Schools from across the Mackay and Whitsunday Isaac region are ready to take part in a unique program that will inspire students in the fields of STEM, science and sustainability using local waterway data.

Students from Whitsunday Anglican School had the opportunity to take part in the Healthy Rivers to Reef Innovation Challenge and work with real-world data and scientists to design solutions for the future.

The program helps to apply new technologies to show students how their solutions could support a sustainable and prosperous region.

The one-day workshops were led by Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership in collaboration with STEMPunks Education, thanks to support from local Partners and the Queensland Government—Engaging Science Grants.

Chris Buswell, STEMPunks Head of Education said the workshops would encourage ‘design thinking’ for problem solving.

“We know this is predicted to be a key skill in workplaces of the future,” Mr Buswell said.

“The program will help students explore new STEM skills and immerse themselves in real-world problem solving, with a focus on creativity and innovation. ”

Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership Executive Officer, Jaime Newborn, said the Partnership was proud to support the program and provide real-world data.

“The Partnership produces our region’s annual waterway health Report Card, based on a huge range of data, more than $4 million worth annually,” she said.

“It is exciting to now see students in our region use this information from data providers who are committed to learning more about local waterways.”

Students were eager to navigate the Healthy Rivers to Reef challenge using virtual reality and tech tools including Micro:bit coding, Smart Sensors and even Minecraft prototyping skills.

Principal of Whitsunday Anglican School Andrew Wheaton said, “As a school we have a strong commitment to developing skills in STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics.

“These are the skills that are so important for the future world as we prepare our students to be confident and leading into their respective fields when they leave school.”

The program also explores and promote STEM Careers, providing a chance to hear from STEM Professionals about their career journey and insights.

Workshops will be delivered to ten schools in the Mackay and Whitsunday Issac region in 2024/25.

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Principal of Whitsunday Anglican School Andrew Wheaton with Manager, Environment (Operations) of Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Ricci Churchill and Jaime Newborn, Executive officer for the Healthy Rivers to Reef partnership.

Whitsunday Anglican School students had the opportunity to engage in the Healthy Rivers to Reef Innovation Challenge last Thursday, which encourages them to work with real-world data and scientists to design solutions for the future. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Last weekend, the Woollam Art on Show Awards 2024 brought the Mackay art community together in a celebration of creativity and talent. The event, which spanned from August 2nd to August 5th, showcased over 250 works from local and interstate artists, reflecting the rich tapestry of artistic expression in the region.

The prestigious Overall Winner of the Woollam Art on Show Award, with a prize of $3,000, was Bradley Short for his piece "Plein Air Study Eungella."

Local artist Sam Pennisi won the Local Artist Award with his work "Banksia Banquet," earning a prize of $1,200.

In the Easel Painting Award category, Catherine Clark Dowden took first prize of $1,000 for "Like My Mama," while Bonny Shore's "Across the Bay" and Loren Boyd's "The Opening Act" received Highly Commended and Commended awards, respectively.

The Daly Bay Works on Paper Award saw Andrea Michele Chapman win first prize with "Billy and his Kid," and Pamela Berrigan secure second place with "King of the Bush." Katherine Murray’s "Keswick Island" was commended in this category.

Susi Muddiman OAM, Director, Gallery & Visual Arts at HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast and a highly esteemed guest judge, expressed her delight in being part of the event.

“It’s lovely to be here in Mackay and really nice to see how much community enthusiasm there is for big art prizes like this.

“Events like this bring people together and it’s a celebration of creative talent and spirit within the region,” she said.

When asked about her judging criteria, Ms Muddiman said, “I often look for a narrative to see if the work is telling me a story. My eye is drawn into it, and I can follow where it’s taking me.

“Perspective is really important, and sometimes it’s about the expression that the artist puts into the application.”

Art On Show coordinator Melissa Broadhurst highlighted the event’s growth over the years.

“This is our 18th year, and it’s grown significantly.

“We’re very proud of this event… it really brings the community together.”

The event also featured live demonstrations and activities by local artists' groups, including Pioneer Potters, Mackay Art Society, Printbank Mackay and the newly introduced Mackay Yarn Bombers.

Artspace Mackay's curator, Lauren Turton, hosted a floor talk on artists' books, sharing insights and highlighting the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection's treasures.

All 250 paintings on display are available for purchase.
Please contact  artonshow@mackayshow.com.au for further enquiries.

Susi Muddiman OAM, Director, Gallery & Visual Arts at HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast and a guest judge
Art On Show coordinator Melissa Broadhurst
The winning masterpiece from Bradley Short, called “Plein Air Study Eungella” - awarded $3,000. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Recent monitoring of restored wetlands at Alligator Creek near Mackay has shown thriving populations of native fish communities, including juvenile barramundi. This success follows comprehensive restoration efforts, which have transformed the once shallow, weed-infested wetlands into vibrant ecosystems.

The restoration works have included improving fish passage through the implementation of rock fish ladders, constructing deep pool refuge habitats, revegetation, and improved grazing management. Before these efforts, the wetlands were often dry and overrun by hymenachne, an invasive aquatic weed that reduces dissolved oxygen to levels unsustainable for aquatic life.
The restoration project was designed by Matt Moore, Fisheries Ecologist at Catchment Solutions, with funding from Reef Catchments NRM via the Australian Federal Government Reef Trust.  
“When people think about water quality, they often think about nutrients and pesticides and forget about oxygen. However, many coastal wetlands in North Queensland don’t have enough oxygen to sustain aquatic life. This is a major issue that has largely been forgotten about.'"
The work included creating deep pool refuge habitats and adding large hardwood logs to increase habitat complexity.
Moore explained, "The deep pools help manage invasive weed problems, as these prefer shallow areas. The refuge pools with logs provide cooler temperatures during the summer and help baby barramundi survive the dry season before migrating back to saltwater habitats to breed.
“Improving connectivity and ensuring good water quality means we have healthier populations of iconic barramundi. These are important to coastal Queensland communities, sustaining recreational, commercial, and Indigenous fisheries and playing a vital role in aquatic ecosystems as top-order predators, including helping the fight against pest fish populations."
Reef Catchments Senior Project Officer Carlos Bueno explained how important wetland restoration is to the fish breeding cycle.
"Barramundi breed in saltwater before their juvenile offspring undertake a lifecycle-dependent migration into freshwater wetlands at approximately 50 mm in length.
“At this small size, they are weak swimmers, so fish barriers like weirs, road causeways, and pipe and box culverts often block this critical migration, reducing barramundi populations and impacting aquatic ecosystem health. Remediating barriers with rock fish ladders allow baby barramundi to reach wetlands, which they use as nursery habitats for the first few years of their life before migrating back to saltwater to breed."
The wetland restoration works have been a collaborative effort with local grazier and sugar cane farmer Paul Bradford, demonstrating that improving wetland health and barramundi populations can go hand in hand with farming.
MrBradford commented, "This project shows that sustainable farming and wetland conservation can coexist and benefit each other."
This successful restoration project at Alligator Creek is a testament to the effectiveness of targeted ecological interventions and highlights the critical role of improving farm management practices to enhance water quality runoff. (e.g. fencing and off-stream watering points).
By adopting better farm management techniques, significant reduction of pollutants (fine sediments, nutrient and pesticides) entering waterways can be achieved, thereby supporting healthier wetland ecosystems. Such efforts not only benefit wildlife but also contribute to the well-being of local communities who rely on the ecosystem services provided.

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Matt Moore holding juvenile barramundi (young of the year) recorded during electrofishing surveys at the wetlands. The baby barramundi use the restored wetlands as nursery habitats for the first few years of their life before migrating back to saltwater

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Before and after; showing some of the restored wetlands. Photos supplied

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Juvenile barramundi and tarpon on the measuring board sampled via electrofishing monitoring in the wetlands

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The voices of 1000 rural women are being sought for a groundbreaking new documentary on Australia’s rural, regional and remote women.
Rural Daughters, the feature-length documentary by award-winning CheekyMac Productions, will follow the personal journeys of some of Australia’s most inspiring rural women in their efforts to overcome barriers, effect change and live a successful, purpose-driven life in the regions.
In addition to their stories, a nationwide 1000 Rural Women Survey has been developed to capture the experiences of rural women on a broad range of topics from natural disasters, health and domestic violence to societal attitudes, racial prejudice, Tall Poppy Syndrome, community life, leadership and female role models.
The documentary and survey is the brainchild of producer, director and writer Danielle McAlpine Johnson, herself a rural woman from Gippsland, Victoria. Mrs McAlpine Johnson aims to garner more than 1000 survey responses to provide a statistical snapshot of rural women.
Surveying 1000 rural women is a bold target, but we hope women take this opportunity to tell us about their lives and be a part of a collective voice in the Rural Daughters story,” she said.
“These women are the backbone of rural Australia and we are putting our heart and soul into telling their stories - how they overcome adversity, find purpose, break limitations and lead in their communities in the most unique and innovative ways.”
The survey has been developed by Federation University’s Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre, together with CheekyMac Productions - both organisations led by rural women. Commissioned by the Community Enterprise Foundation, the survey is expected to be the largest and broadest of its kind.
“Our involvement in this documentary is an opportunity to showcase that a regionally-based university can make a difference with regional communities and, in particular, advocate for rural women on issues that matter,” CERC Professor Joanne Porter said.
The documentary and survey results are expected to be used to inform policy and develop educational resources in Australian schools.
The survey is available online between August and September and available at cheekymac.com/rural-daughters
To request hardcopies, contact CERC@federation.edu.au

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Firefighter Mick Forde from the Sarina Fire Station recently provided a glimpse into the life of a firefighter. He shared both the rewarding and challenging aspects of his job, shedding light on the dedication required for this demanding role.

"The most rewarding thing about being a firefighter is that we get to make a difference in our community and give back," Mick stated.

"The most challenging part is seeing people on their worst days and still having to give 100%.”

Mick has been an auxiliary firefighter for eight years, which means he has a full-time job at Dalrymple Bay coal terminal but remains on call 24/7 to respond to emergencies, anywhere, at any time.

"When our pager goes off, we leave everything behind - our family, our current work - to serve our community," said Mick.

The past financial year was the station’s busiest yet, with over 250 jobs throughout the Sarina region.

Mick emphasised the importance of being a tight-knit team, much like the Sarina Fire and Rescue crew.

"It's a tight crew. Everyone gets on, knows their job and understands that what you might see and do isn't always pleasant, but you are always making a difference."

Sarina firefighters also love to participate in the annual Lolly Drop to the Sarina Township on Christmas eve with other responders such as Police, Ambulance and SES.  

Mick says “it not only brings a lot of joy to the kids of Sarina… but also to us that participate in it.”

Sarina Fire Station is currently recruiting auxiliary firefighters. These are paid, casual positions for individuals who hold regular jobs but carry a pager to respond to emergencies.

Training is held once a week on Mondays to maintain and update skills. Applicants must live within a four-minute drive from the fire station, have a manual C-class license (with the ability to obtain an MR license within 12 months), maintain an average level of fitness and work efficiently and safely within a team.

If you meet these criteria and are interested in this position, please message ‘Sarina Fire Station’ on Facebook with any questions or visit between 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm on Mondays.

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A rewarding scholarship program delivered by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank officially opened, August 1.
Community Bank Sarina now welcomes applications for the Sarina State High School Senior Schooling Scholarship Program for students entering Grade 11 in 2025. This is an incredible opportunity for students who want to thrive both academically and in their personal lives.
Brock Raward, a recipient of the high school scholarship in 2022 and 2023, completed school last year and is now pursuing an engineering degree at CQUniversity.
"The high school scholarship was a tremendous support, allowing me to focus on my senior studies and continue my community involvement," Brock said.
The Senior Schooling Scholarship provided financial support to cover the cost of essential expenses, including the Year 12 Resource Scheme, instrumental music fees, an English Drama play, and the Brisbane State Honours Ensemble Program (SHEP).
"SHEP was an incredible experience that I could not have afforded without the scholarship," Brock said. "I was lucky to join the state’s best instrumental students for an intensive 4-day program, learning and performing multiple pieces."
"These activities have helped me grow as a person and leader," he said
Brock continues his involvement in various community activities including coaching tennis.
Celebrating Brock Raward’s success reminds us of the broader significance of scholarships. They not only provide financial support but also nurture future community leaders. By supporting education and community involvement, these scholarships empower young people to make a positive impact.
Brock’s story shows the profound benefits of the Community Bank Sarina Scholarship. With its support, students have gained added benefits and grow personally, as well as contribute to their communities. We are incredibly proud of Brock Raward and eager to see his future achievements. He is testament to how vital it is to support and encourage our youth in our community.
Applications close on September 1. Email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au for an application pack.

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Brock Raward was a recipient of the high school scholarship in 2022 and 2023 delivered by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied

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The Sarina Museum, located at The Field of Dreams Parklands (Railway Square) Bruce Highway, Sarina, is currently closed.
The museum was closed in late July, 2024 following vandalism, which caused a lot of damage, including broken glass, debris, and damage to displays and artefacts.
The vandalism was reported to the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the site made safe.
As Sarina Museum was the next stage of a Museum Collection Rationalisation Project, council decided to keep the museum closed until the rationalisation project concludes, with a plan to open afresh in March, 2025.
Council’s museums routinely close from December to March each year due to low demand/visitation.
The decision was made to close earlier as it would be difficult to undertake the collection rationalisation work and, at the same time, keep the museum in a state suitable to remain open to the public.
Sarina Museum volunteers agreed they’d prefer the museum closed while the rationalisation process is undertaken.
Any updates regarding the expected re-opening in April, 2025 will be updated on council's website and also communicated through council’s communication channels, including social media.

The Sarina Show and Rodeo marked its 60th anniversary last weekend, commemorating six decades of fanfare, flavours, and family atmosphere that have made it a beloved event among locals and visitors since its inception in 1964.
The 2024 Sarina Show and Rodeo, held on 3-4 August, featured displays and exhibits, stud cattle, prime cattle, and ring events. The always popular rides and the excitement of sideshow alley delighted attendees. Saturday night saw fireworks and a rodeo, followed by live music, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Mackay Regional Council councillor Karen May expressed pride in the 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,” Mrs May said.
View more photos in our online gallery at mackayandwhitsundaylife.com
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Photo credit: Photos by Nell (Tanell Thomsett)

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Mackay’s Careers Expo is back for its second year, offering an extraordinary opportunity for school leavers, recent graduates, and career-changers to gain invaluable insights into potential career paths. Whether you're a student on the brink of making pivotal decisions about your future, a recent graduate exploring your options, or a seasoned professional contemplating a career change or upskilling, this event is designed with you in mind.
Following the phenomenal success of its inaugural event, this year's expo promises to be even more comprehensive and enlightening.

The Mackay Careers Expo will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on August 15, 2024. This event is a must-attend for anyone looking to shape their future, be it by starting a new career, upskilling, or transitioning into a different industry.

Explore Endless Opportunities

This year, the expo features an impressive array of exhibitors. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with highly qualified representatives from prestigious organisations, many offering opportunities across the nation.

The Mackay Careers Expo isn't just for students; it’s an inclusive event that welcomes parents, experienced workers, and anyone considering a career change. It's a chance to explore new possibilities and get the latest information from experts in various fields.

Why Attend?

The current economic climate means more people are gaining an awareness of the importance of gaining new skills or upgrading existing skills, to open opportunities for advancement as one way to combat the rising cost of living. Whether you're looking to kickstart your career, make a transition, or simply explore new opportunities, this expo offers the resources, advice, and inspiration you need.

The Mackay Careers Expo is designed to provide attendees with practical, actionable information. Here’s what you can expect:

   • Expert Advice: Get insights from industry leaders on how to apply for courses, the costs involved, financial support options, and the qualifications required.
   • Career Options: Learn about current career and employment opportunities, trainee and apprenticeship programs, and options for adults to upskill and retrain.
   • Networking: Connect with professionals and educational providers who can offer guidance and support for your career journey.
Don’t Miss Out

The Mackay Careers Expo is an event that no one can afford to miss if they are serious about taking control of their future. Admission to the expo is free, making it accessible to everyone who is keen on making informed career decisions.

For more information, visit careersevent.com and click on Mackay Careers Expo.
Whether you’re a high school student, a university graduate, or a professional looking to pivot in your career, the Mackay Careers Expo offers the guidance and opportunities you need to make informed decisions and take the next step towards a fulfilling career.

This event is more than just a career expo; it’s a gateway to your future.

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Mineral Resources (MinRes) is a diversified resources company with operations in iron ore, lithium, energy and mining services across Australia.
For more than 30 years, MinRes’ passion for innovation, agile approach and ability to seize new opportunities has seen us grow into a leading ASX 50 company.  
Our wholly owned subsidiary, CSI Mining Services (CSI), is a leading provider of pit to port mining solutions for MinRes and Tier 1 mining clients.
CSI recently commenced operations in northern Queensland – providing haulage operations for a bauxite mine site in Weipa – and is recruiting MC drivers from Weipa, Cairns and surrounding areas while sourcing equipment and services through local businesses.
MinRes also has a range of fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) opportunities available in Western Australia, with direct flights from Brisbane to our Ken’s Bore and Wodgina mine sites.
We’re proud to be setting a new standard for employee experience, including resort-style accommodation, high-quality food offerings and a dedicated airline service that will offer a superior travel experience.
Joining MinRes comes with a range of benefits to keep you feeling happy, healthy and supported. This includes a competitive salary and bonuses, access to our employee share plan, career development opportunities and health and wellbeing programs.
To find out more about MinRes visit mineralresources.com.au

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Are you a recent or soon-to-be graduate looking to start your career in education? Or an experienced teacher seeking a change? We're currently seeking talented and enthusiastic teachers to join our growing kindergartens, schools and colleges! Applications are now open for full-time teaching positions for the 2025 school year. Apply today!
Catholic Education - Diocese of Rockhampton serves communities from Bundaberg in the south to Mackay in the north and west to Longreach at 17 locations across Central Queensland. 
Each year Catholic Education - Diocese of Rockhampton employs a number of graduate and experienced teachers in Catholic Kindergartens, Primary Schools and Colleges commencing at the start of each year.
In addition to permanent appointments occurring across the Diocese with growth in our schools and colleges, the expansion of the newly opened Catherine McAuley College includes new permanent teaching positions to be filled. Make a difference in the growth of a foundation college!  Applications are welcome from anyone who would support the school's ethos and possess the following are encouraged to apply:
   • Relevant tertiary qualification (or eligible to graduate)
   • Evidence of successfully passing the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students (for graduate teachers)
   • Appropriate qualities, knowledge and skills to provide a relevant and holistic education
   • Australian work rights
Generous incentives are available to successful applicants (based on location preferences) which include:
   • Competitive salary structure for Teaching staff - $84,077 - $142,764 (pending experience – includes Highly Accomplished (HAT) and Lead Teacher (LT) salary scale)
   • Superannuation of 12.75%
   • Access to salary packaging options to maximise employee benefits and salaries
   • 39 weeks of term time for a school year
   • Access to free Employee Assistant Program (24-hour counselling service)
   • Access to corporate health discounts with either Bupa or Westfund Health Insurance
   • Leadership development opportunities
   • $1000 travel subsidy per year (rural and remote incentive)
   • Subsidised housing (rural and remote incentive)
   • Relocation assistance (rural and remote incentive)
   • Isolated allowance payments and bonus payments (rural and remote incentive)
   • Modern facilities and resources
   • Access to long service leave after 7 years of continuous service (portability of Long Service Leave may also be applicable)
   • Deferred Salary Scheme
   • Induction process, professional learning programs and Early Career Teacher Support
For more information on the benefits of working in our rural and remote communities visit our website – https://www.rok.catholic.edu.au/careers/benefits-of-working-remotely/
To view our current vacancies, please visit – www.rok.catholic.edu.au/careers/working-with-catholic-education/
To speak directly with our recruitment team for an opportunity that suits you, please email teach@rok.catholic.edu.au or call 4994 8000.

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Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd (DBCT P/L) strives to be an employer of choice for the Mackay Region, constantly reviewing and improving what they offer their employees.

With the tight employment market, what is offered to workers has been a focus, and the good news is if people know they’d like to work at DBCT P/L, they have the option to sign up for job alerts so they can be notified about positions vacant.

DBCT P/L CEO, Steve Rae, said as well as being competitive for salaries and wages, employees had the advantage of being home after every shift.

“Being located just 30 minutes south of Mackay means you don’t have to do DIDO or FIFO. We’ve also worked hard with our shift workers to ensure those on shifts have rosters that allow for work/life balance,” Steve said.

“We also have an excellent employee proposition, meaning we have great offerings for our people to access.”

Some of the benefits of working for DBCT P/L include:

   • Minimum of five weeks annual leave (pro rata)
   • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
   • Employee rewards program for discounts for goods and services
   • Health and wellbeing program
   • Employee Family Day and Christmas Party
   • Bonuses
   • Novated Leasing
   • Professional development support and opportunities

With a significant level of maintenance work underway at the terminal, DBCT P/L and their contracting partners are looking for more workers on a regular basis.

Steve said it had previously been harder to get a job at DBCT P/L due to the low turn-over rate, however, expansions to both workforce and contracting positions, along with retirements of long-serving employees, has meant there have been more vacancies.  

“In particular, we’ve been looking for people in the maintenance space such as planners, engineers and supervisors.

“We’ve been hiring tradespeople and professionals, so the best way to know if there’s a job that’s a fit for you is to sign up for job alerts via the employment page on our website.”

Steve said DBCT P/L had not only worked hard to offer great rewards to its employees, but to also be a company that its people are proud to work for.

“We have strong cultural and sustainability plans to guide us for how we look after our workers, our community, and our environment, as well how we operate as a business.

“Our sponsorship program aims to support the liveability of Mackay by funding a wide range of organisations, events and programs in the region.

“We even have a dedicated employee sponsorship program that provides funding for organisations and events with an employee link.”

People can find out more about job alerts, what DBCT P/L offers employees, and about their recruitment process at dbct.com.au

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In a thrilling conclusion to the first-ever GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race, Grant Warrington's Supermaxi Wild Thing 100 claimed line honours, setting a record time of 35 hours and 35 minutes. The race, which covered a 520-mile course, saw Wild Thing 100 achieve an impressive average speed of 17.5 knots.
The inaugural GCCM Line Honours Perpetual Trophy was presented on the docks at Mackay Marina Village. The presentation was made by Drew Jones, Past Commodore of Southport Yacht Club, and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson.
Greg Alders’ Crowther 50 catamaran, Top Gun, followed Wild Thing 100 across the finish line, arriving a few hours later at 2:41 AM.
Grant Wharington, the skipper of Wild Thing 100, praised his team for their exceptional performance.
“What a great new ocean yacht race the GCCM Gold Coast to Mackay race is.
“The Wild Thing 100 sailing team set a new race record for the 520-mile course in just over 35.5 hours, logging an average of 17.5 knots through the water.
“The crew did an excellent job of sailing the boat, and a special thanks to boat Captain Theo and his first mate Patrick for preparing the boat perfectly for the race.
“A big thank you to Southport Yacht Club for hosting the event and the city of Mackay for a rousing reception on our arrival.
“This is a race we will definitely come back for in the future with trade wind sailing getting warmer every day.”
Adding a touch of excitement to the race was a special “race within a race” involving Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, City of Gold Coast Councillor Shelley Curtis, and Gold Coast City Marina (GCCM) COO Andrew Chapman. The three VIPs competed in an 18-knot challenge from Cavill Avenue to the Gold Coast Seaway before taking a symbolic ‘step off the stern’ into the water.
Mayor Greg Williamson expressed his excitement about participating in the event.
“It was an honour to be on board GCCM Arctic Blonde at the cannon, and while stepping off the stern was a bit nerve-wracking, I was well looked after by everyone on board and in the pick-up boats,” Mayor Williamson said.
He highlighted the economic benefits of the race, with an expected injection of more than $750,000 into the local economy.
“This race brings huge economic benefit to our region. The race is an official qualifier for the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and so is an added incentive for those boats already heading north for the Hamilton Island and Magnetic Island race weeks.”
The race, sponsored by the Invest Mackay Events and Conferences Attraction Program, aimed to showcase the region to locals and visitors alike. Prizes for the race winners included Sarina Sugar Shed’s award-winning rum and liqueurs, because sailors love rum of course!
The event marked a significant milestone in Australia’s yacht racing calendar and promised to be a recurring highlight for years to come.

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Wild Thing 100 at the start of the GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race. Photos supplied: Wild Thing Yachting

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson took a ‘step off the stern’ at the start of the inaugural Gold Coast to Mackay Yacht Race. Photo credit: Salty Dingo Media

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Mackay local Ricki is not afraid of hard work, in fact, he’s happy to “put his back into it” - or so to speak.
Diagnosed at the age of 24 with degenerative facet arthropathy in his lower spine, Ricki needed to adjust his way of work.
“I was installing safes at the time when my back issue became apparent, and I found myself in constant rehab. After this extensive treatment to get me back on my feet, I was left with no other choice than to find a job that didn’t involve manual lifting,” said Ricki.
“I moved around and tried to find other work but that never lasted too long, as the employers at the time showed me little flexibility with the roles – I either did it or got out. The thing is, I’m an active person and I can do heaps of things. I just needed to be given the chance to show them what I could.”
“I did odd jobs to help make ends meet, all while trying to seek assistance through employment agencies, but they too really struggled to find me suitable employment,” added Ricki.
Within two weeks of arriving in Mackay for a fresh start nearly two years ago, Ricki landed a new role through leading Disability Employment Services (DES) provider, CoAct/Community Solutions.
Community Solutions is a member of the CoAct network. For more than 25 years, CoAct has united and powered locally-embedded community and employment for-purpose service providers to amplify their social impact.
“They listened to me, and what I could do, and how I wanted that job to see me through to retirement.
“Within no time, they’d found me the perfect role. I drive the forklifts, I do palletising, and now I’m a supervisor – it’s the best job I’ve ever had. I wish I had found it when I was first diagnosed,” confirmed Ricki.
Commencing with Reward Hospitality, Ricki said he felt supported by both CoAct/Community Solutions and his new employer.
“They were always asking me how I was going and if I needed anything. They understood my predicament and treated me like any other employee – with respect and without judgement.
“I have now built that up to five days a week and I am loving my new outlook on life as I now have self-worth and feel like I am contributing to society like anyone else,” added Ricki.
It’s stories like this one, CoAct/Community Solutions Mackay are keen to share with the locals whilst exhibiting at the upcoming Mackay Careers Expo on Thursday August 15.
Since commencing the DES contract in 2018, Mackay’s CoAct/Community Solutions site has placed nearly 500 customers into meaningful positions.

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Amateur golfers put their swings to the ultimate test, hoping one shot in the outback would make their millionaire dreams come true. The Outback Qld Masters Golf Series, renowned for its unique charm, saw curious characters lining the fairways, with players citing the resident kangaroos as true-blue Aussie markers keeping score, and curious crows flying away with golf balls.
Wayne Berginey, a member of the Pioneer Valley Golf Club at Mirani, returned home triumphantly as the championship winner in the annual Outback Qld Masters Golf Series for 2024. Winning the Series Championship in the men's A grade division (Brolga Division) was a proud moment for Berginey, capping off a challenging and exciting tournament. Berginey proved to be one of the most consistent competitors across the series of weekends in the outback, finishing with 117 points.
The series commenced at Birdsville on 15th-16th June, then advanced to Boulia, Winton, Barcaldine, Charleville, and finally Quilpie on 21st July. Participants from Queensland, Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia joined in the fun, battling the elements and wildlife alike. The experience included fending off crows intent on pinching golf balls at Birdsville and Boulia, adding to the unique challenges of the tournament.
Every Saturday night, players enjoyed dinners under the stars with live entertainment, fostering camaraderie and unforgettable memories. A $10,000 hole-in-one was up for grabs each weekend until it was won, but the final weekend at Quilpie featured the ultimate challenge: a $1,000,000 hole-in-one. Players had one shot to claim the prize, but once again, the money remained unclaimed.
Launched in 2019, the series aims to enhance the profile of Outback Queensland and boost tourism within the regions. As the sun set on this year’s tournament, the excitement of the finale of the 1,650-kilometre golfing adventure was palpable.
Locations for the 2025 Outback Queensland Masters have been announced, with the series set to tee off on 21st June. The six consecutive weekends will feature stops at Mitchell, Augathella, Blackall, Alpha, Richmond, and will culminate with the Million Dollar Hole-In-One for some 'golf in the Gulf' at Karumba.
Minister for Tourism and Sport, Michael Healy, expressed his enthusiasm for the event.
"The Outback Queensland Masters is a unique event on Queensland’s calendar, and I’m excited to see the schedule for next year’s tournament, which tees off in June 2025. It’s terrific to announce the six new locations that will host next year’s event, spanning iconic must-see locations, from Mitchell through to its finale in Karumba for the famous ‘Million Dollar Hole-In-One’."
As the anticipation builds for next year's tournament, the Outback Queensland Masters continues to offer an unparalleled blend of sport, adventure, and community spirit.

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A lot of golf balls were lost to the crows       
Each sand green location was different
Winners group left to right: B grade winners (Bilby division) Garry Meek from Nth Rockhampton Golf Club and Natasha Mason from Jerliderie Golf Club (NSW), and A grade winners (Brolga division) Wayne Berginey from Pioneer Valley Golf Club and Robyn Clayton from Goombungee Golf Club (Qld).     
Final weekend at Quilpie

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