Mackay’s ambulance crews are set to receive a major boost in emergency care, with the arrival of cutting-edge defibrillator technology designed to save more lives.

As part of the Queensland Government’s record $1 billion Health Budget for the Queensland Ambulance Service, $10 million has been dedicated to the Defibrillator Replacement Program. This investment will see 1,400 upgraded ZOLL X Series Advanced Defibrillators rolled out across the state, including right here in Mackay.

The new devices, expected to be in service by 30 September, will allow paramedics to instantly transmit ECG readings to Brisbane-based specialists via the QAS Consult Line. This direct link gives regional crews access to real-time expert advice, helping overcome distance barriers and ensuring patients in critical condition receive faster, more effective treatment.

Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, said the investment would make a real difference to frontline emergency response in the region.

“This is about giving our Mackay paramedics the very best tools to save lives,” Mr Dalton said.

“Whether you live in the heart of Mackay or a rural property outside town, you deserve world-class healthcare — and that’s exactly what the Crisafulli Government is delivering. These new defibrillators will help our ambos make critical, life-saving decisions in seconds.”

Already, more than 1,300 units have been deployed across the state, with all frontline paramedics to receive face-to-face training to confidently operate the upgraded equipment.

Queensland Ambulance Service Medical Director, Dr Daniel Bodnar, said the technology is a game-changer, especially for regional crews.

“Our rural paramedics often work without specialist back-up, so being able to share patient data instantly with our clinical teams means faster, better care,” Dr Bodnar said.

The new devices not only monitor heart rhythms, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and respiration rates, but also integrate advanced data-sharing capabilities — ensuring Mackay patients can receive specialist-level care no matter where they are.

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A new service focused on improving the health and wellbeing of Sarina community has been launched, thanks to My Hospital Foundation (MHF) receiving a community grant from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank for the purchase of a dedicated Sarina patient transport vehicle.

The 8-seater vehicle was handed over to MHF today by Community Bank Sarina, and will ensure patients of Sarina Hospital with no method of transport can attend a variety of medical appointments in Mackay.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said the new patient transport service was one that the Board felt strongly about due to the long-term positive impact it would have on the community.

“For each individual patient who utilises this service, it will make a significant difference in providing them with a better health outcome – so that transport is not a barrier,” Mrs May said.

"We couldn’t be prouder to be supporting such a worthwhile investment in our community.”

Community Bank Sarina is a long-time supporter of MHF and in total over the 2025 financial year, has contributed $91,439.36 to MHF in support of the delivery of exceptional healthcare for our regional community.

This also included sponsoring the Volunteer Program across all MHF regions and recently providing another community grant for a LUCAS Chest Compression System for Sarina Hospital.

My Hospital Foundation Chair, Gillian Smith said that in regional hospitals such as Sarina, when limited medical personnel are available after hours, this medical equipment “enables staff to focus on other areas of a patient experiencing a cardiac arrest while mechanical compressions continue”.

“This machine has the ability to save patients in situations that would otherwise be considered futile – it’s an absolutely gamechanger for Sarina Hospital,” Ms Smith said.

“The hospital and Foundation staff are all extremely grateful to Community Bank Sarina for this life-saving equipment – on top of the ongoing support they already provide. We feel very fortunate to have them in our corner – not just for us, but for the entire community.”

Find out more about Community Bank Sarina’s community impact on their social media pages – through Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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My Hospital Foundation Board, staff and volunteers with Community Bank Sarina board and Manager Erin Ryley at the car handover. Photos supplied

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Scams can happen to anyone! This was the key message delivered by the Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank team during their dedicated scam awareness session at the recent 2025 QCWA Northern Region Conference.

Scams work because scammers create believable stories and tricks designed to steal money and personal information. Over time, scammers have become more sophisticated, using new technology, products, services and even major events to make their scams appear genuine.

Warning signs include threats or urgent demands for action, requests for payment in unusual ways such as prepaid debit cards, cryptocurrency or instructions to set up new bank accounts under the guise of protecting your funds.

Once money is lost, scammers often target victims again, offering false promises to recover it – a tactic known as a follow-up scam. Sadly, one in three scam victims are scammed more than once.

Attendees at the QCWA Northern Region Conference shared how the information has already changed the way they approach unexpected calls, messages and offers.

QCWA Pioneer Division Vice President Deborah McIntyre said the session helped her understand what to look out for.

“I know now I’ll think twice before clicking on anything suspicious," Ms McIntyre said.

Community Bank Sarina is proud to champion this cause, offering ongoing support through educational resources, including scam awareness booklets available for collection at the branch.

Community Bank Sarina Manager Erin Ryley warned customers that scammers were getting smarter.

“Scammers are getting smarter. If we can leave people feeling even a little bit more confident about recognising a scam, that’s a win for our community.”

With Scam Awareness Week happening 25-29 August, Community Bank Sarina encourages everyone to drop into the branch at 37 Broad Street, Sarina and pick up a free copy of the ACCC Little Black Book of Scams and learn more about protecting yourself and your loved ones from online fraud.

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L-R QCWA State Vice President Northern Fay Lambert, Community Bank Sarina Customer Service Officer Josie Dahtler, QCWA Pioneer Division Treasurer Sharon Price, Community Bank Sarina Manager Erin Ryley. Photo supplied

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In the skies above Central Queensland, BMA CQ Rescue marked a remarkable milestone last week — completing its 13,000th mission since operations began nearly three decades ago.

The landmark flight took place just before 9.30pm on Thursday, the 7th of August, when the crew was called to Moranbah to assist a man suffering multiple cardiac issues. After being handed over by the team at Moranbah Hospital, the patient was cared for by BMA CQ Rescue’s doctor and paramedic, who worked tirelessly throughout the flight to Mackay to keep him stable.

While every mission is critical, this one not only saved a life but also underscored the 13,000 lives changed thanks to the community’s ongoing support for the vital emergency helicopter service.

It capped off an already busy week for the crew, which included a primary response to Whitsunday Island for a kayaker with breathing difficulties, a respiratory emergency near Valkyrie that saw the chopper land on a school oval, and numerous inter-hospital transfers in Collinsville, Dysart, and Bowen.

“This milestone reflects the extraordinary dedication of our crew, staff, volunteers, and supporters over nearly three decades,” said BMA CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee.

“It’s a privilege to lead a team that shows up every single day with professionalism, compassion, and purpose. Our capability has grown dramatically over the years; we can honestly say we now deliver world-class aeromedical care. But what hasn’t changed is our purpose — to be there when it matters most. That’s what the 13,000th mission means to us.”

Despite the significance of the occasion, the team had little time to pause — training and another emergency call-out came less than 12 hours later.

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BMA CQ Rescue has completed its 13,000th life-saving mission, airlifting a critically ill man from Moranbah to Mackay after nearly three decades of service in Central Queensland skies. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

The global sugar market has been holding steady in recent weeks, with supply fundamentals keeping a lid on prices.

Brazil is now halfway through its crushing season, and analysts are forecasting production between 39 and 40 million tonnes. With that much sugar expected, commercial traders are confident supply will comfortably meet demand through to the first quarter of next year. This has left speculators largely in control of short-term price movements, looking to push prices below 16 US cents per pound before easing back towards 17 US cents. While they hold a large short position, they remain vulnerable to any unexpected news of lower supply.

Here at home, Wilmar Grower Marketing has released its three-year comparative analysis report, following the finalisation of 2024-season pricing on 30 June. The results speak for themselves: Our Production Risk Pool and Allocation Account have consistently outperformed QSL’s Harvest Pool and Shared Pool. Over three years, the difference in total income for an average-sized grower is significant.

We’ve also issued our quarterly update on the 2025 Managed Pool Plus, giving participating growers insight into the hedging strategies we use to maximise returns. This season’s pool includes committed MEI (miller economic interest) tonnes, meaning we’re working hard to deliver the best possible outcome in all market conditions. Against our benchmarks, the pool is performing well despite the softer market. Interest in managed pool pricing is growing, with the 2026 Managed Pool Plus attracting strong commitments before it closed at the end of July.

Outside the office, our team has been busy during show season, supporting local events, presenting awards, and catching up with growers. Most recently, our Plane Creek Grower Relationship Manager Jonathan Reichard joined colleagues from the Plane Creek Mill and AgServices teams at the Sarina Show to host the Wilmar stand – a great opportunity to connect with the community and celebrate our local industries.

We’re also delighted to welcome Misty Bland as our new Grower Relationship Manager in Proserpine. A canegrower herself, Misty understands the realities of farming life and is passionate about supporting growers. She’s also well known for her volunteer work and community involvement – values that are a big part of who we are at Wilmar Grower Marketing.

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Plane Creek Grower Marketing Relationship Manager Jonathan Reichard (right) represented Wilmar at
the Sarina Show with staff from the AgServices and Engineering teams. From left are David Parker,
Pieter Van Vuren, Manju Srinivasalu and Mark Tanizar

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Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) has recorded its biggest year of planned burns to date, surpassing its annual target by more than 50 per cent.

Between the 1st of July 2024 and the 30th of June 2025, QPWS carried out 637 planned burns across 968,884 hectares of Queensland’s public protected estate. The burns aim to reduce the risk and severity of bushfires, protect communities and infrastructure, and promote healthy ecosystems across the state’s parks and forests.

The milestone comes as part of the Crisafulli Government’s More Rangers, Better Neighbours initiative, which has invested in additional fire management staff, upgraded equipment, enhanced training, and improved engagement with local communities. This includes restoring funding for 40 specialist fire rangers to strengthen bushfire preparedness and park management.

Planned burns are highly weather-dependent, requiring cooler conditions and minimal wind to create a patchwork of burnt and unburnt areas that support biodiversity and habitat conservation.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell praised the achievement.

“It is fantastic to see Rangers prepare our protected areas for the months and years ahead through the strategic use of fire,” Minister Powell said.

“What they have achieved this year is astounding – bolstered by good weather, strong investment in the QPWS fire program and an increased use of aerial burning techniques to deliver broadscale burning across multiple parts of Queensland when conditions are right.

“I want to congratulate our QPWS rangers and Fire teams for their focus, coordination, and commitment to deliver such an incredible result – protecting Queensland communities and our precious environment.”

QPWS Fire Services Director Troy Spinks said burns would continue over the coming weeks while conditions remain favourable.

“Rangers have done an exceptional job this year, but people can still expect to see smoke on the horizon as crews make the most of these cooler, milder conditions to undertake even more burns within national parks and state forests,” Mr Spinks said.

“These planned burns not only provide a picture-perfect sunset but prepare us for the upcoming bushfire season.

“We thank the community for your support and understanding over the coming weeks as we work to protect our parks and neighbours by delivering these vital planned burns.”

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Many years ago I was sitting on a ferry docked on the shores of Lake Van in eastern Turkey, near the borders with Iran, Iraq and Armenia, when two young Western women came racing towards me and asked if they could sit next to me.

I had been sitting on the deck of this aquatic jalopy with a handful of other travellers and locals while the skipper waited for more people to arrive for the trip to the ancient cathedral we had come to see on a nearby island.

A bus had pulled up and the two women in their early 20s got out, grabbed their backpacks from the under-carriage, and started walking towards the old ferry.

I noticed they were speeding up and making a beeline towards me. They walked straight up to me and said: “Can we sit with you?”

I was happy to oblige and they sat on the bench on either side of me, pressed up pretty close against my legs.

Like me, the young women had been through quite a journey from Istanbul, through various Aegean cities and the amazing central region of Cappadocia to get this remote dot on a map near Mount Ararat, which is said to be the landing place of Noah’s Ark after the big flood.
But our experiences had been quite different. I was in my late 20s, travelling by myself,  and had thoroughly enjoyed the history of the country and the warm friendliness of the people as I visited cafes and restaurants and explored the country’s incredible tourist attractions.

But for my new female companions, New Zealanders named Diane and Susan who had been travelling together, the experience had been completely different.

At that time, in that part of the world, there was a cultural misunderstanding, a misinterpretation, when it came to two young women travelling around by themselves.

As they huddled up next to me they told me their past few weeks had been hell. In a nutshell, they said local men had taken the firm view that these two single women had come to the country to have sex with them. It was just a matter of which men they were going to choose … and there was no lack of keen participants.

From then on Diane and Susan stuck to me like baklava to a blanket for the remainder of their time in the country.

That night we stayed at a lovely old village. We got a lot of attention, more than I usually received.

The girls stayed at my side and the men really only spoke to me or at least looked at me first, as though for approval, before talking to Susan or Diane.

Later in the night at some café or restaurant, a couple of the blokes took me aside and asked me: “Which is your girlfriend? Is it Susan or Diane?” Clearly they were trying to establish availability and show me due respect.

I said I was with both of them. “You are with both? They are both your girlfriends?”
“Yes, they are both my girlfriends.”

“Oh, really. Wow. Two girlfriends!”

In a remote region filled with history and legends, a new one was established that night. It was the one about David the Australian, sadly a myth, but one that confirmed the perceived benefits of male life in the Western world.

These days, selling real estate in Mackay, I am not required to provide the same type of protection. But protection is what a good agent provides.

An agent’s job is to protect your greatest asset, do all the things that need to be done to get the best price. You have to trust the agent, know in your heart they will do the right thing, the professional thing. You know you will be safe with a good agent because they respect and honour the responsibility.

Just like looking after Susan and Diane.

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The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) will come alive on Saturday 27 September with two dazzling performances of Simply BRILL - a celebration of the songwriters who transformed 1960’s rock ’n’ roll forever.

Starring three of Australia’s most acclaimed cabaret artists - Amelia Ryan, Michaela Burger, and Helpmann Award-winner Michael Griffiths - Simply BRILL transports audiences to the heart of New York City’s legendary Brill Building.

Known as the “one stop shop” hit factory, this iconic address reshaped the sound of popular music, launching the careers of young songwriters whose work would dominate the charts and define an era.

The show’s theatrical storytelling blends history, humour and heart, retelling the rise of icons like Bill Haley & The Comets, Neil Sedaka, Bobby Darin, Carole King, Cynthia Weil, and Ellie Greenwich.

Backed by a live five-piece band, audiences will be swept up in timeless hits such as Rock Around the Clock, Splish Splash, Oh Carol, Will You Love Me Tomorrow, You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling, River Deep Mountain High, and Leader of the Pack.

Michael Griffiths, whose career spans starring roles in Jersey Boys, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and We Will Rock You, has performed everywhere from New York’s 54 Below to London’s Royal Albert Hall and the Sydney Opera House.

Known for his magnetic stage presence and vocal mastery, he leads the trio alongside the dazzling Ryan and Burger - both celebrated nationally and internationally for their powerhouse performances and award-winning original work.

"This is the kind of show that just makes you feel good," said Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager MECC and Events.

"The music is infectious, the stories are fascinating, and these performers light up the stage. You don’t just sit and watch - you find yourself singing along and remembering why these songs have lasted for generations."

Simply BRILL will have two performance sessions at the MECC on Saturday 27 September - a 12:00pm matinee for those who love an afternoon of great music, and a 7:30pm evening show for a night out filled with energy, nostalgia, and world-class entertainment.

Event Details
The MECC Presents: Simply Brill
Saturday 27 September
Matinee: 12:00pm | Evening: 7:30pm
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
Tickets available at www.themecc.com.au

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The MECC will light up on Saturday 27 September with Simply BRILL, a vibrant, hit-filled tribute to the 1960s songwriters who defined rock ’n’ roll. Photo supplied

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Residents will again have the chance to spruce up their gardens with the ever-popular native plant giveaway on again.

The bi-annual event gives residents the opportunity to collect up to 14 free plants.

Nurseries team leader, Sue McCormack, said staff at the Mackay Natural Environment Centre were prepared for big crowds.

“We get between 600 and 700 ratepayers at the centre in the two days, which is wonderful to see,” Ms McCormack said.

Among the species on offer is the Eungella Bottlebrush, which has small, dense foliage making it an attractive hedging plant.

“The Eungella Bottlebrush loves full sun and tolerates both dry and boggy conditions and a wide variety of soil types,” Ms McCormack said.

“They are also critical for biodiversity, with the stunning pink flowers attracting bees, which are so important in the local environment.”

Those who are looking for more of a groundcover are also catered for, with the Everlasting Daisy also available.

“The eye-catching, papery yellow flowers attract bees and insects when in the garden and also make stunning dried flower displays,” Ms McCormack said.

Co-chair of the Sustainability Strategic Advisory Committee, Councillor Alison Jones, said the native plant giveaway helps to deliver council’s Urban Greening Strategy.

“We are working to increase Mackay’s vegetation coverage over the next 20 years, after it was found our urban vegetation coverage was relatively low,” Councillor Jones said.

“Having more trees and plants not only improve the look and feel of an area, but increased vegetation improves air quality, reduces storm water run-off and creates cooler neighbourhoods.”

To claim your four free native plants, head to the Mackay Natural Environment Centre at 6 Swayne Street, North Mackay on Friday, August 22, from 9am to 3pm and on Saturday, August 23 between 9am and noon.

For an additional 10 free plants, including a shady tree for wildlife, sign up to the Gardens for Wildlife online https://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/gardens.

You can also buy extra plants for $3 each.

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Mackay residents can collect up to 14 free native plants at the popular bi-annual giveaway on August 22–23, supporting biodiversity and council’s Urban Greening Strategy. Photos supplied

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Fun Ways To Stay Active With Kids

Staying active doesn’t have to be a solo pursuit – bringing the whole family along can make fitness fun, foster healthy habits, and create lasting memories. For parents looking to keep kids engaged while moving their own bodies, a variety of activities can turn exercise into play.

Outdoor adventures are an ideal starting point. Local parks, beaches, or walking trails offer opportunities for family walks, nature hikes, or even scavenger hunts that encourage exploration while keeping hearts pumping. Cycling around neighbourhood streets or nearby trails allows kids to burn energy safely, while also giving parents a moderate workout.

Backyard workouts can be both practical and entertaining. Set up obstacle courses with cones, ropes, or household items, or organise mini sports tournaments like soccer, basketball, or badminton. Even simple activities such as jumping rope, tossing a frisbee, or running relay races can improve agility, coordination, and cardiovascular fitness.

Structured family fitness classes are gaining popularity in many communities. Dance or martial arts sessions designed for parents and children can build strength, flexibility, and confidence while encouraging positive interaction and teamwork.

Integrating activity into daily routines can also make a difference. Short bursts of movement while doing chores, playful stretching during TV breaks, or even active travel to school can add up over the week.

Ultimately, the key to successful family workouts is making them enjoyable and inclusive.

When exercise becomes a shared adventure rather than a chore, children develop a positive relationship with fitness, and parents benefit from quality time and improved well-being.

Because, who wouldn’t want to turn family time into fun and fitness all at once?

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Fitness Cartel Mackay: Our Largest Health Club Opens This Year

If you thought you knew what a gym could be, think again. Opening later this year, Fitness Cartel Mackay will be Fitness Cartel’s largest health and wellness club, delivering Affordable Luxury to every member. This 3,450sqm fitness sanctuary is purpose-built to inspire, energise, and connect. Opening in Spring this year, Fitness Cartel Mackay isn’t just another club — it’s a flagship destination redefining what it means to train, recover, and belong.

Build your own fitness stack with a huge range of facilities and flexible membership options — combining the training styles, recovery methods, and lifestyle perks that work for you. Whether you want to lift heavy, stretch deeply, cycle hard, or simply unwind, you can train your way.

When you step inside you will discover the difference.

From six-star bathrooms and over 20m of dumbbell racks, to over 500 pieces of world-class equipment hand crafted in Italy, everything is designed to inspire. Explore group training in the ultramodern Cycle Studio, a dedicated Reformer Pilates Studio, and a versatile Group Fitness Studio offering Les Mills, Yoga and custom classes. For something different, there’s the exclusive Comfort Zone for those who prefer to train in a quiet, private space, a dynamic Functional Training Zone, and even a full Multi-Sport Court.

Parents are well looked after with the Kids Cartel Crèche, featuring a custom-built playground, so parents can train with peace of mind. After your workout, refuel at the Cartel Café with a fresh coffee, a post-session protein shake, or stock up on your favourite supplements and the latest Fitness Cartel Apparel.

The Wellness & Recovery Centre is unlike anything Mackay has seen before. Inside you’ll find a 12 person 6–8°C Cold Plunge, a 40-person 32°C Magnesium Pool, and an 18-person 38°C Hot Spa. There’s also a spacious 24-person Traditional Hot Rock Sauna and a dedicated Compression Therapy Room with Normatec Dynamic Air Compression Boots.

For those looking to take recovery even further, additional treatments are available, including access to a Massage Room, Red Light Therapy, and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.

Foundation Memberships are now live, giving early members access to exclusive rates. Secure your place today and be among the first to experience Mackay’s ultimate fitness playground.
Get started today at fitnesscartel.com.au.

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Which is Right for You?

Deciding whether to rent or buy a home is one of life’s biggest financial and lifestyle choices. Both options come with their own advantages and challenges, and understanding these can help you make an informed decision that suits your personal circumstances, goals, and budget.

The Pros of Renting

Renting offers flexibility that buying often cannot match. If your job or lifestyle requires frequent moves, renting allows you to relocate with relative ease and without the financial burden of selling a property. Renters are also generally not responsible for maintenance and repair costs, which can save money and hassle.

Another advantage is the lower upfront costs. Renting usually requires a bond or security deposit and perhaps a few weeks’ rent in advance, but avoids the large down payment, stamp duty, and closing costs that come with purchasing a home.

For many, renting can also offer access to desirable locations or amenities that may be unaffordable if buying, such as apartments in city centres or complex facilities like gyms and pools.

The Cons of Renting

However, renting means you’re paying towards someone else’s asset without building equity for yourself. Rent can also increase over time, often unexpectedly, which can impact your budget. Renters have limited control over their living space – restrictions on pets, renovations, or even lease renewals can affect your comfort and stability.

The Pros of Buying

Buying a home is often seen as an investment. Over time, property typically appreciates, allowing owners to build equity that can contribute to financial security and wealth creation. Homeownership also offers stability – no sudden lease terminations or rent hikes – and the freedom to personalise your space without restrictions.

Owning a home can provide tax benefits, depending on your location, and the chance to leverage your property as collateral for other investments.

The Cons of Buying

On the flip side, buying requires a significant upfront financial commitment. Down payments, legal fees, inspection costs, and ongoing expenses like mortgage repayments, rates, insurance, and maintenance add up. Additionally, property markets can fluctuate, sometimes decreasing in value, which poses a risk to owners.

Owning a home also ties you to one location, making it harder and costlier to move quickly for job changes or lifestyle needs.

So, Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing between renting and buying depends largely on your financial situation, lifestyle preferences, and long-term goals. If flexibility and lower upfront costs are priorities, renting may be the better choice. If building equity and establishing a permanent home are important, buying might suit you more.

Before making your decision, consider factors like job stability, savings for a deposit, credit score, and how long you plan to stay in one place. Consulting with real estate and financial professionals can also provide personalised guidance.

Ultimately, whether you rent or buy, understanding the pros and cons helps ensure your housing choice supports your wellbeing and financial health.

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Life Publishing Group's newest staff member, Mia Galbraith, who works for Burdekin Life Newspaper is stepping up as a Burdekin Water Festival (BWF) Senior Ambassador representing CORES QLD. As part of her mission to help others, Mia, has taken it upon herself to run a Self Love Night to raise awareness for the importance of mental health and valuable funds for the invaluable work of CORES QLD.

The event takes place this weekend and in the run-up Mia has shared several videos and posts online, detailing how important it is to take care of and prioritise your own personal mental health, featuring BWF Committee members as guests on occasion to encourage conversations surrounding mental health awareness.

This Saturday, the 23rd of August, Mia invites the community to come on down to The Vault in Home Hill for an evening of positivity, self-love and family connection from 4:30pm onwards.

The evening will include live entertainment, wonderful guest speakers, drinks, and delicious food as well as plenty of activities, BINGO games and raffles to keep the fun flowing well into the night!

All proceeds from the event will be directly donated to CORES QLD, and all attendees are kindly asked to wear bright colours to contribute to the event’s joyful atmosphere!

What: Mia's Self Love Night
When: Saturday 23rd of August, from 4:30pm
Where: The Vault, Home Hill

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Hello Everyone,

Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the 25th annual Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival—and what a treat it was! A huge congratulations to Mick, Val, and their incredible army of volunteers who made the event not only possible but truly memorable.

A big shoutout also to all the participants—from overall winners Josh Ferris and Tara Sosinski to every single person who trained, showed up, and gave it their all. Dozens of local kids took part again this year, cheered on by proud families, filling the course with energy and community spirit. It was a joy to watch.

Alongside the pros came the amateurs—everyday people who made the brave decision to step outside their comfort zones, challenge their limits, and use their bodies in ways they hadn’t before. It wasn’t just a physical feat; it was a mental one too. And I’m sure for many, crossing that finish line wasn’t just a triumph for the body—it was fuel for the soul.

One such amateur was our very own journalist Daniel Heggie, who had been quietly training for months. His goal? To race alongside a childhood friend travelling up from Adelaide who had thrown down the challenge. In true friendly rivalry fashion, the competition wasn’t about beating others—it was about beating each other! If you see Daniel around, ask him for the full story—it involves a three-minute margin and a catastrophic bike leg.

We wrapped up the weekend at the Sunday night Sponsors Dinner, where I was once again blown away by the festival’s warmth. Many guests commented on how unique this event is — intimate and welcoming to everyone from elite athletes to first-time triathletes. It’s that sense of connection and community that makes this festival so special.

Rach

Quote of the Week: "Don't be pushed by your problems. Be led by your dreams" (Ralph Waldo Emerson)

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Calls from Whitsunday Regional Council and Mayor Ry Collins have borne fruit, with $18.9 million secured under the Country Road Connects Program to seal 15 kilometres of the Bowen Developmental Road.

Mayor Collins said the funding is a long-awaited win for the region’s rural industries, residents, and road users.

“We’ve heard over many years how important this road is—particularly to our rural industries, cattle farmers, the livestock sector, as well as the residents that traverse our rural areas,” he said.

Currently, three sections of the Bowen Developmental Road remain unsealed, creating ongoing problems for road safety and access, particularly during disaster season when wet weather makes travel unpredictable and sometimes impossible.

“This will really be that additional stage that’s needed to enhance user safety, strengthen our resilience during wet weather events, and improve accessibility for the community out there,” Mayor Collins said.

The sealing will provide certainty for freight and agricultural transport, ensuring livestock from high-volume cattle areas in the west can move more efficiently and safely.

Mayor Collins said the announcement reflects years of advocacy by council and local stakeholders.

“We really extend our appreciation to the Crisafulli Government for recognising the importance of additional sealing on the Bowen Developmental Road, and look forward to delivering a fantastic project,” he said.

Council also acknowledged the support of Minister Brent Mickelberg MP and Burdekin MP Dale Last, who have backed the project as part of a broader investment in regional roads.

“This upgrade is a huge win for safety, industry and our Whitsunday rural communities,” Council stated in a recent Facebook post.

Work is expected to begin following project design and planning, with further announcements to come in the months ahead.

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15 kilometres of the Bowen Developmental Road will be sealed
A map showing the area where works will take place
Mayor Ry Collins has been a strong advocate for the funding

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