Whitsunday Christian College invites the community to join them for an exciting evening of fun at their highly anticipated 'Night Under the Stars'.

Scheduled for Friday, August 16, this biennial celebration promises music, amusement stalls, an 'Eat Street' experience, fireworks, and more.

"We are delighted to announce our biannual 'Night Under the Stars', a family-friendly event that embodies our community spirit," said Principal Kylie Langshore.

"Organized by our dedicated students and staff, this evening promises to be a highlight of the year, celebrating the vibrant community here at Whitsunday Christian College.

"We aim to open our doors and connect with the local community through this special event.

"Families will have the opportunity to explore our campus, engage with our school community, and enjoy a range of activities spread across the grounds."

The event will feature a Farmyard Nursery, inflatables zone with jumping castles and the mechanical bull, Mr Poppa’s Balloons, face painting, art exhibition, book fair, sideshow amusements, and more, illuminated by festoon lighting to enhance the Eat Street ambiance.

Students will host amusement stands and perform on stage, showcasing their talents through various musical performances.

As part of the night's theme, families can participate in the 'Star Gazers Lucky Stars Competition', collecting stars around the College for a chance to win a Nintendo Switch Lite.

The event offers a memorable experience for all.

“Community building is at the heart of our vision, and this event embodies that goal”, added Mrs Langshore.

“We invite you to join us, stay awhile, enjoy the festivities, share a meal, and embrace the winter atmosphere.”

“Events such as ‘Night Under the Stars' highlight how vital community is in shaping our students' educational journey.

“Our students actively contribute to planning and executing the event, learning valuable lessons in cooperation, empathy, and leadership.

“These skills extend beyond academics, preparing them for future endeavours. Such occasions also cultivate a deep sense of belonging and pride within our school community, reinforcing our identity as members of the Whitsunday Christian College family.”

Beginning at 4:00 pm and running until 9:00 pm, 'Night Under the Stars' promises a festive atmosphere and all are invited to come and join in the fun!

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What: Night Under the Stars
When: Friday 16 August 4pm – 9pm
Where: Whitsunday Christian College

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Whitsunday Christain College’s previous ‘Night Under the Stars’, photos supplied

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Bowen’s annual Art Exhibition this year will take place on the 9th of August 2024 until the 13th of August at the Bowen Community Hall cnr William and Leichhardt Streets, Bowen.
One of Bowen Art Society’s long-term goals is to promote the wonders of the Whitsundays Region as a destination for Artists and Arts retreats and workshops. Working toward that goal the society annually host an Art exhibition which has attracted Artists from Interstate, regional and local areas.
The exhibition will be judged by Townsville artist, Rhonda Payne and the open section theme is black and white, which is open to artist interpretation. First prize this year is a whopping $700.
Categories for this year’s exhibition are as follows: marine /sea scape, Landscape/cityscape, Flora/fauna, Miniatures. This year’s exhibition also includes two exciting new categories which are abstract and 3D.
All sections can include drawing or printmaking relating to the category described. Entry forms are due Friday 2nd of August with delivery of artworks on Thursday the 8th of August and collection of artworks Tuesday 13th of August after 4pm.
The Art Society are also hosting an opening night event on the Friday the 9th of August from 6pm, which includes a wine and cheese night with music and a raffle. Entry to the event is $10 per person and includes a presentation at 7pm.
The exhibition is also supported by various sponsors: Abbot Point Operations, Whitsunday Regional Council, Dale Last MP, Queensland Country bank, The Professionals Real estate, Bowen Home Hardware and Rose Bay Resort.
For further information contact Terry Laidlaw 0412758984.
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What: Bowen Art Exhibition
When: 9th -13th August 10am-4pm
What: Opening Wine and Cheese Night
When: 9th August 6pm until late
Where: Bowen Community Hall cnr William & Leichhardt Streets, Bowen

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Entry to Bowen Art Exhibition

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Bowen professional bull rider Beau Willis helped secure three event wins, by winning one event at the QLD Pro Bull Riding State of Origin Series Champions held in Cairns two weekends ago.
The State of Origin PBR consists of the best 10 riders in the state. Athletes compete over 3 rounds (every 2 weeks) and the winning state is the state that wins 2 out of 3 rounds.

Beau, who has been competing professionally for 15 years, originally found out about the sport through his school, who offered rodeo as a subject:
“There was a group of us that started doing it through school and fifteen years later I am still doing it!” Beau explained.
The school course consisted of theory, followed by a practical where Beau said they were allowed to ride some small bulls.
When asked about his part in winning in the State of Origin, Beau said:
“It was great to finish on a good note.”
Beau is also competing to qualify for the grand finals, which will have around 22 finalists aged 18 and over.
“We have a few weeks off before the next event, and then it's on to the new season,” Beau added.
Team Queensland Captain Macaulie Leather said he couldn’t have asked for a better ending to the series and was extremely proud of Beau and the team.
“I know what the boys are capable of and they know what they’re capable of and they went off and proved it,” Leather said.
“They always ride unreal, they’re all exceptional athletes individually and to do it as a team is even better.”
With one event left until the final showdown, riders, such as Beau will now be looking to gain crucial points ahead of the Grand Finals in Townsville on November 1 and 2, which is the richest bull riding event in the southern hemisphere, where $30,000 of prize money is up for grabs.
To prepare this, Beau says he has been doing a lot of training, including gym work and practice bulls.
Congratulations Beau on a fantastic win.

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Beau Willis competing in PBR State of Origin
Beau Willis

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The Whitsunday Sailing Club is set to host the spectacular Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition from August 1-5, showcasing a diverse array of paintings, photographs, and sculptures created by 58 talented artists from the Great Barrier Reef region.

Curated by a distinguished panel of judges including Sandra Guy, Visual Arts Teacher, renowned artist Bonney Bombach, and Whitsunday Regional Council representative Cr Jan Clifford, the exhibition promises to captivate art enthusiasts and visitors alike.

Cr Clifford commented, “I was honoured to be part of the finalist selection panel and view the submissions of so many incredibly talented artists. I’m looking forward to seeing the Finalist artworks on display in the exhibition”.

Highlighting the event is the prestigious $3000 Whitsundays Regional Council Acquisitive Art prize, where all exhibited artworks are eligible to compete.

The winning artwork will be proudly displayed as part of the Council’s art collection, serving as a lasting testament to the creativity and spirit of the Great Barrier Reef community.

Guest Judge, Lauren Turton, Curator of Artspace Mackay, will view the exhibition and select the winning artworks.

The exhibition opens with an exciting awards ceremony on Thursday, August 1st at 6.30pm, offering members of the public a chance to witness the unveiling of this year's exceptional artistic talents.

Admission is free throughout the exhibition period, concluding on Monday, August 5th.

Local schools are invited to participate in special educational tours, fostering a love for the arts among the younger generation.

The Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition not only showcases the incredible talent of local artists but also underscores the importance of preserving our natural heritage through art.

This event not only celebrates artistic excellence but also the vibrant culture and stunning beauty of the region.

This celebration of creativity and community spirit is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.

Visitors to the gallery will be able to submit their vote for the best artwork, the winner receiving the Bendigo Bank’s People's choice award valued at $1000. You be the judge!

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Guest Judge Lauren Turton Curator of Artspace Mackay, Photo supplied

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For decades Medical Doctors in Bowen have delivered babies, cared for children and adults, managed or referred urgent or troubling situations, and ensured the health, dignity, welfare and peace of mind to the townspeople.

To express heartfelt appreciation for the local doctors the ‘Thanks Doc’ event will showcase and praise the local doctors.
 
The whole community is invited down to the Larrikin Hotel for a fun evening which includes canapés, beverages and live music.

Tickets are $30.

What: Thanks Doc
Where: Larrikin Hotel
When: Saturday 24 August at 5.30pm

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This week has been marked by the shocking and tragic events surrounding the attempted assassination of former President Donald J. Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. It's a stark reminder of how life can be lost in the blink of an eye and the importance of treasuring every moment. President Trump is very fortunate to be alive, having turned his head at the precise moment needed for the bullet to only graze his ear. Tragically, a life was lost—that of a true American hero. Corey Comperatore a volunteer firefighter, and devoted father, was struck by one of the gunman’s bullets and he reportedly died saving his family.
While these events might seem detached from our slice of paradise here in Mackay, they serve as a reminder that life is fragile and precious. Since my own journey with cancer, I have found more moments to appreciate nature’s beauty, seeing more sunrises and sunsets than usual. The simple joys—like watching my son’s face light up on a park swing—now fill my heart more than ever before. These special and simple times have become daily reminders to find happiness in the simple pleasures of life.
There’s plenty of free fun to be had this weekend at the Wiseley Wine and Food Day! We have an entire page on 24 with everything you need to know, I’m particularly keen to see the thousands of bubbles at the Bubble Canteen.
Also in this edition, we share the inspiring story of Cheree Ridolfi, a kind-hearted Mackay local with a passion for making a difference in the fight against cancer. This August, Cheree will be hosting a #ForkCancer Longest Table event to raise funds for life-changing cancer research. Learn how you can support Cheree on page 4.
Additionally, don’t miss Hannah’s exclusive on page 8 about a new, free nasal spray available in pharmacies that can save lives.
Life is precious, and in times like these, we are reminded of the importance of community, support, and love.
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Amanda

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Since 2016, Sew Create Donate Inc. in Mackay has been a dedicated group of volunteers who sew, knit and crochet handmade blankets and other essential items for those in need within the community.

Their contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of individuals supported by the Neighbourhood Hub, who have expressed deep gratitude for the donations of toiletry bags and other necessities.

With compassion woven into every stitch, each blanket represents countless hours of dedication from volunteers who wash fabric, cut patterns and meticulously sew or crochet each piece with love. These handmade creations provide comfort and warmth to those facing challenging circumstances, offering a tangible reminder that the community is there to support those in need.

The Neighbourhood Hub has benefited immensely from these thoughtful donations, ensuring that community members facing adversity have access to essential personal care items and comforting blankets.

Expressing deep gratitude for the thoughtful donations of toiletry bags and other essential items they received, The Neighbourhood Hub posted to Facebook, showcasing the heartfelt gesture as a reminder of the outstanding support within the community.

“Your generosity helps us support those in need within our community, ensuring they have access to essential personal care items.

“Thank you for making a difference and contributing to the well-being of our community members, your kindness and support are truly appreciated!

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Sew Create Donate Inc gifted multiple hand-crafted blankets and toiletry bags to The Neighbourhood Hub to support members of the community in need. Image source: The Neighbourhood Hub (Facebook)

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Mackay is going LIVE for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games with a special celebration site to be activated at Bluewater Quay.
The activation is part of statewide celebrations where Queenslanders will gather for special events backing our Aussie athletes and marking our own ‘8-Years-To-Go’ milestone as hosts of the 2032 Games.
Olympics and Paralympics LIVE events will ignite the Olympic spirit from the Gold Coast to Cairns and west to Longreach during Paris 2024.
Bluewater Quay will be a hub for locals to enjoy free broadcast coverage on 27 – 28 July, and then 31 August to 1 September.
Additional LIVE sites will be activated across the state throughout the Games including the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Rockhampton, Longreach, Townsville and Cairns.
Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee President Andrew Liveris said, “Queenslanders will be right behind their Olympic and Paralympic teams as they go for gold in Paris and it’s fantastic that so many local communities will be able to share in the excitement as part of Olympics and Paralympics LIVE sites.

“The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be shared across Queensland and these LIVE sites are just a taste of what’s in store in the years ahead, as we celebrate sport together,” he added.

“I congratulate all involved in bringing the Paris 2024 Games to life, from Cairns to Coolangatta.”
The LIVE sites will feature Nine Network big-screen Games telecasts as well as special events backing local athletes and inspiring future Olympians and Paralympians, including those who may compete on home soil in 2032.
LIVE site activities in Mackay are being supported by the Queensland Government and Mackay Regional Council.
Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace said that the lighting of the Olympic and Paralympic flames in Paris will ignite the Games spirit right here in Queensland as we count down to our 2032 Games.
“Olympics and Paralympics LIVE sites will be the perfect place for our Queensland communities to get together and show their support for our inspirational athletes,” she added.
“Our LIVE sites will activate just days after we celebrate our own milestone of 8-Years-To-Go until the start of our Games on 23 July 2032.
“Mackay locals will be able to celebrate at a special LIVE site at Bluewater Quay.”
Mackay Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan said that the Mackay region is excited to be hosting a Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics LIVE site.
“Council is currently working with the community to activate the Bluewater Quay with food vendors, a big screen and seating on July 27 and 28 for the Olympics LIVE event and we have booked Saturday, August 31, after the Bluewater Fling, and Sunday, September 1, for the Paralympics LIVE screenings,” Ms Hassan added.
“We hope that the community really get behind this activation and use the opportunity to come down and enjoy the beautiful location beside our blue water river.”  

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By Hannah McNamara

Meet Cheree Ridolfi, a kind-hearted Mackay local with a passion for making a difference in the fight against cancer. This August, Cheree will be hosting a #ForkCancer Longest Table event to raise funds for life-changing cancer research.  

By hosting this event, Cheree aims to gather friends, family and community members to a fun-filled feast, all while raising crucial funds for a tangible cause. With nearly 444 Australians receiving a cancer diagnosis each day, Cheree is dedicated to raise funds for research in hopes of finding better treatments to work towards the best outcome of all - a cure.

The official date for her event is Saturday, 27 July 2024 but participants can host their tables anytime until 31 August 2024, making it convenient for everyone to join in and support the cause.

Cheree's journey in fundraising began seven years ago with her participation in the Million Paws Walk. Over the years, Cheree has committed herself each year to supporting various causes, including organisations that hold personal significance.  

Following her brothers passing, she successfully raised over $4,500 for the mental health initiative, Black Dog, and she continues to remain an inspiring cornerstone in the community for her ongoing fundraising efforts.

Cheree's dedication to cancer fundraising this year has been driven by another cause close to her heart as her daughter-in-law's uncle undergoes a second round of treatment for his unexpected cancer diagnosis, following a sudden heart attack.    

“He’s quite close to all of us, he’s been a massive part of our family over the last seven years and was massive in my son and daughters-in-law's wedding,” Cheree said.

“Cancer has surrounded us unfortunately and it just seems that every year you can raise money for a different reason,” she added.  

Witnessing the impact of cancer on loved ones has only strengthened Cheree's determination to raise funds that support vital research and provide hope to families facing similar challenges.

With the support of the community and sponsors, Cheree has bought a range of auction items using her own resources to ensure a successful fundraising event. She hopes to exceed her fundraising goal of $1,000, which will be matched and doubled by the organisation behind the Longest Table initiative if she reaches $5,000.

Cheree emphasises that every dollar counts towards making an impact in someone's life and could potentially fund an entire treatment to support families during such challenging times.

“It’s so gut-wrenching to think ‘what can I do’ and you just wish you could do so much more, but every dollar raised counts.

“I’m hoping to reach $5,000 so it can be doubled, because that will mean a whole treatment for somebody, and their family will get to stay with them in the hospital.”

As preparations for the Longest Table event continue, Cheree invites everyone to donate, participate and celebrate together on 27 July 2024. Beyond raising crucial funds, the event is an opportunity to come together, share stories and offer support to those affected by cancer.

Last year, Cheree hosted a successful Pink Luncheon Day, featuring a lively auction with pink-themed attire and items. Reflecting on the event, she describes it as not only fulfilling but also ‘a lot of fun’.

Unlike her previous daytime events, this year, she envisions an evening of elegance and camaraderie in cocktail attire.  

Cheree said, “This year I chose the longest table as it’s something different, a lot of the ones I’ve done in previous years have been during the day and I wanted to make it something special at night time and do a cocktail attire, this one’s going to be a lot of fun!”  

Her event promises an evening of nibbles, drinks and lively auctions, creating an atmosphere where support and compassion thrive.

By joining her Longest Table event, you're not just attending a meal, you're contributing to life-saving research that brings hope to countless individuals and families across Australia.

“Cancer can rip a family apart, but it can also bring a family together.”  

In a display of community kindness, local businesses and sponsors such as Keeping it Real, Epiroc, Debbie's Seafood and The Golf King Superstore have generously contributed to her cause with discounts and vouchers.  

If you wish to donate, please visit www.thelongesttable.com.au/fundraisers/chereeridolfi or scan the QR code and search for: Cheree Ridolfi.

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Cheree Ridolfi will hold a #ForkCancer Longest Table event on July 27th to raise vital funds for cancer research. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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In 2006, a young Constable Marshall Roper was among the inaugural roster at the newly opened Mackay Northern Beaches police station. After previously serving at Mackay station, Roper dedicated the remainder of his career to the Northern Beaches and Marian police stations in the Pioneer Valley, retiring in October 2022.
This week, the Mackay Northern Beaches police station proudly welcomes him back as he embarks on his "second" career as a Special Constable. With his extensive operational experience, Roper is expected to be a significant asset to both the station and the local community.
Welcome back, Marshall.

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One of the first photographs taken in 2006 at the launch of the Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station
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Special Constable Marshall Roper starts the next stage of his policing career at Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station. Photos supplied

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Opinion Piece
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said Labor’s new mandatory emissions reporting is yet another attack on Australian farmers and will impose costly regulatory burdens.
 
“In a cost-of-living crisis, this reckless policy making is going to see an added cost of $2.3 billion to farmers, which will ultimately increase the cost of fresh food and produce nationally, and will be passed onto consumers at the checkout,” Mr Willcox said.
 
Under the new reporting requirements, farmers and businesses will have to report their indirect greenhouse gas emissions right along their supply chain that aren’t being generated by the company directly.
 
Mr Willcox explained that large reporting entities could pass their risk down through the supply chain, with banks factoring in farmer’s emissions data into lending decisions, or supermarkets could require farmers to report their emissions, even though farmers don’t have the science to do so.
 
“There are currently no standardised methods for calculating land and livestock emissions in Australia, plus there are no real alternatives available for lines used in their operations, such as fertiliser and diesel that have the same value or impact,” he said.
 
“This is yet another demonstration of the Government’s contempt for farmers and is punishing these hard-working Aussies, despite our farming industry already having some of the best land management practices in the world.”
 
Mr Willcox said the reporting requirements are going to impose significant compliance costs with accounting and recording on-farm emissions.

“And with these increase costs, we will see them being passed on at the checkout, making the cost-of-living and cost-of-food crisis worse for our families,” he added.
 
“Our Aussie farmers are already drowning in green and red tape, and this will add even more complexity to that and unfairly increases the burden on our farming industry.
 
“This policy has the potential to push some farmers and small businesses out of business altogether, and there are legitimate concerns about how this data will be used, who it will be shared with, or if some industry groups might be discriminated against.
 
“In Australia, we can support our farmers and fulfill our international climate commitments at the same time, without creating reckless and harmful policies such as this.”

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selectability, officially opened the doors to its new Mackay Mental Health hub last Wednesday, on July 10 2024.

The newly established Mental Health Hub consolidates selectability’s services from three locations across Mackay into a larger and more adaptable space on River St.

Over 100 attendees, including local government representatives, service providers and community members gathered to explore what the new facility had to offer.

selectability General Manager of Mackay, Sue-Ellen Weedon said that delivering services from a central location would help to break down barriers for those seeking support.  

“selectability Mackay is committed to ensuring locals have access to the high-quality mental health services they deserve,” Sue-Ellen affirmed.

“Trying to navigate mental health services is daunting for many people, so having a range of services available in one facility will allow us to better respond to community need.

“It will also bring a lot of fantastic benefits for our current consumers including more activities to choose from and extended operating hours.”

selectability delivers tailored one-on-one support and group programs like the Mackay Clubhouse, which is an initiative designed to help individuals build capacity and improve their mental well-being. 

“We provide services through the NDIS and other state and federal government programs.

“You don’t need a referral - drop in and see the team, have a tour of the new Mental Health Hub and find out how we can support you,” Sue-Ellen added.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson, welcomed the opening of the new Mental Health Hub.

“It is great to have a new central location for Mackay residents to connect and access a range of vital mental wellbeing and suicide prevention services,” Cr Williamson said.

If you are in need of assistance or would like to know more about this organisation, please visit www.selectability.com.au.

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selectability opened its doors to their newest Mental Health Hub last Wednesday, offering a wide range of new equipment and services to better mental wellbeing. Photo credit: selectability

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If you knew that a free, over-the-counter nasal spray could save someone from an opioid overdose in just minutes, would you carry one with you?

Now accessible at most pharmacies, is Naloxone (also known as Narcan), a medicinal nasal spray used to reverse or reduce the effects of opioids, with its makers claiming it can be used in a safe and harmless way, with no negative side effects.

It’s also available completely free of charge.

Naloxone offers a “quick and accessible treatment” that is designed to stabilise an individual experiencing an opioid overdose, anywhere, at any time, before further medical attention attends the scene.  

Opioids encompass a variety of drugs, including synthetic opioids like oxycodone (OxyContin®) and hydrocodone (Vicodin®), alongside substances such as codeine, morphine, heroin and numerous other illegally laced street drugs.

Major concerns have been raised specifically for those consuming high dosages, with studies suggesting that prescribed opioids contribute to a shocking amount of roughly 75 hospitalisations and two deaths per day.  

A local mother by the name of Amber Stead is determined to spread her knowledge of Naloxone throughout the community, in hopes of reducing the amount of drug overdoses in the region.  

Amber raises major concerns as a mother and says that, “People are dying needlessly without knowing that a tiny nose spray, free to all, could have saved the sons and daughters that they now mourn.”

“The new opioid hitting Australia starves the body of breath quickly so the use of Narcan can make the difference between an ambulance making it or not,” she said.

“Things have changed, drugs are so dangerous now and I just want people to know that they have an option instead of watching people die in front of them.

“I think if we can be bold enough to have a sharps container on the wall, we can be brave enough to put out a notice that you can access Narcan.”

Amber says she is happy to be a “Nanny Narcan” to speak out and publicly raise awareness about the nasal spray in areas where it may be needed most, particularly for the night life in popular clubs, pubs and parties where a simple spray up the nostril could mean the difference between life or death.

“I’m having these conversations with my grown children, so that when they go up town or to a party, they can carry it with them knowing that they could potentially save someone’s life,”  

“If you know you’re in a situation where you or someone you know is using, be drug smart and carry it with you,” Amber remarked.

Just as a home needs a fire extinguisher, Amber, along with professional pharmacists and medical advisors suggest that Naloxone should be a normalised part of a safety plan or first aid kit that is easily accessible in all homes and venues. The small size of the nasal spray allows for convenient storage in a glovebox, handbag, or even a pocket.

Local Pharmacist Manager, Danielle Thompson from United Chemists West Mackay, says that Naloxone can save lives and is a device more locals should have on hand as a safety precaution, in case of an emergency.  

“It’s simply a nasal spray that you spray into the nose and it immediately reverses the effects of the medication, and it can be lifesaving,” Ms Thompson said.

“It’s free, it’s available to everyone, you can take two boxes at a time and it’s all confidential.”

Due to the rising issue of drug overdoses, The Government has made Naloxone free for all to access over the counter in hopes of reducing the number of deaths caused by the drug.

“There has been an increase in overdoses from people taking illegal street drugs which those drugs are being mixed with very strong opioids and there have been a number of deaths because of it,” Ms Thompson said.

“Likened to having a fire extinguisher at home – you hope you’ll never have to use it but it’s there as a safety precaution in case you do.”

While the nasal spray is said to be life-saving, medical advisors say that calling an ambulance for further medical attention is still required.

“It doesn’t matter who you are, everyone could be in a situation that requires fast action in the current drug climate - just having one in every home would save hundreds,” Amber added.

 

If you require further assistance, please reach out to the following numbers:
Lifeline - 131114
Drug Arm - 0749441173
Narcotics Anonymous- 0473633066 or 1300652820
Beyond Blue- 1300224636
Nelson St Mental health – 49683893

Danielle Thompson, Pharmacist Manager from United Chemists West Mackay. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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“Things have changed, drugs are so dangerous now and I just want people to know that they have an option instead of watching people die in front of them.

“I think if we can be bold enough to have a sharps container on the wall, we can be brave enough to put out a notice that you can access Narcan.”

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Mackay Police have charged two people following investigations into a number of alleged drugs and weapons offences in Mackay late last week.
Around 2pm on Friday, July 12, officers executed a search warrant at a River Street unit in Mackay, where they allegedly located several firearms, including three rifles, a handgun, a homemade firearm, a taser and several rounds of ammunition.
Police also seized drug utensils, quantities of cannabis and cocaine, and cash.
The recent arrests, led by officers from the Mackay Tactical Crime Squad were executed as part of Operation Kelly, an ongoing operation aimed at targeting drug and firearm offenders in the area.
A 24-year-old Mackay man was arrested at the scene and has been charged with six counts of unlawful possession of weapons, two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of producing dangerous drugs, possessing anything used in commission of a crime, possessing utensils, possessing tainted property, authority required to possess explosives, and assaulting a watchhouse officer.
He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on August 23.
A 19-year-old North Mackay woman was also arrested at the scene and has been charged with six counts of unlawful possession of weapons, two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of producing dangerous drugs, receiving tainted property firearm/ammunition, possessing anything used in the commission of a crime, possessing utensils, and authority required to possess explosives.
She is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on August 23.
Acting Senior Sergeant Troy Hayward said the operation has brought significant charges over the past week.
“Operation Kelly has seen officers infiltrate known repeat offenders across Mackay and remove dangerous drugs and firearms from our streets.
“Illegal firearms and illicit drugs have no place in our community, and we will continue to target offenders and do everything we can to protect members of the public and keep the community safe,” Acting Senior Sergeant Hayward said.
Investigations are continuing with more arrests likely.

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Sleepbus, a charitable organisation dedicated to providing safe sleeping accommodations for those experiencing homelessness is bringing its life-changing sleepbus service to the QME Exhibition this weekend.

Founded on the belief that sleep changes everything, sleepbus ensures that people facing homelessness have a secure place to rest, offering a temporary refuge until they can transition to more permanent housing solutions.

‘Each sleepbus has up to 20 secure, climate controlled, individual sleep pods with a lockable door and toilet. Everyone is looked after with overnight volunteer caretakers and CCTV surveillance, we also have under bus storage for belongings, and pets are welcome to stay also’

At the heart of sleepbus is its readiness to collaborate with local authorities and emergency services, ensuring that their resources are directed where they are most needed during crises. This collaborative approach enhances the effectiveness of disaster response efforts, providing a crucial lifeline to those affected by calamities. Sleepbus RESPONSE aims to alleviate the immediate shelter needs of frontline workers and disaster victims during natural tragedies such as fires or floods.

Sleepbus is currently progressing with the development of two buses for Mackay - one standard blue service bus and a pink women-only sleepbus. Additionally, an extra bus for Sarina is in the works, with sleepbus Founder Simon Rowe stating that “the goal is to have them completed by the end of the year.’

As sleepbus prepares to showcase their service at the QME Exhibition, they are actively seeking community support in the form of donations and volunteers. These contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding their mission to provide emergency shelter and support to vulnerable populations during times of crisis.

By participating in the QME Exhibition, sleepbus aims to raise awareness and garner community backing to ensure that no one faces homelessness without a safe place to sleep.

The pink sleepbus will be on display at the QME Expo on the 23rd, 24th & 25th of July at the Mackay Showgrounds.

Simon encourages all to “Come find us and have a look, you just can’t miss it, it’ll be a bright pink bus and any interest and support will be greatly appreciated.”

Your support is crucial in helping them continue their mission. Sleepbus relies solely on public donations, as they do not receive any government grants.

To learn more about sleepbus and how you can contribute to their efforts, visit www.sleepbus.org

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sleepbus will display a pink women’s-only bus at this years QME expo in hopes of raising funds to continue their mission of supplying a safe space to sleep for not only the community, but Australia-wide. Images supplied

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