Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook) Whitsunday Anglican School’s Kindy to Year 2 students enjoyed a fun-filled Athletics Carnival, with young athletes taking part in running, jumping and throwing events while showing plenty of enthusiasm, determination and House spirit. Supported by Senior School volunteers, the day celebrated participation, encouragement and the strong sense of community across the school. See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/little-legs-big-spirit-at-whitsunday-anglican-schools-kindy-carnival
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Leading Mackay real estate business REMAX Select has announced the appointment of highly respected business professional Samantha Self as General Manager. The appointment is set to further strengthen the agency's high-performing team across the Mackay region, with Principal Nikita Kinnane describing Ms Self's arrival as an exciting step forward for the business. “We are heading in a really exciting direction with our business, and I cannot be more excited to have Samantha join our leadership team to build on that momentum,” Ms Kinnane said. Ms Kinnane said the recruitment process was focused on finding a leader whose values aligned with those of the business, it was Ms Self's shared commitment to those values and vision that made her the ideal candidate. "Samantha will play an important role in shaping the future REMAX Select, bringing exceptional experience in property, management and leadership to help drive growth and innovation, and this will flow into enhancing every aspect of our business. "Importantly, Samantha shares our core values and commitment to putting Mackay first, and we share the same drive to really make impactful change, bring big city ideas and execute them in our own country girl way.” It was the core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, excellence and trust that Ms Self aligned with, sharing her goal to continue to build on the trust and integrity the agency has established in Mackay, while supporting the continued growth and development of both the team and business. “I’m excited to take on the role of general manager and work alongside Nikita and the entire team at REMAX Select,” Ms Self said. “REMAX Select has a strong team with exceptional talent which is highly respected throughout the community and I’m excited to be part of its continued success.” Ms Self steps into the role after eight years as retail manager of the largest shopping centre in northern Australia. During that time, she was the key driver of building positive, collaborative relationships with retailers, creating an environment where retailers were genuine partners in success. Having led sales performance analysis and market insight initiatives, Ms Self said she looks forward to applying her knowledge and experience to support the continued success of the REMAX Select team. “I am dedicated to empowering our team members through training and development opportunities, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed,” she said. “My goal is to continue to foster the team’s culture of professionalism, responsiveness and customer-first approach and I look forward to collaborating with our talented agents and staff to create a dynamic and successful environment here at REMAX Select.” REMAX Select is an award-winning real estate business, recently recognised as the 2025 REIQ Medium Agency of the Year and finalist at the 2026 REIA National Awards for Excellence. The office consistently ranks in the National Top 10 Offices in the REMAX Australia network, recognised as the #3 individual office for commissions and transactions at the REMAX Australia Annual Awards 2025 earlier this year, where they were also named a finalist for the network’s community service award and special achievement in marketing for an office award. REMAX Select is located at 133B Victoria Street, Mackay. Contact (07)4829 4612 or visit remax.com.au/select/ for an award winning real estate experience. Newly appointed General Manager, Samantha Self (Left) with REMAX Select Principal Nikita Kinnane (Right).
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In 2000, Peter and Denise Phillips laid the foundation for what would become one of Mackay’s most recognisable holistic, all in one property, insurance and financial services ecosystem. Starting as a Mortgage Choice franchise, Gardian was built on a commitment to helping people make confident financial decisions with local people in the know! Over the decades, that foundation has steadily evolved. Today, Gardian encompasses a wide range of services, including all manner of finance, general and business insurance, financial planning, real estate sales, property management, and commercial sales, management and leasing. What began as a single offering has grown into an integrated business model serving individuals, families, businesses, and community across the region. Now, the organisation enters its next chapter. After many years at the helm with her late husband Peter, Denise Phillips will step down from her role as Managing Director. Her leadership has been central to Gardian’s growth — not just in size, but in culture, reputation, and its connection to the local community. Taking over the role is Ben Phillips, Owner/Director and Head of Gardian Finance. Having been closely involved in all aspects of the business and its clients, he brings both continuity and a forward-looking perspective to the position. Leadership transitions often mark defining moments for organisations. In this case, the change represents both the continuation of a strong legacy and the opportunity to build on it. The evolution of Gardian — from a small franchise to a diversified advisory group — reflects the importance of adaptability, strategic growth, and staying aligned to core values to the community. For the Mackay business community, this transition highlights the strength of long-term vision and succession planning, particularly within locally grown enterprises. It also reinforces the impact that leadership grounded in community and relationships can have over time. As Gardian moves forward under new leadership, it does so with deep roots, a clear purpose, and a platform built for continued growth.
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I don’t know about you, but I find morning TV hosts incredibly annoying. I rarely get to see them, with their contrived laughter, over-the-top friendliness, stupid nicknames for each other, make-up and perfect hair cuts. But sometimes, if there has been some event that might interest me, or if I’m curious about what’s going on, I might flick on the TV and see what’s happening as I’m getting ready for work. I immediately regret it and start flicking channels to try to find someone bearable. It’s a challenge that usually lasts a couple of minutes before I turn the TV off and do something much more pleasant, like go to work. I did like Karl Stefanovic but he has been flicked, apparently because his employer didn’t like his podcast guests. There seemed something real about Karl but he was an island in a sea of fakery so there’s no point in me turning on Channel 9 anymore. There’s an Irish journalist/host on ABC TV, Catherine Murphy, who I also like. She’s funny and real and seems to want to stick to simply presenting a story in her slightly quirky style without imposing an agenda. But that’s about it for me. One thing the morning shows have an abundance of is “experts”. Whatever the drama that’s emerged, there’s an expert to explain it to you, pull it apart and tell you how concerned you should be. The expert needs to do it in about 17 seconds because everyone is going to get bored soon and we’ve got an ad break coming up. The more dramatic the event and the more it impacts the loyal viewers, the more vital it is that an expert is on hand. The current disaster of note it a neat combo: the economy/inflation/interest rates/housing downturn. This is the type of news drama you want when you’re planning the show because it affects the viewers, hits their hip pockets. But experts are everywhere in the media on this one, not just the morning shows. They’re out there giving their views on interest rates (some say they will go up, others say they will go down), the economy (some say it will be okay, others say we are headed for a recession), inflation (some say it will get worse and others say it will ease). Part of this blockbuster, of course, is house prices. Some experts say prices will drop in big cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Others say they will drop everywhere. Some say there will be a small, temporary drop but things will soon start going up again because there is a lack of housing supply across the nation. One group of experts that are worth paying attention to are the valuers from Herron Todd White, who put out their monthly property clock, which is a snapshot of how they see particular markets. The position on the clock face a particular city is located (we’re talking analogue here kids, not digital) tells you where it sits in the market. Twelve o’clock is top of the market, 3 o’clock is a falling market, 6 o’clock is the bottom of the market, 9 o’clock is a rising market. Things can change quickly and there a times a property can go from falling market to bottom of the market and up to rising market very quickly. HTW’s June clock would have been a challenge for them because tax changes and other events had happened but their longer-term impacts are unclear. They had Bundaberg and Toowoomba at the top of the market, Sydney at 2 o’clock and starting to decline, The Whitsundays, Gladstone and Sunshine Coast approaching the top of the market and Mackay, along with Rocky, Townsville and Cairns, in a rising market. Most agents in Mackay will tell you there has been a change but there is still activity, investors are still engaged and properties are selling. Most are being alert, not alarmed.
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As Queenslanders edge closer to the new financial year, it’s the perfect time to take stock of money matters and map out a clearer financial direction for the months ahead.
Whether the aim is to pay off debt, grow savings, or plan for a significant purchase, financial advisers say even small, consistent changes can lead to stronger financial health.
Here are a few practical steps to get started:
Reflect on the past year
Take a close look at where your money went — which habits helped, and which ones hurt. Understanding past spending patterns is key to setting realistic goals.
Set SMART goals
Make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of “save more,” aim to “save $5,000 by next June for a home deposit or holiday.”
Break down big goals
Large amounts can feel daunting. Convert them into weekly or monthly targets — such as $100 per week — to make progress feel more achievable.
Prioritise what matters
Decide which goals are most urgent. Clearing high-interest debt often takes priority over discretionary spending or long-term investments.
Track progress regularly
Whether through apps, spreadsheets, or pen and paper, keeping tabs on your goals helps you stay accountable and adjust when needed.
Build an emergency buffer
Life is unpredictable. Even saving $10–$20 a week into an emergency fund can safeguard your broader goals.
Celebrate milestones
Progress — even small wins — deserves recognition. Hitting savings targets or paying off a credit card can be a powerful motivator to keep going.
Financial planning experts say the EOFY is more than a tax deadline — it’s an ideal opportunity to reset, refocus, and build toward a more confident financial future.
The recent Super Story Time event at Mackay Regional Council Libraries brought together local families for a morning of storytelling, imagination, and fun, celebrating young readers and their grown-ups alike.
The library remains a welcoming space where knowledge thrives and all individuals are encouraged to explore, learn, and grow together.
With a diverse calendar of activities and programs on offer, residents are invited to visit the library website or download the Mackay Libraries app to discover upcoming events and make the most of these valuable community resources.
If you’re old enough to remember the jingle about the Mackay City Heart, you probably remember Centrepoint Arcade too. Maybe you blew your cash on a Walk Like an Egyptian cassette from the record store in there. Before the mega extension at Caneland, the City Heart was full and buzzing. But that wasn’t the only change that shifted the scene. The rise of online shopping transformed how we buy, the pandemic kept many of us home more than ever, and those shifts all took their toll on the heart of the city.
We got the heart of the city (clap, clap)
Nostalgic Facebook groups overflow with black-and-white photos—ladies in gloves, strolling the footpaths in their Sunday best. Folks fondly remember cafés with plastic curtains, dances in Catholic halls, the bands that played them, and department stores with chocolate escalators (OK, maybe that one’s just me).
But while we’re busy reminiscing, the City Heart is still here. And it’s changing.
CBDs across Australia are shifting. The main drag is no longer the automatic centre of gravity. We see boarded up shops, and “for lease” signs. Online shopping has exploded. International chains have arrived. And then there’s parking.
But here’s the thing — parking is not the real problem. It is just the easiest to complain about.
The “parking problem” isn’t just the thing Mackay people like to complain about... Walk down any main street in regional Australia and someone will tell you parking is killing their CBD. But we’ll all happily trek the length of a shopping centre carpark without a second thought. If you park a couple of blocks away in the City Heart, you might run into someone you know, discover a new business, or just enjoy being part of a living street. That’s how community happens—by being in it.
What stings is this: we mourn the empty buildings but forget to cheer for the new businesses having a go. We scroll through memories of old floats and parades, but don’t turn up for the events happening now.
We all miss the buzz of the City Heart.
There’s plenty of love for how it used to be—but bringing that energy back means more than a walk down memory lane.
At the Chamber, we do everything we can to get the word out: socials, emails, posters, word of mouth. And still, we hear it— “I didn’t know it was on.”
But the truth is people are trying. New businesses are opening, events are happening, and there’s real passion to keep the City Heart alive. What it needs now is more of us showing up.
So here’s how you can help:
Like. Share. Tag a friend. Talk about it. Show up.
The City Heart doesn’t need more commentary—it needs community. You are not making an impact on the CBD in the comments section—real progress needs real people showing up.
If you want to see it thrive, be part of the change.
Working to your strengths is personally empowering and enables you to present your best self, whether in your work or personal life.
We each have a combination of qualities, talent and skills that are unique to us. To work to your strengths, you first have to identify them. For some this is an easy list; for others this focus on self is more challenging. Here are some ways to identify your strengths.
Check in with your colleagues and trusted advisors/friends, and ask them what they see as your top 3 strengths (you can ask for more – 3 seems a good number).
Spend some time personally reflecting on those activities and tasks that you are drawn to and enjoy, then write up the list – what may be a natural tendency for you may be more difficult for others.
Cross check these lists for common themes on your strengths.
There are also professional tools available to assist you in identifying your strengths.
When you focus on and work to your strengths, it builds confidence and reinforces self-belief. You will feel more engaged and make the most of opportunities to show your best self. When you do something you enjoy, you will be more productive and overall add more value in your work or organisational context. You benefit, and so do others.
In a career context, when you are working to your strengths, you will look for opportunities that align to your suite of strengths. You are more likely to be successful and success builds confidence, and improves your performance. This in turn will allow you to leverage your strengths for further growth and personal development, as well as build your skills base.
Strengths are not stagnant. You can expand and refine your strengths and become even more effective. We also need to know when to ‘regulate’ our strengths with a good dose of self-awareness. Knowing when and how to best use our strengths takes it to another level. A strength used inappropriately or overused can be a ‘weakness’ – e.g. being an effective organiser versus taking over/bossy and not letting others develop.
Knowing and working to your strengths also feeds into self-worth and truly knowing your value – the unique combination that you contribute - to enable you to flourish and inspire.
For personal and dedicated assistance with identifying your strengths and using this to further your career - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.
Australians today are navigating increasingly complex financial terrain. From managing mortgages, superannuation, and insurance, to preparing for retirement and developing effective tax strategies.
The financial decisions most people face is significant and often overwhelming. Add the weight of a cost-of-living crisis and it’s no surprise that many people feel stretched, uncertain and unsure where to start.
Yet, financial advice is still widely seen as a luxury, something reserved for the wealthy or retired, something that is left to deal with later in life. But the truth is, the greatest cost may come from not seeking advice at all.
At its core, financial advice is about helping you make informed, strategic decisions that support your goals and improve your long-term wellbeing. This may involve setting clear priorities, structuring your cash flow and debt, building investment portfolios, optimising superannuation and tax strategies, protecting your income through insurance, and planning for life’s transitions, whether that’s buying a home, changing careers, or retiring.
But the technical side is just the beginning. Where quality financial advice really proves its worth is helping people stay on track when emotions rise. Because let’s face it, we’re not always rational with money. We tend to panic in downturns, overspend when confidence is high, delay important decisions out of fear and underestimate the future costs of inaction.
An adviser’s real value often reveals itself not in calm times, but in moments of uncertainty, when clarity, structure, and an unbiased view are most needed.
Research by Vanguard and Russell Investments shows financial advisers can add around 3–4% in annual value, not by picking the perfect stock, but by helping clients avoid emotionally driven decisions.
That value compounds significantly over time.
Financial Advisers are here to ask the right questions, challenge knee-jerk reactions and help you stay focused on the big picture, not the headlines or hype.
Still, many Australians attempt to manage their finances alone and understandably so, we’ve all tried a bit of DIY in the hope of saving some money. But much like fixing plumbing or rewiring a house, what seems simple on the surface often reveals unexpected complexity.
In hindsight, many realise the time, risk, and stress would have been avoided by engaging a professional from the outset.
Financial advice isn’t about complexity. It’s about creating a strategy tailored to your life, with someone in your corner to keep you accountable and confident, especially when life throws you off track.
In a world full of noise and competing priorities, advice offers something rare: clarity, control, and peace of mind.
And when you consider what’s really at stake, your lifestyle, your security, your future — the real question isn’t can you afford to get advice?
It’s... can you afford not to?
Friday 20th June
Crochet & Conversation
9am
Join a welcoming morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation with Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. All skill levels welcome—just look for the yarn to find the table. Connection and creativity guaranteed.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant
Free Friday Guided Walks
10am
Join a Friday Guided Walk at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and discover the unique plants and features of this beautiful space. Led by experienced Gardens Guides, the walks run every Friday (excluding public holidays) from 10am to 11am at a relaxed pace. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre opposite the café. Don’t forget your hat, water bottle and comfy shoes. A free and informative outing for nature lovers.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy LIVE music every Friday at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International
Bob’s Your Auntie
7.30pm – 20-21 June
Bob’s Your Auntie” is a cheeky cross-dressing comedy where secrets, stilettos, and a suspicious lotto ticket collide. When Bob lands in a tight spot, a pair of heels and a hastily invented ‘auntie’ become his only way out. Expect laughs, lashes, and plenty of leg.
Kucom Theatre
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
7.30pm - 20-22 June
Get ready for a hilarious, heartwarming, and high-energy musical that’s taken audiences by storm! Join six quirky kids as they compete for the spelling championship of a lifetime—sharing laugh-out-loud stories, facing made-up words, and hoping to avoid the dreaded "ding" of elimination. With catchy songs, witty dialogue, and a touch of audience participation, this award-winning show is one unforgettable ride! Winner of the Tony & Drama Desk Awards for Best Book Directed by Emma Goding Don't miss the fun, spelling has never been this entertaining! Book your tickets via cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com
Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music, Ooralea
Saturday 21st June
High Tide Festival - Mackay
1pm
High Tide Festival returns to Bluewater Quay for a celebration of beer, food, and live music on the banks of the Pioneer River. This free, all-ages event features performances by Brad Butcher, Heath and Leyon Milner, Brendan Radford and more, alongside a line-up of local and international brewers.
Bluewater Quay
The Harbour Moon Market
3.30pm
Soak up the sunset at the Harbour Moon Markets on 21 June, set on the grass in front of the surf lifesaving club. Enjoy handmade local goods, face painting, meat raffles and more. Book a table at the restaurant or bring a blanket for a relaxed family afternoon by the sea.
Mackay Harbour
Family Boogie Night
5.30pm
Get ready to hit the dance floor at Family Boogie Night on Saturday 21 June. This all-ages, drug and alcohol-free event offers a fun evening of music, games, and connection. Bring your own dinner or enjoy a sausage sizzle—everyone’s welcome, no matter your style or age. Let the boogie begin.
Andergrove Community Hall
Catherine McAuley College Mystery Dinner
6pm
Step into Shakespearean Verona for an evening of intrigue at Catherine McAuley College’s Murder Mystery Masquerade Ball. Guests will enjoy a three-course meal, live entertainment and a dramatic twist—murder is afoot. Dress in disguise, don a mask, and prepare for a night where nothing is quite as it seems. 18+ event.
239 Nebo Road
Sunday 22nd June
CASA Sunday BBQ
11am
Everyone’s welcome at CASA’s weekly sausage sizzle, held every Sunday at the Blue Water Quay BBQ area. Enjoy a free bite to eat, connect with others, and bring a friend along for a relaxed and friendly start to your Sunday. Just bring a smile—everything else is sorted.
Blue Water Quay
Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel
Mackay Country & Western Club Family Afternoon
1.30pm
New artists are welcome, with a band available to provide backing for those who wish to perform. The event commences at 1.30pm, with an admission fee of $5. Everyone is welcome. For more information, contact Charlie on 0408 776 564.
Senior Citizens Hall, Macalister Street, Mackay
Monday 23rd June
Mackay NAIDOC Community Committee Meeting
12.30pm
The Mackay NAIDOC Management Committee invites all community members to attend the upcoming NAIDOC Community Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Community Centre. This is an opportunity to connect, contribute ideas, and support the planning of this year’s NAIDOC celebrations. Everyone is welcome.
Jubilee Community Centre
Tuesday 24th June
Northern Beaches Community Playgroup – Hall Session
9am
Enjoy a morning of play and connection at Northern Beaches Community Hall. Special guests include a Child Health Nurse offering weigh and measure checks—bring your red book. Activities start at 9:15am with crafts, sensory play, and storytime. A $3 donation per family supports consumables; children under 12 months attend free. Remember to bring hats, water, sunscreen, and morning tea. Membership with Play Matters and arrival check-in are required. Families are responsible for their children at all times.
Northern Beaches Community Hall
Thursday 26th June
Mackay Get It Together - Better Housing Together
10.30am
Better Together Housing supports women over 55 exploring shared housing options. Gatherings offer casual meet-ups, connection, and occasional guest speakers. Join the Mackay Get-it-together for coffee and conversation. Register to attend or contact Project Worker Lauren at 0419 179 495 or lauren@gwcommunities.org.au. More info is available on the Better Together Housing website.
Gordan White Library
A man in his 30s is in critical condition after being shot in the shoulder at a rural property in Devereux Creek, west of Mackay.
Police and emergency services were called to the scene on Devil’s Pool Road shortly before 10:30am.
Upon arrival, officers found the man with a gunshot wound and he was quickly transported to Mackay Base Hospital. A Queensland Ambulance spokesperson confirmed the injuries were life-threatening.
Authorities have assured there is no immediate threat to the public. Investigations are ongoing, with no further details released at the time of publication.
When people need something important done, something that really matters, they tend not to simply find out who offers the cheapest quote and go with that option.
If someone owns a classic car, for example, you will never hear them do a ring-around of mechanics or spray painter shops to see who is the cheapest.
A conversation you’ll never hear at a pub: “Hey fellas you know that beautiful 1968 HK GTS Monaro of mine that I’ve had forever, well it needs a paint job and I rang around and found someone who’ll do it for hundreds of dollars less than everyone else. Booked it straight in.”
When a professional sportsman has a knee injury their focus is not on arranging the cheapest surgeon to do the job.
Matildas captain Sam Kerr injured her knee a while back and this was not the conversation at the time.
Matildas football manager: “Sam, we’ve rung around and we’ve found a really cheap orthopedic surgeon in Mt Isa who reckons he can get you in for surgery next week. It’ll be thousands of dollars cheaper than the other options.”
Sam: “Sounds great, book me in.”
That conversation will never happen because the team and the player know there is a price to pay for going with the cheapest option.
It’s not how much you pay, it’s how much it hurts the player and the club to go with someone who is not going to create the best possible result.
It’s the same for the owner of the HK Monaro. The car is too important for the cheapest option and you will probably lose money in the end.
Which is why it’s so odd that, in real estate, you will often get a call along these lines: “Gidday mate, I’m planning to sell my house and I’m just ringing real estate agencies to see who can offer me the best deal. What’s your commission?”
Now I know that the cost is important. Agents get paid well and the cost of commission is absolutely something that a seller needs to factor in. There is no reason for someone to charge over-the-top commission that’s higher than everyone else. That’s a rip-off.
Agents have to justify their commission, produce a result that means the investment in commission is a good one.
The truth is that the person who does a ring-around to find the cheapest agent, usually ends up with the person who has one trick up their sleeve; low commission. A bit like the cheap spray painter and the cheap surgeon. Not very good but cheaper than everyone else.
And the problem is that saving money at the start can cost you in the end. You can save $1000 on commission but lose $30,000 on the sale price because the stupid agent didn’t know how to create competition for your property and negotiate the best price.
Good work by the agent can produce a result that means the difference in commission between that agent and the cheaper one is not only irrelevant but completely justified.
I recently sold a three-bedroom, one bathroom house in Beaconsfield with no pool and no shed for $590,000 after getting 38 groups of buyers at the open house and receiving eight offers on the property.
The sellers were hoping for something in the low $500,000s and comparable sales reflected that expectation.
The thing is that the sellers were not thinking about whether my commission was $1000 higher than someone cheaper, they were thinking about the result.
I know I am not the only agent to get better-than-expected results in this market and I mention this one, not to brag, but to simply illustrate that cheaper isn’t always better.
Well, maybe to brag a bit. Oh, shut up! At least I didn’t start off with it!
The closure of the Caneland Central Post Office has sparked confusion and disbelief across the region, with residents and community leaders describing the move as short-sighted and totally unfair.
Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox said he was advised the branch will shut its doors on 18 July, without any public consultation or clear reasoning from Australia Post.
“We don’t have an explanation, but it’s a decision made by some faceless, nameless person down south who doesn’t understand the impact this will have on local residents,” Mr Willcox said.
“The people most affected are the most vulnerable – our elderly, people with disabilities, young people without transport. We don’t have the public transport networks like the city. People down south just don’t get it.”
He said his office had already received dozens of calls and emails from concerned locals.
“This is more than just a post office, it’s a vital service for the community of Mackay and
surrounds.
“For many locals, especially older residents and those who are living with a disability, it’s their only practical way to access mail, pay bills, and stay connected,” he said.
“This is another attack on rural and regional Australia, and it’s simply not good enough.”
Long-time Mackay local Margaret Edwards, who represents a local seniors group with over 400 members, said many people had reached out to her in frustration.
“Mums and bubs, people with disabilities — they’re all affected by this closure,” she said.
“Canelands is the biggest shopping centre in the Mackay region — I’m sure of that — and now it won’t have a post office? It makes no sense.”
“Transport’s a big issue. Not everyone has a car. You’re talking taxis, buses, Uber, community transport — that’s an extra cost to them, or to us, the taxpayers.”
“I buy things there, post things there — now I’ve got to go somewhere else. It’s disgraceful. The worst decision anyone could’ve made.”
The sudden decision to close the Caneland Central Post Office on 18 July has been slammed as “disgraceful,” with locals and leaders outraged over the lack of consultation and the impact on Mackay’s most vulnerable residents. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
By Cr Heath Paton
As a councillor, who was born and raised here in Mackay, it is important to me to not only aid in the growth of our region but also protect and promote our vast catalogue of past accomplishments.
Mackay has such a wealth of history and accolades, and it’s imperative for a region to acknowledge the pillars of our community.
Scattered throughout our footprint are numerous monuments and plaques commemorating events and people who helped shape our community.
It’s no secret that Mackay has a very strong military representation throughout our history and undoubtedly Jubilee Park is perhaps the centrepiece of this history. The park is home to the heritage-listed World War I Cenotaph with monuments for World War II, the 2nd/12th Infantry Battalion and National Serviceman’s Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial and the ANZAC Walk, which displays images from World War I to present day.
It’s exciting to note that Mackay Regional Council are now currently working with Mackay RSL subbranch to create another monument in Jubilee Park, this time to commemorate the veterans who served in the Australian Defence Force from 1975 onwards.
These memorials and plaques at Jubilee Park are more than monuments, they are an opportunity to reflect, educate and bolster community pride.
It’s crucial as a community that we honour those who served for us, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation and fellow countrymen.
These historical touchstones link the past to the present and offer opportunities to remember and pay respect – not only on days of great significance such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day.
Through this collaborative effort we are looking forward to delivering a timeless and fitting monument that our community can be proud of.
Mackay’s Careers Expo is back for its third year, offering an extraordinary opportunity for school leavers, recent graduates, and career-changers to gain invaluable insights into potential career paths.
Held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Thursday 7 August, this free event is a must-attend for anyone looking to launch a new career, upskill, or transition 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, with 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.
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.
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.
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.
This event is more than just a career expo; it’s a gateway to your future.
For more information, visit careersevent.com and click on Mackay Careers Expo.
What: Mackay Careers Expo
When: Thursday 7th August
Where: Mackay Showgrounds
Admission: FREE
Hi there,
Hope you’re keeping well and enjoying this crisp, cool breeze while it lasts…because let’s be honest, we’ll all be complaining about the humidity again soon!
Did you make it to the show and grab a classic Dagwood dog or a showbag or two?
I popped in on Tuesday, bundled up in a warm coat and boots, bracing for the mud – but to my surprise it wasn’t too bad!
On page 10, you’ll find a beautiful story that reflects what makes our region so special – locals looking after each other, always ready to lend a hand.
And on page 28, I was thrilled to include a mention of local author Kaaren Sephton, who I had the pleasure of interviewing recently. Her book Shining a Light: Women of Mackay, beautifully honours the remarkable women who helped shape our region – many of whom history deemed ‘invisible.’
What stays with me each day is a deep sense of gratitude. So let this be your reminder to pause when you can, enjoy the simple things in life, and never take a single day for granted.
For me, it’s a quiet moment with coffee in hand, or a burst of laughter shared with my husband at the end of a long day.
And if today feels heavy, and you're struggling to find something to be thankful for - remember, that simply waking up this morning is a gift.
Cherish every moment while you can.
“Let all that you do be done in love” – 1 Corinthians 16:14
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The first humpback whales of the season were sighted on Friday 6th June, breaching between Penitecost Island and Suprise Rock, just south of Whitsunday and Hamilton Islands
It’s exciting and we are privileged to have them visit our waters to court, mate, give birth and rear their calves. This is why the Whitsundays are a Whale Heritage Area.
The whales have to rely on their energy reserves until they return to their feeding ground in the Antarctic. Mothers will already loose a third of their body weight producing milk, feeding and protecting their calf. If they loose too much weight by not resting enough, both the health of the mother and calf can be compromised.
It’s important to their continued survival that their ‘nurseries’ are free from any harassment.
Everyone using the waters of the Marine Park, have a responsibility to help protect whales and dolphins and to keep safe distances from them.
Interactions are on the whales terms and it’s possible to have amazing experiences still following the regulations.
Anywhere in the GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK
🐋Prohibited vessels (i.e. jetskis, parasails, hovercraft, hydrofoils, wing-in-ground effect craft and motorised diving aids such as underwater scooters) must not approach closer than ‘300 metres’ to a whale or dolphin.
🐋No vessels can approach within 300 metres of a calf.
🐋Whales and dolphins must not be approached within 30 degrees in front or behind.
When in the WHITSUNDAY WHALE PROTECTION AREA there are some additional rules in relation to whales.
The boundary of the WHALE PROTECTION AREA is the dashed line, which has been highlighted in yellow on the zoning map, or the darker blue area on the other map.
🐋A vessel must not approach closer than ‘300 metres’ to a whale.
🐋Negligible wake within ‘500 metres’ to a whale.
🐋A helicopter must not approach below 2000 feet or within 1000 metres of a whale.
If you are unsure of the Whale Protection Area boundary, please pick up a zoning map from a Marina office.
If you see anyone doing the wrong thing please take photos of the vessel and registration, and report all Marine Park regulation offences to 1800 380 048
or via the Reef Authority website by completing an incident report form:
https://www2.gbrmpa.gov.au/help/report-an-incident
To find out more about special whale events and information on whales in the Whitsundays, join the WHALES OF THE WHITSUNDAYS Facebook page; or go to https://www.whitsundaymarine.org/projects
Contributed by Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays
We have a range of free and exciting children’s activities across our regional libraries for the upcoming school holidays! From craft workshops to storytelling and everything in between,
there’s something for kids of all ages!
Libraries are the perfect place to relax, have fun, and stay connect during the holidays - and membership is always free!
For more information, head to Whitsunday Regional Libraries website.
Hi Everyone,
Ruth 2 Reef is back after a short break, and I’m thrilled to bring you a special edition packed with exciting environmental stories.
During the pause, I had the incredible opportunity to take part in the Coral Nurture Program which is a brilliant initiative dedicated to coral restoration. Last Sunday, therefore, I spent the day scuba diving and planting new coral on the Great Barrier Reef alongside an amazing team. It was a real pinch me moment, and you can read all about the experience on page 25 of this issue.
In other exciting news, the first whale sightings of the season have been reported right here in the Whitsundays, And if you’re curious about the underwater world, the Whitsunday Conservation Council is sharing fascinating insights into the mating strategies of reef fish.
For those eager to learn even more about the sea, one of my biggest inspirations, David Attenborough, has just released a brand new documentary called Oceans — a fantastic and eye-opening watch!
Happy reading,
Ruth
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