Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A single-vehicle bus crash has sadly claimed the life of one passenger at Gumlu, north of Bowen overnight. According to initial police investigations, at approximately 4pm on Thursday 14th May, a bus with 29 people on board was travelling south along the Bruce Highway from Cairns to Airlie Beach, when it left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Several other passengers were injured and transported to Townsville, Ayr, and Bowen Hospitals. The bus driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was transported to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries. As of Friday morning, three patients are confirmed to be in a life-threatening condition with one assessed on the scene and two airlifted to Townsville University Hospital. Multiple people were injured and transported to Ayr Hospital before being airlifted to Townsville University Hospital by Royal Flying Doctor’s Service. There are eight stable patients in Townsville whilst one remains in a stable condition at Ayr. The Bruce Highway has reopened at Gumlu. This tragic accident comes less than two years after a fatal bus crash on the same stretch of the Bruce Highway, which claimed the lives of three women in on June 3rd, 2024. On this occasion, a Greyhound bus with 33 people on board was travelling north along the Bruce Highway, also near Gumlu, when it crossed over to the wrong side of the road and into oncoming traffic. The bus struck a Land Cruiser station wagon travelling in the opposite direction. A 56 year old Townsville woman and two German women aged 21 and 33 passed away as a result of the incident. The 52-year-old bus driver from North Ward was charged with five counts of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death or grievous bodily harm, but was subsequently found not guilty. Anyone with relevant dash cam vision of incident last night is urged to contact police. Investigations are continuing
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So, what’s going on with the property market? The thing about the property market is that it doesn’t stand alone in its own little world untouched by the drama going on around it. And there is a fair bit of drama at the moment. Let’s get all the dramas to form a conga line and point them out one at a time. First there’s inflation, an annoying factor that adds to the cost of living and affects people’s ability to buy real estate. Right behind inflation, and I mean very close, is its brother in arms/partner in crime/long-time bedfellow, interest rates. Interest rates have been particularly pesky lately as the Reserve Bank pushes them up in an attempt to bring inflation down. The idea is to make housing less affordable so you can make housing more affordable. Then there’s a war in the Middle East. War is very good for business if you are a weapons producer and part of the military-industrial complex but it’s not very good for everyone else. It certainly isn’t good for confidence and housing markets are pretty big on the old confidence factor. So, not good. This particular war has the additional benefit of taking place in the Persian Gulf, where a fair portion of the world’s oil is transported from Middle East oil producers to the rest of the world. The war has created a traffic jam in the Strait of Hormuz, which is restricting the supply of oil, meaning that in a world of demand and supply the price of fuel at the petrol bowser has gone up significantly. Which means our old friends inflation and interest rates give us another wave from the conga line and remind us of another impact on the property market. The conga line of dramas was joined this week by the Federal Budget and its changes to negative gearing, up until now a key driver in property investment and the supply of rental properties. Nothing changes for people who had negatively geared properties up until Budget night. My Pommy colleague Andy Collins, the Sales Manager at Gardian real estate, pointed out after the Budget that there was no way the changes would include investors’ existing properties because too many politicians own investment properties and the pollies wouldn’t do anything to hurt themselves. It’s up to you whether you think Andy is a sniping little Pommy whinger or an astute judge of human nature. Or can he be both? What Andy correctly pointed out is that from now on investors will be looking for properties that provide such good rental returns that they are positively geared, removing the need for negative gearing. That’s where Mackay’s strong rental returns come into it. Investors from southern markets have been active in the Mackay market because of those rental returns. When they can get returns like $750 a week on properties they have bought for $650,000, those southern investors realise Mackay offers better opportunities than the high-priced, low-rent options in their own cities. Andy was suggesting that it is possible that the budget changes will spur even more investment activity in Mackay because the removal of negative gearing makes investments in other markets unviable. I will delve further into the status of the Mackay market in upcoming columns but there are a few initial points to make. There is no doubt that, like every other market, the conga line of dramas has had an impact and given buyers pause for thought. But we are still seeing strong buyer activity and properties selling. As always, the buoyancy of our coal market and the jobs and business it provides will continue to be a driver of our economy and a key factor in the property market. Will the budget changes create an additional spur to our market and bring more investors in or is that conga line going to have a bigger impact? Stay tuned over the coming months.
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With more than three decades of experience and deep roots in the land, Royce Dunn brings unmatched insight to rural property across the Mackay region. Joining Blacks Real Estate in 1991, Royce is a licensed real estate agent and auctioneer, who has spent the past 25 years as Director leading the agency’s rural department. Over that time, he has built a strong reputation for his knowledge across all areas of property sales and marketing, from farmhouses and grazing land to residential subdivisions. Coming from a rural background and operating his own small farm, Royce understands the realities of life on the land, and the expectations that come with it. That lived experience allows him to connect with clients on a practical level, offering advice that is grounded, honest and tailored to the needs of farming families. Known for his straightforward approach and strong work ethic, Royce is committed to delivering results, working closely with clients to navigate the complexities of rural property transactions and achieve the best possible outcome.
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From wildlife caring, to country kitchens or supporting people with disability – a world of volunteering opportunities awaits at this year’s Volunteer Expo! This year’s event is set to be one of the biggest on record, with 55 community, support and other organisations have registered. The Volunteer Expo is being held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Sunday, May 17 from 9am until midday. Deputy Mayor Karen May said volunteering is at the heart of sustainable and supportive communities. “There are so many benefits to volunteering – from the people and organisations being supported, to those who so generously donate their time and skills. It increases community and individual wellbeing and drives positive change in the community,” Deputy Mayor May said. “What’s great about events like our Volunteers Expo is it gives people a one-stop shop to see what’s out there – and it could be something you’d never thought of,” she said. “Feedback from previous years shows how valuable this expo is to our community groups, with one organisation signing up more than a dozen volunteers on the day.” Data from Volunteering Queensland shows that for every $1 invested in volunteering, there’s a $4.70 return to the community. More than 110,000 jobs were created in 2024 through spending on volunteering – with the sector worth more than $117-billion to the state economy. Cr May said volunteering gives people to build on their passions while learning new skills and meeting new people. “It also opens up opportunities beyond the organisation a person volunteers with – it can help build new professional relationships and create new connections,” she said. “Data from Volunteering Queensland shows the overwhelming majority of people (64 percent) volunteer because they want to help others and the Volunteers Expo has dozens of options for people to help others. Entry to the Mackay Volunteer Expo is free. For more information, visit the event page on Facebook
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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
The Mackay region, the heart of Australia's sugar cane industry, is bracing for a challenging season as soaring fuel and fertiliser costs threaten to squeeze already narrow profit margins. While the region's cane fields stretch from the Pioneer Valley to the coast, their future prosperity depends on more than just rain and sunshine – it now hinges on global input commodity prices far beyond local control.
Fuel and fertiliser are essential ingredients and form the backbone of sugar production. Tractors and harvesters run from dawn to dusk, and nutrients are critical for a healthy crop. Both of these inputs have seen sharp price rises over the past month, driven by international supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions directly attributed to the Middle East conflict. As a result, Mackay's cane growers are facing operating costs that some say are the highest in living memory.
The link between fuel and fertiliser prices and farm profitability is direct. Increased input costs mean growers have less cash to invest in maintaining and upgrading equipment, applying irrigation, or hiring workers. Many are now considering how they can cut back on inputs, which could impact yields and, ultimately, the amount of sugar produced in the region. This creates a cascading effect, threatening jobs not only on farms but also in the mills, transport, and supporting industries.
Going forward, another challenge is the stubbornly low price of sugar on the global market. While the cost of getting the crop out of the ground is rising, what growers are paid for their product hasn’t kept pace. This imbalance is unsustainable for many family-run farms that are already operating on tight margins.
It must be remembered that sugar is one of Mackay’s lifeblood; when farmers struggle, it ripples through the entire community – from the local service station and the chemist to schools and small businesses. We need to be mindful of how quickly things can deteriorate if the current cost pressures aren’t addressed.
Some relief may come from advocacy for government action. CANEGROWERS and other industry groups have been calling for longer-term strategies to insulate the industry from global input price shocks. However, these measures take time, and many growers are looking for more immediate solutions.
This is where local councils have a role to play. As councils across the Mackay region prepare for their annual budgets, there’s growing concern among cane farmers about the prospect of land rate rises. Local councils have their own financial pressures, but it must be seriously considered that a rate rise could be the straw that breaks the camel's back. If there’s ever been a year to put rate rises on hold for growers, it is this year.
It’s a sentiment echoed by many in the industry. A pause on land rate increases, even temporarily, would provide a measure of relief and signal solidarity with the region's growers during a period of genuine hardship. After all, the survival of Mackay's sugar industry is not just a matter for cane farmers – it’s a community issue that affects everyone who calls the region home.
As the 2026 crush approaches, the challenges facing Mackay's sugar industry are real and immediate. The combined impact of rising fuel and fertiliser prices and low sugar prices means every dollar counts. Local councils, as they finalise their budgets, are being urged to seriously consider holding off on any land rate rises. It could make all the difference for one of Australia's most important agricultural industries.
Harvester and haulout tractor. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is now accepting applications for its 2026–27 Community Fund, providing $100,000 to support initiatives across NQBP’s port communities of Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point (Bowen) and Weipa.
NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the Community Fund reflects NQBP’s commitment to investing in initiatives that respond to real community needs.
“Our port communities are home to organisations doing important work every day,” Mr Webb
said.
“The Community Fund is one way we can help turn good ideas into practical outcomes - supporting initiatives that improve wellbeing, strengthen connections and make our communities more resilient.”
The NQBP Community Fund is open to not-for-profit community groups, organisations and registered charities.
The Fund supports events, programs and activities that align with NQBP’s strategic themes, values of Care, Connection, Courage and Curiosity, and its vision to be a leader in responsible port trade, where Queenslanders thrive for generations.
Applications that respond to an identified community or environmental need, and that promote the principles of diversity and inclusion, are encouraged.
Previous Fund recipient Debbie Knight, President of Grapevine Group said the support had enabled the organisation to deliver targeted suicide-prevention awareness initiatives across the region.
“Support from the NQBP Community Fund allowed us to deliver our Be Suicide Alert this Christmas campaign, helping to educate the community about suicide warning signs during a time of increased risk,” Ms Knight said.
“The funding supported radio advertising, billboards and social media, directing people to local support services and resources through the Grapevine Group app.
“Raising awareness saves lives, and this support helped us reach more people with vital information when it mattered most.”
Applications for the 2026–27 NQBP Community Fund are now open and will close on Friday April 17, 2026, with successful applicants to be announced in June.
For more information and to apply, visit www.nqbp.com.au.
Pioneer Nursing Services exists to make quality care feel personal. From its beginnings supporting individuals through the NDIS, the organisation has grown to offer aged care, Department of Veterans’ Affairs services, and private in-home support, helping people live safely, independently, and with dignity, right where they belong.
The services cover a broad spectrum of needs. NDIS support delivers compassionate care for individuals living with disability, including personal care, nursing, and support coordination, all provided with respect and understanding. Through My Aged Care, older Australians can access government-funded in-home support tailored to their requirements, allowing them to live comfortably and safely at home.
Eligible veterans and their families receive specialised care through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, including community nursing and in-home support that honours their service. Private in-home care is also available, offering the same trusted services on a private-pay basis, with flexibility to suit individual circumstances.
Pioneer Nursing Services also provides professional nursing care, covering wound care, PEG feeds, continence support, and palliative care. Support workers assist with daily living tasks, from meal preparation and medication management to transport and more, ensuring clients receive holistic care every day.
The organisation has recently expanded with a new office in Cannonvale at 2/1 Carlo Drive, extending services as far as Bowen and increasing accessibility for the wider region.
Founder and Director Simon McMahon brings a wealth of experience and compassion to the role. From serving with the Royal Navy during the Iraq War to nursing patients in their homes, Simon’s career combines skill with a deep commitment to community care. The idea for Pioneer Nursing Services came during his time as a Nurse Unit Manager at the height of COVID.
“I saw how many patients were unable to go home because community services couldn’t provide the staff needed to support them,” Simon recalls.
“We’re all about experience with heart. Our team of support workers, nurses, and coordinators know their stuff and genuinely care.
“That mix of skill and compassion helps people live better, brighter lives.”
Determined to make a difference, Simon launched Pioneer Nursing Services to ensure people can remain at home, safe, supported, and surrounded by family. Whether it is hospital discharge support, end-of-life care, or daily assistance, the team offers families peace of mind and reliable care tailored to individual needs.
For enquiries, Pioneer Nursing Services can be contacted on 4957 0368.
Council has formally progressed amendments to the Seaforth Esplanade Master Plan to establish a dedicated Place of Remembrance on the Seaforth beachfront, following a proposal from the Seaforth Sub-Branch of the RSL. The new memorial will be located within Seaforth Esplanade Park, adjacent to the recreational hub, providing a respectful space to honour service and sacrifice.
Mayor Greg Williamson said community feedback had been overwhelmingly supportive, with 109 comments received during consultation, 98 per cent backing the RSL’s proposal.
“Around 700 people attend the Seaforth Anzac Day service, and they have outgrown the current memorial space,” he said, acknowledging the advocacy of the RSL sub-branch in bringing the project forward.
Other master plan changes include enhancing the outdoor community area in front of the Post Office to allow flexible use for dining and events, and optimising the camping grounds to attract visitors.
Seaforth RSL Sub-Branch Treasurer Peter Morris said the memorial will feature all-abilities access, commemorate veterans and war animals, and offer a symbolic view of the sunrise during the Dawn Service. The sub-branch now aims to secure funding through grants, local businesses, and community contributions.
Council has adopted the revised 2025 Master Plan and will undertake preparatory works, including installing a new flagpole ahead of Anzac Day.
For more information, visit connectingmackay.com.au.
The Queensland Parliament's Primary Industries and Resources Committee has handed down its report into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities in Queensland, outlining 12 recommendations aimed at unlocking biofuels and bioenergy from sugarcane across the state.
Industry leaders gathered at Racecourse Sugar Mill on Tuesday 31st March to announce the report, including Stephen Bennet MP – Chair, Primary Industries and Resources Committee; Glen Kelly MP – Member for Mirani; Nigel Dalton MP – Member for Mackay; Ash Salardini – Chief Executive Officer, Australian Sugar Manufacturers; Josip Vidakovic – Government, Industry & External Engagement Manager, Australian Sugar Manufacturers; Carl Morton – Chief Executive Officer, Mackay Sugar; and Kylie Porter – Chief Executive Officer – Greater Whitsunday Alliance.
The inquiry has been underway since June last year, with the committee hearing from industry stakeholders in Mackay, Townsville and Brisbane about the potential of bioenergy and biofuels derived from sugarcane.
Member for Burnett and Chair of the committee, Stephen Bennett MP, said there was “a real pathway forward” for the industry.
“It’s really important when we look at some of the recommendations around diversification for the industry, particularly for millers, and the issues around protecting cane growers.”
“My number one priority is making sure we can expand the sugar industry for future generations, give them the confidence to invest, and create opportunities around biofuels.”
“It’s the best feedstock we have to provide bioenergy. It’s grown across our regions, it’s sustainable, and there are real opportunities when we look at what the sugar industry could become.”
“If implemented, the committee's recommendations will pave the way for a resilient, future-focused and globally competitive sugarcane-based bioenergy industry in Queensland.”
Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, said the report was about ensuring the future of the sugar industry for the next generation.
“Industries like coal and cane are incredibly important to the electorate of Mirani and to Queensland as a whole.”
“It has been a privilege to be part of this report. We’ve worked very hard to get it right for the people of Queensland and the stakeholders involved.”
“What the agricultural industry needs is confidence. This report helps deliver that confidence for the future.”
“I stand for the next generation. I stand for agriculture and giving agriculture hope that we mean business.”
“For young farmers out there, this report gives confidence in the industry and in what we have behind us, including the mills and the cane growers across Queensland.”
Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, said the recommendations aim to strengthen the industry well into the future.
“We needed to make sure that what happens in a mill is sustainable and that we can progress the industry into the next century.”
“This is a fantastic opportunity to present these 12 recommendations to government and ensure agriculture, particularly cane, continues to be a driving force in our economy.”
The recommendations include targeted investment opportunities, regulatory reforms and greater national coordination to support the development of biofuels and bioenergy from sugarcane.
The committee’s full report is available on the inquiry’s webpage, with the Queensland Government given three months to table its response to the report and its recommendations in Parliament.
Mr Bennett said, “We’re really proud of this report and the work that has gone into it, particularly from stakeholders here in Mackay and across the state who contributed to making it what it is.”
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP, and Member for Burnett and Chair of the committee, Stephen Bennett MP
Industry leaders including MPs and sugar industry executives gathered at Racecourse Sugar Mill on 31 March to announce the new sugarcane bioenergy report. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
More than $21,300 was raised on Friday night as local leaders swapped comfort for concrete during Safe Sleep Mackay’s inaugural Bosses on Buses event.
Eleven community leaders took part in the initiative, sleeping rough for the night to help raise funds to operationalise the Safe Sleep Buses, which aim to support people experiencing homelessness in Mackay.
Participants included:
The leaders spent the night sleeping rough, some on the bus and others on the concrete, before all making it to breakfast the following morning.
Founder of Chances House, Kayleigh Brewster, said the initiative was inspired by the difficult reality frontline workers often face when supporting people without shelter, with the aim of creating a temporary solution while supporting people’s wellbeing.
“When you're working in those really on-the-ground frontline services, you see a lot of people who are homeless,” she said.
“Quite often you're having to tell somebody there’s no more we can do for you, you’re going to have to sleep outside tonight. It’s a terrifying thought.
“We wanted a solution that would alleviate that.
“I think this is going to be fantastic. I think it’s going to really make a difference in the physical, the mental and the emotional well-being of many people.”
Safe Sleep Mackay spokesperson and key advocate for those sleeping rough, Lisa Jamieson, said strong community backing would be essential for the service to succeed.
“This is just wonderful to have so much support from our community and local businesses here,” she said.
“We’re still going to need ongoing support and we definitely need volunteers but we’re going to give it 100 per cent to help those who need it.”
Dave Fisher from Gardian said he was proud to be involved in the community effort.
“Having to be part of a community movement to raise money and to be aware of what is a real issue… I’m just really happy to support that really important initiative,” he said.
Fallon Drewett from The Just Saying Project said conversations with her family motivated her to get involved.
“It’s about awareness. If we don’t tell the stories of people, the most vulnerable people in our community, how else are we going to improve that?” she said.
Organisers thanked the Mackay West Rotary group for cooking breakfast and Harrup Park for supplying dinner, along with the many community members who donated to support the cause.
Eleven Mackay community leaders slept rough during the inaugural Bosses on Buses event, raising more than $21,300 to help operationalise Safe Sleep Buses supporting people experiencing homelessness. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
On Monday 30th March, the Whitsunday Regional Council hosted the opening of the Daydream Island Guest Lounge at Whitsunday Coast Airport. Members of the Whitsunday Regional Council, Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry were present. This marks an exciting opportunity for the airport.
Whitsunday Regional Mayor Ry Collins said the initiative highlights the important role Whitsunday Coast Airport plays in supporting the region’s visitor economy.
“Whitsunday Coast Airport is the front door to the Whitsunday Islands, and initiatives like this help ensure the experience for visitors arriving in our region reflects the premium destination we are proud to offer,” Mayor Collins said.
Director of Commercial Business Craig Turner said the partnership demonstrates the airport’s growing collaboration with tourism operators and airlines to create a more connected visitor experience.
“Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to evolve as a key gateway to the islands, and working with tourism partners like Daydream Island Resort helps create a seamless journey for visitors from aircraft to island,” Mr Turner said.
These improvements further position Whitsunday Coast Airport as a high-quality regional gateway and support the continued growth of the Whitsundays as one of Australia’s most iconic tourism destinations.
The Proserpine RV Rest Stop officially reopened on Tuesday 31st March, delivering a timely boost for local tourism and business. Mayor Ry Collins, Deputy Mayor John Finlay and Councillors John Collins and Jan Clifford marked the milestone at a 10am opening.
Located behind St Catherine’s Church on Main Street, the free 48-hour stopover is now welcoming fully self-contained vehicles for the dry season (April to November), reinforcing Proserpine’s role as a key gateway to the Whitsundays.
Mayor Ry Collins said the reopening delivers on Council’s commitment to supporting local business and driving regional tourism.
“This is a great outcome for Proserpine and for the broader Whitsundays,” Mayor Collins said.
“We know this site delivers real economic benefit, bringing travellers into town to support our local shops, cafes and service providers. It’s a simple initiative that encourages visitors to stop, stay a little longer and experience what Proserpine has to offer.”
Division 3 Councillor John Collins said the reopening reflects strong community support and Council’s united backing of the project.
“The community has been clear that this rest stop works, and it’s fantastic to see it officially open again today,” Cr Collins said.
“This is a win for local businesses, tourism operators and the many volunteers who help make Proserpine such a welcoming place.
“It’s about creating opportunities for our town and making sure we continue to capture the benefits of travellers passing through our region.”
Economic modelling indicates the rest stop could inject between $860,000 and $1.7 million annually into the Proserpine economy through visitor spending on local goods and services.
The site will operate seasonally each year, with minor upgrades and improved signage completed ahead of reopening to support a positive visitor experience while managing maintenance requirements during the wet season.
Captions
Mayor Ry Collins, Deputy Mayor John Finlay, Cr John Collins and Cr Jan Clifford at the re-opening
Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Despite a series of delays due to inclement weather, the Proserpine RSL was finally able to host its International Women’s Day celebration on March 28th. The event was supported by the Proserpine Lion’s Club, the Whitsunday Leos Club and State Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm.
Over 100 women attended, raising much-needed funds for Meals On Wheels and The Food Bank. Speakers included 13- year-old Savannah, Leo’s President Daphne, Donna Rodgers and Jan Clifford. Over 45 prizes were handed out, including a beautiful door prize provided by Ms Camm.
“A huge thank you to Lyn Burke, the Proserpine Lions and Leo’s, as well as the RSL for delivering a wonderful International Women’s Day event for our community”, Ms Camm said.
Captions
Photo source: Facebook
Whitsunday Regional Council has taken a strategic step forward with the launch of Whitsunday Event Centres, bringing together three of the region’s leading venues under one unified platform.
The initiative connects the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and Flagstaff Hill Convention Centre, positioning the Whitsundays as a competitive destination for conferences, corporate events and major celebrations.
Rather than a simple rebrand, the program is designed to actively take the region to market through industry networks, trade events and business tourism channels. Led by Council’s Commercial Business Directorate, the approach aims to secure new events that drive visitation beyond peak tourism periods.
Mayor Ry Collins said the launch reflects a deliberate focus on economic growth.
“This is not just about a new logo, it is about how we actively take our region to market and create real opportunities for local businesses,” Mayor Collins said.
By presenting the venues under one coordinated identity, Council is offering event organisers a clearer, more professional pathway to host events in the region. An integrated online booking system further streamlines the process, allowing users to explore venues, review layouts and submit enquiries with ease.
The move is expected to support local accommodation providers, hospitality venues and suppliers, while strengthening the Whitsundays’ reputation as a destination capable of delivering high-quality events year-round.
Event organisers and businesses can explore the new platform at www.whitsundayeventcentres.com.au.
Captions
Photo supplied
News this week that the Government has cut the fuel levy by half for the next three months provides welcome relief to motorists ahead of the Easter long weekend.
The reduction kicked in this Wednesday and is expected to filter through to fuel stations quickly, reducing the price of fuel on average by 26 cents per litre.
In addition, the heavy vehicle road user charge will also be reduced to zero, a welcome move that will make logistical transport more affordable and help regional communities get their commodities moving again.
The measures will cost taxpayers $2.55 billion and are expected to reduce the price of a 65-litre tank of petrol by $19.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said that he has been fighting hard for the region.
"We have heard you loud and clear,” Mr Willcox said.
“My office has been flooded with emails, my Facebook page has been filled with your comments, and I have seen the stress on the faces of families at the bowser across Dawson.”
He does, however, add that the battle is still not won, as the relief needs to be seen at the bowser.
"We remember what happened during the COVID-era excise reduction; the relief was not always fully passed on to the consumer. We cannot allow that to happen again. The task now is to ensure this 26-cent saving is felt immediately at the pumps,” he said.
Caption: The price at the pump has been reduced by 26 cents a litre as of this Wednesday. Photo Victoria Velton
Kids across the region have been carefully crafting their Easter bonnets, and enjoying Easter parades and festive end-of-term fun. Classrooms have been filled with colour, creativity and plenty of laughter as students celebrated the renewal and fun that Easter brings.
From floppy bunny ears to grazing pom-pom sheep, each bonnet was a unique reflection of the personality and creativity of the little ones who wore them proudly during their schools’ Easter parades.
As Term 1 wraps up, these celebrations provide a joyful send-off into the Easter break, with families across the Whitsundays looking forward to a well-earned holiday filled with relaxation, adventures, and cherished time together.
Mackay is set to make history as the first Australian city to host the global blockbuster Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, a world-renowned celebration of 100 years of storytelling.
Previously showcased in major international cities including Munich, London, Chicago, Seoul, Paris and Madrid, the exhibition will arrive in Mackay on December 4th and run for five months at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.
The immersive exhibition will feature rare artefacts from The Walt Disney Company, iconic costumes, behind the scenes insights and interactive displays that trace a century of beloved characters and films.
Mayor Greg Williamson of Mackay Regional Council said the announcement marked a landmark moment for the region.
“This is a magical day for Mackay, for Queensland and for Australia,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Mackay will be the first city in Australia to host Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic. The exhibition will open on December 4 and run for five months.
“It has travelled to major cities around the world, including Philadelphia, Paris, London and Madrid, and now it is coming to Mackay.”
Mayor Williamson said securing the exhibition was the result of a strategic pitch by the council’s events team, and would help place Mackay firmly on the international tourism map.
“We are expecting at least 100,000 visitors over the five months,” he said.
“This is about introducing Mackay to the world and giving people the Disney experience they have been waiting for.”
Mayor Williamson said he hoped the announcement would spark curiosity across the country.
“I hope people in cities like Melbourne and Sydney are asking, ‘why Mackay’,” he said.
“The answer to that is simple. Come and see it for yourself and you will understand why it’s here.”
The exhibition will be staged at the MECC, with international crews working alongside local staff to deliver the event.
“Our team at the MECC is ready to deliver a world class event at a world class entertainment centre,” Mayor Williamson said.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the announcement represented a major milestone for the city and the state.
“This is a wonderful and exciting moment for our region,” Mr Dalton said.
“From December through to May, Mackay will become the centre of Disney in Australia,” he said.
“That means increased visitors, more activity for local businesses and a boost for cafes, accommodation providers and tourism operators.”
He said the event aligned with Queensland’s vision of strengthening its major events calendar.
“We are incredibly excited about the magic that will unfold here in Mackay,” he said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for locals, for Queenslanders and for visitors from across Australia and overseas to experience something truly special.”
With tens of thousands of Disney fans expected to travel to the region, the exhibition is poised to deliver a magical boost to tourism, business and community pride while placing Mackay firmly in the global spotlight.
A simple act of service is leaving a lasting imprint on patients at Mater Private Hospital Mackay, where 80-year-old Alison Fenech has quietly transformed her time, talent and compassion into something extraordinary.
Since July 2025, Ms Fenech has sewn an astonishing 562 tote bags by hand, repurposing surgical equipment packaging that would otherwise go to waste. What was once discarded is now reimagined into sturdy, reusable bags, placed into the hands of patients during some of their most vulnerable moments.
Hospital representatives highlighted the significance of her contribution, stating, “These bags aren’t just sustainable and practical… they’re a beautiful reminder of the kindness, talent and generosity of volunteers like Alison.”
Each bag carries more than belongings. It carries care and a sense of connection that extends beyond the clinical setting.
For Ms Fenech, the journey began with a desire to find purpose in her time. Speaking candidly about her motivation, she said, “I was aware of having too much free time and how that could lead to depression, so checked out a couple of other options but didn’t settle to them.
“I am happy to work on my own in my own time at my own speed and this suited me perfectly.”
That decision has grown into a deeply meaningful contribution to the hospital community. Working independently and at her own pace, she has dedicated countless hours to carefully crafting each bag, ensuring they are both practical and made to last.
The initiative has also drawn heartfelt appreciation from the hospital, which shared, “Thank you, Alison, for making a meaningful difference to our patients and our community.”
Many have praised Ms Fenech, calling her work “brilliant”, a reflection of both her skill and her quiet determination.
One community member said, “That’s amazing Alison, such beautiful work from a beautiful person.”
An 80-year-old Mackay woman has sewn more than 560 reusable bags from discarded hospital materials, offering comfort and care to patients during vulnerable moments.
Specialists put the focus on endometriosis and pelvic pain this week for EndoMarch, an awareness campaign bringing attention to the often-overlooked condition endometriosis, which according to studies affects approximately 1 in 7 Australian women.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service hosted an EndoMarch information evening on Tuesday 24th to raise awareness and understanding of the condition.
The event was led by Mackay HHS specialist clinicians and was supported by local women sharing their personal stories of living with endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain.
Obstetrics & gynaecology specialist Dr Wojciech Szubert began the evening with an overview of the disease and an update on the work going on at Mackay Base Hospital to improve treatment and care options.
“Endometriosis is a chronic disease affecting women and girls,” Dr Szubert said.
“It is associated with pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, painful urination or defecation, heavy and painful periods, and infertility.
“It can have a significant impact on women’s health and lives, and it has been estimated that it can take six years to get a confirmed diagnosis.
“At this event, we want to provide an update on the work we are doing to improve treatment options.
“We will also have presentations from women who have been brave enough to step forward and share their own personal stories of living with endometriosis.”
Other presenters included director of psychology Rachel Bega who spoke on the role of the psychologist in the management of these conditions, and director of nursing and midwifery Susan Sweeney who shared future plans to advance treatment and care.
It was a relaxed and informal event that gave opportunity for those attending to ask any questions they have about endometriosis and treatment options.
Regarding the event, one local said: “My daughter suffers Endo and also has Andomentriosis which is rare and not many know about it. Glad to see you’re doing this.”
Another expressed frustration surrounding long waitlists for treatment for the condition, appealing for improvement in women’s healthcare across the region.
In 2024, Mackay Hospital and Health Service received new imaging technology that boosted diagnosis and treatment for local women, removing the need for surgery confirm presence for endometriosis.
Following the innovation, the team has been committed to continuing to champion women’s health services and improve treatment options and timelines for women across Mackay.
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