Councillor Karen May has been elected as Deputy Mayor of Mackay Regional Council, succeeding Belinda Hassan after a vote by her fellow councillors.
At a special council meeting on Wednesday, August 7, three councillors expressed their interest in the position. Karen May, who previously served as Deputy Mayor in the last term, was ultimately chosen to step back into the role.
Experienced Councillor Alison Jones and first-term Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson also vied for the position. In a closely contested vote, Ms May secured five for and five against. In the case of a tie, Mayor Greg Williamson casts the deciding vote. He voted in favour of Ms May and sighted her extensive experience bringing good governance to the table.
In her address to the council, Ms May highlighted her extensive 23-year career in local government, including her tenure as Mayor of the Sarina Shire Council and Deputy Mayor of Mackay Regional Council.
"I put forward that I have the necessary experience with a proven track record of reliability, and you would be in safe hands if you choose me as your Deputy Mayor," Ms May said.
She also emphasised the importance of the Deputy Mayor's role as the Deputy Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group.
"Since 2008, I have undertaken all the necessary training to execute that role. During the past two terms of council, I have assisted the Mayor in the bushfires that we encountered, Cyclone Debbie, and COVID-19, which was a very complex matter to deal with," she added.
Mayor Greg Williamson expressed his enthusiasm about the strong interest shown in the position.
"It was fantastic to see so many councillors put their hands up to be part of this democratic process," he said.
"And to affirm the fact that good governance is what's required around our table."
Welcoming Councillor May back to the role, he noted, "Cr May and I have worked very well together in the past, but this is a new council.
“We have six new councillors around the table, and it requires new governance to meet the needs of everyone.
“I'm confident Cr May is up to this challenge and she'll do it very well."
Belinda Hassan stepped down as Deputy Mayor after being confirmed as the Labor candidate for the seat of Mackay in the upcoming state election. While on unpaid leave from the council to campaign for the state position, she may return as a councillor if unsuccessful in the state election. However, if elected as the Member for Mackay, her council position will cease, triggering the need for Mackay Regional Council to decide how to fill the vacancy.
The options include appointing Michelle Green, who was narrowly defeated in the last local election, or holding a by-election, which Mayor Williamson noted could cost around $400,000, an expense not accounted for in the current budget.

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Mayor Greg Williamson congratulates Councillor Karen May as she is re-elected Deputy Mayor of Mackay Regional Council

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is no stranger to the Bruce Highway and has launched a campaign, Back Our Bruce, Back Our People.
 
The section of the Bruce Highway that runs through the electorate of Dawson, from Mackay up into Townsville, has been identified as the most dangerous section of the entire highway, with the worst identified as the 100km stretch between Bowen and Home Hill.
 
“As someone who spends a lot of time on the Bruce Highway, travelling to meet with businesses and constituents in my electorate, I’ve experienced the dangers of the Bruce firsthand,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“How many fatal or near-fatal crashes must happen on the Bruce Highway before the State Labor and Federal Labor Governments take this issue seriously?

“They’ve cut the funding ratio from 80/20 being 80 per cent from the federal government and 20 per cent from the state to 50/50 which has never been done before, with no funding at all being allocated in the recently released budget and no future plans for the Dawson section of the Bruce Highway.
 
“While Labor is busy investing millions of dollars in the southeast corner to secure votes, innocent lives in my electorate are being lost, and frankly it’s disgusting.
 
“The lives of the people who live, work, and travel throughout the electorate and through this section of the Bruce Highway are just as important as those living in capital cities, and we deserve to be able to confidently travel on our roads and arrive at our destination, or home to our families, safely.”
 
Mr Willcox said this is why he launched this campaign and urged everyone to visit his website and sign the petition.

“It doesn’t matter if you live in the electorate or if you’re a truckie or a tourist driving through, if you’ve travelled this part of the Bruce and experienced the appalling state of it, please join us in the fight to fix our highway,” he pleaded.
 
“The more signatures we have, the louder our voice and the stronger our message will be to those who currently have the power to do something about this and make the highway safer.
 
“This isn’t about politics or political agendas; this is about the safety of my people and of the people travelling through our region.
 
“Regional Queensland contributes enormously to our economy, through mining royalties and agriculture. I’m not asking for the moon; I’m simply asking for our fair share and to lift the standard of this section of the highway.
 
“Dawson deserves better,” Mr Willcox said.

Mr Willcox was joined at the launch by local transport business owner, John Warren, who travels the Bruce every day and is concerned for the safety of his drivers and the cost to his business from the damage the highway does to his trucks.

“For 32 years I have been driving this section of the Bruce Highway and the road was better back then than what it is now.

“I spend in excess of $40,000 per month in fuel tax and $12,000 per truck in road registration. We have to have road-worthy trucks, how about some truck-worthy roads,” Mr Warren said.
 
In a report released last week, it was revealed that the Bruce Highway failed basic safety ratings, sections in regional Queensland being ranked the worst danger zones, with the stretch between Bowen and Home Hill having the worst pothole density with 88 per 100 kilometres.
 
To sign the petition, visit www.andrewwillcox.com.au/back-our-bruce
 
“I encourage everyone to get involved and help support this campaign. If people have any experiences they’d like to share, please contact my office via either Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au or 07 4944 0662,” Mr Willcox said.

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L-R: John Warren from Warren Transport and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox are fighting for federal funding to fix North Queensland’s horror stretches of the Bruce Highway 

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A $7.5 million project, funded by the new Miles Labor Government, has revved up CQUniversity’s Ooralea Trade Training Centre in Mackay with the completion of a state-of-the-art Heavy Automotive Training Facility.  

This impressive 1600 sqm extension more than triples the centre’s training capacity, gearing up to train up to 400 students for vital local industries like mining and agriculture.

The new Heavy Automotive Training Facility will offer training in areas such as diesel fitting, mobile plant operation and heavy vehicle maintenance, with many undertaking their qualifications under Labor’s Free TAFE.

With a focus on boosting the number of qualified heavy automotive professionals for the region, students will have the opportunity to complete the following: Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (Diesel Fitting), Certificate III in Mobile Plant Technology and Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology.

The new centre features modern specialty training equipment including an air brake simulator, hydraulic training stations, transmission training simulators, diesel engine benches and an air suspension training stand for trucks – allowing apprentices at all stages of their training to build their skills using the latest technology and equipment.

The major infrastructure upgrade has already generated up to 50 jobs during construction and doubled the size of the existing CQUniversity Trade Training Centre at Mackay Ooralea.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said, “This upgrade is making high-quality training more accessible in our region and creating pathways to good local jobs. 

“Final year apprentices will be able to complete their training right here in Mackay, instead of travelling to Rockhampton or Emerald for specialist training.

“Boosting training capacity will create a pipeline of qualified heavy automotive professionals – crucial to keeping our growing region’s industries operating and keeping jobs local.”
 
Minister for Training and Skills Development Lance McCallum said, “We’re proud to back Mackay locals with state-of-the-art, publicly owned training facilities that will put them at the front of the queue for highly skilled and highly paid jobs.”
 
Vice-Chancellor and President of CQUniversity Professor Nick Klomp expressed his excitement of the launch and said, “We are delighted to celebrate the opening of this new facility and to now provide local apprentices in the region with a purpose-built facility that houses the latest technology and equipment. 

“Using state-of-the-art resources and equipment will ensure our apprentices are being trained with the latest and best tools, better preparing them for their future careers and the needs and expectations of industry.”
 

Mackay’s new heavy automotive hub at CQ University Ooralea Trade Training Centre has received a $7.5M Boost for Future Tradespeople which is said to triple the training capacity in the region. CQ University representatives were joined by Cr Alison Jones, Mayor Greg Williamson, Julieanne Gilbert and Belinda Hassan

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert and Labor candidate for the seat of Mackay Belinda Hassan testing out the MF500 Hydrostatic Transmission Training Simulator. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Despite the rain, the Centenary Family Fun Day at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School remained a joyful celebration last Sunday.

Families, teachers and students gathered together to celebrate the significant milestone, reflecting on how the school has grown and evolved over the years.

The event was a bittersweet reminder of the school’s rich history whilst also highlighting its ability to adapt and support the generations to come.

The oldest former students and the youngest current student joined together to cut the cake, with the elders sharing their memories of the school, noting the changes such as its appearance and uniforms.

From the memorabilia display and open classrooms, to the lively activities like jumping castles, student performances and the centenary cake cutting, the day was a vibrant mix of past and present. The roll call, scavenger hunt and time capsule entries were also a hit, adding an element of excitement for all ages.

Not only was the day about celebrating the past but also looking forward to the future of St Mary’s, ensuring that the legacy of the school continues for years to come.

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St Mary’s Catholic Primary School students, families and teachers gathered last Sunday to celebrate a century of education.

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The Mackay community is mourning the loss of two beloved figures, Brenden Borellini and his mother, Marlene 'Merle' Mitchell. Brenden, a former Young Australian of the Year and a passionate advocate for inclusion and accessibility, passed away recently, followed tragically by his mother just days later. Their passing has left a significant void in the hearts of many.
Brenden was well-known for his extraordinary contributions to the arts in Mackay. As the 2021 Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Arts and Culture Award winner, he served as an ambassador and artist in residence at Crossroad Arts for over a decade. His mother, Marlene, stood proudly by his side as they accepted the award at the MECC, a testament to their close bond and shared dedication to the community.
Crossroad Arts expressed profound sorrow at the loss of Brenden and Marlene. "Brenden was a dear friend, valued colleague, and epic artistic collaborator," a spokesperson from the organisation shared.
"He brought laughter, joy, and a unique perspective to every project he touched.
“His passion for human rights and inclusion had an immeasurable impact on our community and beyond."
Brenden's influence extended well beyond the arts. He was a trailblazer for accessibility, advocating for changes that benefited the entire community. His push for a braille menu at Foodspace Mackay was just one example of his commitment to creating an inclusive world.
"Brenden’s infectious enthusiasm and curiosity for the world will be missed by all," Crossroad Arts added.
"His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us in our ongoing efforts to create an inclusive community."
Brenden and Marlene’s celebrations of life will be Auslan interpreted and live-streamed, ensuring that all can honour their memory.

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L-R: Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Brenden Borellini and his mother, Marlene 'Merle' Mitchell, when Brenden was awarded the Arts and Culture certificate at the Mackay Regional Council Australia Day celebration in 2021. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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A crime scene was declared after a fire tore through a house on River Street in Mackay, prompting a swift response from emergency services.
The blaze, which occurred on Tuesday night, August 6th, around 7:18 pm, led to the establishment of a 100-metre exclusion zone, which was lifted shortly after. A woman was transported to Mackay Base Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, and police are now investigating whether an accelerant was used to fuel the fire.
Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Eaton said, "We believe the premises was unoccupied so that gives rise to the possibility that it was deliberately lit, but there are a number of other reasons why houses catch fire."
Fire investigators and police scientific officers were on the scene following the blaze, but Sergeant Eaton noted that the results of the investigation could take some time.
The woman taken to the hospital on the evening of the fire, who sustained superficial burns, has become a person of interest in the ongoing investigation.
"She was seen at the scene of the fire and that person is now a person of interest in our investigation," Detective Eaton added.
Police are urging anyone with information or witnesses to contact them as the investigation continues.

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The charred remains of the River Street house, taken the day after the fire, as police continue their investigation into the cause. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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By Hannah McNamara

Each year, on the 18th of August, communities across the nation stand together for Vietnam Veterans Day to honour the courageous Australian soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War.

Among the numerous battles fought during the Vietnam War, the Battle of Long Tan stands as one of the most significant.  

On August 18, 1966, 18 Australian soldiers lost their lives and many others were wounded in one of the war’s fiercest encounters.

On that day, the 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (6RAR) a total of 108, (105 Aussies and 3 New Zealanders) faced a formidable force of over 2,000 Viet Cong soldiers. Despite their limited numbers, the Australian forces held their ground in a brutal and prolonged fight.  

In recognition of Vietnam Veterans Day, ceremonies across the region will take place.  

One of these ceremonies will be held at the Mackay city cenotaph at 5:30 pm, a time of significance as Les Palmer notes, “That’s when we had contact with the enemy.”

Mr Palmer served in South Vietnam with the 8th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (8RAR) and is the President of the Vietnam Veterans Support Group in Mackay.  

He was wounded in a landmine explosion at just 22 years old on February 28, 1970, where he sustained foot drop in a tragic incident that claimed nine lives and wounded 15 others.  

Foot drop is an inability to lift the forefoot due to the weakness of the dorsiflexor muscles of the foot. This can lead to an unsafe antalgic gait, potentially resulting in falls.

Knowing firsthand the challenges faced by veterans, Palmer has led the Mackay Vietnam Veterans Support Group for the past few years since its inception 25 years ago.  

This vital resource for veterans was established in 1990 in which the group began as a small initiative driven by the dedication of local veterans, aiming to break down social isolation and enhance the quality of life for veterans and their families.

After securing a commissioned building in 2004, with thanks to former Member for Mackay Tim Mulherin, the group has since been able to provide a safe space for veterans in the region to connect.

Every Wednesday and Thursday, the support centre opens its doors, offering veterans a place to unwind, connect and discuss their experiences.  

Mr Palmer describes the group as a space where veterans can “just come down and let off a bit of steam, have a cup of tea and a biscuit which really helps,” he said.

“There’s a table of knowledge in there, everybody sits around it and we can solve the world’s problems.

“We talk about anything really, the good things, bad things, and that’s what this is for - it’s a support group.”

Additionally, every second Tuesday, the partners of veterans are invited to gather and connect with others who share similar experiences. Mr. Palmer humorously notes that the men often end up chatting outside because the lively conversations among the wives inside can be quite loud.  

“They’re worse than us sometimes,” he jokingly said.

Mr Palmer takes great pride in his involvement with Vietnam Veterans Day as well as the Mackay Vietnam Veterans Support Group, paying respects to the fallen soldiers, all while supporting and uplifting those who remain standing.

Currently, the support group is seeking funds to replace the rusted-out stumps beneath the building to ensure the facility remains safe and functional for members. Those interested in contributing to this cause can contact Les Palmer via email at lespalmer21@outlook.com.

In honour of Vietnam Veterans Day, residents will gather at 5:30 pm at the Mackay city cenotaph to remember and acknowledge the sacrifices made by our much-respected Vietnam veterans.

The Mackay Vietnam Veterans Support Group is open for Vietnam veterans and their families to gather in camaraderie and support of each other, every Wednesday and Thursday. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Wearing flak vests and helmets in the tropical heat took a physical toll on the men. Here soldiers from 8RAR pause during the ascent into the Long Hai hills. Photo credit: John Fairley

The men carried a variety of weapons and equipment, including flak vests and helmets to minimise wounds if they triggered a mine. They used weapons such as the M72 66 mm rocket launcher, carried by the soldier in the foreground, to destroy enemy bunkers and strong points

Nearing the Long Hais, the soldiers of 8RAR dismounted from the APCs and advanced in artillery formation with the tanks. The continuing threat of mines meant each soldier wore a flak vest and helmet. Photo credit: Rod Simpson

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By Hannah McNamara

Steve Haidle’s journey into the Navy began in 1966 at just 18 years old, when he was drafted onto HMAS (His Majesties Australian Ship) Hobart as a seaman gunnery.

Within three months, he received the news that he was headed to Vietnam.

Reflecting on that time, Haidle recalls, “most of us were just 18 years old…and off we went.”

During his seven months in Vietnam, Haidle served as a seaman gunner, tasked with a critical role as a Seacat missile aimer. He was responsible for loading the drum with bullets during action stations. This job required him to be placed below the waterline, where he could hear the shells and explosions as the ship came under fire.

One of Haidle’s duties also involved working with aircraft at the Beecroft bombing range in Jervis Bay.

“My job was to go with the aircraft, fly it out, and I’d be on the ship with another person who flew the plane.

“They’d change control and then we’d take over the aircraft and fly it around while they did the shooting.

“If it didn’t get shot out of the sky, we’d fly it back and drop it on a parachute.”

Life aboard the ship was gruelling. The sailors operated on a demanding schedule of six hours on, six hours off.

“You’re at sea for a month before you come off the gunline and then go back to the port.

“You might be in port for a week, that’s where you catch up on sleep, and then you’re back on the gunline for another month.

“If you got six hours of sleep, you’d be lucky and if you got four hours, that was good, but then you might have to go to action, and you’d stay there until it’s finished.”

Despite the ship being fired upon ten times, Haidle was never injured. He says his time on board was not so much luck, but rather hard work.

“It was more hard work than anything,” he reflected.

“It wasn’t easy, but we knew it had to be done, it was just something we had to do.”

There were 333 sailors on board, each with a bunk bed stacked in threes, which Haidle slept in the middle bunk.

Interestingly, smoking was permitted primarily in the bunks, with an ashtray beside each bed, filling the air with the smell of cigarettes.

Reflecting on his time at sea, Haidle mentioned that spending a month on board meant they had to bake their own bread.

“The meals weren’t top class, but we weren’t starving,” he recalled, adding that the food was enough to get them through their time on the ship.

One of the most challenging aspects of serving in Vietnam for Haidle was the long wait for communication from home. Letters took up to two weeks to reach him, having travelled from Brisbane to Sydney, then to the Philippines and finally aboard an American ship to his location.

“The hardest part was writing letters and waiting for a response,” he shared.

“It’s hard when you go back home because everyone is working, and if you start talking ‘navy talk’ to civilians, they wouldn’t have a clue what you’re talking about.”

After completing his service, Haidle found it challenging to reintegrate into civilian life. Although he cherished his time with family, he struggled to relate his experiences to those who hadn’t served.

He was born in Brisbane but moved to Mackay in 1980, left for Brisbane in 2004, and spent six years living in the Philippines with his wife before returning to Mackay in 2017.

Despite the relatively few sailors involved in the Mackay RSL, Haidle is an active member and has grown to appreciate the camaraderie with others who have served.

“I love the camaraderie,” he said.

“They’re my mates.”

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Steve Haidle is still heavily involved in the Mackay RSL and loves the camaraderie with his mates. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Haidle placing a five-inch shell into the drum of the automatic gun. Photo supplied
A representation of a similar ship Mr Haidle was aboard. Photo sourced
Mr Haidle on lookout. Photo supplied
Photo supplied

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The Mackay Memorial Services And Community Wellness Centre Welcome To All

The Mackay RSL Sub Branch has some exciting news up its sleeve with the latest announcement of The Mackay Memorial Services and Community Wellness Centre, located near Illawong Beach in South Mackay.

This community hub for all to enjoy will feature beach volleyball courts, a mini golf area, a laser tag zone, a pool, a bar and a welcoming seating area.

While the office rooms are still in need of renovation, the RSL is calling on the community for donations to help bring their vision to life. The beach volleyball courts are a crucial element in ensuring the centre's sustainability, with the ultimate goal of creating a space that serves not only veterans but the entire community.

After years of searching for the perfect location, the RSL finally found a site that ticks all the boxes and they are now positive, that “every improvement is a step towards creating a sustainable place for all to enjoy.”

The Mackay Memorial Services and Community Wellness Centre is committed to embracing the broader community, including people with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to have fun and enjoy the facilities.

Generous donations have already been received from various foundations, including a significant contribution from an anonymous veteran.

The centre is fully fenced, offering a safe environment for families and is already becoming a popular venue, with first responders and cadet units eager to book their upcoming events.

RSL Mackay Sub Branch President Ken Higgins OAM said, “We’re very optimistic that this will be a beautiful place for us and the town to use as a go-to place, especially for young veterans with children.

“It’s somewhere where they can take their children and it’s a very safe area with heaps of active things to do.”

The RSL Mackay Sub Branch welcomes anyone interested in beach volleyball to get involved, as this sport is the heart of the centre's growth.

The aim is to make the Mackay Memorial Services and Community Wellness Centre a premier venue for beach volleyball, especially for children and sports enthusiasts.

The centre is now seeking additional sponsorships to help create a welcoming home for all.

"We’re inviting anyone who wants to contribute to our future, so we can build a sustainable place for the community," Mr Higgins said.

If you would like to donate, please contact the Mackay RSL Sub Branch directly.

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RSL Mackay Sub Branch President Ken Higgins OAM and RSL Mackay Sub Branch Treasurer Russel King

The Centre includes various fun activities for all ages, including beach volleyball courts, a mini golf area, a laser tag zone, a pool, a bar and a seating area. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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MARIAN SUB BRANCH INC.
10am
Veterans and their families are invited to a service to be conducted at the Cenotaph, Main Street, Mirani from 1000 hours. Afterwards, there will be a light lunch served at the Mirani Motel. For any further inquiries please reach out to the Mirani RSL Sub Branch at: info@mirani.rslqld.net.au
Cenotaph, Main Street, Mirani

MACKAY SUB BRANCH INC.
5.30pm
Veterans and their families are invited to pay their respects to those who served and sacrificed their lives for our country. Afterwards, the group will adjourn to Souths Leagues Club for a soft drink and a meal. For further inquiries, please reach out to the Mackay RSL Sub Branch at: info@mackay.rslqld.net.au
City Cenotaph, Jubilee Park, Mackay

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Grade eleven and twelve Students from Mackay North State High School have undertaken an ambitious project at Mackay Engineering College to restore cars, transforming vehicles that would otherwise be sent to the wreckers into fully functional cars ready for community use.

This initiative has seen significant support from local businesses who have generously donated their time, parts and services to the project.

Repco Mackay has been a major supporter of this cause after jumping on board for the second year, supplying the necessary parts for the student repairers. Angelique Mackey, Assistant Store Manager at Repco stated, “We supply anything from oil, lighting, brakes, steering components, leaf springs and anything they need, really.

“Repco provides as many parts as we can to get the cars up and running.

“We found that it was a really great opportunity to support something local that is really beneficial for a non-profit organisation.”

Simon Korneliussen, an automotive trainer assessor at the college, teaches automotive pathways for students.

“Today is the second launch of our Cars for Community program, where we fix up and donate cars to not-for-profit organisations.

“We’re able to access these cars to give students a greater range of experience and every car comes in with a different set of problems to fix, so it’s a lot of work for them to learn from.”

Through a grant from Major Training, the college purchased a couple of cars, including a Ford Territory and a Mitsubishi Lancer, which needed extensive repairs. From timing chain issues to suspension problems and oil leaks, these cars were initially undrivable and unroadworthy.

Thanks to Repco's sponsorship, all necessary parts were provided, allowing students to learn and ultimately produce cars that are as good as new for organisations that need it the most.
Once applications are finalised, Cars for Community will equip the chosen organisations with a suitable car.

Kathy Sullivan, Centre Manager of Mount Pleasant and representative of Mackay Regional Chamber of Commerce, emphasised community involvement, stating that “The community can get involved by registering through the Chamber of Commerce or contacting Ellen via phone or email to fill out a simple form. It’s a really easy process.”

Ryan Meads, a student involved in the project, shared his learning experience: “We’re doing a lot of internal work like cleaning up the inside, as well as engine work, such as finding oil leaks and ensuring everything runs smoothly.”

Although Ryan is considering a career in the marine industry, he acknowledges that this initiative has expanded his skills and opened up potential pathways in the automotive industry.

“When I first started, I only knew how to drain oil, but now I know how to pull apart and replace parts on a car,” he said.

Ryan encourages other students interested in the automotive industry, stating, “you’ll end up gaining a lot of knowledge.

“You learn a lot about everything and knowing that you put in a lot of work and really helped out to benefit someone else who will use it down the track is a really good feeling,” he remarked.

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Grade eleven and twelve Mackay students participated in the Cars for Community initiative, where they gain knowledge and skills while also repairing and restoring cars that will eventually be donated to non-for-profit organisations in the region. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
The sugar price remains strong, and is expected to do so as the market for sugar continues to outstrip supply.
Last year saw some real sugar rush price peaks, but it has softened into what is still a solid price moving around the $600AUD/tonne.
For growers, building productivity is critical to making the most of strong prices, and a counterweight to meeting input costs like fuel and fertiliser. Increased productivity equates to improved profitability
There are lots of strategies, but one that is showing good benefit is using clean seed. “Clean seed” is a term to describe a process of obtaining disease-free planting material. Productivity Services will source propagation material from SRA varieties, and subject that to heat and cold treatment to ensure it is free of disease, before planting out into specialist plots. As it moves through its growth cycle, the plants are rigorously monitored and tested for disease before distribution to growers for planting.
Importantly, to retain the benefit of the clean seed program, growers need to collect disease-free planting material from the distribution plots every year.
Clean seed material can be secured in whole stick, billet or tissue culture form, and is widely regarded by agronomy and research organisations as the cornerstone of productivity. It makes sense. Healthy propagation material from the outset will produce stronger, more vigorously growing plants. Clean seed propagation in tandem with raising soil health is a good recipe for successfully increasing productivity. This all translates into more tonnes of cane. A healthy, flourishing crop that doesn’t need treatments for disease is fundamental for good productivity and good environmental outcomes.
Investing in practices that build productivity is one way to benefit from strong sugar prices, but so is increasing your farming area.
Given high land costs, many growers are using leasing as a way of extending their land under cane. For younger growers, it can offer an entry point to get into the industry.
Leasing is also a good solution for elderly farmers who wish to scale back their own production, but still retain their farm and home, and to continue to derive a form of income from that land.
To that end, CANEGROWERS enterers a leasing service, with a document developed by our state legal adviser that enables members to enter a lease arrangement for cane production land. The administrative service is provided free of charge to CANEGROWERS members.
The industry is increasingly challenged by loss of land under cane for a variety of reasons, but it is essential for our mills to maintain viability through good cane supply. Leasing is a way that growers can affordably extend their agribusiness operations and productivity, and by which those who have land but do not wish to work it, can enjoy a mutual benefit and increase their profitability.

A Clean Seed plot in the Plane Creek area. “Clean Seed” is a cornerstone of productivity and reducing plant disease risk.  Photo source: PCPSL

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
46,791
282,734
Average bin weight
3.85
3.84
CCS
13.18
13.13
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
28.0
13.02
Q253
20.3
13.96
Q240
9.4
13.77
Q138
3.1
12.01
Q208
12.3
13.23
SRA9
10.6
11.53
KQ228
5.4
14.52
Q242
2.7
12.15
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Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed about 46,800 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to just under 283,000 tonnes.
A cleaning intermission and work to isolate the master shredder turbine took place on Friday, to align with a factory stop caused by planned industrial action.
Average CCS rose by 0.09 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 13.18 units. Standover cane again made up 25 per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of KQ228 1R from the Yukan productivity area with a CCS of 16.2 units.
Locomotive drivers are reporting incidents where drivers are engaging in risky behaviour, particularly at rail crossings fitted with flashing lights.
Please approach all crossings with caution and always give way to cane trains.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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In recent years, Australians in rural and regional areas have faced unprecedented challenges that have taken a toll on mental health and well-being. Factors such as inflation, cost-of-living pressures, climate change, and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the importance of mental health support, particularly for farmers and rural communities. Recognising the critical need for support, Zoetis has partnered with Beyond Blue to once again champion mental health initiatives in rural Australia.
With a commitment of $800,000 over the last eight years, Zoetis has been a steadfast supporter of Beyond Blue's vital services, which have seen more than 300,000 individuals reach out for assistance in 2023 alone. In 2024, Zoetis has set a goal to raise an additional $100,000 by the end of the year by donating $5 from each sale of the company’s livestock, pig, and poultry vaccines and drenches.
"Our partnership with Beyond Blue is more than just financial support," says Lance Williams, Zoetis Senior Vice President, Australia and New Zealand.

"It's about fostering a culture of hope and resilience, ensuring that those facing mental health challenges know they are not alone and that help is available."

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Over 3.4 million people in Australia are dealing with anxiety or depression, and nearly half of the population will face mental health issues in their lifetime. Not only are Australians living in rural and remote areas disproportionately affected by stress and anxiety, but accessing services is significantly harder due to attitudinal, financial, and digital barriers.
Derek Schoen, a farmer and Beyond Blue board member, emphasises the importance of maintaining hope amidst adversity.
"Country people are resilient and tough, but the many challenges we face can take a toll on our mental health,” he said.
“The repeated extreme weather events we’ve seen at the start of this year have added to these stresses.  I would encourage people to not lose hope and to seek support early."
People can support the Zoetis initiative between 15 July and 31 October 2024. For each sale of the company’s livestock, pig and poultry vaccines and drenches Zoetis, will donate $5, up to $100,000, to Beyond Blue.
Mr Williams said, “The money raised goes directly to the Beyond Blue Support Service to continue helping people living in remote areas. To date, thanks to Zoetis’s donation, over 15,500 people have been able to get the support they need through the service.
“Together we have made strong progress in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of those who live in rural Australia, and we are passionate about helping again this year.”
For more information on how you can help Zoetis to raise vital funds to support mental health in rural communities through its partnership with Beyond Blue please visit www.zoetis.com.au. For more information about depression and anxiety, visit www.beyondblue.org.au.

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Those four short words will never leave my memory, for as long as I live.

Those lonely words came from the mouth of my 83-year-old Dad in Sydney last week as I held his hand. I thought it would be the last time I saw him with my own eyes. He was exhausted and had lost the will to live.

Three weeks ago, my Dad was playing bowls on a Wednesday, as he normally does in Windsor, Sydney with his mates. He didn’t feel the best, so he went home and rested. The next day he didn’t feel so well, so he stayed in bed. Friday came and things just weren’t getting any better, so of course, he stayed where he was, in bed.

Come Sunday, he texted me that he might wait until Monday to make an appointment to see his doctor. My brother got the same message and asked him to call 000. This we reckon saved his life. After all the tests they did in hospital, they found out that he did indeed have a heart attack probably on the bowling green but didn’t think anything of it.

We reckon he had the attack after contracting some virus, which not only kicked him to the gutter, but also damaged his heart more than he wants to admit.

This all happened nearly four weeks ago, and he’s still in hospital.

I flew down after that dreaded phone call from my brother and sister saying, “You should come and see Dad now, not tomorrow.” That call had so many similarities with my Mum who passed over three years ago too. It broke me.

When I saw Dad last week, he was lying in bed looking a shadow of his former self. He didn’t look like the Dad I knew for 56 years. The bloke who taught me to mow the yard, and how to drive at the age of five. He was in tears as I held his hand, as was I.

I had no idea if I was losing my Dad as all his other organs were deciding to shut up shop and put the ‘shop closed’ sign up on the window. He could hardly breathe; he was coughing more than a regular chain smoker. He wasn’t in a good way. He just wanted to go.

Last week we spent many hours together in that hospital talking about life and the future, all in between his moments of sleep and exhaustion. When I flew home last Thursday I didn’t know if I’d see him again.

Well now, my Dad is now getting stronger, eating more, has been outside to get beautiful sunshine, has had visitors from his family and bowling mates, and has a more positive outlook on the future.

Will my Dad live to 100?

Probably not.

Will each day that we have my dad in our lives be special?
You bet it will. That showed this week as my son turned 23. A special day with many memories to share for us all.

I asked Dad if he wanted me to tell his Mackay friends what was happening with him, and he said yes, so here you are. My Dad, Rev. David Kidd is still with us and he’s fighting the biggest fight of his life right now. Reach out to him if you’d like to or tell me and I’ll let him know.

Oh, some advice if you have parents or grandparents. Call them or just go and see them today, not tomorrow.

As my mate Bill Mackay told me this week, we aren’t here for a long time, so make the most of it now.

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

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