Mackay Airport is about to enter an exciting new chapter, with nearly $60 million set to transform the region’s gateway. From a revitalised terminal and upgraded runway to expanded car parking and major commercial developments at the Milton Precinct, the airport is preparing to meet the needs of a growing region and future visitors. Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the works are designed to enhance passenger experience while strengthening critical infrastructure. “Our region is grow
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Hi everyone, it’s me again! Usually, I’m here when Amanda, our former editor, is on holidays, but now I’ll be stepping up into the hot seat and I'm excited for what's ahead! This is my first week without Amanda's guidance, and while I’m sad to see her go, it’s surprisingly not as scary as I expected! I’ve had a few regular contributors reach out with congratulations and kind words of encouragement, which has been so lovely to receive. I’ve always loved the saying, “when one door closes
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Last week, Chances House Mackay received a welcome boost, with funds raised through the M&P Services – Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day handed over to support its work in the community. Chances House Mackay provides a safe and supportive home environment for people at risk of homelessness. Alongside secure accommodation, the organisation offers guidance, life skills, and opportunities that empower residents to build brighter, more independent futures. In a statement shared on social
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The Mackay Public Health Unit has confirmed a case of measles in the Mackay health service region and issued an alert for potential exposure. The individual, who was unknowingly infectious, attended several public places between 12 and 18 September. These include Middlemount Gym on Burns Street (12–14 and 17–18 September, 6.30pm–8pm) and Middlemount Shopping Centre, specifically Middlemount IGA and Middlemount Pharmacy, on 17 September between 9.30am and 10.30am. Anyone who visited these
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The spectacular Whitsunday venue Elementa Whitsundays has been honoured with a prestigious award for Tourism and Leisure Facilities at the Master Builders Mackay and Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards. It has cemented the venue as one of Airlie Beach’s most exciting destinations for visitors and locals alike.
The award recognises the vision and dedication behind the hilltop development overlooking the Coral Sea, a project that began as a bold idea more than a decade ago and has since grown into a landmark attraction.
Glenn Hitch said the award was a testament to the craftsmanship and teamwork of all involved in bringing the project to life.
Although the vision was clear from the outset, turning it into reality required persistence and collaboration.
“The challenge was getting the idea in my head to be just as clear for everyone else,” Glenn explained. “But I had a lot of help and input from other people. It wasn’t just me, it was a real team effort.”
Among those acknowledged were Cumberland Homes as the principal contractor, along with Gangemi Cabinet Makers, Coastal Brush Painters, Holly Gardner Interior Design, Adfab Industries, Shellco, Andy Manners, and George and Bare Tiling. Each played a role in shaping the award-winning venue into what it is today.
The development first began in 2006 with the purchase of the land, which sat untouched for a decade before the first stage of accommodation was built in 2017.
From the beginning, the goal was to create more than just a place to stay; it was about building something that would be a primary reason for visitors to choose Airlie Beach for weddings, corporate events, and unique Whitsunday experiences.
“We're really proud to win this award, because this is what this building is for, it’s to bring tourists into the town, and that's what it's about,” exclaimed Glenn.
“We're not bringing Melbourne or Sydney to Airlie Beach; we are about showcasing the Whitsundays. So hence the view, hence the gin, hence our menu. Everything is reflecting what the Whitsundays has to offer, and we're doing it in an elevated way.”
In addition to its event spaces, the venue has expanded its offerings to include a distillery, with spirits crafted using locally sourced ingredients, including Whitsunday rainwater. The unique addition, which came during the build, required changes to the original plans but has since become a defining feature.
Glenn said the idea was to capture the Whitsundays not just in the venue, but in their spirits too.
“And we’re having a lot of fun with it,” he said.
Community has also been at the heart of the business, with the venue sponsoring local events such as Race Week and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.
Glenn said supporting locals is vital to their business. “We’re a community-based business, and we want to see the community do well.”
“Our local clientele are also very important. The second part of that is, if you start to bring in weddings or events from out of town, that will also employ more local businesses, because they're subsidiary to what we do.
Essentially, we're a venue, a distillery, and we're accommodation. But wedding planning, and all these types of events, the more active we are, the better it's going to be for other local businesses
“The more people that come through the doors, everyone wins.”
While originally operating solely as an event venue, the team has gradually opened its doors to the public for ticketed experiences, with 74 Islands Cocktail Club on Friday evenings and an exciting new signature dining series in development.
From award-winning design to a growing reputation as a premier Whitsunday destination, Elementa Whitsundays' future is bright.
And with this latest accolade, the team behind it can take pride in knowing they’ve not only created a world-class facility but also a place that will continue to bring new energy and visitors to Airlie Beach for years to come.
Eighteen-year-old Jake Duggan is proving that passion and hard work pay off, having been named the MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for July.
Jake, who is in the second year of his auto electrical apprenticeship, works at Proserpine Auto Air and Electrical. His pathway into the trade began in a roundabout way—when owners Ray and Lisa Boyle asked him to help clean the workshop after school. That part-time job soon evolved into work experience and, before long, a school-based apprenticeship.
Having always been interested in cars, and considering a career as an electrician, Jake quickly realised this trade was the perfect way to combine the two.
“When I was growing up, my dad had earthmoving equipment, trucks and so on, and I just found it interesting,” Jake said.
Now, working alongside Ray, Jake enjoys the diversity of the jobs that come through the business. In an agricultural area like Proserpine, that means not only working on cars and trucks but also machinery and even the occasional aircraft.
“In the summertime, air conditioning is probably our main focus, but we work on the systems in cars, trucks, farming machinery and equipment, even helicopters and planes occasionally,” said Jake.
“And I’m involved any time they have something that’s a bit different. My boss really likes getting a good variety of jobs. At the moment we’re doing dual battery isolator set ups for travellers and caravan owners.”
Jake’s dedication was especially clear earlier this year when a serious road accident left Ray and Lisa away from the business for several weeks. With the help of family members, including Lisa’s father Terry, Jake stepped up to keep the workshop running. He took on stock control, diagnostics, customer service and more.
“To me, that didn’t seem like that big of a thing to do at the time … I just did it,” he said modestly.
His commitment and ability beyond his years has earned high praise from his employers and now state-level recognition. Looking ahead, Jake knows the automotive industry is always evolving and is ready to embrace the changes. Electric vehicles, for example, are already on his radar.
“We don’t see too many around here, but there are a few getting around, and they are becoming a lot more popular,” he said.
“I’m not super-interested in them, but once I have finished my apprenticeship I will look at doing some training to work on them. I want to keep learning, take things as they are and see how things go.”
With his skill, work ethic, and eagerness to learn, it’s clear Jake Duggan has a bright future in the automotive trade.
Jake Duggan has been named MTA Institute Apprentice of the Month for July (Photo Supplied)
Red Emperor Constructions, based in Cannonvale, had a successful night at the 2025 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards.
Director and Owner/Builder, Alistair Sawers accepted 4 Awards, including the highly sought after House of the Year, for the magnificent Haven on Hamilton.
Alistair gracefully thanked the team at Red Emperor Constructions, the trades that contributed to this epic win, as well as Master Builders and all other award recipients. Site Manager, Iain Karon accepted the award for the recently completed Stage 8C of the Grove.
Held at the Mantra Mackay on 9 August, the industry’s night of nights was well attended and enjoyed by Red Emperor Constructions staff and partners.
Master Builders Queensland quoted “Haven on Hamilton is among the most challenging builds Red Emperor Constructions have ever undertaken – but the result is spectacular.
"The team drew high praise from our judges for their planning and innovation transporting materials from the mainland to the steep rocky site, perfectly executed construction and high-end finishes.
"The result is a luxurious island home boasting polished concrete floors, exposed concrete and cedar ceilings, stunning timber joinery, and an infinity edge pool taking in the breathtaking Whitsunday views.”
Red Emperor Constructions won the following awards at the 2025 Master Builders Awards:
The Red Emperor Constructions crew at the 2025 Master Builders Awards. Photo sourced: Facebook
A stunning 400-square-metre home at Botanica Drive has earned Eastwood Projects their first Master Builders Award, marking a major milestone for the local construction company.
“This was our first time entering the Master Builders Awards, so to come away with a win makes it even more special,” said Gabbi Eastwood from Eastwood Projects.
“We really appreciate how Master Builders celebrate builders and high-quality workmanship, it feels good to be acknowledged for that.”
The intricately designed home, located within the gated estate in Woodwark, took around 14 months to complete and stood out for its craftsmanship and detailed carpentry. The property has since been sold, but its impact has left a lasting impression on the team.
Designed with a strong focus on detail, the home has become a benchmark project for the company, which is now setting its sights on future builds with the hope of further recognition in next year’s awards.
Currently, Eastwood Projects is working on two major projects in Airlie Beach. The first is a striking three-storey modern holiday home at The Beacons on Boathaven Beach. The second is a full renovation of one of the original Airlie Crescent shacks, where the team is set to transform the old structure into a modern residence while preserving its coastal character.
With one award already under their belt and more ambitious projects on the horizon, Eastwood Projects is quickly building a reputation for high-quality design and construction in the Whitsundays.
Whitsundays-based company Tin Lid Enterprises has achieved its biggest milestone yet, taking out the prestigious Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award at the Master Builders Awards.
This award, which is the highest at the regional level, now positions the local family-owned business for the state finals in October.
The award recognised Tin Lid’s outstanding work on the region’s new fire station, a project that demanded precision and technical skill. Over three months, the team completed all roofing and wall cladding, installing an impact-resistant system that required pre-drilling and aligning more than 10,000 holes.
Tin Lid Enterprises have been nominated in the Master Builders Awards for the last three years. In 2024, they won Judges' Commendation, but owners Kate Lilly and Nic Buhler always had their eyes set on the Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award.
Founded in 2021 by Nic and Kate, Tin Lid Enterprises has steadily grown while keeping its close-knit, family approach. The business has trained apprentices, including one who was named Indigenous Apprentice of the Year, and continues to advocate for more young people to consider roofing as a trade.
With the award on their toolbelt, the team is now gearing up for a busy 12 months ahead, taking on major projects including the Mackay Regional Council Resource Centre of Excellence, St Patrick’s College, Carlisle Adventist College, Aldi and Harvey Norman in Cannonvale and extensions for Bunnings.
Tin Lid Enterprises are proud to have won Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year award at the Master Builders Awards. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Jay is a young, lovable boy with a heart full of affection and a tail that never stops wagging. He’s been waiting patiently for his second chance, and now he’s ready to find his forever family.
This gorgeous pup is playful, friendly, and loves being around people. He’s the perfect mix of fun and loyalty — always up for an adventure but just as happy to curl up beside you at the end of the day.
Jay’s Perfect Home:
• A kind, loving family who can include him in daily life
• Secure fencing to keep him safe
• Someone ready to give him the time, training, and love he deserves
Jay’s Details:
Jay has so much love to give — he just needs the right person to give him a chance. Could that be you?
Message Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue with your name and contact number to learn more or arrange a meet-and-greet.
Last fortnight, we met the Red Brain – the angry, reactive part that yells, hits, and melts down.
But what about when your child isn’t exploding – they’re withdrawing?
They’re quiet, teary, refusing to talk, or saying things like “I’m dumb,” “No one likes me,” or “I can’t do it.” That’s the Blue Brain.
The Blue Brain is our emotional brain. It’s where sadness, worry, and fear live. It’s where kids feel hurt but don’t know how to ask for help. Unlike the Red Brain, the Blue Brain doesn’t roar – it whispers. And because it’s quieter, it often gets missed.
Children stuck in Blue Brain mode might seem overly sensitive, avoidant, or flat – but underneath, they’re struggling with big feelings they don’t have the words for yet.
In counselling, I help children understand what’s going on inside and teach them how to name their feelings, ask for help, and build emotional resilience. We also work with parents to create safe, connected environments where kids feel seen and heard – even in their lowest moments.
If your child seems down, anxious, or overwhelmed, trust your instincts.
You don’t need to wait for things to “get really bad” to reach out.
Call 0418708214 today to book a counselling session that supports both you and your child.
Next fortnight: What’s the goal of it all? Let’s meet the calm, clever, super problem-solver, Green Brain.
Sharon Ashman
CMHN MPAS GD Psych
By Hannah McNamara
Mackay recently marked Veterans Day and Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day, honouring the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of Australians who served in the armed forces. From battlefields to skies and seas, veterans faced extraordinary challenges to protect their country and its people.
These commemorations do more than reflect on the past, they pass on stories of valour and service to future generations. Firsthand experiences, like those of Vietnam veterans, help young Australians understand the realities of war, the cost of freedom, and the importance of resilience, courage, and faith.
By remembering those who never returned, supporting those who endured lasting scars, and celebrating acts of heroism, these days ensure that sacrifices are never forgotten. They inspire communities to value peace, uphold gratitude, and foster a sense of duty for generations to come.
Lest We Forget.
Mackay stood in solemn solidarity at Jubilee Park, gathering on Friday, 15th August for VP Day and Monday, 18th August for Vietnam Veterans Day, to honour and remember the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of Australians who served. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
By Hannah McNamara
On August 18, as the sun set over Jubilee Park, locals gathered in solidarity to remember, honour and commemorate approximately 60,000 Australians who fought in the Vietnam War.
Adorned with medals and badges, many carried a quiet resilience that spoke volumes of their service and sacrifice. The wider veteran community stood shoulder to shoulder in support, paying tribute to the bravery of those who served.
Whether on the ground as soldiers, at sea with the Royal Australian Navy, or in the skies with the Royal Australian Air Force, each and every person who contributed, whether in combat or transport, deserves to be remembered and recognised.
Many were drafted at just 20 years old, some even younger, to serve their country. Some never returned. Others came home wounded, scarred, and burdened with memories that lingered long after the weapons were laid down.
Today, the focus remains on informing future generations, supporting those who sacrificed so much, and preserving the history that has helped shape our nation.
Among those who stood at Jubilee Park was Peter Loosmore, a living testimony of faith forged through fear. He fought in Vietnam, overcame his dread of dying, and now lives in freedom, despite the deep scars of war.
For him, everything changed one night in 1972.
He recalled the “hot, humid” evening before his first time in combat, when the weight of death pressed heavily on him.
“We were to fly out the next morning.
“I looked up because I was scared of dying, and I said, ‘God, if you are real, please look after me.’”
He had no idea those words would mark the beginning of a new life – one that would later see him sharing his story of faith with hundreds around the world.
The war itself was brutal. Mr Loosmore endured gruelling conditions and witnessed sights he will never forget. When he returned home, the emotional toll manifested in heavy drinking and the struggles of PTSD.
But something else awaited him. After Vietnam, he was introduced to a faith he had never known.
“After returning to Australia safely another soldier shared the gospel message of Jesus Christ and forgiveness of my sins, and to be born again," he said.
“Since that day, I am a born again Christian following Jesus and I now have no fear of dying.
“That was the most positive thing that happened to me in Vietnam.”
Like many veterans, he admitted the years after the war were far from easy.
**“I was drinking really bad. I was a bit of a mess,” he said. **
“But Jesus healed me.”
Conscripted at just 21 through the national service lottery, Mr Loosmore remembers clearly the unique position he held.
“I was one of the last to go,” he recalled. “And one of the last to leave Vietnam.”
Now celebrating his 75th birthday, Mr Loosmore reflects on that desperate prayer whispered before his first patrol.
For him, it remains the turning point of his life.
He continues to encourage others to surrender their fears and embrace the same freedom he found, through faith in Jesus Christ.
Lest We Forget
Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) base at Van Kiep, South Vietnam - where Peter Loosmore cried out for protection before facing his first combat. Photo source: Australian War Memorial
Vietnam veteran Peter Loosmore now serves as a pastor, traveling overseas to preach the gospel and share his story of faith and resilience with communities around the world. Photo source: Peter Loosmore
Mr Loosmore served with the Australian Army in 1972, and faced the harsh realities of combat before finding faith that transformed his life. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Hi everyone, it’s me again!
I had the privilege of attending VP and Vietnam Veterans Day last week. It’s always a great reminder to be thankful for the life we live today, and to honour those who sacrificed their life for us.
You can read all about it on pages 6-7. In particular page 6 is a story close to my heart, as it’s about a local pastor who served in the Vietnam War, and despite the aftermath of traumatic events he endured, he found a light at the end of it all and has been completely healed and transformed by a faith that so dramatically changed my life as well.
We all have our ways of coping with what life throws at us, and it’s stories like this that make you pause and wonder… what’s actually out there? Is there something higher than us, and if so, what or who is it?
Often, it’s only when we face deep heartache, endure challenges we never imagined, or stumble onto unexpected paths that we discover answers. Some see only coincidence, others turn to magic or religion, but I simply believe in a saving grace that each of us encounters at some point in life.
Maybe you’re going through a rough patch, or maybe life is treating you well – either way, I encourage you to remain grateful, cherish those around you, and hold onto the hope that something greater guides us all.
“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” - Galatians 6:9 NKJV
Mackay’s Chances House, a vital drop-in centre providing meals, basic amenities, healthcare assistance, case management, and even pet care for people experiencing homelessness, has received a generous boost from the local community. A two-day fundraising event hosted by Mackay Line Dancing raised an impressive $8,500 to support the organisation’s ongoing work.
A representative from Chances House expressed deep gratitude for the initiative, saying, “Our hearts are full! A very special thank you to Mackay Line Dancing for hosting such a fabulous 2-day event in support of Chances House.
“Through your incredible effort, joy and generosity, an amazing $8,500 was raised!”
The organisation said funds will go a long way in helping Chances House continue providing safety, support and hope for those who need it most, noting the important role the community plays in sustaining its services.
“To everyone who danced, donated and joined in the fun – you are part of the reason we can keep opening our doors with love and compassion.”
Chances House remains a cornerstone for vulnerable members of the Mackay community, offering essential support that empowers individuals to regain stability and dignity.
The spokesperson concluded, “We are so deeply grateful for your kindness. From all of us at Chances House.... thank you for dancing with purpose and making a difference.”
This fundraising success serves as a reminder that acts of generosity, no matter how big or small, can make a lasting impact on those who need it most.
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It’s been a busy and rewarding week here in Mackay, with plenty happening across housing, science, public safety, and our vital primary industries. There’s never a dull moment — and that’s exactly how we like it.
We welcomed Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Youth, Sam O’Connor, to Mackay to see firsthand the challenges we face in housing, as well as the people working hard to create real change.
A highlight was opening a new social housing facility in North Mackay. New resident Heather proudly showed us her home — a powerful reminder of the dignity safe housing brings. We also visited the Mackay Housing Services team and spoke with frontline staff about their essential work. I took the Minister on a tour of areas affected by homelessness and visited Chances House, where my $1 million election commitment will help expand meals and increase staffing for vulnerable locals.
Over lunch, we met with fantastic local organisations — CASA, Kalyan House, YIRS, and Mudth-Niyleta — all doing vital work to connect people with safe housing.
Under the new state budget, $44.1 million has been allocated to social and community housing in Mackay and the Whitsundays, with 110 homes currently under construction or contract. This forms part of a broader plan to deliver 53,500 new social homes by 2044, in partnership with the Australian Government.
We also welcomed Mackay’s newest police recruits — a proud moment and a reminder of the critical role public safety plays in our region.
As a member of the Primary Industries Committee, I helped launch the Primary Industries Prosper 2050 roadmap — a 25-year vision built on six months of consultation, unlocking new opportunities for our local farmers, fishers, and producers.
To celebrate National Science Week, we kicked off a new round of Engaging Science Grants, offering up to $25,000 for STEM events, community science projects, and initiatives celebrating First Nations knowledge.
Finally, mark your calendar for Digital Detox: A Night to Rethink Tech on Tuesday, 2 September. International speaker Brad Huddleston will be in Mackay to share insights on digital addiction and how we can reconnect with ourselves and each other.
It’s been a week of innovation, collaboration, and community spirit — just the way we like it in Mackay.
Contributed with thanks to Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton.
Kayliegh taking Minister O’Connor and I for a tour of Chances House
Opening the new social housing in North Mackay with Minister Sam O’Connor and Glen Kelly MP.
Celebrating Science Week with the Year 9 Students at Whitsunday Anglican School.
Welcoming the new police recruits to the Mackay Whitsunday Police District. Photos supplied
Excitement and smiles filled the waters of the Mackay Harbour last week as the Making Waves Foundation brought the thrill of sailing to the region. As part of its Northern Campaign 2025, the foundation kicked off the first of six ports along Queensland’s coast and Northern NSW, offering free, inclusive sailing programs for youth living with disabilities, many of whom were stepping aboard a boat for the very first time.
Mayor Greg Williamson joined the community to celebrate the campaign, praising the initiative as a unique opportunity for children.
“This is an absolutely outstanding venture that’s making waves every year. It takes the young people in our community who will not normally have an opportunity to do something like this,” he said.
Reflecting on the previous group of school students who attended, he said, “The group I’ve just met absolutely loved it.”
Mary Anne, one of the program coordinators, described the excitement for the children.
“We were hoping for calmer weather so we could get out to see some whales, but we’ve been having a lot of fun just in and out of the harbor, venturing out into the big waves… Everybody has come on and is having an absolutely fantastic time,” she said.
She reflected on the privilege of taking the young participants out.
“It’s really special and humbling to be out here with the kids. It's absolutely fantastic. I love seeing people who don’t normally go sailing, and have the best time.”
Grade 6 students from Glenella State School also shared their experiences.
Max said, “I liked when the water was choppy since it was really fun… just being with people and coming here and making new friends was really good.”
Beau added, “We went sailing out in the water. It was a bit choppy but we went out just a couple of times to see how it was… It's really good because I haven’t been on a boat in a while, and it's really good to experience it.”
Running since 2022, the Winds of Joy program continues to provide Mackay youth with hands-on sailing experiences, fostering confidence, camaraderie, and a love for the water.
The Northern Campaign 2025 will continue at Airlie Beach, Rosslyn Bay, Gladstone, Southport, and Coffs Harbour, bringing free, inclusive sailing experiences to even more young Australians.
The Making Waves Foundation’s Northern Campaign 2025 kicked off in Mackay, giving local youth living with disabilities a thrilling, hands-on sailing experience that fostered confidence, camaraderie, and a love for the water. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
By Hannah McNamara
The 15th of August seems like just another day to most, but for some, it’s a day that represents the end of Second World War, and the beginning of peace.
Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day is celebrated each year on this date to commemorate Japan’s acceptance of the Allied demand for unconditional surrender, which was made the day prior, on August 14, in 1945.
For Aussies, it meant the Second World War was over.
Though the physical battle had finally come to an end, the gruelling aftermath of such events remained in the minds of those who gave it all for the flag.
The Mackay community gathered at Jubilee Park last Friday to celebrate, commemorate and mourn those who sacrificed their lives.
Long-time Mackay resident and local historian Col Benson, from Mackay RSL Sub Branch, read a moving speech from Kerry Watkins – a third-generation veteran who shared the story of her family’s strength and service.
“My grandfather, Morgan Watkin… enlisted in the First AIF in 1916… was wounded in France and promoted to corporal. After the war, he married my grandmother and later, as war clouds gathered again, re-enlisted in 1939… he served in Egypt, Greece and Crete, where he was captured and held as a POW before being released in 1945.”
Her father, too, enlisted young.
“My father enlisted in 1941 at the age of 18… narrowly avoided being caught in the Cowra breakout in 1944… trained for service in New Guinea, but the war ended after the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
“Dad later served in Korea… and went on to serve in Vietnam, where he earned the respect of many younger soldiers but came home a broken man, haunted by nightmares.
“There was no help and no support back then… PTSD wasn’t recognised.”
Now Kerry, and the greater veterans community, hope the future generations will carry on the legacy.
“We need to teach our children and grandchildren about our proud history, so they have an understanding of why they enjoy the freedoms they do today.”
From stories of service spanning generations, the morning also turned to honouring one man’s lifetime of dedication — the birthday of local veteran Louis Burley.
“He comes from a family where everyone served except his mum… seven siblings in the services and an aunt who was a nurse,” said son Steve Burley.
“I don’t think young people today appreciate what his generation went through… but it’s nice to see him recognised with these awards.”
As the crowd reflected on individual stories, Mayor Greg Williamson reminded all of the broader history that shaped them.
“The Pacific War started on the 7th of December 1941 when Pearl Harbor was bombed… Just a matter of two months later, Singapore fell… and a couple of days after that, 240 Japanese bombers let loose on Darwin, killing almost 250 people… the first of 187 raids that happened in Northern Australia.
“They were desperate times… but most Australians didn’t know about them because the government hushed it up for reasons of public panic.”
“Today… we need to keep reminding young Australians that we came very, very close to being an occupied country.
“Lots of lives were lost, that’s what we commemorate, but we also commemorate the valour of communities like ours who stood fast and did what they had to do for the war effort.
“To all those who lost their lives, that’s what we’re doing here today… saying thank you for the service that kept us a free society."
In the quiet stillness of Jubilee Park, those words echoed as the community stood united in remembrance.
“Lest we forget.”
The Mackay community gathered at Jubilee Park on August 15 to mark VP Day, honouring the end of World War II and remembering the sacrifices and service of veterans across generations. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Mackay’s Resource Industry Network (RIN) hosted its August Industry Briefing Luncheon on 8th August at Harrup Park, Lancaster Room, welcoming professionals from across the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions. The event featured guest speakers Jarrod Layton, Projects Planning and Execution Manager at Stanmore, and Dean Grant, Director of Tenvra Pty Ltd, a project delivery and engineering consultancy currently collaborating with Stanmore.
RIN’s monthly Industry Briefings aim to strengthen connections between members, provide up-to-date industry information, and support innovation across the region’s METS and resources sectors.
Jarrod Layton outlined the focus of his presentation.
“Today we’re here to discuss a bit of an update on some of the projects that Stanmore are working on, a bit about Stanmore, and how we can deliver some of our projects through value engineering, delivering more cost effectively, and through a research management process,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of networking in the sector.
“It is an opportunity to engage with other people within our network and maximise and grow those networks so that we can all work together and solve problems,” Layton said.
He said he hoped the event would provide “some good networking and some good opportunity to meet more people” within the industry to grow that network.
“When things come up in the future, you’ve got to have a network of people you can engage with. Not only can you learn from them, but you can also show them and update them on some of the work that you’re doing.”
Dean Grant described Tenvra as a “design engineering consultancy” and highlighted what excited him about the briefing.
“I think it’s a great opportunity. We’ve been fairly recent to the industry from an engineering point of view, but the team that we bring has a range of experience,” he said.
Grant emphasised the value of sharing knowledge and ideas.
“Sharing ideas on how to do things more efficiently and effectively hopefully means we have a better chance of sustaining operations, ensuring mining stays resilient, and that environmental factors are considered,” he said.
On the importance of hosting the event in Mackay, Grant said, “The mining doesn’t happen in Brisbane. It happens out here.”
“This is a central part of Queensland’s growth and creates a lot of economic welfare. Mackay is one of those key hubs for Queensland and very close to the heart of where the industry and actual operations happen.”
RIN General Manager Dean Kirkwood described the briefing as “a fantastic lunch and event, providing excellent networking for all members” and noted it offered insights into Stanmore’s current projects, cost-effective engineering solutions, and the value of collaboration across mining departments.
RIN’s Industry Briefings continue to provide a vital forum to connect, develop, and promote growth across the resources and METS sectors.
Jarrod Layton, Projects Planning and Execution Manager at Stanmore, and Dean Grant, Director of Tenvra Pty Ltd
Resource Industry Network General Manager Dean Kirkwood. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
A new partnership between the RSPCA Mackay and Andergrove Van Park is turning recycling refunds into lifelines for animals in need.
While the park has long participated in the Containers for Change initiative, new management has pledged to donate all future refunds directly to the RSPCA for animal care and welfare.
Tanya Rayner, the park’s newly appointed manager, said she jumped at the idea of joining forces with the animal welfare organisation.
“The RSPCA Mackay is now our animal ambassadors for the park.”
Rayner, an experienced resort manager with a passion for travel, said she understands the growing trend of pet owners wanting to holiday with their furry companions. The park, now part of Hampshire Holidays Australia, will also undergo a transformation into a vibrant place for travellers and locals alike, with regular food vans, entertainment, and animal-friendly events planned.
RSPCA Mackay Animal Care Volunteer Rob Hobbs recently submitted a proposal for the park to host fundraising days and interactive animal experiences for both guests and locals.
For the official launch, the park welcomed special guest Django, a 12-week-old English staffy cross American bulldog, who happily played the role of mascot for the day.
The partnership comes as part of a broader movement in Mackay that blends animal welfare with environmental sustainability. Chloe Stewart, who manages Mackay Recycling at Mackay Harbour, said the initiative is already making an impact.
“We have been partnering with RSPCA Mackay to collect bottles and cans which help contribute to the cost of feeding animals in the shelter.”
In just one month, Andergrove Van Park’s donations helped collect 5,000 containers.
“As a dog-friendly venue, this is a great initiative and already with their support, the RSPCA collected 5,000 containers last month from donations. Which is a huge feat,” Stewart said.
“If you’re donating your bottles and cans, we have a number on the wall at Mackay Harbour so you can donate your cans there, or you can drop them to the RSPCA as well.”
Organisers say, this wouldn’t be possible without the volunteers and businesses on board.
A broad network of businesses, such as local pubs, taxi services, and car yards, are also pitching in by donating 100 percent of their containers to the cause.
The RSPCA’s roots in Mackay remain firm, thanks to the persistence of local advocate Alison Fraser, who began fundraising decades before the shelter opened.
“The thanks for the shelter really goes to a lady called Alison Fraser, who 30 years ago started raising money for the RSPCA and kept asking them when they would build a shelter in Mackay,” said long-time volunteer Kym McInerney.
“She just took it into her own hands… and that’s why we have the shelter today.”
The shelter is now nearly 11 years old, continuing to provide vital care for animals while expanding into community-driven sustainability projects.
Ms McInerney said, “It’s about making it sustainable and doing what we can to become a movement for animal welfare and recycling.”
“It is very rewarding, very fulfilling. You get to meet a group of like-minded people that you really bond with and become friends with for the rest of your life.”
From empty bottles to wagging tails, Mackay’s residents are proving that every small act counts, especially when it’s done together.
A new partnership between RSPCA Mackay and Andergrove Van Park is turning recycling refunds into vital funds for animal care, collecting thousands of containers each month while uniting the community in a movement for animal welfare and sustainability. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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