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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Drew McGilchrist
Sales Agronomist, Wilmar AgServices
Soil testing has become one of the most valuable tools available to modern agriculture because it enables farmers to make better decisions around crop management.
Soil sampling provides a clear picture of nutrient availability, soil condition and emerging constraints.
With this information, growers can optimise their fertiliser management plan to target specific deficiencies, improving crop performance while avoiding inputs that deliver little return.
In many cases, this leads to more efficient fertiliser use and reduced costs through the removal of unnecessary nutrient applications.
Another key advantage of soil testing is the ability to move away from a one-size-fits-all approach. Results are specific to individual paddocks, so you can design a management plan specific to your farm and local conditions.
Soil sampling also plays an important role in managing soil health over time. Regular testing allows growers to track changes, identify trends and respond early to issues that may affect productivity in future seasons.
Just as importantly, laboratory-based results are a reliable foundation for making sensible decisions about farm management, rather than the status quo of historical fertiliser application.
Finally, soil testing helps ensure your nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium budgets are aligned with current regulations.
Wilmar AgServices offers a soil sampling service for selected paddocks, with a fee applied to cover the soil analysis. Results are provided in a timely manner, highlighting any deficiencies and potential solutions for your farm management.
Agronomy staff can provide additional advice and recommendations on fertiliser selection, as well as costing and application rates.
Contact us on 1800 881 957 to find out more.
Wilmar AgServices Sales Agronomist Drew McGilchrist can provide a soil testing service,
enabling growers to make more informed decisions about their fertiliser management plan.
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
CANEGROWERS’ centenary celebrations continue to roll on and, over the past couple of weeks, all roads have led to our wonderful central region of Mackay.
Mackay is, of course, the birthplace of CANEGROWERS. It was here, on 21 January 1926, that the organisation was formed and first met at Mackay Boys' School. Over the past century, the industry has faced many challenges and seen significant advancements. Through it all, the organisation has evolved alongside these changes to ensure its heart and soul – its members – are represented as strongly as possible.
For the first time in almost a decade, the CANEGROWERS Policy Council gathered in Mackay for one of its three annual meetings. The Council includes representatives from all Queensland sugarcane-growing districts, with one representative per mill area. To put that into perspective, Mackay has four representatives advocating for growers supplying the Plane Creek, Racecourse, Farleigh and Marian mills.
The meetings also bring together district managers and staff from across the state, creating a real mix of views and discussion. The primary role of the Policy Council is exactly what the name suggests – to set the policies that guide the organisation. Key topics this time included environmental policy, trade, transport, the future of harvesting, and water and electricity. Navigating fuel and fertiliser supply chains following the conflict in the Middle East has also quickly moved up the priority list.
On the final night of the Policy Council, the centenary gala dinner was held at the Mackay Turf Club. Policy Council members and visiting staff joined a sold-out crowd of 240 guests, including business partners and industry representatives.
CANEGROWERS Mackay would also like to thank Glenn Kelly, Member for Mirani, along with several Mackay Regional Councillors, for attending. A special thank you goes to all our sponsors – their support helped make the evening a memorable one.
The event was MC’d by Meecham Philpot, with music from Mackay’s own Mango Junction and a special appearance by Nikki Vella Power, well known locally and the daughter of a cane-farming family. Guests also heard an inspiring address from CANEGROWERS Chairman and World Beet and Sugarcane Growers Chairman Owen Menkens, along with some entertaining reflections from former CANEGROWERS and CANEGROWERS Mackay Chairman Paul Schembri, who shared a few of the lighter moments he’s seen over the past 40 years.
Most importantly, the night provided a chance to reflect on the past, consider the present, and look ahead to the future of our historic and ever-evolving industry.
All the best.
Burn Ashburner, Matt Kealley, Justin Blair, Chris Gillitt, Glenn Clarke, Sam Orr and Brendon Nothard
FAR - Former Queensland and Mackay Canegrowers Chairman, Paul Schembrii. Photo credit: Michaela Harlow
The Greater Whitsunday region has taken a significant step toward accelerating agricultural innovation with the release of the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Ecosystem Mapping Report, a comprehensive picture of the organisations, services and partnerships supporting agricultural technology adoption across the region.
Commissioned by Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and supported through the Queensland Government’s Regional Enablers Program, the report identifies more than 140 regional stakeholders across agriculture, technology, research, training and industry who together form the region’s growing AgTech ecosystem.
Released by the Greater Whitsunday AgTech Hub, the report provides a clear, evidence-based foundation for how the region can strengthen AgTech adoption, improve productivity and support the long-term competitiveness of agriculture across the Greater Whitsunday.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the findings confirm what producers, industry and innovators have long recognised - that the region is uniquely positioned to lead practical, on-farm technology adoption.
“This report highlights the strength of the Greater Whitsunday ecosystem and the opportunity we have to accelerate real-world technology adoption across agriculture,” Ms Porter said.
The report highlights that the region’s greatest opportunity lies not in inventing new technologies, but in strengthening the systems that help producers confidently adopt existing technologies that improve efficiency, reduce costs and support better on-farm decision making.
Over the coming year, the Hub will focus on building a coordinated regional AgTech adoption model, bringing together producers, suppliers and service providers through demonstrations, trials and validation activities that allow technologies to be tested and understood in real production environments.
By improving coordination between industry, government, research and suppliers, the Hub is helping position the Greater Whitsunday as a region that is AgTech-ready, connected and capable of supporting the next generation of agricultural innovation.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance is the region’s peak, independent economic development body committed to making the Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday region strong for generations.
Revolutionising the experience of working, training, learning and living in remote locations is at the forefront of business development at M&P Services. Their Signature Mobile Cribs are proudly designed and manufactured at their Mackay headquarters, establishing them as a market-leading solution for remote-site facilities. Built to rugged minesite specifications, each mobile crib features robust EPSpanel shells, C2 cyclonic resistance, and a heavyduty offroad base - all fabricated on-site in Mackay’s Diesel Drive factory in Paget.
Offered for both hire and sale across QLD, WA, NT, NSW and into PNG and New Caledonia, these units include amenities like reversecycle airconditioning, generatorpowered operation with a 7day fuel supply, kitchenette, toilets, even emergencyshower and firstaid options. They’re selfsufficient and quick to deploy, using a specialised trailer that delivers and unloads the unit directly on-site.
M&P says proper deployment makes the asset “costneutral,” with direct benefits in safety, productivity, and staff comfort. Whether for mining, civil construction, remote agriculture, or emergency relief, Mobile Cribs stand as versatile, dependable, Australianbuilt solutions.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP is urging residents across the electorate to have their say as part of Mirani’s Biggest Community Survey, with early results already highlighting key challenges and priorities in local communities.
Mr Kelly said the survey was delivering valuable insights, but stronger participation was needed, particularly from Walkerston and communities within the Isaac Regional Council area.
“The more people who complete the survey, the better we can understand the real issues facing our communities,” Mr Kelly said. “I represent a diverse electorate stretching around the major centres of Mackay and Rockhampton. Too often, our communities feel overlooked, and this survey is about making sure every town and district has a voice.”
Initial findings revealed that 66.7 per cent of respondents in Ooralea reported not having access to enough safe walking and cycling paths, while 54.5 per cent of Sarina respondents said they were very dissatisfied with local community infrastructure, including parks, sporting grounds and the pool. In contrast, 45.5 per cent of Sarina respondents rated Sarina Hospital as excellent, reflecting confidence in local health services.
Across the electorate, residents also raised concerns about limited public transport options, with many saying they feel cut off or underserviced.
Mr Kelly said the early data reinforced the importance of community feedback.
“These results help guide our advocacy, shape our priorities, and ensure we’re pushing for the things that matter most, whether that’s safer pathways, better community infrastructure, reliable public transport, or improved services.”
He encouraged all residents, particularly those in Walkerston and Isaac communities, to take part in the short online survey.
“Every voice matters. If we want better outcomes for our region, we need to hear from as many locals as possible. This is your chance to help shape the future of Mirani,” he said.
The survey is being conducted alongside a Town Hall Roadshow visiting communities across the Mirani electorate.
Residents can take part online at glenkellymp.com.au/biggestsurvey/, by phone on (07) 4806 0700, or by requesting a hard copy from the Mirani Electorate Office.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP is urging residents to complete Mirani’s Biggest Community Survey, as early results highlight key local issues including infrastructure, transport and access to services. Photo supplied
Mackay Regional Council is taking a step toward a greener future, launching a new trial aimed at cutting carbon emissions from equipment used by outdoor crews.
The initiative will see more than a dozen battery-powered tools put to the test, as council explores both the cost and environmental benefits of transitioning away from traditional petrol-powered machinery.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the modelling done by council officers is very encouraging.
“We estimate that in a five-year period, council could reduce their CO2 emissions from this kind of equipment from almost 11 tonnes to about three tonnes,” Mayor Williamson said.
“With the current volatility of fuel prices, any reduction in our reliance on petrol will offer a financial benefit to ratepayers, with electricity charging costs at about $0.24 per kilowatt hour. That’s significantly less than the current cost of fuel,” he said.
“If 100 petrol tools were replaced with battery-electric equivalents, we could see cost savings of about $28,000 over five years and more than 800-tonnes of CO2 emissions reduced.”
Among the equipment purchased for the trial is brush cutters, whipper snippers, blowers and chainsaws.
Sustainability Strategic Advisory Committee co-Chair Cr Alison Jones said there are other benefits to the community and staff.
“Often the equipment is lighter than petrol-powered – reducing strain and fatigue on staff, and by moving away from fuelled equipment we are removing any workplace hazards around airborne particulates,” Cr Jones said.
“The battery-powered equipment is also quieter, meaning that council staff can use them at expanded times and locations.”
The trial aims to determine if projections around cost and CO2 emissions reductions are correct and if the equipment is fit for purpose.
It’s also part of council’s goal to reduce emissions and achieve net zero by 2050, in line with Australia’s international commitments.
The trial will run for three years, with council officers to review how many tools and batteries are still viable and which tools are preferred and fit-for-purpose
The three-year trial will evaluate the long-term viability of the powered tools and batteries. Photo supplied
Community members are being encouraged to come along and show their support as Safe Sleep Mackay prepares to launch its inaugural Bosses on Buses event, aimed at raising vital funds for those experiencing homelessness across the region.
Set to take place on Friday, March 27 at the Mackay Showgrounds from 3pm to 7pm, the event will offer the public an opportunity to step inside the Safe Sleep bus, meet participating local leaders, and gain a deeper understanding of the initiative driving change in the community.
Safe Sleep Mackay spokesperson Lisa Jamieson said the event is about more than just fundraising, highlighting the importance of community connection and collective action.
“The Bosses on Buses sleepout is about leadership, our community coming together and stepping up when it matters most. We’re asking the Mackay community to get behind this event — nominate a boss, make a donation, or come along and check out the bus.”
Funds raised will help Safe Sleep Mackay operationalise the bus service and start providing safe, dignified overnight temporary accommodation people experiencing homelessness in the Mackay region.
To find out more about the event and how to nominate a boss or how to donate visit, www.safesleepmackay.com.au
The Mackay community is being urged to support the upcoming Bosses on Buses event, raising funds to deliver safe overnight accommodation for people experiencing homelessness. Photo source: Safe Sleep Mackay
Mackay Regional Council paid tribute to the Queensland State Emergency Service this week, in celebration of its 50th anniversary.
To commemorate the milestone, eight 50-year Anniversary Flags will travel right across the region to be signed by SES volunteers.
The Central Region stretches from the Whitsunday Islands to Agnes Water, consisting of 14 units, 66 groups and over 1200 active volunteers, supported by 26 staff spread across offices in Rockhampton, Mackay and Longreach.
Mayor Greg Williamson acknowledged the dedicated, highly trained volunteers who support our community in times of emergency and disaster.
“Every year, SES volunteers make a real and lasting impact on the lives of Queenslanders – providing help, hope and practical support when it’s needed most,” Mayor Williamson said.
“These tremendous individuals always step up when they are needed and often the conditions they work in are extreme,” he said.
“Whether that’s sandbagging and tarping roofs in torrential rain or searching for missing people amongst dense bushland or in flood boats in raging rivers and creeks – our SES volunteers are local heroes through and through.
“So, if you know an SES volunteer or see one out and about, please thank them for their service.
“Now is also the perfect time to get involved, so if you have ever thought about becoming an SES volunteer, head to ses.qld.gov.au and register your interest.”
SES Mackay Local Controller Alexander McPhee said the Central Region had two 50-year serving members.
“Our region is incredibly lucky to have such a depth of experience and expertise amongst our members,” Mr McPhee said.
“It’s great to be able to celebrate all our volunteers and this is a special opportunity to acknowledge the history of this organisation and the amazing, lifesaving work these volunteers have carried out over the last 50 years,” he said.
The Queensland SES was formally established on December 11th 1975.
It was created in response to the devastating 1974 Queensland floods, evolving from the former Queensland Civil Defence Organisation that had operated since 1961.
2 - SES Mackay Local Controller Alexander McPhee presented Mayor Greg Williamson and Deputy Mayor Karen May with a commemorative plaque of all the SES groups in the state and thanked council for its support.
The last few weeks have been a whirlwind, with plenty happening both in the Mackay community and at Queensland Parliament. I am proud to see the Mackay events and sporting season for 2026 in full swing — from festivals and art exhibitions to thrilling sporting matches. As we get closer to the Easter school holidays, my priority — and Parliament’s — remains squarely on public safety.
One of Parliament’s key achievements has been Daniel’s Law — Queensland’s first public child sex offender register — which is already delivering results. Just ten weeks after launching in Queensland, nine reportable offenders have been identified, including two now facing charges for allegedly breaching reporting obligations. A further seven individuals not previously on the register have also been identified, prompting new police investigations.
We’ve also taken strong action through the Blue Card system across Queensland. So far, 543 people have been suspended under strengthened powers. This includes 269 prevented from starting child-related work and 274 who can no longer work with children. These changes close gaps, act earlier, and strengthen protections for families across our community.
On opportunities, Round 2 of the Women’s Career Grants has officially opened. With grants of up to $4,999, the program helps women who have been out of the workforce for six months or more cover the costs of returning to work — whether that’s training, study, or other practical support. For more information, visit: https://www.women.qld.gov.au/grants-sponsorship/women-career-grants
Closer to home, March also marks the wrap-up of my third year raising funds locally for Laps for Life — supporting youth mental health and suicide prevention. Many Mackay locals know I’m a passionate swimmer, and youth mental health is especially close to my heart, having previously served as a Crime Prevention Officer with the Queensland Police. Laps for Life allows me to combine my love of swimming with a greater cause. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to hit the pool, sign up, or support another local participant. I swim with the Master Swimmers Queensland Team, and every donation makes a real difference.
Donate at: www.lapsforlife.com.au/fundraisers/NigelDalton/laps-for-life-2026
These updates reflect a clear focus: safer communities and stronger opportunities. Whether it’s protecting children of any age, supporting families, or investing in the future of our workforce, the work being done in Parliament is focused on delivering practical outcomes where they matter most — right here in our region.
Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox MP, today called on residents across the region to report fuel shortages using a new website: www.nofuelhere.com.au.
As communities throughout North Queensland feel the sting of the national fuel crisis, Mr Willcox is seeking hard evidence to take to the floor of Parliament.
"I have spoken with farmers in the Burdekin, Bowen, Proserpine and Mackay who are staring down a critical planting window with the fear of empty diesel tanks looming. In the Whitsundays, tourism businesses are already feeling the pinch of rapidly increasing prices.
Families are rationing their travel, and our transport operators are being pushed to the brink," Mr Willcox said.
"Regional Australians do not have the luxury of jumping on a train and many are in positions where they can’t work from home. Fuel is the lifeblood of our region: it is how we get to work, how we get our kids to school, and how our farms keep running. When the pumps are empty, Dawson grinds to a halt.
"I am asking every local resident who has experienced a shortage to log it at www.nofuelhere.com.au. Every report strengthens our case to the Albanese Government that regional Australia needs its fair share of fuel security.
"The website, launched by the Coalition, allows Australians to quickly log shortages at their local service station. These reports provide MPs with real-time data on where the crisis is hitting hardest.
Australia currently imports around 90 per cent of its refined fuel and is the only International Energy Agency member country that fails to hold the mandatory 90-day fuel reserve. This vulnerability has been exposed by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Mr Willcox said his role in the Shadow Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability portfolio has highlighted the urgent need for Australia to become a self-reliant nation.
"It is economically nonsensical that we export our natural resources only to buy them back as finished fuel at a massive markup. We cannot have sovereign capability if we cannot fuel our own tractors and trucks. We need to be a nation that makes things here, fuels things here, and stands on its own two feet," Mr Willcox said.
"The Albanese Government claims this is just a distribution problem, but that is cold comfort when you are staring at an 'Out of Service' sign in Dawson.
“Regional Australia cannot wait for Canberra to catch up. We need a plan that treats our food and fuel security as a strategic priority, not an afterthought."
Residents are encouraged to report fuel shortages at: www.nofuelhere.com.au.
Contributed with thanks to the office of Andrew Willcox MP
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox at the pump. Regional families cannot afford to run on empty. Mr Willcox is calling on the community to report fuel shortages at www.nofuelhere.com.au.
Hi lovely readers!
Last week, you would have seen our wonderful new journo Suz make an appearance here. She’ll be helping out with stories for Mackay, and even travelling up and down the coast to cover events with me from time to time.
During last week’s print deadline, I was headed up to Airlie Beach to work for the day… but unfortunately, I blew out two tyres after hitting a humongous pothole and was stranded on the side of the road for a few hours until my beautiful husband came to the rescue!
Suz thankfully stepped in and wrote her wonderful note here.
Since then, it’s been a big week. The next day, the Life Publishing team spent the day on a wonderful boat out to Whitehaven Beach, where we were able to relax, snorkel and enjoy a bit of team bonding, which carried over into Friday as we learned all about our unique personalities.
Then on Friday afternoon, I raced back to Mackay to celebrate Adam’s Citizenship Ceremony at the MECC. Although he was born in Indonesia, he’s now officially a full-blown Aussie!
We also took lots of photos together at the ceremony with Mayor Greg Williamson, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP, and Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, who kindly included our photo in his monthly ‘Note from Nigel’, which you can read on page 5.
Scripture of the week: Jesus said: “He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” - John
Behind every patient journey at Mackay Hospital and Health Service is a team working quietly to support individuals and families through some of life’s most challenging moments.
Social workers play a vital role in helping patients navigate issues beyond the hospital bed, from complex diagnoses and discharge planning to connecting people with essential services for recovery.
Their contribution was recognised at a special lunch held at Mackay Base Hospital on March 17 to mark World Social Work Day, celebrating the dedication and compassion shown by the team each day.
“Behind every patient journey is someone helping to navigate the challenges beyond the hospital bed,” a spokesperson said.
“Thank you to our social workers for the powerful difference you make in healthcare, helping patients feel heard, supported and never alone on their sometimes-complex journey.”
Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
We often hear people complain about the services that council delivers, the amount of rates people pay and what value they feel they receive for what they pay. To give you an idea of just how broad the range of services are that council delivers, here are some statistics to consider:
Civil Operations maintains, repairs and cleans 3135 roads, 65 off-street carparks, 409km of footpaths and pathways, 455 bus stops and 314 bus shelters, 27 boat ramps, 166 bridges and 445 culverts.
Facilities and Open Spaces maintain about 23 million square metres of grass, including 260 parks and botanic gardens, 111 reserves, 109 playgrounds, nine skate parks, three swimming enclosures, the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trails and six cemeteries. They also manage 272 council buildings, including libraries, halls, aquatic centres and commercial properties.
Field Services deliver a portion of the Capital Works Program, primarily using council’s ground crews (predominantly civil renewal projects, including roads, drainage, water and sewer main construction).
Mobile Assets manage the procurement, maintenance, repair and compliance of council vehicles, machinery and equipment (approximately 1300 items), to ensure staff have safe, fit-for-purpose assets for efficient service delivery.
Waste Services deliver waste and resource recovery services, implements integrated strategies to divert waste from landfill and promote sustainable practices, including waste planning. Facilities include Paget Waste Transfer Station, Hogan’s Pocket landfill and nine regional transfer stations.
Water Network operates and maintains water and wastewater infrastructure across 11 water schemes and four sewer schemes, including 2100km of pipe, 200 sewer pump stations, 30 water pump stations, 35 water reservoirs and 46,000 water meters.
Water Treatment team treats and supplies potable water and processes sewer and recycled wastewater, utilising a fleet of assets that includes nine water treatment facilities, two referable dams and a NATA accredited laboratory.
Community Lifestyle operates arts, culture, and community facilities, including five libraries, two mobile libraries, three museums and Artspace Mackay. The team delivers 2048 library programs, 511 community programs and 75 public art programs.
Corporate Communications and Marketing provide communication, marketing, design, digital media and community engagement services. The team manages council’s social media profiles and corporate websites. They facilitate about 45 community consultations each year.
Health and Regulatory Services promotes and enforces local laws and regulations to protect public health, safety and amenity. During the 2025-2026 financial year to date, the team have actioned 3480 service requests, including unregistered / straying animals, parking and vehicle offences, and illegal dumping.
MECC and Events operates public events, festivals and facilities (MECC, Foodspace, and BB Print Stadium) – in 2025, local festivals attracted 96,000 visitors and the MECC hosted 67,000 visitors across 218 events.
As you can see, just across these two major areas of council, our staff do a lot more than just collect rubbish and fill potholes. So next time you consider making a negative comment about council, consider the depth and breadth of what they actually do, and maybe remember that everyone is doing their best to deliver services to our community.
There are a lot of new businesses popping up around Mackay at the moment (woot!). People backing themselves, starting something new + giving it a crack – so this one’s for you. Whether it’s your first or your 21st business, there’s always something new to learn.
If I had to start my marketing from scratch tomorrow, I wouldn’t overcomplicate it. I’d come back to a few simple things that get you that starting momentum – without making life harder than it needs to be.
First - I’d get really clear on what I do, who it’s for + how I want to be seen. That includes who you want to help, what your point of difference is (why should I choose you over someone else) + your brand (how you want people to see + remember you). This doesn’t need to be perfect, but it does need thought out – the clearer + more consistent you are from the start, the easier everything else becomes. If you can’t explain what you do simply, and your brand doesn’t reflect that, your marketing is going to feel WAY harder than it needs to be.
Second - I’d pick one place to show up + kick butt at it. You don’t need to be everywhere, and trying to be usually means you end up being seen nowhere. Choose the marketing activity or platform your target market is already using + focus your energy there. Once you feel like you’re getting traction, then add in the next logical one. You can build out a full strategy over time, but at the start, this is more than enough.
Third - I’d make sure there’s a clear next step. If someone sees your content or meets you at a networking gig + thinks, “This sounds pretty cool,” what should they do next? Follow you, send a message, make a booking? If you don’t guide people, they’ll move on. A simple yet clear “call to action” makes it easy for someone to take your preferred next step while they’re interested.
Starting a business is a big step, but your marketing doesn’t need to be complicated. Keep it simple, back yourself + get out there – the Mackay business community is watching (and quietly cheering you on!).
Queenslanders could soon see some welcome relief on their power bills, with new figures showing electricity prices are set to fall under the latest draft Default Market Offer.
According to the Australian Energy Regulator, residential electricity prices are expected to drop by 10.1 per cent in 2026–27, while small business customers could see a reduction of 12.8 per cent.
The changes form part of the Queensland Government’s Energy Roadmap, aimed at delivering more affordable, reliable and sustainable power across the state.
Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said the draft determination showed progress after a period of rising costs.
“The draft Default Market Offer from the Australian Energy Regulator demonstrates that the Energy Roadmap is putting downward pressure on power prices, as we said it would,” Treasurer Janetzki said.
“Under Labor power prices soared by 19.9% in a single year due to Labor’s failure to properly maintain our power plants. The Government is doing its bit to put downward pressure on power bills and it is now up to retailers to ensure savings are passed to customers.”
The Default Market Offer acts as a benchmark for electricity retailers, setting the maximum price for customers on standard contracts.
The regulator is expected to finalise the determination in May, with a separate announcement for regional Queensland to follow in the coming weeks.
The Government is delivering more affordable power for Queenslanders, with the default electricity reference price set to drop by more than 10 per cent next financial year. Photo source: Shutterstock
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