It was a typical Wednesday evening in May of 1964 and a group of locals, primarily cane farmers, were gathered at the Metropole Hotel in Proserpine, enjoying some cold drinks.

Among the group gathered were Aldo Cantamessa, Terry Hinschen, Gordon Barr, Fred Baxter, Fred Tetley and Kevin Tetley. Amidst the friendly banter, there was talk about the growing issue of potential accidents at sea and the increasing risks of losing friends and visitors while fishing or exploring the Whitsunday waters. Recognising the need for a more organised response to maritime emergencies, they took it upon themselves to address this concern.

Little did they realise, the events of that evening back in 1964 marked an historic moment in the narrative of marine rescue in the Whitsundays. They were the founding members of what we now know as Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR) Whitsunday.

This forward-thinking group laid the foundation for a new era of marine safety for boaties. They devised a communication process and a roster, each man pledging his own vessel to stand ready for any call of distress. Initially, the group used three main boats privately owned by Gordon Barr, Aldo Cantamessa and Fred Baxter. Other boats used in the early days were those of Jack Hickmott, John Watts, Fred Tetley, Brian McDermott, Terry Hinschen and Wally Rogan. On one search, up to 24 private boats were involved!

The Squad could not charge for their services and relied on donations from assisted boaties – and this was more often than not a “thank you” in kind. After rescuing a family of three who had chartered a sailing boat owned by a baker from Mackay, members were surprised when, a few weeks later, they received thanks from the owner in the form of a huge carton. It was full of bread!

Proserpine Sea Rescue became an official entity in January 1967 after a steering committee was formed to draw up a constitution and rules, thus formalising what first began three years earlier. By July, the name had been changed to Whitsunday Air Sea Rescue (WASR). The year 1994 marked another milestone in the history of marine rescue when the new Whitsunday Marine Club officially opened thanks to a collaborative approach from WASR, the Game Fish Club and the Power Boat Club. In 1995, Coast Guard (QF18) which had formed back in 1977 and Whitsunday Air Sea Rescue (VMR442) merged to officially become known as VMR Whitsunday.

Thanks to the unwavering commitment of volunteers, the next three decades bore witness to many remarkable developments. VMR Whitsunday now bears little resemblance to the fledgling organisation initiated by a small group of local men in a Proserpine hotel sixty years ago.

From little things, big things grow …

The transformation from its humble beginnings in 1964 to what we now know as VMR Whitsunday has been nothing short of remarkable.

VMR Whitsunday has evolved from an informal body of six dedicated volunteers to an organisation with an active crew of over 80 members.  

In the formative years, marine radios were a luxury and mobile phones were a distant dream. Communications relied on landline phones, word of mouth and a basic blackboard system. Not so today! VMR Whitsunday is now equipped with mobile phones, advanced radios, AIS and other modern technology, to provide 24/7/365 emergency marine support.

Initially, operations had no centralised facilities, relying on the homes of dedicated volunteers, with meetings taking place at venues in Proserpine such as the Metropole Hotel, the RSL Club and the CWA Hall. It was over twenty years before the organisation acquired an official base – a demountable purchased for $80! Fast forward to 2024 and VMR Whitsunday boasts an impressive dedicated facility featuring a state-of-the-art training/meeting room.

The legacy born on that seemingly ordinary night at the Metropole Hotel when a small group of locals met to share some camaraderie and a few drinks has become a highly professional organisation that continues to save lives at sea, not just locally but statewide.

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Story courtesy of VMR Whitsundays. Photos from R Jean Photography, VMR Whitsundays and the Proserpine Museum.

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On Wednesday, July 10th, Bowen State High School celebrated NAIDOC Week with a fun-packed day of activities.
The day commenced with a traditional smoking ceremony conducted by Juru Elder Uncle Jimmy Gaston, Acknowledgment of Country and traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dancers.
Principal Robert Harris welcomed Juru Elders, community partners, families, sponsors, students and staff to the day of celebrations and shared how proud he is of the opportunities and support Bowen High provides First Nations students and families.
“We are committed to create a culture of teaching and learning fostered through strong relationships, common language and understanding,” he said.
Students, staff and community members participated in a range of activities including spear throwing, traditional dance and games, indigenous arts and craft. Students were also treated to a traditional Kup Muri which includes cooked meats, vegetables and damper. Students and staff also enjoyed the NAIDOC cake.
Students also had the opportunity to sit and listen to the protocols and purpose of a yarning circle.
Bowen SHS NAIDOC Celebrations were also attended by NAIDOC National Poster Winner Mrs Deb Belyea and 2023 School Captain Danzel Lewis.  
The celebration is an important event on the school calendar. Bowen High dedicates an entire school day for celebration, reflection and an opportunity to come together as one to honour the enduring strength and spirit of First Nations culture. Student attendance at this years NAIDOC celebrations was the highest it’s been for years.
The 2024 NAIDOC celebrations were made possible through sponsorship from the National Indigenous Australian Agency, AURIZON and Postech. Community support was received from Juru Elders, First Nation’s families, Girudala, Pacific National, and Woolworths.

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Students celebrating NAIDOC week
Students listening to protocols and purpose of a Yarning Circle.
Cutting of NAIDOC cake

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Fifteen-year-old Emily Eggleston struggled with school from the beginning, disliking the environment and facing numerous challenges in education. After an altercation with another student, Emily decided that traditional schooling was not the right fit for her:
“I went, I don't really want to do this anymore, I'm going to do something better.”
Before the incident, Emily’s school had told her about the PCYC Get Set for Work program, a program that funds intensive employment and training assistance to young, disengaged Queenslanders aged 15–19 years. The teachers had mentioned previously that this might be a good opportunity for Emily.
At first Emily was adamant that the program was not for her:
“I thought about it, and I didn't really want to go.”
However, after the fight she decided to call up PCYC and got accepted.
After going through the program Emily now has a whole new outlook on PCYC:
“They got me a trade and helped me; they took me pretty much everywhere that I needed to go to hand in resumes."
Emily now works at Master Butchers Whitsunday and is really enjoying the work she does there. She emphasised how she wanted to work as a butcher from a young age but was not allowed to:
“It was always in the back of my mind. I wanted to do something in agriculture, something to do with Butchering so when the opportunity came up, I was very excited about it.”
Emily is really happy with how far she has come with the program:
“I'm really enjoying my apprenticeship and PCYC is great for anyone who's looking for a job who can't find one on their own”.
“Get Set for Work is one of eight programs that make up the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.”

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Emily Eggleston, outside her new workplace.

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Proserpine State High School have their annual Year 6 Into Year 7 Parent Information Evening on Wednesday 31st of July.
 
Parents and Carers are invited to take a guided tour around the school grounds taking in the modern learning facilities and grounds. Tours start outside the Administration Office on Ruge Street at 5.30pm with school leaders.
 
An information session will follow in the school’s state-of-the-art Performing Arts Centre at 6pm. Here you will meet the school Principal Don McDermid and key leadership staff who will be there to support your child in their transition to high school life.
 
Important information about educational opportunities and subjects on offer as well as the many extra-curricular opportunities available at Proserpine State High School will be explained in depth. Support systems and relevant app information will also be made available to help parents navigate the high school system. 
 
“We aim to ease the transition from primary to high school and ensure your child is well-prepared for the next step in their educational journey,” Mr McDermid said.

“We encourage parents to ask questions and hear why our families choose Proserpine State High School.”
 
For more information about the event, please email Year 7 Coordinator Nick Kapitz at nkapi5@eq.edu.au.

WHAT: Year 6 Into Year 7 Parent Information Evening
WHERE: Proserpine State High School
WHEN: Wednesday 31st of July

Come on down to the Parent Information Evening if your child is starting high school next year. Photo supplied

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Many consider the senior years of high school to be crucial in shaping future career paths. Whitsunday Christian College equips students with the tools to explore their passions, discover tertiary options, and gain work experience in relevant fields.
The senior pathways program, for year 10 upwards, provides students with several key events and sessions to ease their decision-making process.
Senior Studies and Pathway Coordinator and Teacher of years 9 through to 12, Phoebe Lam, walked through what students can expect from the process:
“We have a lot of different events, making sure that parents understand the terminologies and how to pick the right subjects for their children and to see the reality of what university looks like.”
The plan helps students to think about their education, training and career goals and structure their learning around their abilities, interests and ambitions.
This year, the school has partnered with Busy at Work, James Cook University (JCU) and Ideal Placements.
Busy at Work provides valuable guidance on preparing students for the workforce by helping them craft effective resumes and understand their personality traits to match them with suitable industries.
JCU, provides the opportunity for students to come on their UniX Senior Excursion. This opportunity allows students to stay overnight in one of the colleges to experience what university is like, without their parents, what the rooms are like, see the seminar rooms and to see what the experience is like as a whole.
The students thoroughly enjoyed visiting JCU:
“My highlight was the chemistry tour, which included looking in chemistry labs as well as looking at machines like the nuclear resonance imaging,” Madison Krieger from Year 12 enthused.

“I really enjoyed the biomedical science tour where we looked at the PC2 lab. We spoke to lab technicians about their roles in research and also did a blood smear to examine under microscopes,” Zoe Shepherd-Smith from Year 12, added.

Maribel Gudes from Year 12 stated that her highlight was “exploring all the different tents. Each tent showed and told us all about the different courses that they offer at JCU.”
“I'm now considering JCU for my further education,” Year 11 student Oliver Pook concluded.
The college also partners with Ideal Placements, which provides students who are not interested in university with a comprehensive view of local opportunities. Ideal Placements engage with these students, offering insights and guidance on the numerous opportunities available within their community.
The Police Force and ADF also come to the school to provide students with information and entry requirements.
Additionally, the school hosts an information evening for QTAC and ATAR qualifications, for year 12 students, as well as a visit to Mackay Career Expo.
Phoebe Lam added that Whitsunday Christian College, work hard to “be supportive and make sure that our students get to know about as many different opportunities as possible”.
Book a tour today and learn about what Whitsunday Christian College can offer your child in a personalized and nurturing environment.  
Whitsunday Christian is holding their 2025 Senior Pathways Evening on 6 August commencing at 6pm. This is for all current and potential Year 10 Students and Families.
For enrolment information, contact the school's registrar:
P: 4948 5100 E: mail@whitsunday.qld.edu.au

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Students attending UniX Senior Excursion at JCU
Students looking around JCU Campus
Students attending Seminar Rooms

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From little things big things grow!
No, I am not protesting with Paul Kelly, I’m suggesting you grow from seed!
It is not as challenging as most people seem to think.
I still have so many people ask me for vegetable seedlings, even for vegies that do not transplant well, so let’s talk seeds and how to get it right.

As long as you chose the right month to get started with your seeds and as long as they have enough water and sunlight, you will succeed!

The month of July is a perfect month to plant from seed for most vegetables that grow well in the Whitsundays, with low soil temperatures and warm sunny days.

If you are new to growing vegetables then why not start a small plot in a pot.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
The two main reasons I see people struggle to get results are:

1: Burying their seeds
If you plant your seeds too deep, the first shoot will not have enough stored energy to push its way through to the surface. A general rule of thumb is to plant the seed at twice the depth of the seed’s width. For very small seeds like lettuce and many herb seeds, they are literally sprinkled on the surface and then sprinkle the finest layer of soil on top (with a sieve is perfect). Larger seeds like peas and corn must be pushed into the soil but remember, not too deep! You would be better off planting too shallow, then too deep.

2: Not watering daily, allowing the soil to dry out
It is essential for germination that the soil remains moist. This means watering every morning without fail. The soil must not dry out in this crucial period of a seed’s transition.
I sow all my vegetable seeds directly into the ground and as I am not at home during the day (due to work commitments) I water my seeds in the morning and then cover the soil until the green shoots pop out of the ground. Your vegetable seeds do not need the sun to germinate, they need the correct soil temperature and moisture, so covering them from direct sunlight is not an issue.  

Note: Don’t forget to label your seeds. You think you’ll remember what you have planted and three weeks later you’ll regret you didn’t label.

It pays to keep in mind that different vegetables take a different length of time to be ready for picking. Here is a bit of a guide of what takes how long before you are harvesting, and these are all things you can be planting this month from seed:

Vegetable Days to Maturity

Lettuce / Rocket 30-60
Kale / Spinach 50-70
Capsicums 70-110
Zucchini 50-100
Tomatoes 80-120
Cabbage 60-120
Carrots 70-120
Corn 80-120
Cucumbers 60-90
Chilli 60-110
Eggplant 90-120
Pea 65-90
Pumpkin 100-140
Radish 40 – 60
Parsnips 120-140
Rhubarb 100-140

And that’s just to name a few! From the end of July your options start to decrease so get your seeds in the ground this month so that in a few months’ time you will be eating from your garden and there is nothing more rewarding than that!

And don’t forget your herbs!
Now’s a great time to plant your seeds for an abundance of:
Basil, Coriander, Dill, Mint, Sage, Thyme, Lemon Balm, Borage, Nasturtium and Parsley.
And I mean abundance! Not only am I NOT paying between $5.00 - $8.00 for a bunch of fresh basil (that I know a lot of people use half of and the rest wilts in the fridge before you throw it out – into the compost I hope), I also have so much growing that it’s time to start making pesto! It is easy to make and is a family favourite in pasta.

There is nothing better than nicking out to the vegetable patch and picking what you need.
There is nothing fresher, you know they are chemical free and best of all they are at your door step.

Did you know?
That bees love herbs too!  If you leave some of your herbs to go to flower, your bees will thank you.  Basil has anti-inflammatory properties; it is a diuretic and helps prevent acne.

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Photo credit: Tropix Photography

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National NAIDOC Week began on Monday 8th July, with a flag-raising ceremony hosted by the Mackay Regional Council, marking the start of a week-long celebration of Indigenous culture, history, and achievements.
The event saw the participation of numerous community members, who gathered to witness the ceremony and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers and the Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group delivered exceptional performances, captivating the audience with their traditional dances.
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Photo credit: Lee Brake, Mackay Regional Council

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NAIDOC Week
Culture In Full Colour

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Mayor Greg Williamson said the flag-raising ceremony and morning tea was a tremendous tradition that unified the community and kicked off the local NAIDOC celebrations in a meaningful way. “This is a wonderful event that brings our community together to celebrate Indigenous culture, history, and diversity,” he said. Mayor Williamson also highlighted the significance of community involvement and the sharing of culture through performances by the Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dancers, Mackay Torres Strait Islander Dancers, and local Didgeridoo player Lyndon Francis.
NAIDOC Week will continue today with the NAIDOC Street Parade to Queens Park. Assembly for the parade will begin at 9am in Macalister Street, with the march set to commence at 10am. The parade will conclude at Queens Park around 11am, where the NAIDOC Family Fun Day will feature a showcase of cultural performances and food stalls. Approximately 60 community and cultural information stalls will be onsite until 3pm.
NAIDOC Week is celebrated across Australia in the first week of July each year, from Sunday to Sunday, to recognise and honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It offers an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and to participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.
This year's theme, "Blak, Loud and Proud," emphasises the unyielding spirit of Indigenous communities and invites everyone to stand in solidarity, amplifying voices that have long been silenced. The theme calls for a reclamation of narratives, an amplification of voices, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
The fire represents the enduring strength and vitality of Indigenous cultures, passed down through generations despite numerous challenges. It symbolises the connection to the land, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As this flame is honoured, it kindles the sparks of pride and unity, igniting a renewed commitment to acknowledging, preserving, and sharing the cultural heritage that enriches the nation.
Through collective efforts, a future can be forged where the stories, traditions, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are cherished and celebrated, enriching the fabric of the nation with the wisdom and contributions of the oldest living culture in the world.
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Caption: Photo credit: Lee Brake, Mackay Regional Council

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Navigating chemotherapy feels a bit like being in a surreal sitcom where the punchlines are tinged with irony. Last week marked the beginning of my chemo journey—an adventure (that nobody wants to be a part of) that’s turning out to be quite the rollercoaster ride.

Imagine this: just hours before my first chemo session, my son, Brydon, decided to test his superhero skills by attempting flight off the bed. Straight onto his head. Ironically, it had been superhero day at daycare, and he had dressed up as a Ninja Turtle.

Spoiler alert: turtles don't fly, especially not off beds. Cue a long evening in ED, superhero costume and all, adding a dramatic twist to a day that already had me packed with nerves and anxiety.

Since that gravity-defying bedtime escapade, my little daredevil hasn't been quite himself. Perhaps it's just unfortunate timing and potentially he's also caught a nasty bug, turning him into a mini-insomniac who's suddenly decided food is optional, but he has been very unsettled and not the same since.

Meanwhile, as I navigate the delightful world of chemo side effects (note the sarcasm), I'm also playing the role of chief comforter and coaxer, trying to bring back the usual sparkle in my son's eyes. Not the easiest to do through nausea, pins and needles in my hands and feet and a host of other unpleasant sensations.

They say when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Well, let me tell you, lemonade tastes weird along with everything else when you’re going through chemo, so I don’t even know what to do with those lemons anymore.

A positive in my week has been witnessing the colour, passion and fire that comes with NAIDOC Week. Embracing the theme "Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud," the resilience of our Indigenous community shines brightly, inspiring us all to keep our own fires burning through life's ups and downs.

You can find our NAIDOC coverage on pages 6, 24 and 25 in this edition.

Amanda

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Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated is deeply moved by Jacob Cook and Limitless Asset Assurance's extraordinary act of kindness.

Jacob Cook and Limitless Asset Assurance's generous donation of time and materials to install secure fencing has profoundly expanded Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated's capacity to provide safe shelter for more puppies in need of foster care. Jacob's selflessness and dedication have empowered foster carers to open their hearts and homes to these vulnerable little lives, ensuring they receive the care and security they deserve.

Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated extended their gratitude in a Facebook post to acknowledge Limitless Asset Assurance who donated both their time, and the material, to put up the secure fencing that will allow more puppies to come into foster care.

“Jacob's remarkable act of kindness has filled our hearts with joy and hope,” the Mackay Pet Rescue team commented.

“His selfless donation of time and materials for the fencing has enabled our foster carers to welcome precious puppies into their care,”

“We are forever grateful for his unwavering support and generosity.

“Thank you, Jacob Cook and Limitless Asset Assurance.”

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Jacob Cook and Limitless Asset Assurance donated their time and materials to build fences for the Mackay Pet Rescue Inc team, ensuring pets remain safe and secure while in foster care. Image source: Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (Facebook)

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Mackay has earned accolades on the national stage, receiving a special mention from Australia's new Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, during her inaugural engagement in Canberra last week.
Following her swearing-in as the 28th Governor-General of Australia, Mostyn officially opened the 2024 National General Assembly (NGA), where Mackay's proactive approach to youth engagement stood out. Mackay Regional Council CEO Scott Owen and Mayor Greg Williamson were present at the event.
Mostyn, known for her advocacy through the Federation of Young Australians, highlighted Mackay's pioneering initiative as the first region in Australia to host the Young Mayors program. This program empowers young people aged 11-17 to serve as democratically elected representatives, giving them a platform to influence local decision-making.
Reflecting on the special mention, Mayor Williamson expressed pride in Mackay's leadership in youth empowerment. "Partnering with the Federation of Young Australians to introduce the Young Mayors program has been a significant step towards fostering youth leadership and community involvement," Mayor Williamson said.
“Mackay was the first region in Australia to partner with the Federation of Young Australians to bring the Young Mayors program here.”
The Young Mayors program offers participants training, mentoring, and funding to execute local projects and campaigns, ensuring that youth voices are not only heard but actively contribute to shaping their communities.

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Mackay’s residents are invited to roll up their sleeves and help plant trees as part of Mackay Regional Council’s National Tree Day event.
This year’s event will be held at Glenfields Park on Wheeler Drive in Glenella on Sunday, July 28, from 8am to 11am.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council was aiming to plant more than 3000 plants at this year’s National Tree Day events, which also includes School’s Tree Day on Friday, July 26.
“These events help to increase the region’s tree canopy coverage and provide essential shade in this popular recreational area,” Mayor Williamson said.
“By participating in National Tree Day, residents can contribute to a greener, healthier future for our region,” he said.
“The benefits of tree planting extend far beyond aesthetics – trees improve air quality, provide habitat for local wildlife and can reduce surface temperatures by up to 20 degrees.”
Mayor Williamson said these types of community events brought people together and fostered a sense of shared responsibility for the environment.
“Whether you’re an avid gardener or just someone who cares about our environment, your help on National Tree Day is invaluable,” he said.
If you would like to play a part in improving the future of our region, you can register as a volunteer for National Tree Day at https://treeday.planetark.org/site/10029535.
Please wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and bring a water bottle. If you have your own gardening gloves, bring them along too. A free barbecue will be provided to everyone who participates in this event.
National Tree Day and School’s Tree Day in Mackay is supported by Mackay Regional Council and Mackay Toyota.
Stay up to date on all the latest urban greening events and initiatives by subscribing to council’s urban greening eNewsletter at connectingmackay.com.au/urban-greening.

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Mackay created history last week by becoming one of the first marine rescue units to join volunteer organisation Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ).

MRQ is a new service established under the Marine Rescue Queensland Act 2024, aiming to enhance community safety and improve protections for volunteers.

Marine rescue volunteers undertake approximately 4,000 rescue activations each year, operating across 46 units along Queensland’s coast, with plans in place to transition existing units to MRQ over the next 12 to 18 months.

During the transition period, VMRAQ and AVCGA units yet to transition will continue to provide lifesaving marine rescue services to their communities.

Representatives from across the community were present for the launch, including Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert. Other attendees included Mackay Whitsunday Police District Superintendent Graeme Paine and local police officers as well as local senior representatives from the Queensland Fire Department, Mackay residents and most importantly, the volunteers themselves with their families and friends.

Minister Mark Ryan said, "Our volunteers are everyday Queenslanders that devote their time to help save lives and protecting people while out on the water.

“Over the next 12 to 18 months, we will see more units come onboard as MRQ.

“In the meantime, MRQ, VMRAQ and AVCGA are committed to continue to deliver services across Queensland.”

Commissioner Steve Gollschewski welcomed the Mackay volunteer marine rescue unit into MRQ and said it was an important part of the disaster and emergency management response.

“The relationship and connection with the QPS, in particular the Water Police, has always been strong and we will continue to maintain and support these valuable relationships.

“The QPS will continue to support volunteer marine rescue units as they transition to MRQ to ensure continuity of service and keep Queenslanders safe while out on the water.”

Mackay MP Julieanne Gilbert also commented on the establishment and said that “Mackay has a long proud history of marine volunteering and rescue.

“The transition to MRQ will bring together volunteer groups under one banner and provide a single, integrated base for better access to equipment and greater support at local and regional levels, enhancing delivery of these lifesaving services,” she added.

The large crowd gathered to show their respect for the role of Volunteer Marine Rescue Queensland (VMRQ) in Mackay over a period of almost 60 years and the considerable efforts in recent times to bring about the launch of MRQ Mackay in its place. 

All the speakers at the launch unanimously reinforced just how critical MRQ will be moving forward.

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Mackay joined Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) last week, marking a significant step towards unified marine rescue services across Queensland. Photo source: myPolice Mackay

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Mackay Regional Council recently grappled with the contentious issue of pumped hydro during an ordinary meeting last month, when Councillor George Christensen proposed a motion to formally oppose Queensland Hydro’s Pioneer-Burdekin pumped hydroelectricity project.

Cr Christensen articulated his apprehensions in detail, explaining that the project would entail the creation of three large reservoirs, resulting in the displacement of the town of Netherdale and affecting numerous farms and properties.

"The loss of cane-farming land is of particular concern as it can impact the viability of local sugar mills and, thus, the local sugar industry overall," he said. He further emphasised the environmental degradation the project could cause, particularly to the sensitive ecosystems of Eungella and the Pioneer Valley.

"The project endangers the platypus population by destroying their breeding areas and disrupting their natural habitats," Christensen added. He also highlighted potential water quality issues, including high turbidity and cross-catchment pollution.

Cr Christensen also pointed out socio-economic challenges that could arise from the influx of a predominantly fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) workforce.

"The influx of a 2,000-strong workforce, primarily FIFO workers, will exacerbate the already critical housing shortage in the Mackay region,” he said.

“This additional population pressure is expected to drive up rental costs further, making housing less affordable for local residents," he explained. Christensen also warned about the strain on the local labour market, predicting that the project would attract workers away from local businesses, worsening labour shortages and impacting the regional economy.

Kieran Cusack, CEO of Queensland Hydro, presented a contrasting viewpoint, emphasising the potential benefits of the project.

"Pumped hydro energy storage is unquestionably the right technology to enable Queensland’s clean energy transition,” he said.

“It is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for the Mackay and Greater Whitsunday region," Cusack stated.

He highlighted that the project could support up to 3,500 jobs during peak construction, including opportunities for apprentices and graduates, thereby providing new opportunities for the region's workforce and businesses.

Cusack detailed the broader economic benefits, stating, "It will green the export and domestic energy supply chain for Queensland, including Bowen Basin miners, giving businesses green credentials that will undoubtedly help with exports to support their industry for years to come." He also noted the project's role in aiding the diversification of the sugar industry into biofuels and other products, supporting its long-term sustainability.

Addressing environmental concerns, Cusack assured, "We understand our project is in an area of ecological significance, and we can deliver a nature-positive project that creates benefits to the local environment over and above the long-term climate benefits of our pumped hydro projects." He assured Queensland Hydro's commitment to ensuring that the environment and local community benefit from the project.

“This region can continue to be an Australian and Queensland leader and drive the next economic boom powered by the renewable energy transition.”

Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan expressed caution regarding the motion to formally oppose the Pioneer-Burdekin pumped hydroelectricity project. She highlighted the importance of waiting for comprehensive reports and assessments before making any decisions.

"Because it's not yet proven whether this project is viable, we need to see the detailed analytical report that will show whether it can meet all economical and environmental standards," Hassan stated. She emphasised that the report is not due out until later this year and cautioned against making premature decisions that could affect future councils.

"I am very hesitant as a current councillor to make decisions on behalf of future councils, especially when this project might not even be approved until 2027 or 2028," she added.

Hassan also pointed out the potential consequences of taking an official position against the project. "Taking an official position opposing this pumped hydro project could exclude council from having active involvement in managing the flow-on impacts, both positive and negative, should it go ahead," she warned. She reminded her fellow councillors that it is not their role to decide whether the project proceeds, stating, "That's up to the government of the day and the council of the day."

"We have spent a significant amount of council money and resources to attract investment into this region, encouraging people to come and live, work, and invest here.

“Rejecting the hydro project could also mean rejecting all the associated projects that could stem from it.”

Cr Alison Jones proposed a procedural motion to lay Cr Christensen's motion on the table, pending further information from ongoing investigations and studies by Queensland Hydro. This procedural motion, which passed with a majority, effectively delayed any decision on opposing the project until more detailed information is available.

Cr Christensen argued that immediate opposition was necessary to protect the region from potential harm, stating, "Given the significant negative impacts on the Netherdale and Eungella communities, local farming enterprises, and the natural environment, particularly the platypus population, it is imperative for Mackay Regional Council to take a stand against the Pioneer-Burdekin pumped hydroelectricity scheme."

Conversely, Cusack highlighted the future financial benefits of the project, noting, "In April 2024, Deloitte Economics released its analysis of a Net Zero Queensland.

“For North and Outback Queensland, which includes this region, it noted that by 2050, there would be $240 billion in economic opportunity and 84,000 additional jobs added to the region.

“Our Pioneer-Burdekin project is the great enabler of this economic opportunity."

Ultimately, the council determined that, as the project is only in the investigation stage, there is nothing substantive to oppose at this point. This decision allows for further studies and assessments to inform a more comprehensive understanding of the project's potential impacts and benefits before taking an official position. The debate highlights the balancing act between environmental protection, community concerns, and the pursuit of renewable energy opportunities that the council must navigate in its decision-making process.

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Artist impression of how the Pioneer Valley will be changed by the Pioneer-Burdekin pumped hydro's lower reservoir. Image source: Queensland Hydro

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Eleven Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with big dreams took their first steps towards a career in healthcare last week.
The Budyubari Bidyiri Kebi Stapal (Big Dream, Small Steps) program 2024 cohort is beginning its 12-month school-based traineeships across selected departments at Mackay Base Hospital.
The traineeship will equip the students with a Certificate III  qualification in either Health Services Assistance or Allied Health Assistance while they are still in high school.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) organisational development manager Kelly Klemen said the Year 11 students came from six Mackay region high schools including Holy Spirit College, Northern Beaches High School, St Patrick’s College, Pioneer High School, Sarina High School and Mackay State High School.
“We will have six students graduate in September this year from the Big Dream Small Steps program in 2023 and we are excited to have another 11 students who are wanting to complete the Certificate III qualifications while they are finishing high school,” Ms Klemen said.
“The aim of the program is to build our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce to better reflect the community we care for.”
The program requires students to complete one day per week at the hospital. This gives the trainee ‘on-the-job’ experience and helps develop foundational skills, knowledge and practical experience working in the health sector, Ms Klemen said.
Grace Ridge, who is a student at Holy Spirit College, hopes the school-based healthcare traineeship will provide her with a pathway to a career in healthcare after she finishes high school.
“I’ve always told my mum since I was little that I wanted to be a baby doctor,” Grace said.
“I’m very interested in a career in midwifery so I’m looking forward to starting work in the child and adolescent unit next week, being hands on and learning some new skills,” she said.
Northern Beaches High School student Kassidy Davis said the traineeship was a practical learning opportunity which enabled her to grow in confidence and earn formal qualifications while still at high school. It was a stepping stone to further study, she said.
“The traineeship also helps us get priority when applying to study a nursing course at university,” she said.
Maleek Brennan, a Year 11 student at St Patrick’s College, said the traineeship was a fantastic opportunity to kick-start his allied health career.
“I’m interested in dietetics but will get the chance to shadow an occupational therapist as part of traineeship, so it will help me make final decisions about my future career,” he said. “I’m very grateful for the opportunity to be part of the program.”
The Big Dream, Small Steps program is a collaborative effort which provides a network of support for students. It is funded through Metro North’s Deadly Start program which has partnered with registered training organisation (RTO) Connect ‘n’ Grow to deliver the training. Students are also provided with support by Seed Foundation Australia.

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Budyubari Bidyiri Kebi Stapal (Big Dream, Small Steps) program trainees, back from left, Joni Thompson, Maleek Brennan, Imogen Joseph, Isabella Coe and Keleisha Bridson and front row from left, Grace Ridge, Kassidy Davis, Aaliyah Shiner and Briseis Tass.
Trainees Grace Ridge, Maleek Brennan and Kassidy Davis. Photos supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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