The Council's elected members took a firm stand against domestic and family violence last week when Mayor Greg Williamson emphasised the community's rejection of violence, highlighting a commitment to proactive measures for change.
“Not now, not ever” was a pledge that was taken last Wednesday by council’s elected members.
The pledge was signed to highlight Council’s collective stance against domestic and family violence (DFV) within the community.
Mayor Greg Williamson said violence in any form had no place in our region.
“The statistics are alarming, and we don’t want our community to be part of them any longer,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Council has taken this pledge today to highlight the continued commitment to leading through action to create change in our community and workplace,” he said.
“It’s not just a pledge but part of a wider internal campaign to support our employees, which includes reviewing and updating the current DFV policy and e-learning modules.”
Council is also a proud supporter of the Red Rose Foundation which aims to eliminate domestic and family violence related deaths.
One of the key initiatives of the foundation is the Red Bench project that works with Councils across the nation to install red bench seats as a constant reminder of the effects of domestic violence in communities. Council has now supported the installation of eight red benches in the Mackay region.
Each May, Queensland observes Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month (DFVP Month) to raise community awareness of domestic and family violence (DFV).
The goal is to send a clear message that DFV in families and homes will not be tolerated.
This important initiative aims to educate, support, and empower individuals and communities to act against domestic violence.
For more information on domestic and family violence support services and council’s commitment to domestic and family violence prevention, head to mackay.qld.gov.au/dfv

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Mackay Regional Council Councillors (from left) Cr Nathenea Macrae, Cr Heath Paton, Cr Ash-Lee Johnson, Cr Alison Jones, Cr Namarca Corowa, Cr Karen May, Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan, Mayor Greg Williamson and Cr George Christensen signed a pledge
to stand against domestic and family violence at the morning tea. (Absent but also signing, Cr Peter Sheedy.) Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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The 2024 Mayors Ball wasn’t just a glamorous affair but a rallying point for local charities, thanks to the generous support of sponsors and ball-goers. With a resounding spirit of community, the event successfully raised crucial funds to uplift organisations such as the Australian Street Aid Project and Grapevine Group.
Mackay Regional Mayor, Greg Williamson said that “The main goal of the Ball is to support local charities, who are sometimes overlooked by state and federal funding but are in desperate need of funds.
“This year’s funds have been split equally between Australian Street Aid Project and Grapevine Group, with each receiving $40,117.59.
“Grapevine Group will use the funds to help local businesses have their own in-house safeTALK Trainers on staff to train more locals in suicide prevention.
“Australian Street Aid Project will use their funds to help support people experiencing homelessness in the Mackay region.
“This event keeps going from strength to strength each year and that is thanks to our organising committee, which includes representatives of the community, council and the MECC, our generous corporate sponsors, and our community.”
The funds were announced and officially presented to representatives of Australian Street Aid Project and Grapevine Group at a council morning tea on Wednesday, May 22 to thank all sponsors.
Sponsors were also presented with certificates of appreciation for their support.
Platinum partners for the 2024 Mayor’s Charity Ball included long-term sponsor DGH Engineering, Fergus Builders and Daly Bay.
Gold sponsors were Allure Laser and Skin Studio, Key Solutions Group, BMA and Champ Group.
Silver sponsors include Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure, Southern Cross Industrial Group and new sponsors CQ Soil Testing and Pentacon.

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Sponsors for the 2024 event were presented with a thank you certificate at the Mayor’s Charity Ball sponsor’s morning tea. Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Isaac Business Chamber launches to amplify resilient business community.

After three years of planning, the Isaac Business Chamber will officially launch, marking a significant milestone for the Isaac region and its small business community.

The Isaac Business Chamber will launch on Thursday May 30, 2024, at the Moranbah Golf Club, where Brand and Marketing Specialist Jessica Ritchie will deliver her keynote and provide valuable insight.

Isaac Business Chamber President Trudi Liekefett said the chamber has been meticulously planned and developed with the unwavering commitment of various entities, including Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3), the Local Buying Foundation (LBF), and Isaac Regional Council (IRC).

“They have served as driving forces behind the Chamber's establishment, providing a solid framework and strategic vision.

"We are thrilled to unveil the Isaac Business Chamber after years of dedicated planning and collaboration.

"This launch represents a significant step forward for our region, and we are excited to embark on this transformative journey together."

Ms Liekefett said the Isaac Business Chamber’s strategic plan, outlining specific goals, timelines, and metrics for success, will be publicly accessible on the Chamber's website upon launch, providing transparency and a roadmap for future endeavours.

"Our mission is to foster a thriving and resilient business community in the Isaac region.

"By engaging key stakeholders and leveraging our collective expertise, we aim to ignite innovation, promote social well-being, and enhance opportunities for all businesses,” she said.

As the Chamber welcomes prospective members and key stakeholders, local business owners are encouraged to actively participate and contribute to shaping the region's economic future.

"We envision a business ecosystem where every opportunity is leveraged, and our collective voice is amplified.

"Together, we can build a vibrant and prosperous future for the Isaac region,” Ms Liekefett said.

The Chamber invites all businesses, regardless of size or industry, to engage and benefit from its advocacy, support, and collaborative initiatives.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said this new initiative is about helping nearly 1,990 businesses in the region to grow and thrive.

“We see the Isaac Business Chamber as a big support system for our small-to-medium businesses.

“A megaphone that amplifies their voice and stands up for their interests,” Cr Vea Vea said.

“The creation of the chamber, with a lot of backing from the business community, is turning a new page in the region’s economic story. It’s going to make doing business here a whole lot better.

“And the best part? This investment is set to bring a ton of benefits to the small business community in the region,” Cr Vea Vea said.

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What: Isaac Business Chamber Launch
When: Thursday May 30
Where: Moranbah Golf Club, 1 Leichardt Dr Moranbah
Time: 12.00pm to 3.00pm
Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/chamber-launch-2024

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Keynote speaker Jessica Ritchie
Isaac Business Chamber President Trudi Liekefett. Photos supplied

An esteemed line-up of thought-provoking speakers, sustainability leaders, deep tech investors and resource industry professionals shared their experiences and insights at the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit last Thursday.

The summit was held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on May 23 and featured morning and afternoon panel sessions.

Throughout the panel sessions, every panellist contributed invaluable insights and offered practical strategies aimed at guiding businesses toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) chief executive officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a unique opportunity for our local businesses to hear about the latest solutions and strategies for a low carbon future.

"We believe that our region has the potential to be a leader in decarbonisation, and this summit is an important step towards achieving that vision.

"We urge local businesses throughout the regions and across all industries to consider spending a day to learn about what is not only in our future but what is here, working in our community today.

Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) Mr Steven Boxall said the initial focus of setting up Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit was about the METS sector and its critical role in supporting the coal sector to decarbonise, this summit is the first step on that journey for many.

"Decarbonisation will impact the entire Australian resources sector and we believe that our local businesses and industries have the potential to thrive.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit opened at 8.30am with featured keynotes throughout the day including change strategist Michael McQueen; ThinkZero founder and Managing director Cle-Anne Gabriel; and Founder of Goterra Olympia Yarger.

In addition to the keynote presentations, the summit featured thought-provoking panel discussions with experts from diverse sectors.

The question, "Why Should We Be Excited About Decarbonisation?" was answered, featuring Charlotte Connell from Climate Zeitgeist, Phil Morle from Main Sequence, and Drristy Nell, a Decarbonisation Specialist, facilitated by Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) CEO Steven Boxall.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit concluded with networking drinks at 4.30pm.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a joint initiative of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) and Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3).

Greater Whitsunday Alliance is the region’s peak, independent economic development body committed to making the Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday region strong for generations.

To find out more information visit the Decarbonisation Accelerated website.

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The Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) hosted panel sessions where each participant shared valuable insights and actionable strategies for businesses to pursue a cleaner, sustainable future
GW3 CEO Kylie Porter
Bestselling author and international trend specialist Michael McQueen. Images Supplied

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The Mackay Hospital Foundation's Family Fun Day, proudly presented by Gardian Real Estate, is returning this year with promises of an even bigger and better experience for all to enjoy.

Save the date for an unforgettable day of family fun on Sunday, June 2nd from 10am to 2pm at BB Print Stadium. This event offers a jam-packed itinerary for just $5 per person. With both cash and card accepted. Entry grants access to a plethora of rides and activities all free once inside the gate.

From thrilling rides to exhilarating jumping castles, creative face painting to an array of food and coffee vendors, there's something for everyone. Plus, there's even more reasons to come along with a petting zoo, live entertainment and various engaging activities lined up throughout the day.

By attending this event, you're not just in for a day of entertainment, you're also directly supporting local hospitals and health care services. It's an affordable day out that promises loads of laughter and cherished family memories.

Mackay Hospital Foundation extends their heartfelt gratitude to all the generous sponsors who have helped to bring this event to fruition.

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WHAT: Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day presented by Gardian Group
WHEN: Sunday, June 2 from 10:00am to 2:00pm
WHERE: BB Print Stadium
TICKETS: $5 entry

Gather your loved ones and join in on a guaranteed family fun day whilst supporting local healthcare services! Photo Credit: Sam Gillespie

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Fresh from the pageantry scene, young Mackay local Emersen Lamb, is stepping her heels onto the Mackay Golf Course this July when she hosts the Business House Corporate Challenge alongside her father Max Lamb Jr from M&P Services.

Having recently been announced the Australia Pageantry People’s Choice Winner, Emersen is thrilled to be presenting the golf day and excited to be raising more money for charity.

So far, this compassionate teen has raised in excess of $20K for charity and her passionate efforts are now set to benefit even more community groups.

Proceeds from the golf challenge will go towards the Australian Street Aid Project, Community Accommodation Support Agency, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Trudy Crowley Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities.

“I’m hoping to raise around $3500,” expressed Emerson.

“Over the last few years, I have raised $23,368 primarily for local charities.”

July’s event is a cameo of the traditional business house event ran at Mackay Golf Club in the 90’s and 2000’s and it will be a 4 person team Ambrose event.

Teams will play for a perpetual trophy and next year the event will run over three to five rounds in the cooler months.

It is a genuine scoring event aimed at avid golfers and will start at 7am, followed by lunch where there will be meat trays and raffles along with standard Ambrose prizes, with the event wrapping up around 1pm.

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WHAT: Business Corporate House Challenge
WHERE: Mackay Golf Course
WHEN: Sunday 28th July from 7am

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Teams playing at a previous charity golf day. Photo credit: Mackay Life Newspaper

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The Northern Beaches Community Hub stage 1B will soon be underway after Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox recently announced a $15m funding boost to kickstart the initiative.
CA Architects for Mackay Regional Council have already completed the Design work for stage 1B, showcasing plans of the dynamic public facility that will include a library, meeting rooms and café.
This funding allocation, made possible through the Australian Government's Growing Regions Program, coincides with the ongoing construction progress of the initial stage of the Northern Beaches Community Hub.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the Northern Beaches Community Hub, located opposite Mackay Northern Beaches State High School, was one of council’s signature projects.
He said Fergus Builders had made good progress on construction work for stage 1A after being awarded a $10.2 million tender for this key piece of infrastructure.
“The first stage, which is under way, includes an undercover multi-purpose court and storeroom, nature play and picnic spaces, as well as landscaping, pedestrian links, and a parking area.”
Mayor Williamson said construction of the first stage started in March and is scheduled for completion in May 2025, weather permitting.
He said council’s project team had been working with CA Architects to progress design work for the next stage so it could be shovel-ready for government funding opportunities.
“This is an extremely important project for the Northern Beaches, which is our region’s fastest growing area in terms of population.
“A lot of community consultation, including community and agency reference groups, have helped shape the vision for this site.”
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox believes the hub is going to be a “vital piece of infrastructure to support the expanding population within the northern suburbs of Mackay.”
“The Northern Beaches Community Hub will provide a local meeting place for the community to connect, and will deliver a range of activities, programs, services, and events tailored to the needs of the Northern Beaches Community,’’ he said.
“Being able to announce funding for stage 1B of this project is a huge win for the area and ensures we see this project continue.”
Stage 1A of the project is partly funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.
The Australian Government committed $6.5 million towards stage 1A, with council contributing the remainder of the cost of the works.
Visit connectingmackay.com.au and subscribe to project update emails to stay informed about this exciting project and to view the latest master plan.

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Mayor Greg Williamson with (from left) Cr Ash-Lee Johnson, Cr Karen May, Deputy Mayor
Belinda Hassan, Cr Alison Jones and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox.

Artist impression of Stage 1B  Northern Beaches Community Hub. Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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At Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, trust isn't a buzzword—it's the foundation upon which we've built our legacy of service to the community.
At Community Bank Sarina, we're not just here for you—we're here to stay. Our unwavering dedication to our customers and our community ensures that you can trust us today, tomorrow, and for years to come.
Near 60 years' worth of combined banking experience, our branch staff embody the expertise and dedication necessary to meet your banking needs with precision and care.
Each member of our team brings their unique skills to the table, ensuring that you receive personalised attention and support every step of the way towards reaching your lifestyle and financial goals. Whether you're opening an account or applying for a loan, you can trust that our team has the knowledge and commitment to guide you towards success.
What sets us apart is not just our expertise, but our local presence. When you reach out to Community Bank Sarina, your call is directed straight to our local branch —not to a distant call centre.
This means that when you need assistance, you'll speak directly to a real, local person who understands the needs and nuances of our community. It's this personal touch that sets us apart and provides you with the peace of mind that your banking needs are in good hands.
Our commitment to our community extends far beyond providing exceptional banking services. By offering a comprehensive range of products and solutions, we empower our customers to achieve their financial goals while simultaneously driving positive change right here in the greater Sarina and Mackay district.
From supporting local businesses to investing in community initiatives, every transaction made with Community Bank Sarina contributes to the growth and prosperity of our community.

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Without the helping hand of the community’s beloved volunteers, the region just wouldn’t be the same. In honour of the recently passed National Volunteer week (20-26th May), volunteers from all walks of life were acknowledged for their countless devotion and whole-hearted assistance, but the recognition doesn’t stop there.

The upcoming 2024 Mackay Volunteer Expo showcases the inclusive nature of volunteering and promises to offer “something for everyone”. 
 
From emergency service personnel to comedic performers, street chaplains to crime stoppers, wildlife carers to choir singers and everything in between – more than 40 groups will be featured at the Expo, ready to showcase the hundreds of roles that are on offer. 
 
The Expo will be held this Sunday, June 2, from 9am to noon, at the Big Shed in the Mackay Showgrounds. 
 
Mayor Greg Williamson said the National Volunteer Week theme of “something for everyone” was perfectly aligned with the goals of the Mackay Volunteer Expo. 
 
“We love that this expo showcases that no matter what you’re interested in, what your skill levels are or what your level of ability is, there is a volunteer role to suit you,” Mayor Williamson said. 
 
“If you have a sense of adventure and love the great outdoors, then there are groups like the Scouts, Surf Lifesaving, SES and even Pioneer Catchment and Landcare,” he said. 
 
“If you are an animal lover, then there are groups like Australian Wildlife Rescue, Happy Paws Happy Hearts, Mackay Animal Rescue Society and RSPCA Mackay. 
 
“Or, if you have more specific interests, there are tremendous opportunities with Mackay Musical Comedy Players, With One Voice Community Choir, Orange Sky Australia, the Incredable Tip Shop and even Mackay Gridiron Association.   
 
“A volunteer role is an amazing way to learn new skills, build a resume, make friends, feel good and stay active.” 
 
State Emergency Services Local Controller Sarah Lethbridge said one of the biggest advantages their volunteers found was the training provided. 
 
“We help our volunteers to develop skills in everything from first aid and emergency rescue to radio operation, navigation and leadership,” Ms Lethbridge said.   
  
“Our SES volunteers perform so many diverse tasks, from driving flood boats and cleaning up storm damage with chainsaws to administration, logistics and community education.” 
 
“All of our long serving members will tell you that their time as a volunteer has changed their lives.” 
 
Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free.   
 
For more information, follow Mackay Volunteers Expo 2024 on Facebook. 

About Volunteering in Australia 

Recent statistics show a gradual but persistent improvement in volunteering rates post-COVID-19. While the proportion of individuals engaging in formal volunteering has risen to 32.6%, it remains below pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, the average number of volunteering hours has decreased, with volunteers dedicating an estimated 151 hours on average. On record, women seem to exhibit a higher likelihood of volunteering compared to men, with 34.1% of women and 30.8% of men contributing their time in 2023.

These findings represent the ongoing resilience of current volunteerism amidst evolving societal challenges, highlighting the importance of continued support and community involvement for generations to come.
 

Come along this Sunday, June 2, from 9am to noon, at the Big Shed in the Mackay Showgrounds to find a volunteer role that suits you! Images supplied.

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With exciting plans to improve the South Bank’s Grey Street Bikeway and Streetscape, the Mackay community has been invited to have their say on the project.
From May 27 to June 23, Mackay locals are called to contribute their perspective and help create a plan for Australia's most vibrant and cyclist-friendly street.
South Bank Corporation Chief Executive Officer Bill Delves said the main objective of the project was to create Australia’s coolest and most vibrant sub-tropical street that is rideable, walkable and welcoming.
“The project supports the long-term vision idea from the Future South Bank Master Plan for Grey Street to slow down and calm traffic, make walking, scootering and riding a bike more attractive and safer, and create a vibrant, ‘cool’ and green street,” he said.
“The key focus of the design is a bi-directional bikeway, safe for all ages and abilities that would be protected from traffic and separated from pedestrians.
“Grey Street has a poor safety record for people riding bikes with only one per cent of trips on Grey Street by bike but 24 per cent of reported crashes involving people on bikes and 32 per cent of crashes involving pedestrians.”
Mr Delves said the design provided double the amount of space for walking and riding with increased opportunities for shade, making the street concept cool, comfortable, appealing and accessible for all.
“The initiative’s design will offer an alternative route to South Bank’s Clem Jones Promenade which will help to address the conflict between pedestrians, people riding bikes, and e-scooters, which is only expected to grow with the increasing population in the surrounding suburbs.”
Other features of the design include the introduction of parking, loading and landscaping integrated in 'flex zones' on kerbs, replacement of the Ernest Street roundabout with a raised intersection that gives priority to pedestrians, and the installation of raised zebra crossings to improve safety.
“Two-way vehicle access on the street will be maintained and access to all driveways and loading docks will also be protected.”
Mr Delves said the draft design reflects feedback and priorities gathered from targeted engagement with a diverse range of precinct stakeholders in early 2023 as well as feedback gathered from the community about Grey Street during consultation for the Future South Bank Master Plan in late 2022.
He also remarked that the design would double the amount of space on the street for people to walk, ride, dine, meet or just rest. “This will not only improve safety but also create exciting opportunities for pop ups, festivals, leisure and play.”
Information sessions will be held at South Bank Parklands in the coming weeks and the community can have their say on the draft preliminary design online from 27 May to 23 June 2024. Visit South Bank Corporation website for details.
The Grey Street Bikeway and Streetscape Preliminary Design is being delivered by South Bank Corporation and is supported by the Queensland Government’s Cycle Network Local Government Grants Program.

Shape the future of South Bank's Grey Street Bikeway and Streetscape project by providing your input from May 27 to June 23. Image supplied.

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The Sarina Sporting and Services Club was filled with laughter and smiles as guests and members of the Rotary Club Sarina gathered in celebration of the 75 years of service to local community.

The club was admitted into Rotary International in 1949 on May 13, marking this year as a significant milestone celebrated by all involved, both young and old.

Executive Advisor Ralph Johnson inducted the luncheon with thanks to attendees, members and visitors of the club, acknowledging the support and hard work from all involved which includes various community projects made possible by the Rotary Club of Sarina.

“Each Rotary Club is independent, but it’s also bound together by Rotary International and Rotary International does so much work to better people’s lives.

“It’s the little things, you don’t know what effect it has,” Mr Johnson remarked.

Over the years some of the highlights include when the Rotary Club Sarina donated $20,000 towards the Sarina Skateboard Park, has been involved in cleaning up Sarina Beach CWA holiday home and busy-bees to improve landscaping, as well as yearly detailing of the Aged Care Bus for the Nursing Home. Members have even volunteered to build classrooms and a girl’s dormitory at Goldie College in the Solomon Islands.

In recent years, the Rotary Club Sarina has been involved in many local school establishments, like sponsoring buses to drive High School students to Mackay along with sponsorships of many individual and group students to educational camps and events, assisting school P&C’s and helping out with multiple fundraisers.  

Among the many devoted club members, stood Lenny Lister, a centenarian of wisdom who has been a beacon of dedication and an inspiration to others, having volunteered over fifty years of Rotary service and is still standing as a passionate advocate in the community.

When asked the secret to living to 100, Mr Lister humorously says “mixing with younger people, you’ll think you’re their age,”

“Get involved in your community, you will benefit, your community will benefit, and the next generation will benefit,” he remarked.

On the other end of the scale, youngest member of the Rotary club and Youth Protection Officer, Josie Dahtler shared her love for the welcoming atmosphere and camaraderie within the club.

“I love the fellowship, it’s traditionally an older, particularly males’ group but Sarina Rotary Club is really encouraging, it’s been very welcoming and I’ve learnt a lot.

“We’re always welcoming new members, it doesn’t matter how young or old or what you’re involved in, it’s just a lot of fun,” she said.

President Elect and International Director Jef Mtombo has been a pivotal beacon of hope helping students overseas in Zimbabwe receive the education they deserve. He selflessly collects second hand computers, screens and cords for multiple primary schools, high schools and medical students.

The equipment sent is carefully wrapped in second hand, particularly children’s and baby clothing which is always gratefully received. He has also initiated a major project called IT to Zim that will help build a science centre in South Africa. Mr Mtombo is passionate about the profound impact of giving from his heart which has led him to many opportunities which he describes as blessings from God.

Mr Mtombo said “we are people who are passionate, we work from our hearts, not our heads.

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Oldest member, Lenny Lister and youngest member Josie Dahtler cut the cake for Lenny’s 100th Birthday and Rotary Club Sarina’s 75th year.

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Recent law reforms by the Queensland Government have been by Australia’s foremost breeder of industrial hemp seedstock.
Hemp Farms Australia CEO Lauchlan Grout said “good sense” had prevailed when MPs passed the amendments to the Drugs Misuse Act on April 18.
Queensland’s Agriculture Minister Mark Furner introduced the changes, saying they support the continued growth of the state’s industrial cannabis industry.
“The bill will support the industrial cannabis industry in Queensland by clarifying that industrial cannabis seed may be supplied to a seed handler,” he said.
“The amendments also establish a power to enter into information-sharing arrangements with entities, including the Queensland Police Service, to improve the sharing of industrial cannabis industry information under the Act.”
Mr Grout said low-THC hemp does not present the same sort of challenges as medicinal cannabis.
“It is a workhorse product that supplies fibre for building construction and dietary seed for human nutrition,” he said.
“It is also a powerhouse in carbon cycling.
“Hemp possesses the extraordinary ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere at an astonishing rate.
“This, coupled with its rapid growth rate, renders hemp a formidable player in our fight against climate change.”
Potential benefits for producers include diversified revenue streams as well as improved soil fertility and less herbicide use, Mr Grout added.
“It is a multitasking marvel: not only does it sequester carbon, but it also undertakes the noble task of soil remediation, effortlessly removing heavy metals from contaminated soils.
“Its deep-reaching root system further enhances this process, enriching the soil and fortifying its structure for future agriculture.
“Peer-reviewed studies resoundingly support hemp's prowess in carbon sequestration and soil remediation.”
The benefits extend to mining, energy and water corporations, he added. “Hemp's ability to absorb heavy metals from soil and its potential for biofuel production positions it as a lucrative venture for eco-conscious corporations.
“By incorporating hemp into supply chains, corporations can bolster their sustainability credentials, tap into burgeoning markets and drive innovation in renewable technologies.
“The potential of industrial hemp to revolutionise our agricultural practices and combat climate change cannot be overstated.”

Hemp Farms Australia CEO Lauchlan Grout

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The Government's decision to halt future funding for the Mobile Black Spot Program and other crucial regional communication initiatives has raised major concerns among regional communities and rural areas.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, highlights the consequences that communities could face without mobile connectivity, especially in emergencies, due to the Government’s lack of funding for other key regional communications infrastructure programs
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said the axing of the Mobile Black Spot in 2026/27 is a major blow for regional communities, with zero dollars allocated for 2027/28.

“For the people of Dawson, there are whole communities that do not have access to mobile connectivity, and some people have to leave their home just to get reception.

“In 2024, how is this good enough? This isn’t just so people can call friends and family for a chat, we’re talking about real life emergency situations where people are getting stranded.”

The Government has also cut funding for the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which covers funding for a range of programs including on-farm connectivity and the Regional Tech Hub.

“It’s no wonder that people in regional Australian communities are feeling isolated.

“It’s no surprise that the Auditor-General is carrying out an investigation into Round 6 funding of the Mobile Black Spot Program and we look forward to the report later this month.

Funding for the Better Connectivity Plan will more than double in the lead up to the election from $101.8 million in 2023/24 to $228.4 million in 2024/25.  Funding for the Mobile Black Spot Program will nearly triple ahead of the poll day, from $17.5 million in 2023/24 to $45.9 million in 2024/25.  But all three programs receive zero funding in 2027/28.

“Improving connectivity for people in both the bush and those living on the outskirts of major cities is critical and shouldn’t be at the whim of the governments political strategy,” Mr Willcox said.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, sheds light on the dire repercussions for rural communities amidst the cessation of funding for vital communication programs like the Mobile Black Spot Program. Image supplied

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Currently we are fundraising for the all-important RACQ CQ Rescue chopper.
A couple of weeks ago we received a call form a listener who told us of an amazing story how the CQ Rescue chopper saved her sons life after he contracted a disease.
The time in which it took the chopper to transport the family from Proserpine to Mackay was the difference between life and death.
It was a huge reminder as to how important it is to have the rescue chopper helping save lives in our region.
This is where the idea to put a calendar together to fundraise for the chopper was born.
Currently we are looking for businesses to donate an amount above $300 to feature in a month of the calendar.
The response we have had so far has been overwhelming with so many local businesses putting their hands up to take part and donate.
Our current donation tally is up to just over $7000 already.
Big shout out to BMS Strata Systems, Reef Marine, Daly Bay Coal Terminal, Mackay Mazda, Acubis Technologies, Mount Pleasant Post Office, Harvey Norman Bedding, McCarthy Panel Works, Whitsunday Prosocial Support Services, MADD Mechanical, and Nick Wynne-Jones Painting for coming on board with donations so far.
Once the calendars are complete they will be up for purchase with all proceeds going directly to RACQ CQ Rescue chopper, stay tuned.

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The 2024 sugar production season will be delayed after a meeting with the Fair Work Commission on Tuesday, May 28 was unable to resolve an ongoing pay dispute between Wilmar Sugar and Renewables and its employees and union representatives.
A Wilmar Sugar and Renewables spokesperson confirmed the company is in the process of notifying growers of revised start dates, which, across Wilmar’s four regions, represent total delays ranging from two to nine days.
“Industrial action has already impacted our 2024 sugar production season, with work stoppages over the past two weeks forcing us to further delay the start of production at a number of our factories,” the spokesperson said.
Both Proserpine and Plane Creek Mills have been given a revised start date of June 20, with a total delay of nine days so far.
“These start dates may push back even further if planned industrial action proceeds,” the spokesperson said.
Following Tuesday’s meeting, Wilmar Sugar and Renewables informed the Fair Work Commission that it would put a fresh proposal directly to employees covered by the enterprise agreement in a ballot planned for Monday, June 10.
Wilmar outlined a new EA package that included a $1,500 sign-on bonus (inclusive of superannuation), permanent jobs offers to 50 fixed-term and seasonal employees, and a $20 a week allowance for employees utilising an electrical licence.
The Commission is expected to report back on the outcome of the ballot and any other developments on Friday, June 21.
A similar offer was taken to ballot in December last year, which was comprehensively rejected by workers, with Australian Workers’ Union (AWU) Northern District Secretary Jim Wilson calling the new offer “a slap in the face to every worker”.
The ballot comes after what Mr Wilson described as an attempt to find a middle ground with Wilmar as workers put forward an ask of an 18% pay rise over three years – a 7% reduction from workers’ original ask of 25%.
“We did that in an attempt to get this resolved and not cause delays to the crush, but Wilmar weren’t interested, they’re just putting out the same agreement,” Mr Wilson said.
“We are not asking for the world in terms of a pay rise, we just want our members to be compensated fairly for the work they do at a time where Wilmar is making record profits.”
Mr Wilson confirmed that industrial action will continue as of yesterday, Wednesday May 29 in the form of rolling stoppages and work bans across all mills.
“We have written to employees confirming that they will not be paid for periods when they are on strike, or where partial work bans mean they do not perform their full work duties,” the Wilmar spokesperson said.
“We are grateful to employees who continue to work on completion of essential works ahead of the start of production.”

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Growers have been informed of delays to the sugar production season

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