Whitsunday Coast Airport is celebrating a significant five-year deal with Jetstar Airways that is set to deliver up to a 30 percent uplift in passenger numbers compared to 2024, driven by a significant boost in flight frequency across multiple routes.

While QantasLink flights will cease from October, increased Jetstar services will exceed previous
capacity and significantly boost connectivity to the Whitsundays.

A key feature of the new deal is the introduction of Jetstar’s larger A321 aircraft significantly
increasing passenger capacity per flight.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins welcomed the announcement which includes daily
flights to Melbourne, up to 11 weekly services to Sydney and 10 weekly services to Brisbane.

“Jetstar’s continued investment in the Whitsundays reflects their strong confidence in our region as a premier destination,” Mayor Collins said.

“With consistently strong load factors to Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, this expansion is a
natural next step, and we expect to see even greater passenger growth during future school
holiday and peak travel periods,” he said.

“With the additional direct capacity, Whitsunday Coast Airport will continue to deliver on its promise - cheaper, faster, direct.”

Director of Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said the airport’s collaborative approach with
Jetstar to increase capacity is an exciting outcome for both the airport and the wider Whitsunday
region.

“We anticipate it will lead to more competitive fares - a win for the community and our visitors,
while also strengthening the airport’s revenue base,” Mr Turner said.

“Tourism, agriculture, mining and freight distribution already play a vital role in our regional
economy and these additional flights will help us capitalise on those strengths. Increased
connectivity makes it easier to do business in the Whitsundays and opens the door to further
growth across these key sectors,” he said.

“With the introduction of the larger A321 aircraft, capable of flying greater distances, Whitsunday
Coast Airport will also now be positioned to explore longer-haul routes in the future.”

Mayor Collins noted the increased capacity and potential for expanded connectivity adds weight to
Council’s push for $8.25M and $22.6M in federal funding to deliver Stage 1 projects from the 2024
Master Plan.

“Ensuring our airport infrastructure can keep pace with demand and support continued growth is
integral and the recent announcement also provides valuable data and momentum for our ongoing
advocacy efforts to secure this strategic investment.”

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As Bowen’s Big Mango celebrated its birthday on the weekend, this iconic tourist attraction has been very busy in recent weeks.

It is expected to become even busier in the months ahead with so many people from the southern states heading to Bowen for the winter to escape the cooler weather in NSW and Victoria.

Bowen’s Big Mango is located on the Bruce Highway 5km south of Bowen, right next to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.

It was erected in May 2002, so it has just turned 23 years old.

The 10 metre structure cost almost $90,000 to build and is a replica of the Kensington Pride variety of mango. Bowen is the birthplace in Australia of the Kensington Pride, after it was introduced from India in 1871.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre had welcomed more visitors so far this year than for the same period last year.

"In March, our visitor numbers were up by 8% on last year, and then in April, the increase was 6%,” she said.

“As the month of May comes to an end, I am confident the final tally will also show an increase on last year’s figures.”

The number of interstate visitors is starting to increase again, as it usually does at this time of the year, as the Grey Nomads start arriving for the next three months.

“In March and April, our total interstate visitors per month was sitting at about 16% of our total visitors but this has increased to 23% in May as the southern migration starts,” Leanne said.

Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism and Business

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Visitors Michael and Heather from Brisbane with Bowen Tourism and Business team member Melissa Beuzeville, at the Big Mango on Sunday, May 25. Photo supplied

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Fixing a decade-long reduction in housing supply across Queensland is a step closer thanks to a funding program that guarantees support for regional areas.

Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, has welcomed the program’s commitment to regional Queensland due to details that have been shared with him by locals.

“The facts are that, over the last 10 years, housing approvals in Queensland have fallen by nearly 30% and the waiting list for social housing has ballooned,” he said.

“I’ve spoken to families who have no option but to live in sheds and young people who cannot get a rental property due to what is basically a bidding war due to a supply shortage.

“Our Residential Activation Fund provides funding to Councils and developers to address trunk and essential infrastructure like water supply, sewerage, power and roads. The priority during the first round is shovel-ready projects because our focus is on helping Queenslanders move into a home faster.

“I made sure that, as soon as applications opened, Council was invited to apply and my understanding is that Council has taken advantage of the opportunity this fund provides. A lot of people think that the housing crisis is only in the cities, but there has been a definite impact here in Bowen.

“In recognition of the broad impact, the government has guaranteed that at least $1 Billion of the fund is for projects in regional Queensland. Not only will this provide an opportunity to fast-track construction, but it also provides a boost for the building and construction industry which means supporting local jobs.”

Mr Last said that, in addition to the Residential Activation Fund, the Crisafulli government had also committed to fast-tracking the delivery of additional social and affordable homes.

“Despite all the promises that were made, we’ve seen a reduction in social and affordable housing stocks across Queensland,” he said.

“That reduction means there was more pressure placed on the rental market, reducing availability and increasing prices.

“Five thousand additional homes are under construction or contracted right across the state. We have been able to fast track those homes by working cooperatively with both the community housing sector and private developers to unlock land and to provide Queenslanders with a roof over their head.

“Both of these programs play a key role in making more housing available and making housing more affordable. I know everyone would like to see this problem fixed immediately but building homes takes time and that is why our first actions were to take shovel-ready projects from the planning phase to the building phase as soon as possible.

“Getting the best results possible in the shortest timeframes is also why we have focussed on a cooperative approach. Our approach has been in stark contrast to what we have seen in the last 10 years where councils were stripped of powers despite having a key role in making housing available.

“Like many issues, the solutions will take time but our focus in on working cooperatively with all sectors and with Queenslanders in general to address those issues once and for all.”

Contributed with thanks to Dale Last MP Member for Burdekin

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Locals with a creative streak or enthusiasm to build are invited to join a free, hands-on art experience led by acclaimed regional artist Lalune Croker from Lalune Croker Art this Saturday, 31 May.

Hosted by Whitsunday Art Fusion, the sculptural flower workshop will guide participants in creating decorative blooms using cane, bamboo, and paper.

Lalune said that she has completed workshops in the past but this workshop will be targeted more towards adults. However, the workshop is open for anyone 12 and up and each participant will make and take home their own flower sculpture.

Best known for her large, illuminated lanterns featured at the Great Barrier Reef Festival and Festival of Outback Skies, Lalune brings a passion for natural materials and sculpture to the region. Her past creations include a nine-metre snake puppet lantern and various biodegradable installations.

“I really like to use natural materials. I like the idea that at the end of the world it can break down into the into the ground and become soil,” Lalune explained.

“I love the organic-ness of it, and I love the way, as much as you put effort into design, the cane is going to do what the cane is going to do.

“Each piece of cane is slightly different, so you have to look for the right shapes to match what you want, and you also have to accept that it's going to be a perfect imperfection.”

Spots are still available for this unique opportunity. To see more of Lalune’s work, visit La Lune Croker Art on Facebook or her website.

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WHAT: FREE Create Flower Sculpture Workshop
WHEN: Saturday, 31 May

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This workshop is hosted by Lalune Croker Art. Photo sourced: Online

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This week marks National Reconciliation Week and the Whitsunday Regional Council started the week with a morning event on Tuesday 27th May.

National Reconciliation Week in the Whitsundays started with an event at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre which included a Flag Raising Ceremony, a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony.

There were also speeches from Student Representatives from St Catherines Catholic College, Proserpine State High School, and Bowen State High School, and a short film feature by Yooribaya Cultural Experiences on the big screen, followed by a morning tea.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins opened National Reconciliation Week and said this years theme called ‘Bridging Now to Next’ calls on all Australians to reflect, learn, and most importantly, to act.

“It invites us to honour the truth of our past, confront the challenges of the present, and walk together toward a shared future built on trust, understanding, and respect.

“Reconciliation is not a single action. It’s not a box we tick once a year. It’s an ongoing journey—one that belongs to every person, every family, every workplace, and every level of government.

“In Our Whitsundays, we’re proud of the steps we’ve taken, but we know there is still a long way to go.”

Mayor Collins also stated that the Whitsunday Regional Council are committed to building a region where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures are not just recognised but celebrated.

“This week, and always, we’re focused on listening. On working side by side with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to create the kind of region we can all be proud of,” he added.

“Already this year, we’ve seen renewed momentum—through cultural heritage projects, new partnerships in community engagement, and the continued efforts of local leaders, Elders, and young people who are shaping reconciliation on the ground.”

Robert Congoo from Yooribaya Cultural Experiences performed a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony and concluded the mornings event.

“We stand at an important point in our country, in our nation's journey, a point between where we come from and where we choose to go,” he said.

“It takes non-Indigenous people being brave enough to sit in discomfort and to stay in it until it drives change. It takes walking beside us, not ahead of us, and knowing that reconciliation isn't a favour. It's an obligation.

“Reconciliation isn't a moment or a week it's a lifelong commitment. So today I ask you to think about the next steps, your steps, what will carry across from the bridge, from now to next, because this land will always remember how we choose to walk it. Let this Reconciliation Week be more than a reflection. Let it be a monumental occasion.”

The Whitsunday Regional Council National Reconciliation Week has more events this Saturday.

At the Airlie Beach Foreshore on Saturday 31 May at 4.30pm Yooribaya Cultural Experiences will host interactive kids’ activities and cultural art, with a Welcome to Country, Smoking Ceremony, and traditional dance. Learn about the humpback whales’ journey, then enjoy a free outdoor screening of Free Willy at 6:30pm.

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Whitsunday women are urged to take advantage of BreastScreen Queensland’s mobile screening service during its visit to the region over the next few months.

The mobile service will be parked at Proserpine Hospital from 20 May to 14 June and Cannonvale’s Whitsunday Plaza from 16 June to 15 August offering its free mammogram screening service to local women.

BreastScreen Mackay clinical director Dr Wendela Schimmer said the mobile screening service is part of BreastScreen Queensland and Mackay Hospital and Health Service’s commitment to providing rural health care.

“The service ensures women across our regions are receiving a complete service; using the latest digital mammography technology,” she said.

“Appointments are free, women don’t need a referral from their doctor to have a breast screen with us and a visit takes around 30 minutes.

“Examinations aim to detect breast cancer in its very early stages when treatment can be more effective. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chance of surviving it.”

Dr Schimmer said breast screening is provided to women who are aged 40 years and over, and haven't noticed any changes to their breasts.

“While evidence shows that women aged 50-74 derive most benefit from screening every two years, women aged 40 to 49 and 75 years and over are also eligible to utilise the service."

Book now on 13 20 50 for your free appointment at any of the BreastScreen mobile
screening service locations or online at www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au.

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BreastScreen Mobile Service is now in Proserpine. Photo supplied

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Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has today been appointed as the Federal Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capabilities, a portfolio focused on cultivating Australia’s national interests and strengthening the economy.

“I am truly honoured to take on this role and welcome the faith placed in me by Leader of the Nationals David Littleproud,” Mr. Willcox said.

“Manufacturing is a large contributing factor in our Australian economy, starting right here in Dawson, from south Mackay in Paget right through to the very north of Dawson in Wulguru.

It’s vital we drive this industry forward, become more self-reliant and strengthen our ability to stand on our own two feet as a nation. From advanced manufacturing to defence to food production, it’s well overdue the need to prioritise Australian-made at every level.”

The appointment comes with perfect timing for the Member for Dawson, as the electorate prepares to host the launch of Australia’s very first locally-built rocket, marking a major milestone in the nation’s developing space industry.

“This rocket launch is a powerful symbol of what we can achieve when we invest in our sovereign capabilities. Our region is at the forefront of a new era for Australian space and technology, and I couldn’t be prouder.”

The manufacturing sector is a significant contributor to our country’s GDP and providing hundreds of thousands of jobs nationwide. With the uncertainty of the world’s landscape, ensuring a solid sovereign manufacturing capacity has never been more

critical.

“As Assistant Shadow Minister, I’ll be fighting for policies that boost innovation, creates

long-term employment, and restores confidence in Australia’s industry. A nation that

can make things for itself, is a nation that can grow and shape its own future.”

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Andrew Willcox appointed Federal Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing to boost Australia’s self-reliance and innovation amid a major local rocket launch. Photo supplied

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For many Australians living with disability or in care, life is lived on the edge of ‘just enough’. Enough to get by. Enough to pay for essentials. Enough to survive week to week.

But what about joy? What about belonging, adventure, dignity… what about living?

A weekend away with family. Tickets to see a favourite band live. A visit to a distant cultural site or ancestral Country. These are the kinds of experiences that bring meaning and connection – but for many locals living with disability, they remain out of reach due to the financial and logistical challenges involved.

“The NDIS doesn’t cover cost-of-living expenses or leisure travel – only supports that are directly tied to a person’s disability,” explains MADEC CEO Jasmine Lowry.

“For someone living on a disability pension, even a small outing or purchasing a coffee can mean going without something else.

“That’s why this End of Financial Year, we’re asking the Mackay and Whitsundays community to consider donating — because your support can be the difference between just getting by and truly experiencing life.”

For over 50 years, MADEC has stood beside those in the community who often go without. A local not-for-profit organisation and registered NDIS provider, MADEC has been delivering youth and disability supports across the Mackay and Whitsunday region since 1973.

Recognised as a Public Benevolent Institution since 2014, MADEC is also a licensed Child Safety Provider and a trusted partner for those navigating the complexities of support systems.

With the help of community donations, the organisation brings hope to life – not just in theory, but in practice.

“One young woman we support has a rare and aggressive form of Multiple Sclerosis and  had never been on a family holiday,” Jasmine shared.

“But with support from local partners, we were able to send Abby, her son, and her family to the Big 4 at Airlie Beach.

“Big 4 Adventure Whitsunday generously donated a deluxe accessible cabin, and Ma’s Pizza donated $500 spending money.

“It might not seem like much to some, but to her it was everything… a moment she dreamed of experiencing before entering palliative care.”

In another moving example of their life-changing support, MADEC provided funding to help a First Nations man fulfil his lifelong wish to find his mother’s grave.

“Andrew’s mother was part of the Stolen Generation,” Jasmine explained.

“We were able to help him reclaim his name, locate her burial site, and we’re now working on the logistics to get him there.

“These aren’t simple trips – there’s significant case management involved – but this means everything to Andrew, so we’re making it happen.”

To continue funding experiences like these, MADEC is calling on the local community to consider making a tax-deductible donation this End of Financial Year.

As a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR), all donations over $2 are tax-deductible, making it easy to give back as the end of the financial year approaches.

“Workplace giving is another simple way to show your support, but it goes a long way,” Jasmine affirmed.

“Employees can nominate a small amount from each pre-tax pay, with 100% of those funds going directly to people like Abby and Andrew.

“It helps us plan bigger goals and accomplish long-term dreams.”

Because when everyday luxuries feel out of reach, your small act of giving could be the thing that helps someone truly live again.

Here's how your donation can help transform lives:
• $5 gives young people and persons with a disability a helping hand when they need it most
• $50 provides art, sporting, and learning equipment to youth and people with disabilities for hobbies, leisure, and social wellbeing
• $500 provides a weekend retreat, experience, or adventure that would otherwise be inaccessible
• $5,000 helps MADEC launch new programs to support the life skills of at-risk youth and people with disabilities

Visit madec.org.au/donate to donate today or speak to your payroll officer to set up workplace giving in your organisation!

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Andrew recently travelled to Adelaide to fulfil his lifelong wish of finding his mother’s grave, who was part of the Stolen Generation.

Abby, living with a rare and aggressive form of Multiple Sclerosis, experienced her first-ever family holiday, staying in a deluxe accessible cabin at Big4 Adventure Whitsunday and enjoying $500 in spending money - thanks to MADEC and local partners. Photos supplied

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Sunset Bay Outriggers Canoe Club continues its impressive progress in 2025, with another successful campaign at the NQ Zone Grand Prix in Airlie Beach over the May long weekend.

Despite extremely challenging weather conditions, wind gusts reaching 35 knots and heavy rain affecting visibility, both junior and senior paddlers from the club rose to the occasion.

The club is especially proud of its two newest junior athletes, Tess Armstrong and Zara Hegarty, who displayed remarkable skill and determination. Having only joined the Sunset Bay junior program on March 1, 2025, both girls bring surf lifesaving experience to the sport and have quickly become rising talents to watch.

Under the guidance of junior coach Heath Cruckshank, whose dedication has laid the foundation for this success, the pair delivered outstanding results:

Zara Hegarty (U14) – OC6 2km Gold, OC6 500m Gold
Tess Armstrong (U19) – OC6 4km Gold, OC6 500m Gold
U19 OC2 (Armstrong & Hegarty pairing) – Gold, in what was hailed the race of the day, defeating a field of more experienced junior competitors.

Senior members of Sunset Bay also had reason to celebrate, claiming Gold in the OC6 18.5km marathon from Shute Harbour to Airlie Beach. A highlight of the regatta was the Platinum Men’s 70+ crew – featuring three paddlers over 80 years old and three in their 70s – demonstrating remarkable endurance and team spirit.

The club congratulates all new members who attended their first regatta, as well as the entire team for their commendable efforts.

Sunset Bay now looks ahead to the Australian National Long Distance Titles in Mooloolaba, set to take place from May 23–25.

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Sunset Bay paddlers powered through wild weather to strike gold across junior and senior divisions at the NQ Zone Grand Prix in Airlie Beach, showcasing rising stars and legendary endurance. Photos supplied

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CQUniversity Nursing graduate Nikita Van Wyk is following in the footsteps of her grandmother, mother and aunt, caring for patients at Mackay Hospital and Health Service (MHHS).

The 24-year-old recently crossed the stage at the CQU Mackay Graduation Ceremony, not only receiving her testamur, but also being awarded the CQU Graduate Nurse of the Year Award.

The award, which is sponsored by CQU and presented by MHHS, was first introduced in 2017 and recognises the skills and contributions of a graduate nurse.

“Receiving this award means a great deal to me. I worked extremely hard in my post graduate year and felt like I grew so much as a clinician with the help of the Emergency Department,” Nikita said.

“Being recognised for that hard work isn’t something you expect, because doing it for the patients and myself was the most important thing to me.”

That motivation is what carried her all through her studies at CQU and continues to serve her as a Registered Nurse at Mackay Hospital.

“I chose CQU as my mother had finished her nursing degree through the University and enjoyed the experience,” she said.

“My motivation was to become and emergency nurse, something I had a passion for. I had a family member unwell in hospital and the nurses at the hospital were amazing and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

“I love being a nurse because I feel like I make an impact on the community. I see people on their worst day and being able to help them and make their experience as positive as possible is rewarding.

“The people I work with and the friendships I have made is definitely a highlight. The angels I work with in the ED are some of the most caring, persistent and hard-working individuals I have ever met, and being able to share the journey with them is incredible.

She recommended anyone interested in Nursing to consider CQU.

“I would say go for it. It’s a local university that provides good face to face education while still allowing you to work and have a life while studying,” she said.

“I am extremely grateful to be given this award, and I thank CQU for giving me the skills and education I needed to start my career on the right foot.”

Contributed by Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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The Housing Industry Association says election uncertainty has masked early signs of a home building rebound, with new lending figures pointing to growing momentum heading into the second half of 2025.

“Lending for the purchase or construction of new homes remained flat in the first quarter of 2025, likely the result of election uncertainty. The data also reflected the situation prior to the effect of the RBA’s first interest rate cut,” said HIA Senior Economist Tom Devitt.

The ABS released the Lending Indicators data for the March quarter 2025 today, which provides the latest statistics on housing finance commitments.

“There were 91,790 loans issued in the 12 months to March 2025 for the purchase or construction of new housing across Australia, 8.5 per cent greater than the previous year,” added Mr Devitt.

“Investors have been leading the improvement in new home lending activity, with a 14.1 per cent increase in loans over the last 12 months, compared to a 4.9 per cent increase in owner occupier loans.

“It is typical following a trough in housing activity that investors return to the market before confidence spreads to owner occupiers – and confidence is returning.

“Ongoing strong population growth, low unemployment rates and recovering household incomes have seen an increasing number of Australians return to the market.

“The home improvement trend also looks to be making a comeback, with the number of loans for renovations up by 3.9 per cent on the same quarter last year, and over one-third greater than the levels in 2019.

“Elections can easily create consumer uncertainty around major spending decisions like new home purchases, especially elections where housing policy is front and centre.

“With the election behind us and the RBA expected to deliver this cycle’s second interest rate cut next week, more Australians are likely to return to the market and sign that contract for a new home build.

“The outlook for renovations activity continues to be supported by a number of positive fundamentals, including ageing dwelling stock, the ongoing desire for home improvement, repairs from extreme weather events, and affordability issues in the new housing market.

“The strength of the coming home building cycle will depend on the ability of each state and territory to prepare a pipeline of affordable shovel-ready land to meeting housing needs.

“If the Albanese government wants to achieve its target of 1.2 million new homes over five years, significant reforms are required.

“A few interest rate cuts won’t produce the kind of home building volumes that Australia needs,” concluded Mr Devitt.

The Northern Territory has been leading the improvement in lending for new homes, up by 50.6 per cent compared to the previous year, followed by South Australia (+22.0 per cent), Western Australia (+20.1 per cent), Queensland (+15.0 per cent), the Australian Capital Territory (+6.2 per cent), New South Wales (+2.9 per cent) and Victoria (+0.9 per cent). Tasmania saw the only decline, down by 2.7 per cent.

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Mackay Schools To Benefit As Foodbank Launches Townsville Hub

A powerful hunger-fighting initiative is taking shape in North Queensland, with Mackay schools set to benefit from expanded free breakfast clubs as Foodbank Queensland opens its first Townsville Distribution Centre.

The new hub will provide urgent support to 2,000 local families and strengthen food relief efforts across the region—including increased assistance for students in Mackay—thanks to the generosity of local businessman and philanthropist Brad Webb.

Local charity Food Relief North Queensland (FRNQ), supported by BM Webb Industrial Property, has handed over its existing operations, facilities and equipment to Foodbank Queensland.

Foodbank Queensland CEO Jess Watkinson said FRNQ had done amazing work already in North Queensland.

“We are now looking forward to building on Mr Webb’s extraordinary legacy in food security in the region,” said Ms Watkinson.

“It is a problem that touches 36% of regional Queenslanders, against 28% of residents in metropolitan areas.”

Having a dedicated base in Townsville will ensure Foodbank Queensland can expand services across the region.

Mr Webb said he was passionate about the cause and giving back to his community.

“It’s why I offered everything to Foodbank Queensland,” said Mr Webb.

“They have the background and experience to not only match what we were doing at FRNQ but expand on it and help even more people.”

Foodbank Queensland will immediately engage with local communities and organisations to establish where expansion is most needed.

Foodbank Queensland will continue to provide free fruit and School Breakfast Programs to a number of schools in Townsville, Cairns and surrounding areas, with the aim to increase food relief and respond to community feedback and needs.

The Distribution Centre will enable Foodbank Queensland to better support surrounding schools and communities in areas including Mackay and the Whitsundays, North Queensland and Far North Queensland.

“Just this year, when floods devastated so much of this area, we saw how vital it is to have food relief in place and ready to roll out when it’s needed,” said Ms Watkinson.

“We will be able to do that more effectively to more areas because of this Townsville Distribution Centre.”

The Townsville Distribution Centre is a key component of Foodbank Queensland’s expansion of services across the state, with BM Webb Industrial Property further supporting in the establishment of a larger, purpose-built facility in Townsville within the next three years.

Foodbank Queensland Key Figures
• 26,000,000 meals/year
• 150,000 Queenslanders helped every week
• $85m retail value in food donated by producers, supermarkets and farmers
• 93% of all food sourced saved from going to waste
• Over 350 Community Partners

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Mackay schools are set to benefit from expanded free breakfast programs and improved food relief services, as Foodbank Queensland’s new Townsville Distribution Centre strengthens support across North Queensland.

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By Hannah McNamara

Member for Mirani Glen Kelly has thrown his support behind the introduction of divisions within Mackay Regional Council, saying it would give local residents a stronger voice and clearer representation at the table.

Mr Kelly, whose electorate spans from the outskirts of Mackay to Rockhampton, said a common concern raised by his constituents is the lack of clarity around who to approach with local issues.

"While I believe our Mackay Regional councillors are doing a great job serving their communities, many residents have told me they find it unclear who to contact when they want to raise concerns or seek support from their elected representatives," he said.

"Adopting a divisional system would make it easier for residents to know exactly who is responsible for representing their area, providing a clear line of accountability. This is the system used successfully in many of the other council areas within the Mirani electorate, where constituents report having more positive and responsive interactions with their local councils."

Kelly believes divisions provide a valuable point of contact for residents, ensuring their concerns are directly addressed.

“Personally, I believe divisions in councils work very, very well,” he said.

“It’s important to have a face to go to. Someone you can speak to about the issues in your area – because that then gives the opportunity for your voice to be heard.”

He said feedback from constituents in the Mackay portion of his electorate has been “overwhelming.”

“It’s really hitting our office hard. People just want to have their say, and people want representation that understands their patch.”

Mr Kelly pointed to Rockhampton Regional Council as a working example, where councillors represent set divisions and often manage specific portfolios such as roads, water, or the environment.

“Portfolios give councillors a chance to really specialise in certain areas. That way when someone stops them in the street or calls the office, they can give an informed answer. It just works. I’ve seen it.”

While some have questioned the cost of a restructure or argued that unofficial divisions already exist, Mr Kelly said the benefits of clarity and transparency outweigh the concerns.

“Yes, there’s a cost involved, but this gives constituents a clear line to someone who represents their area. Someone who knows their issues and can fight for them.”

He also pushed back against claims that his advocacy is politically motivated.

“This isn’t political. It’s my job. I’ve been elected to stand up for the people of Mirani, and if I didn’t speak up for them on this, I’d be failing them.”

Mr Kelly urged locals to take part in the Mackay Regional Council’s public survey on the matter.

“People deserve the chance to have their say. If they want divisions, we move forward. If not, we put the issue to bed. But it’s their voice that matters.”

The survey, launched following a motion by Councillor Alison Jones, is open until 11.59pm on Sunday, June 1, 2025.

Mr Kelly encouraged all residents to complete it.

"Strong, local representation is vital for effective governance, and this survey is a chance for our communities to make their voices count," he said.

Mackay Regional Councillor Alison Jones said, “ninety per cent of the people that I talk to say they want divisions back… People want to know who represents them, they want that local familiarity - they want someone they can call, and someone who shows up.”

“This is a rare and valuable chance for residents to have their say, so I strongly encourage everyone to take a moment to register and be part of the conversation.”

The survey is open until June 1. A report is due back to the ordinary meeting of council in late June.

Complete the survey on the Connecting Mackay website - https://www.connectingmackay.com.au/have-your-say-on-electoral-divisions.

Should you have any questions about this consultation, or you would like a hard copy survey, please contact council’s Community Engagement team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au.

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Glen Kelly says council divisions would give Mackay residents clearer representation and a stronger local voice. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay’s biggest annual fun run looks set to sell out again this year with over 4,000 runners from all of Australia expected to pound the pavement in support of the Leukaemia Foundation.

Held on Sunday 1 June, the BMA Mackay Marina Run is now in its 17th year and to date, has contributed over $730,000 to the Leukaemia Foundation for local support services.

Event Director Tim Magoffin said “We’re extremely proud of our long-term relationship with the Leukaemia Foundation.

“Knowing that we’re able to support local families as they battle blood cancer is great motivation for our committee and volunteers.

“Each year our event continues to grow in popularity but 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest run yet.”

Tim advised that despite significantly increasing running field allocations, the run had already sold over 80% of places.

“With more people running, comes more funds for the Leukaemia Foundation so we are very hopeful of getting past our new fundraising mark of $800,000.

“We’re advising runners to register now though and not risk leaving their registration to the last minute!”

Leukaemia Foundation CEO Chris Tanti advised the funds raised through the BMA Mackay Marina Run would be used to support Australians living with blood cancer and assist local families with accommodation and transport costs associated with their treatment.

Chris advised, “Every 27 minutes, a person in Australia is diagnosed with blood cancer - it can affect anyone, of any age and in any location – it does not discriminate.

“Blood cancer one of the greatest health challenges Australia is facing and weighs heavily on those people impacted who are living outside of major cities, including Mackay.

“In the past financial year, funds raised by the run have allowed the Leukaemia Foundation to assist 90 families from across the region as they faced treatment for blood cancer.

“Whether you chose to run 5km, 8km or tackle the half marathon - every registration makes a difference and will help us to continue supporting those affected locally and save more lives.”

To register for this year’s BMA Mackay Marina Run or to make a donation, visit www.mackaymarinarun.com

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Mackay’s biggest fun run on June 1 expects 4,000+ runners to raise over $800,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation. Photos supplied

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Mackay To Unite In Honour Of Lives Lost To Domestic Violence

The Mackay community is invited to gather at the Mackay Harbour Surf Club on Saturday, 24th May 2025 from 5pm for a Candle Lighting Ceremony hosted by Broken Ballerina Inc., honouring lives lost and those impacted by domestic and family violence.

In a heartfelt show of solidarity, the event will bring together survivors, families, frontline workers, and supporters for an evening of remembrance, healing, and hope.

“This is a special opportunity for the community to come together to pay respects for those who have lost their lives to domestic violence this year,” said Jules Thompson, Founder of Broken Ballerina Inc.

“We call on your support, and we look forward to hosting you at this very memorable occasion.”

The ceremony will be formally opened by Sergeant Steve Smith of the Mackay Crime Prevention Unit, a passionate advocate for community safety and awareness. Guests will also be treated to a soulful performance by the amazing Christina Karehana, setting a reflective tone for the evening.

Guest speakers will include Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP and Australian marathon swimmer Chloe McCardel.

As the sun sets over the ocean, the candlelit gathering becomes a poignant tribute – honouring lives stolen too soon and echoing the call for urgent change. It will also become a space for hope – acknowledging the strength of survivors and the community’s role in uniting together against violence.

The event is open to all ages, and family-friendly. The Mackay Surf Life Saving Club will be offering food and drinks for purchase, with the bar also open throughout the evening.

"I’d like to thank Scott, and the generous businesses and companies who’ve donated raffle prizes, along with Mackay Regional Council for supporting us with a grant," Ms Thompson added.

Whether you’ve been personally affected or want to stand in solidarity, everyone is encouraged to come along and light a candle in show of support.

What: Broken Ballerina Inc. Candle Lighting Ceremony
When: 5pm, Saturday, 24th May
Where: Mackay Harbour Surf Club

The Mackay community is invited to a heartfelt candle lighting ceremony on Saturday, 24th May at the Mackay Harbour Surf Club to honour lives lost to domestic violence and stand in solidarity with survivors. Photo source: Broken Ballerina Inc. (Facebook)