Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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For FMS Group, some of the best innovations begin with a simple question: why has it always been done this way?
That mindset has driven a 20-year commitment to finding safer and more efficient ways to tackle complex mining maintenance and shutdown work, and has now earned FMS Group the Austmine Innovation (METS) Award at the recent 2026 Queensland Mining Awards.
The impressive accolade recognises FMS Group’s Dipper Skid and Hoist Rope Install Jig, an innovation developed by its frontline teams to address a high-risk task on electric shovels.
Until recently, changing a hoist rope required a live shovel and a crane working alongside the equipment. FMS Group developed a pneumatic jig, dipper counterweight and skid mechanism that allows hoist ropes to be replaced without using a crane or powering up the equipment.
Following trials across six shutdowns, the method reduced downtime by two to three days while eliminating the hazard associated with the previous process.
It is a practical example of how FMS Group approaches continuous improvement: operational teams identify challenges through their experience in the field, while engineering and technical teams develop the methodology, testing and design required to make the solution safe and workable.
But much of that work happens long before a shutdown begins.
FMS Group’s projects can involve crews of 18 to 80 employees, large cranes, specialised jacking equipment, line boring and machining gear, and purpose-built jigs and tooling. Detailed planning, project methodologies, equipment mobilisationand careful scheduling are essential when multiple work fronts are operating simultaneously.
Safety sits at the centre of that process. FMS Group’s supervisors and leadership teams manage execution risk, coordinate work fronts and maintain close communication with clients. The company has also invested in supervisor development, recognising that strong leadership is fundamental to building a strong safety culture.
The award-winning innovation follows this same philosophy. Importantly, it was not developed in response to an injury, but to address a task with the potential for a catastrophic incident.
Other FMS engineering developments have similarly focused on reducing crane interactions and improving control of high-risk tasks, while also targeting shutdown efficiencies. In some applications, these improvements can save 24 to 48 hours at the end of a shutdown while electrical and systems commissioning is completed.
For FMS Group, the Austmine recognition is a significant milestone, and one the team says it is still taking in.
Ultimately, the award reinforces what has driven the company for two decades: combining frontline experience, engineering capability and client collaboration to challenge established methods and find safer ways forward.
FMS Group remains committed to improving, questioning established methods and, above all, ensuring everyone gets home safely.
fms-group.com.au
Kittens may steal the spotlight, but adult cats like Violet and Aggie have plenty of love to give and are waiting for a second chance through Mackay Pet Rescue.
Many adult cats enter care through no fault of their own after losing their homes. Foster carers provide a safe, loving environment while getting to know each cat’s personality, quirks and needs.
With patience and stability, even frightened cats can learn to trust and feel safe.
Adult cats can make wonderful companions, often offering calmer personalities and plenty of affection.
If you can provide Violet, Aggie or another adult cat with a loving forever home, contact Mackay Pet Rescue Inc to arrange a meet and greet.
Women’s Health Week is coming to Mackay — and everyone is invited.
Women are very good at looking after others. We support our families, manage work and home, and keep everything moving. But when it comes to our own health, it is easy to say, “I’ll get to that later.”
Women’s Health Week gives us a reason to change that.
Running from 7–11 September, Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week is Australia’s largest event dedicated to women’s health and wellbeing. This year’s theme, “Do it anyway,” encourages women to take small, realistic steps towards better health.
Looking after yourself does not have to mean overhauling your life. Sometimes it starts with moving your body, asking an awkward question, learning what is normal, or understanding changes through different stages of life.
That is exactly what we hope to create here in Mackay.
For Women’s Health Week, Women’s Health Physio Mackay is running a week of FREE community events, designed to empower, educate and connect.
Monday begins with our Free Fit Floor to Core pelvic floor exercise class and morning tea, celebrating two years of bringing these free classes to our community.
Tuesday morning, I’ll be at The Mum Hub for All Things Abdominal Separation, offering tummy checks, education and a relaxed chat about abdominal recovery.
Tuesday evening is All Things Periods, followed by All Things Menopause on Wednesday evening. Dr Nicole Higgins from Health on Central, Women’s Health & Pelvic Floor physiotherapist Lauren Neill, naturopath Jody Walker, Life in Motion exercise physiologists and women’s health massage therapist Sari will share their knowledge and answer questions women often do not get the opportunity to ask.
We finish Thursday with Healthier Parents exercise class, combining movement, connection and socialising for postnatal mums.
Why does this matter? Because good health information matters. Women’s Health Week creates conversations, helps reduce stigma and encourages women to take action for their health. Just as importantly, health education should be accessible, trustworthy and evidence-based.
Something powerful happens when we bring health education out of consulting rooms and into our community. Questions become easier to ask, women connect, and knowledge gives us confidence to advocate for our health.
So this Women’s Health Week, put yourself on the list. Bring your mum, sister or a friend. Come for a class, conversation or to learn something new.
Every event is FREE, but bookings are essential. Visit our Book Now page, pop into the clinic or call us to secure your free spot.
Your health is worth making time for.
One of the greatest challenges business owners face isn't a lack of passion, expertise or commitment, it's perspective.
When you've built a business from the ground up, it's easy to assume your customers see it the same way you do. You know your history, your values, your products and the countless hours you've invested to get where you are today. But your customers don't have that context. They make decisions based on what they see, hear and experience in a matter of moments.
That's where many businesses unknowingly lose opportunities.
Over time, marketing can become reactive. Websites are updated, social media is posted, brochures are redesigned, and campaigns are launched, but often without stepping back to ask a simple question: Is this really communicating what makes us different?
The reality is that the most valuable insights often come from someone looking at your business from the outside.
An experienced marketing strategist doesn't simply review your logo or critique your advertising. They challenge assumptions, uncover blind spots and ask the questions that business owners are often too immersed in the day-to-day to consider. They view your business through the eyes of your customers, identify what's working, what's missing and, more importantly, what opportunities exist to strengthen your market position.
That's the thinking behind Squeeze, redhotblue's premium one-on-one marketing workshop.
Over three focused hours, Founding Director Jody Euler and Creative Director Scott Turner work directly with business owners and leadership teams to untangle the complexities of their marketing. Drawing on decades of strategic and creative experience, they explore how your business is perceived in the marketplace, define clear marketing objectives, identify what motivates your ideal audience and develop practical recommendations that strengthen your competitive advantage.
It's three hours away from the distractions of running your business, giving you the time and space to think differently. Together we'll explore your brand, challenge ideas, identify opportunities and leave you with practical direction you can confidently put into action.
Whether you're preparing for a rebrand, entering a new market, planning a major campaign or simply wanting to ensure your marketing is working as hard as you are, Squeeze provides something that's difficult to achieve from within your own business, a fresh perspective.
Because sometimes the biggest opportunity for growth isn't changing your business.
It's changing the way the world sees it and more importantly your potential customers.
Jody Euler and Scott Turner
redhotblue
Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo Source: Shutterstock
Graziers across the Mirani electorate now have access to an expanded free cattle dip testing service aimed at helping producers manage chemical resistance in cattle ticks and protect the health of their herds.
Under the initiative, producers can collect free dip test kits from Department of Primary Industries (DPI) offices in Mackay and Rockhampton or through participating local chemical suppliers. Samples can then be returned to DPI offices during business hours for testing.
The testing program forms part of a broader range of cattle tick management measures being delivered by the Queensland Government, including work undertaken at the DPI's Queensland Tick Fever Centre, which produces and supplies the only vaccine available in Australia to protect cattle against tick fever.
The State government has also announced plans to increase the number of biosecurity officers across the state. According to the government, 40 officers have already been appointed as part of a commitment to recruit 100 officers during the current term.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly said cattle producers are being assisted to meet their general biosecurity obligations, ensure their treatment is best practice and strengthen protections for graziers across the whole state.
“This free service offered by the local DPI team will make it easier for Mirani graziers to ensure their chemical levels are within the recommended ranges while also providing quick and reliable results.
“By maintaining correct chemical levels in their dips, producers give themselves the most cost-effective method for controlling cattle ticks and, importantly, they also reduce their risk of creating chemical resistance in cattle ticks on their properties.”
For more information about the new counter service or to learn how to prepare or submit a sample, contact the DPI on 13 25 23 or visit the DPI website.
What Does Reef Side Buyers Agent Do?
Reef Side Buyers Agent works exclusively for the buyer — not the seller.
We help people buying homes, investment properties and holiday homes across the Whitsundays, Mackay and surrounding North Queensland areas.
From search to settlement, we help our clients find the right property, assess it properly, understand what it is worth, avoid potential issues and negotiate with confidence.
For buyers who don't live locally, we can also be their eyes and ears on the ground — helping them understand the property and the local market before making a major decision.
Our job is simple: represent the buyer and protect their interests throughout the purchase.
Who Are We?
We are Tyson and Rachael Griffiths, the people behind Reef Side Buyers Agent.
We're a local family raising our young family here in North Queensland, with more than 20 years of experience across building, housing, property and business.
That background gives us a practical approach to buying property. We don't just look at the listing — we look at the property, the numbers, the location and whether it actually suits what the buyer is trying to achieve.
We work with local buyers, investors, families relocating to the region and interstate buyers who want someone local representing them.
Buying in the Whitsundays or Mackay? Have someone on your side.
Reef Side Buyers Agent
0403 353 944
info@reefsidebuyersagent.com.au
reefsidebuyersagent.com.au
Two people have been identified as suspected of illegal building activity by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) following a three-day compliance operation across Mackay construction sites.
QBCC officers carried out 117 licence checks at 45 active sites as part of the campaign, which was aimed at checking licensing requirements and compliance within the local building industry.
The regulator said investigations were continuing into two cases. One person was alleged to have carried out building work without the required licence, while another was potentially engaging an unlicensed contractor.
A site was also found to have signage that did not meet requirements. The licensee received a warning and further information about their legislative responsibilities.
QBCC CEO and Commissioner Angelo Lambrinos said the regulator sought to educate licensees while taking action where necessary.
“Queensland’s building and construction industry is built on trust, professionalism and accountability,” Mr Lambrinos said.
He said most licensees were meeting their obligations, with compliance audits of active sites during 2025-26 recording unlicensed offending at just over one per cent.
“By conducting these audits, our officers play a critical role in identifying and addressing noncompliance, ensuring building works are being delivered to standards so that Queenslanders can feel confident about the people they hire.”
Mr Lambrinos said the QBCC would continue to focus on education and early intervention, while responding firmly to serious or repeated breaches.
“We prioritise early engagement and education, but we also take firm action on repeat or serious non-compliance.”
The Nationals are seeking to repeal recently introduced federal firearms laws and the proposed National Gun Buyback Scheme, with Dawson MP Andrew Willcox supporting the Bill in Parliament. Photo supplied
The Nationals are seeking changes to recently introduced federal firearms legislation, with a Bill to repeal the laws and abolish the Federal Government’s proposed National Gun Buyback Scheme being introduced in Parliament this week.
Nationals MP and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud is introducing the Firearms Legislation Amendment (Repealing Unfair Gun Laws) Bill 2026, which is being seconded by Federal Member for Dawson MP Andrew Willcox.
The proposed legislation would seek to reverse federal firearms and importation laws passed by Parliament earlier this year and end the proposed buyback scheme.
Mr Willcox said the legislation unfairly affected licensed firearms owners and questioned whether the proposed buyback would address illegal firearms.
“The people who will comply with this buyback are the same people who already follow the law, licensed firearm owners with registered firearms.”
“Does the Prime Minister seriously believe criminals are going to line up and hand their weapons in?”
Mr Willcox also raised concerns about the potential cost to taxpayers and the impact on regional communities, particularly farmers who use firearms for property management and feral pest control.
“This isn't just an issue for firearm owners. Every Australian taxpayer is being asked to foot the bill for a scheme that is unlikely to get illegal firearms out of the hands of criminals.”
He said the Nationals would continue to advocate for responsible, law-abiding firearms owners and welcomed Queensland’s decision not to participate in the proposed Federal scheme.
“It is great to see the Queensland Government standing strong and refusing to join Labor’s scheme.”
The Nationals’ Bill is backed by a petition with more than 71,000 signatures calling for the firearms laws to be repealed.
The proposed national buyback has not been adopted by all states and territories. Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and the Northern Territory have not signed on to the national scheme, while New South Wales and the ACT have committed to it. Tasmania and Western Australia have pursued separate state-based arrangements.
The Bill is expected to be considered by the House of Representatives this week.
By Cr Heath Paton
As someone who lives on acreage and keeps both parrots and poultry, the growing spread of H5 avian influenza across Australia is more than just another headline. Like many bird owners, I watch reports of the virus with a mix of concern and hope, knowing how much we value the health and wellbeing of our animals. While Australia's poultry industry remains free of the disease, the increasing number of detections in wild birds serves as a timely reminder that vigilance is essential.
Australian authorities are continuing to monitor the spread of H5 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, after 231 detections were confirmed in wild birds across the country (at the time of writing this).
The majority of cases have been recorded in South Australia, where 163 detections have been reported. Victoria has recorded 53 cases, followed by Western Australia with 10, New South Wales with four and Queensland with one. Importantly, there have been no detections of the virus in poultry or Australia's agricultural production systems.
Experts have confirmed evidence of local transmission among wild bird populations in South Australia and Victoria. A significant mass mortality event involving wild birds has also been reported in South Australia, reflecting patterns seen internationally as the H5 strain becomes established in wild bird populations.
Authorities say that while the virus is spreading among wildlife, Australia's poultry industry remains free from infection and strong biosecurity measures continue to protect commercial and backyard flocks.
As the disease becomes more widespread, national surveillance and reporting methods are changing. Rather than focusing on individual bird detections, reporting will increasingly concentrate on investigations, significant mortality events, affected species and disease trends over time. Officials say this approach will provide a more accurate picture of how the virus is spreading and evolving.
Members of the public are still being urged to report unusual wildlife illness or deaths. Reports are assessed according to risk and may trigger investigations and testing where necessary.
Health authorities have reassured Australians that the current risk to people remains low. Human infections with this strain of H5 bird flu are rare, no cases have been recorded in Australia and there is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Community members who encounter sick or dead birds are advised not to touch them. Instead, they should record details such as the location and species involved, if known, and report multiple sick or dead birds or other wildlife to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Further updates, fact sheets and biosecurity information are available through the national bird flu information website, birdflu.gov.au.
For bird owners, farmers and wildlife lovers alike, the spread of H5 bird flu is a reminder of the importance of biosecurity, early reporting and protecting the animals that play such an important role in our lives and communities.
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Glenella Care residents have grown a thriving community garden with help from staff and a generous donation from Bunnings North Mackay. Photos supplied
A community garden at Respect’s Glenella Care Banksia Wing has gone from a simple pergola area to a thriving patch of greenery, thanks to the efforts of residents, staff and a generous donation from Bunnings North Mackay.
Over the past nine months, residents have worked to establish the garden after the pergola was completed late last year.
Residents put together a wish list of what they wanted to grow, with the team at Bunnings North Mackay responding by donating planter boxes, soil, tools, gloves, hats and a range of plants.
The donation included citrus trees, a passionfruit vine, gerberas, lavender, as well as fruit and vegetable seedlings including tomatoes, corn, peas and strawberries.
The project was led by the social care team, who worked alongside residents and Bunnings to bring the garden to life. During the planting day, residents got their hands in the soil, potting up plants and cuttings.
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Resident Paul said the results were already making an impression.
“It’s bloody good, all the veggies and strawberries are fantastic. I hope they grow well.”
Joy said she was looking forward to seeing the garden continue to develop.
“I can’t wait to see how it grows, we have our first flowers on the lemon tree and they smell great.”
For Rose, the garden has added another special touch to her favourite outdoor space.
“it’s a great addition to our outdoor pergola area. I love it and can’t wait to see everything grow.”
The garden will also benefit the wider Glenella Care community, with produce grown on site to be sold to staff and families during regular market days and in the home.
All proceeds will go back into the garden fund to support future planting.
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Glenella Care General Manager Debbie Vukasinovic said the contribution from Bunnings North Mackay had made a noticeable difference to the outdoor area.
“Bunnings North Mackay have really brought life to the outdoor area. A big thank you to the team for their contribution, our residents are very happy.
“We also look forward to the workshops that Bunnings plan to run with our residents over the coming months as part of our social care activity calendar.
“This type of collaboration is what makes aged care communities as special as they are.”
The project is another example of the community connections that can help bring local initiatives to life, with Bunnings North Mackay’s contribution giving residents the resources to create something they can continue to enjoy and care for together.
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Postie Bike Safari riders hit the road from Mackay on Saturday 15th August, embarking on a 2000-kilometre journey through outback Queensland while raising funds for Childhood Cancer Support. Photo source: Postie Bike Safari
A group of 56 riders hit the road from Mackay last Saturday, kicking off a week-long journey through outback Queensland, with the annual Postie Bike Safari set to surpass $1 million in total funds raised for charity.
Now in its 14th year, the Postie Bike Safari will see riders travel more than 2000 kilometres on postie bikes, supported by 12 vehicles, while raising funds for Queensland charity Childhood Cancer Support.
The event began in 2013 when organiser Greg Becke and his workmates brought together friends for their first charity ride.
“What started with 13 bikes and a simple idea has since grown into a passionate annual ride involving dozens of riders and raising over $1,000,000 for charity,” Greg said.
“In the past five years alone, the Safari has raised $620,000 for Childhood Cancer Support.”
The riders departed from Consolidated Plastics in Paget on Saturday 15th August, before travelling through small towns and rural communities across outback North Queensland.
For 50 years, Childhood Cancer Support has provided free accommodation, transport and support services to regional families travelling for childhood cancer treatment.
Mr Becke said meeting families supported by the charity had strengthened the riders’ commitment to their annual journey.
“I’m so proud of what a small group of passionate bike riders has managed to accomplish over the past 14 years,” said Greg.
“We pay for our own fuel, food and accommodation, and give up a week of work, but the generosity we receive along the way makes it all worthwhile. In the past few years, we have seen so many brave children, spoken to their mums and dads, and learned the hardship they face so far from home.
“We do it all for these families and when we see the smiles on the kids’ faces and talk to the mums and dads, it makes all the dusty bumpy roads and breakdowns worth it.”
The Safari will conclude in Mackay on Saturday 22nd August, with riders, families and supporters gathering at the Farview Tavern in Farleigh for an auction and celebration dinner.
The event has become a major annual fundraiser, with riders covering their own costs so that funds raised can go directly towards supporting families affected by childhood cancer.
With the cumulative fundraising total expected to pass the $1 million milestone this year, Mr Becke said the achievement reflected the generosity of communities along the route and the commitment of everyone involved.
To learn more about the initiative or donate to support the cause, visit fundraise.ccs.org.au/event/postie-bike-safari.
Mackay Regional Council will undertake a major clean-up and install surveillance equipment at Illawong Drive as part of a crackdown on illegal dumping across the region. Photo supplied
Mackay Regional Council is stepping up its fight against illegal dumping following a concerning increase in reports of waste being abandoned across the region.
A major clean-up and surveillance operation will be carried out at Illawong Drive in the coming weeks, with heavy machinery to be used to remove large volumes of illegally dumped waste.
The operation comes after Council responded to more than 560 reports of illegal dumping over the past 12 months, resulting in more than 545 kilolitres of waste being removed from the natural environment.
Mackay Mayor Williamson said the amount of waste being dumped across the region was alarming.
"To put that figure into perspective, 545 kilolitres is the equivalent of about 2270 household wheelie bins worth of waste being dumped across our region," Mayor Williamson said.
"Illegal dumping damages our environment, impacts the amenity of our communities and places an unnecessary financial burden on ratepayers.”
Individuals caught illegally dumping waste can face on-the-spot fines of up to $3454, while corporations can be fined up to $12,952.
Council will also install a range of surveillance measures at Illawong Drive and other known dumping hotspots, including night vision cameras, in an effort to identify and deter offenders.
"If people think they can dump rubbish under the cover of darkness and get away with it, they should think again," Mayor Williamson said.
"We will be installing surveillance equipment, including night vision cameras, and we will continue working with authorities to identify and prosecute offenders wherever possible."
Residents are also being reminded that Council provides alternatives for those needing to dispose of eligible waste, including waste vouchers which allow households to dispose of certain waste free of charge at Council waste facilities.
Council allocates approximately $750,000 each year towards providing the vouchers.
Mayor Williamson said residents had no excuse to dump waste illegally.
"Council provides a range of legal disposal options, including waste vouchers, to help residents dispose of waste responsibly," he said.
"Those who choose to illegally dump rubbish are not only harming the environment, they're shifting the cost of clean-up onto the broader community.
"Every item that is dumped illegally has to be investigated, collected and disposed of, and the cost of that work is ultimately borne by taxpayers and ratepayers rather than the people responsible."
Residents are encouraged to report suspected illegal dumping or abandoned waste to help Council identify problem areas and pursue offenders.
"Council is committed to investigating illegal dumping, but we need the community's assistance," he said.
"If you witness illegal dumping or come across dumped waste, please report it through Snap Send Solve or contact council on 1300 MACKAY."
It has been a significant week for Mackay, with the future of Mackay Base Hospital taking a major step forward and Queensland Road Safety Week reminding us of the responsibility we all share to keep each other safe.
The Queensland Government has unveiled the long-term masterplan for Mackay Base Hospital, providing a clear pathway for how our hospital will grow to meet the future needs of Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday.
Premier David Crisafulli, Health Minister Tim Nicholls, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and I were pleased to outline the masterplan and confirm what will be delivered as part of Stage One.
Stage One will deliver at least 128 new overnight beds, expanded emergency, maternity, birthing, surgical, endoscopy, neonatal and paediatric services, as well as a new Mackay Birth Centre.
It will also deliver more than 1,000 additional car parks and a rooftop helipad, addressing two issues that have been regularly raised with me by hospital staff, patients and local families.
Major construction is expected to begin in 2027 following detailed design and contractor procurement, with Stage One scheduled for completion by 2030.
Importantly, work is already happening, including recommissioning the hospital's on-site helipad and delivering a temporary 80-space fleet car park.
For me, this announcement is about giving Mackay a genuine long-term plan for our hospital.
Our region continues to grow and Mackay Base Hospital provides critical healthcare not only to our city, but to communities right across the wider region.
Mackay deserves quality healthcare close to home, and this masterplan gives us a clear pathway to build the capacity and services our community will need into the future.
While we welcome this investment in healthcare, this week is also Queensland Road Safety Week, running from 17 to 21 August.
It is a timely reminder that keeping people safe isn't just about having quality healthcare available when something goes wrong. We all have a responsibility to help prevent tragedies in the first place.
The Fatal Five dangerous driving behaviours remain speeding, drink and drug driving, failing to wear a seatbelt, fatigue and driver distraction.
Whether you're travelling across Mackay, heading along the Bruce Highway or simply driving a few streets home, a momentary decision can have lifelong consequences.
So please slow down, buckle up, put the phone away, never drive impaired and stop for a rest when you're tired.
Nigel Dalton MP
Member for Mackay
Community members and local representatives gathered at the Council Chambers last Monday to reinforce the importance of road safety during Queensland Road Safety Week. Photos supplied.
Road safety took centre stage at the Mackay Regional Council lawns last Monday 17th August as local leaders, police and community organisations came together to launch Queensland Road Safety Week.
Held at the Council Chambers on Gordon Street, the event brought together Queensland Road Accident Action Group (RAAG), Treadwell Tyres, Mackay Regional Council, Star FM and other community representatives to promote safer behaviour on the region’s roads.
Mayor Greg Williamson was in attendance and spoke about the importance of road safety in the region, highlighting the need for the community to work together to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities.
RAAG Admin and Grant Coordinator Tracey Costello said the volunteer organisation focused on supporting committees and communities through road safety initiatives and education.
“It’s about trying to educate everyone to stay safe on the roads because the fatalities are rising every year, and it all pretty much just comes down to us. It’s up to all of us to reduce it.”
RAAG also runs campaigns like the Fatal Five, while focusing on all aspects of road safety such as work visibility, roadside safety and wide loads.
Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards, who has worked in traffic policing since the early 2000’s, said road safety affects everyone and highlighted the far-reaching consequences of crashes.
“Anything we can do to reduce our rag toll is good.”
He said the increasing number of vehicles and drivers on Queensland roads, combined with modern distractions, had created additional challenges.
“There’s a lot more distractions these days than there used to be such as mobile phones, and a lot of other things that have a bad influence on drivers.”
Senior Sergeant Edwards also noted that safety on Queensland roads not only applies to vehicles with four or more wheels, but all motorised vehicles and devices, such as e-scooters and e-bikes, urging parents and riders to understand the rules around their use.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton drew on his 42 years of service in the Police force to highlight the devastating impact of fatal crashes on families.
“From my previous 42 years of service, I remember every fatal cash I went to. There was always a horrific investigation that followed, and it’s incredibly sad to deal with the families left behind.”
Mr Dalton urged motorists to focus on the Fatal Five – consisting of seatbelts, fatigue, speed, alcohol and drugs, and distractions.
“If we remove those five things away from our behaviours on the road, we'll reduce fatal features dramatically.”
The launch came as police continued high-visibility enforcement across the region.
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During a recent Operation Interpose traffic enforcement operation in Sarina, officers conducted 737 random breath tests, intercepted 18 heavy vehicles and issued 13 traffic infringement notices. Police also issued five notices to appear for alleged drug driving and unlicensed driving.
The operation included an alleged 137km/h speeding offence in an 80km/h zone on Sarina Beach Road, while police also intercepted an allegedly stolen vehicle on Broad Street.
The enforcement activity reinforced the message delivered throughout the launch: road safety remained a shared responsibility, with every road user playing a crucial role in reducing road trauma.
Mackay RSL Sub-Branch Inc President Ken Higgins OAM, Mr Burley’s daughter Mary-Anne, Mayor Greg Williamson, Lewis Burley and his son Steve. Photo source: Mackay RSL Sub-Branch Inc
Locals gathered at Jubilee Park on Saturday, August 15, to commemorate Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day and mark the 81st anniversary of the end of the Second World War.
The annual ceremony provided an opportunity for the community to remember the Australians and Allied forces who served and sacrificed during the war, while reflecting on the peace and freedom secured through their service.
Mackay’s last surviving WWII veteran, Lewis Burley, also marked his 98th birthday on VP Day, with his children, Mary-Anne and Steve, travelling from Sydney to celebrate the special milestone with him.
The occasion was also marked from above, with a lone Tiger Moth flying over Jubilee Park at 11am. Volunteers Michael and George represented the Tiger Moth Museum, carrying the respect of the Museum’s volunteers for those who served and gave their lives.
While Anzac Day remains Australia’s principal day of military remembrance, VP Day continues to hold an important place in the nation’s history, marking the Japanese surrender on August 15, 1945, which brought the Second World War to an end.
The ceremony served as a solemn reminder of the cost of war and the importance of continuing to remember those who served.
Lest we forget.
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