resolved.
 
“There are no winners in this situation, but there are very clear losers, that’s the cane growing families whose livelihoods are being devastated.
 
“I personally know growers who are losing tens of thousands a day during stoppages. These farmers have spent millions of dollars growing this crop and getting it ready to harvest. They face huge bills for fertiliser, chemicals, staffing, machinery, maintenance, and all the other costs associated with farming. So, they are not just losing their income, they are unable to continue servicing those huge debts that farmers must run up just to grow a crop.”

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Weekly production figures Wilmar Sugar Plane Creek Mill Week 3, Week ending 20 July 2024

July 25, 2024

This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
42,008
132,779
Average bin weight
3.87
3.80
CCS
13.10
12.85
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
29.7
12.72
Q253
8.7
13.38
Q240
23.0
13.26
Q138
2.4
9.37
Q208
15.1
13.28
SRA9
2.4
11.17
KQ228
10.5
14.61
Q250
2.2
13.51

Comments:

Plane Creek Mill processed just over 42,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to just under 133,000 tonnes.
Throughput was disrupted early on Wednesday morning due to a bagasse belt choke which resulted in an 11-hour stoppage.
A cleaning intermission was conducted overnight Wednesday, leading into an extended stop caused by industrial action on Thursday.
Average CCS rose by 0.37 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 13.10 units. Standover cane made up 25 per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was shared between a rake of KQ228 1R from the Mt Christian productivity area and another rake of KQ228 3R from the Koumala productivity area – both with a CCS of 16.2 units.
Do not linger near any part of the rail network, and only cross the line using designated crossings.
Remember our locos are towing heavy loads and can take up to 1km to come to a complete stop.
Our cane trains are operating around the clock, seven days a week, during the crushing season.

Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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From Sea to Scan Twin Brothers Share Identical Careers

July 25, 2024

Allan and Neville Hellmuth are not just genetically identical; they also have identical careers and interests.
The twins are both radiographers and sonographers at Mackay Base Hospital and both share a profound and deep connection to the ocean.
Both earned TE scores of 990 (equivalent to OP 1) and despite being offered university placements to study medicine and law, they both opted to take a gap year and join the family fishing business.
“But here’s the red herring; that gap year actually lasted 17 years,” Allan said.
“The headmaster at Gympie State High School was just horrified that two students who scored TE scores of 990 would opt to stay fishing instead of study,” Neville said.
As rare MCMA or monochorionic-monoamniotic twins, a condition in which twin babies live in one sac and share one placenta, their birth was incredibly rare. Neville arrived first.
“Although mum said a couple of years ago ‘I don’t know how to tell you this Nev, but I don’t know if you were actually born first’,” he said.
“They had us mixed up even back then.”
Ironically, it was an x-ray which confirmed their mother was carrying twins in her third pregnancy.
“There were no scans back in that day, so she had an x-ray at 40 weeks to make sure there was two babies in there – imagine if you did that today?”
The twins were raised in Tin Can Bay in south-east Queensland where their parents owned a large fishing company.
“We both wanted to take a gap year to earn some cash before we went to university. But it wasn’t until 17 years later that we actually went back to study at university,” Allan said.
The pair fished together and eventually owned their own trawlers, working nine months of the year fishing between Cairns and the Torres Strait.
Both answer in unison when asked what they loved about life at sea: “the freedom” and being the “third generation” to do it.
Family commitments ultimately changed both their career trajectories.
“My son wanted me to stay home; he would beg me ‘don’t go fishing dad’,” Allan said.
“My wife had had enough after 14 years and was sick of it, so I said I’ll come home then too,” Neville agreed.
Both decided they “had to do something” and that studying radiography full-time offered long-term opportunity and a stable career.
“The course itself was only three years which was shorter than other courses like engineering, and we knew there was definitely work at the end of the line,” Allan said.
Allan began his studies in 2003 aged 33 and Neville in 2004 aged 34, both at the Queensland University of Technology on the Sunshine Coast. They both completed post graduate studies through University of South Australia.
Allan, who is a team leader in the medical imaging department, has worked at Mackay Base Hospital for eight years after spending five years travelling Australia working as a locum.
Neville has been based in Mackay for just 12 months having spent the previous 11 years as a locum on the west coast of the country and in places like Norfolk Island, Geraldton, and Weipa. His first locum position was actually in Mackay.
“I really make his job easy now, because he’s my boss,” Neville said.
Although they now work together and have lunch together every day, the brothers try to surf or stand up paddle board together at North Wall as often as possible.
The pair still haven’t ruled out yet another occupation sea change.
“Never say never. They say you apparently have three major career changes in your life and we’ve already done two,” Neville said.
For now, they continue to enjoy their fulfilling work and the frequent double takes of clients and ongoing banter with colleagues in their department.
“My brother’s wife works in ICU so when I go up there, they always say ‘Hi Al,” Neville said.
“Sometimes I don’t even worry about correcting them.”
By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

Twin brothers Allan and Neville Hellmuth navigate life's waves, sharing careers and passions at Mackay Base Hospital. Image source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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