Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, said common sense has prevailed, after confirmation the crossbench will block Labor’s “disastrous and ill-thought-out” fresh food tax in the Senate.
 
It comes after The Nationals spent the past year campaigning with farmers and industry against the tax, called a biosecurity protection levy, which Willcox said would have hurt both families and farmers in Dawson amid a cost-of-living crisis.
 
“This is a win for families, a win for farmers and a win for regional Australia,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“I am proud to have been part of a campaign to stop Labor’s fresh food tax as soon as it was announced in Labor’s bad Budget last year.

“I would like to thank everyone who supported The Nationals and joined our efforts to scrap this tax, either by signing our petition, backing our media campaign or helping to highlight just how disgraceful Labor’s reckless new tax would be.
 
“Not only would this tax drive up the price of fresh food in Dawson, with farmers forced to pass on costs, it would also undermine the entire levy system, causing chaos and confusion across industry.
 
“Families need food that is more affordable and our farmers need support to get food from paddock to plate. While Labor tried to introduce the exact opposite, The Nationals will always fight for common sense and for fairness in the regions.”
 
Mr Willcox added Agriculture Minister Murray Watt should be ashamed for even contemplating the idea, let alone trying to push it through and introduce the tax on July 1.
 
“The fact Minister Watt refused to listen to concerns and instead doubled down, carrying out a rushed and confusing policy which lacked in detail, is either lazy or arrogant,” Mr Willcox added.
 
“It was senseless when better alternatives were offered by The Nationals, such as an importer container levy, which would charge importers, not our own farmers, to pay for biosecurity risks being created as produce comes into the country.
 
“In what parallel universe would a government charge its own farmers to pay for the biosecurity risks their competitors are creating, just to raise $150 million over three years for consolidated revenue?

“I want families and farmers to know The Nationals have your back. We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Australian farmers today and welcome news the Senate will reject Labor’s fresh food tax.”

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Last week, the CEO of the Red Rose Foundation joined the Mater Mackay leadership team to unveil Mater Hospital's first Red Bench to take a stand against domestic violence, in recognition of Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month, this May. 

CEO of the Red Rose Foundation, Betty Taylor had the honours of cutting the ribbon as the official unveiling of the shiny red bench situated to the side of the main Mater Hospital entrance.  

“It’s such a bright red, you can’t miss it and it does send that signal of what we call a ‘beacon of hope’ because it says to a victim, ‘here’s an organisation that cares about domestic and family violence and wants to make a public statement against it’.”

Local QPS domestic and family violence representative, Tamara Cook spoke on the meaning behind these benches and the importance of them being visible across the community. 

Constable Cook said that “Domestic Violence is no longer a behind closed doors issue, it’s a major social issue but we’ve all got a part to play, and police can no longer do it on our own.

“Domestic and family violence is devastating to not only those directly involved but it affects all of us.

“Who would have thought that in 2024, we are desperately trying to repair basic human rights and the freedom to be safe in a relationship.”

“I encourage everyone of us to stand up against domestic violence, we have a role to play in ending domestic violence, whether it’s speaking out when we see something is wrong, supporting victims and survivors or educating others about the signs of abuse.

“We must all do our part to create a world where everyone feels safe and respected in a relationship,” she remarked.

The Red Rose Foundational moto ‘Take A Seat To Take A Stand’ is a simple yet meaningful gesture to offer community support and stand against domestic and family violence in hopes that small steps will soon enough make a big impact on this rising societal issue.

With the unveiling of this bench, the staff within the Mater Hospital aim to make it known to patients and their visitors that there is support for them or their loved ones if they are currently experiencing DFV. 

The presence of a Red Bench in a public location aims to raise awareness of domestic violence and provide an opportunity for this important issue to remain visible.

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Supporters from various organisations united in their efforts to stand against the issue, including representatives from the Red Rose Foundation, QPS, Women’s Health Service, the Mater Hospital staff and Member for Mackay Julianne Gilbert. Photo credit Hannah McNamara

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After a long stretch of confusion, fury and heartache, The Camilleri Street Skatepark wall mural has been completed for a second time, in hopes of creating an artwork that can be enjoyed by all for years to come.

Originally from Canada, artist Anita Laura now calls Mackay home with a passion for art and a love for the community, she emphasises that art, is something everyone can connect with on their own personal level.

Anita's aim with the Camilleri Street skatepark wall mural is to instil a sense of ownership for skatepark users and community members alike while encouraging all to enjoy public spaces and appreciate the local art.

Inspired by the local area, Anita created a piece that includes features of Shoal Point beach at low tide mixed with a perspective of skateboarders rolling into space to remind us of the connections that form around us.

“I tried to create a piece that included elements of the Northern Beaches, with the coral, the tides and the moon in there. I thought it’d be fun to be skateboarding up into space for the people who use the ramp,” Anita explained.

“The constellations remind us that we can each be a light in our corner and we’re all connected, and I just thought the hand with the tech deck was a bit fun to include because it makes the scale of the park suddenly seem miniature when you see the hand riding a tech deck on the skatepark.

“It’s lovely to be a part of a project that created something good out of something sad that happened.

“I just love that people can enjoy murals whether or not they know the backstory and hopefully the mural can be enjoyed by everyone,” she said.

The original artwork at Camilleri Street Skate Park was commissioned after the death of Northern Beaches teenager Will Baker, whose motorcycle collided with a courtesy bus in a tragic accident near the community of Blacks Beach.
The community had originally raised money to for the Baker family. The family said they would love to see those funds go back into community in a way everyone could enjoy. The idea for a mural at the skatepark ignited and the community rallied behind it. Unfortunately, due to miss-communication the artist began the work without the necessary council permits, so the original artwork was painted over back to a blank canvas. With the proper council permits, Anita has been able to beautify this place and see the community initiative come to life.

Anita reflects on the project's positive transformation, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to paint the mural, despite it being her first-time spray-painting. While she previously worked with acrylics and screen painting for murals at the birth centre and Fifth Lane, this experience marked her first attempt at spray painting, which she executed brilliantly.
The project has been a community-driven endeavour, met with joy and enthusiasm from locals who share one thing in common, an admiration for artwork and a sense of pride for the skatepark within the Northern Beaches community.

Members of the community are invited to attend the official Camilleri St Skate Park Festival on June 1st, from 2-5 pm at the Grind Shrine Skateboard Shop event, featuring live music, a skateboarding competition, learn-to-skate sessions, and art workshops - all free of charge, promising to be an exciting celebration of creativity and skate culture for all to enjoy.
You can find more of Anita’s artwork on Instagram and Facebook at: Anita Laura Art.

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Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) emergency departments have seen a considerable rise in presentations, with a nine per cent increase in attendance compared to the same period last year.
In the March quarter, there were 27,279 attendances to emergency departments (EDs) in the Mackay HHS region.
Despite the surge, Mackay HHS median wait times across all categories improved to nine minutes from 10 minutes in the March quarter of last year. 100 per cent of Category 1 patients were seen within the clinically recommended timeframe.
Mackay HHS recorded a slight increase in the number of patients receiving elective surgery (772) from the prior quarter and at the end of the quarter, 82.6 per cent of ready for care patients on the waitlist were waiting within the clinically recommended timeframe.
The health service received additional funding of $5 million in 2023-24 to reduce long waits for elective surgery, gastrointestinal endoscopy and specialist outpatients.
Presentations to the ED at Mackay Base Hospital are reducing thanks to the Post Operative Discharge Support Service (PODSS), which has helped to relieve pressure on the ED and provide better support for patients as they recover from surgery.
The PODSS team has already increased from one clinical nurse consultant to two and has seen more than 370 patients since the service began two months ago.
Future infrastructure will assist with catering for long-stay patients, with the investment of $10.4 million to repurpose the former Sarina Hospital site to care for a number of patients who require daily support, but do not need acute hospital care.
The refurbishment of the former Sarina Hospital site is set to provide 24 long-stay patient beds in the existing facility.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Chief Executive Susan Gannon said that the Post Operative Discharge Support Service (PODSS) at Mackay Base Hospital has been a great success and is helping to not only relieve pressure on the busy ED, but also provide better support for patients as they recover from surgery.
“Our PODSS team has already increased from one clinical nurse consultant to two and has seen more than 370 patients since the service began two months ago,” Ms Gannon said.
“They also estimate that about 50 per cent of patients have been able to avoid a presentation to ED as a result.”
Ms Gannon added that Mackay Base Hospital regularly has about 30 long stay patients in acute beds in the wards.

“In effect this is the equivalent of one ward of the hospital which cannot provide acute care,” she said.
“The answer is to find a better environment for them, which is why we will undertake a refurbishment of the former Sarina Hospital site to provide 24 long stay patient beds in the existing facility.
“The number of the most urgent Category 1 patients in our seven emergency departments increased by 50 per cent in the March quarter compared to the same quarter last year.”

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Susan Gannon

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Resource Industry Network (RIN) is thrilled to present its annual Safety Conference 2024.
This pioneering conference in Mackay elevates safety leadership in Central Queensland's minerals, energy, and resources sectors.
The Safety Conference, designed to bring together safety personnel, is the region’s exclusive source for current safety themes and innovations.
Hosted by Mick Crowe, Chief Operating Officer at Bravus Mining & Resources, the conference explains why safety fundamentally matters beyond mere compliance or regulation.
Attendees will be engaged in the thought-provoking breakout sessions and benefit from networking opportunities with accomplished safety professionals.
Exploring physical and psychological safety, mining companies, contractors, and suppliers will come together to inspect the human aspect of safety that drives organisational safety initiatives and impacts productivity, morale, and organisational success.
"Attending the Safety Conference isn't just about ticking a box; it's an investment in the well-being and future achievements of your team and organisation," says Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at RIN.
The safety conference will also feature an impressive lineup of plenary speakers, including Anthony Gibbs, CEO of Sentis, Paul Bowman, Head of Performance for the North Queensland Cowboys, and Naomi Rogers, PhD, a specialist fatigue consultant. These experts are set to deliver insightful presentations, sharing their extensive knowledge and experience to enhance safety practices across various industries.
This conference is intended for Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) staff, including safety leaders and supervisors, who are passionate about enhancing safety culture in the workplace.
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What: Safety Conference 2024
When: Friday, May 31st, 2024, 6:45am – 4:30pm
Where: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC)

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After much anticipation, ALDI brought its 'Good Different' shopping experience to Andergrove, Mackay with the opening of a new store on Wednesday, 15th May. This event marked the first ALDI store in the region, offering the local community a unique range of “high-quality products at exceptionally low prices”.
ALDI claimed that customers could trust that every item in their trolley was not only a great value but also of top quality. This guarantee contributed to ALDI winning Canstar Blue’s award for Australia’s Most Satisfied Shoppers eight times.
Bronwyn Post, Managing Director, Queensland, ALDI Australia, said, “We know the passion Mackay locals have for ALDI and how much they’ve been looking forward to ALDI bringing Australia’s lowest-priced groceries to the region. Now more than ever it’s important that Aussies have access to affordable groceries so it’s truly a pleasure for us to be able to reach a whole new community of people with our ‘Good Different’ shopping experience.
“We know for many customers visiting ALDI Mackay, it will be their first time ever shopping in an ALDI store. There are a few small differences they may notice that separate us from other supermarkets, such as our curated range of exclusive brands, streamlined operations, and our coin deposit trolleys,” Ms Post said.
“These differences allow us to cut out unnecessary costs and pass these savings on to customers. In 2023 alone, ALDI shoppers saved $3.4 billion on their grocery bills. That’s real money back in the pockets of Australian families."
“We look forward to welcoming the residents of Mackay to the store so they can discover the savings that can be made for themselves.”
In August 2020, ALDI became the first Australian supermarket to commit to 100% renewable electricity, achieving this milestone in June 2021. All ALDI Australia stores, offices, and warehouses are now fully powered by renewable electricity.
In addition to being fully powered by renewable electricity, in 2019, ALDI committed to reducing plastic packaging by 25% and ensuring 100% of packaging would be reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025. ALDI Australia recently won Finder’s ‘Green Supermarket of the Year’ award, recognizing the company’s ambition and progress in its sustainability efforts.

The new ALDI Mackay store features a vibrant produce section, showcasing fresh fruits and vegetables delivered daily. Photo supplied

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Whether early, mid or later in career, there’s many reasons why we may seek to reinvent our careers, and sometimes we may be forced to through redundancy or personal well-being. The ‘job for life’ is vanishing from the career landscape and it is reported that the average person tends to go through 3-7 careers throughout their working life, and more for upcoming generations. It helps to have a mindset that your career is a journey, not a destination.

Reinventing your career can be a transformational and empowering experience. Here are some steps to help you navigate this process:

   1. Identify your strengths and skills: List out your strengths, skills, and experiences as well as what interests you, what you enjoy doing and what you are good at. This can provide direction for your career change.
   2. Maintain mindset and persistence: Changing careers can be challenging. Maintain a positive mindset and be prepared for setbacks. Persistence is key.
   3. Set realistic goals: Set achievable short- and long-term goals to keep motivated.
   4. Do your research: Explore different career options that align with your interests and skills. Use career websites, register for career alerts from preferred companies and stay updated on work trends.
   5. Rebrand yourself with the job or career you want in mind.
   6. Leverage transferable skills: Identify skills from your current or previous roles that are transferable. Identify any gaps and seek out training - formal and development workshops. Take advantage of free courses.
   7. Build your professional network: Connect with professionals in the field you are interested in. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and engage on professional social networks like LinkedIn.
   8. Activate your search strategy: Update your résumé and LinkedIn profile, highlight relevant skills and experiences for your new career path. Be strategic – apply for positions that match your new career goals. Be sure to customise each cover letter.
   9. Gain practical experience: Look for opportunities to gain experience in your new field e.g. internships, volunteering, part-time work, or freelance projects.
   10. Plan your finances: Ensure you have a financial plan to support yourself during the transition e.g. saving money, budgeting, or finding part-time work while you retrain.

Reinventing your career is a journey that requires self-analysis, planning, action and persistence. With the right approach, you can successfully transition into a fulfilling new career path.

Any change not only requires you to plan but also to act. If you want a different outcome, you have to do things differently. If it all seems overwhelming, seek some assistance from a trusted personal career guide. CareerForce Australia can provide that individualised support - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank would like to congratulate fellow team member Josie Dahtler on her recent graduation from CQUniversity! Josie is a Customer Service Officer at Community Bank Sarina who completed a Bachelor of Science studying online, which enabled her to stay local, and earn and learn.

Josie joined the banking team after completing high school from a competitive field of applicants. While at high school, Josie was a recipient of Community Bank Sarina’s inaugural Sarina State High School Scholarship Program, which she said meant “more than just money” to her, and her future prospects. "Through events and getting involved in the community, recipients like me can find chances to grow as individuals and future leaders. I'm thankful for the support Community Bank Sarina provided during my high school studies.”

Another local graduate success story was Elleni Williams, who received a Community Bank Sarina higher education scholarship, supporting her university studies. Elleni completed a Bachelor of Accounting, and appreciated the financial assistance and networking opportunities that the scholarship provided.

“Receiving this scholarship felt special. As an older student who hadn't been in high school for three years, I appreciated that the Bank recognised my education and work experience, which helped affirm that my career aspirations were valid and pushed me to keep going. The scholarship provided financial support but also gave me access to resources, connections, and experiences that made a big impact on my future career opportunities.”

Community Bank Sarina manager Charmaine Matsen said the focus of scholarships was to allow local students to live and work where they wanted, and still have the career they desired. “At the Bank, we always say you don’t have to leave to achieve! We’re all just so proud of Josie, and she is a real credit to our banking team.”

The Community Bank Sarina Scholarship program is all about providing an opportunity and additional support to those who want to learn. The team at Community Bank Sarina congratulates Josie, Elleni and all of the graduates on their hard work.

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From Community Bank Sarina, Board Chair Karen May, Customer Service Officer Josie Dahtler, Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich and Manager Charmaine Matsen

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In a ground-breaking event for local marine conservation enthusiasts, volunteers Stephen and Janet Boxall from the Mackay and District Turtle Watch (M&DTW) have achieved a significant milestone by documenting the nesting of an olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) for the first time in the region's history. This remarkable occurrence unfolded on the serene shores of Campwin Beach, located just south of Mackay, during the early days of December 2023.

“When we found out that it was an olive ridley we were over the moon, it was almost unbelievable,” Janet remarked.

Following their encounter with a small turtle on the beach during a morning survey, Stephen and Janet initially assumed it to be a young loggerhead. However, they wisely persisted in observing its unique gait and meticulously documented both the tracks and the nest.

Upon consulting with Lynette Gallagher, they discovered 90 eggs in an egg chamber, likely belonging to an olive ridley, a species not known to nest in the area. The eggs were then relocated to a safer spot, where not long after 34 hatchlings emerged, with 12 found alive and one lifeless.

Sister of Janet, Shirley Sidey cared for the nest during the Boxalls' absence and suspected the hatchlings might be olive ridleys due to discrepancies in appearance. After further examination and collaboration with sea turtle experts, including Dr. Col Limpus, it was confirmed on May 8, 2024, that the turtle and hatchlings were indeed olive ridleys.
Typically, Mackay's mainland beaches are frequented by flatback (Natator depressus) and green (Chelonia mydas) turtles, distinguished by their symmetrical breaststroke gaits. However, the Campwin turtle's unique nesting behaviour, characterised by an alternate gait, initially led to speculation that it might be a loggerhead (Caretta caretta) turtle.
This assumption was challenged upon closer inspection of hatchling photos, revealing the tell-tale olive ridley characteristics, including the presence of six or more pairs of large scales on the carapaces.
Additionally, Dr. Limpus noted the annual nesting of hundreds of olive ridleys on the western Cape York Peninsula, primarily south of Weipa, further emphasising the need for continued vigilance and conservation efforts along Australia's eastern coast.

Janet said, “We have had very heartening results in the number of turtles nesting on our beaches recently and we would hope that the efforts of the people in the previous decades have contributed to their survival.

“The contributions that Mackay and District Turtle Watch volunteers make to ensuring the survival of the turtles in our waters as well as their contributions to the data collected are invaluable.”

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Local Mackay & District Turtle Watch volunteers have discovered rare turtle hatchlings known as ‘olive ridleys’ on Campwin beach, just south of Mackay. Photo credit: Mackay and District Turtle Watch

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For the month of June, Grapevine Group wants the Mackay community to hold takeaway pizza parties and to dine in at Laffos Bar and Pizzeria where every large pizza bought will see $5 donated as part of the Pizza for a Purpose fundraiser.
To launch Pizza for a Purpose, Grapevine will be at the front of Laffos at Caneland Central on Saturday, June 1.
The fundraiser will continue to support Grapevine’s critical work towards local suicide prevention training and awareness initiatives like their free lifesaving 3-hour safeTALK training available to the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions. The launch will include a well-being fair with mental health services and will also promote this year’s pizza party theme.
The event which runs from 9am to 1pm, will include pizza-making workshops, free face-painting, a pizza and paint session and balloon twisting for all to enjoy. The community also has an opportunity to win one of three $200 Caneland Central gift vouchers as part of Grapevine’s colouring-in competition.
“Fundraisers like this are essential so Grapevine can continue to run free group safeTALK sessions or 1-hour Suicide Mythbusters toolbox talks that can be delivered at workplaces, sports or community organisations,” said Grapevine Group president Debbie Knight.
To date, Grapevine has proudly trained 6800 locals in suicide prevention, but more training is needed. Grapevine thanks the official Pizza for a Purpose supporters including Laffos Bar & Pizzeria, Caneland Central and Bright Light Marketing.
“We’re so proud of the extraordinary work Grapevine does. Signing up for our third consecutive year to raise funds was a no-brainer,” Laffos Bar and Pizzeria owner Nicole Batzloff said.
“This time we hope to better the $11,000 generated last year, so we hope lots of local organisations hold a pizza party to help us raise even more.”
The pizza-making workshops will be held at 9am and 10.30am, and the pizza and paint session at 12pm. Join Grapevine Group on Saturday June 1 at the pizza party inspired launch. Book now for the pizza-making workshops, and pizza and paint session by visiting www.canelandcentral.com.au
For local help or to book into free public or group suicide prevention training, download the Grapevine Group app now or go to www.grapevinegroup.org.au
Get involved and make a difference by eating some delicious Laffo’s pizza!

Laffos Bar and Pizzeria donated $11,290 in 2023 thanks to the Pizza for a Purpose initiative
Every large pizza bought will see $5 donated as part of the Pizza for a Purpose fundraiser to the Grapevine Group. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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You’ll be surprised that’s for sure.

It’s been a busy time over the last few weeks. Last week was my birthday, Dad’s been here for a few days saying gudday to the kids and spoiling his favourite son. Greg Williamson had his annual Charity Ball.

Aldi finally opened its doors in Beaconsfield which had what seemed like thousands rocking up just to check out how many ski jackets could be sold in the tropics, and the number of fundraisers lately have raised enough money to put enough fuel in the car for a week, for anyone coming in from the northern beaches. That’s a busy time.

Well, I am here to tell you now, it’s certainly not slowing down any time soon. It’s getting busier.

I’m busy in the 4MK breakfast studio trying to give away nearly $6K in the Secret Sound each day after 7am. Get cracking to win the money.

We’ll be busy tonight at the Mackay Golf Club for the Pro-Am Sponsors night. I’m sure I’ll get some great tips on how to play this fun game of white ball. It’s very similar to the other white ball game I play in hockey. Sure, their balls are smaller, but the idea is the same. Hit the ball, and hope it gets in the hole/goal as quickly as possible.

Next week it just does not stop either. Heaps of fun activities to be involved in. There’s another big NBL1 basketball game in Mackay with our Meteors and Meteorettes on the Friday night. Then on Saturday, it’s all hands-on with the third edition of Legends on the Lawn with Icehouse playing at Harrup Park on the Saturday.

Then on Sunday, I’ll be at the Mackay Harbour with thousands of others getting ready to run their hearts out for the annual BMA Mackay Marina Run. I’ll be running the half-marathon with my son for the first time which will be so cool. We’ve both been training for this run, so I hope we both finish without too much injury, and with a smile.

If you’re part of any of these fun activities enjoy it. Remember to smile.

Don’t forget if you’ve got a function or activity that the community can get involved in, let me know. It could be markets at Sarina, or even a fun run in Marian, or the opening of a new community group around Seaforth, flick me the information.

Remember if you see a tall man with orange shoes running down Sydney Street, he’s not being chased, he’s just trying to breathe. That’s all.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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One of the most over-used terms in the news media is, “A parent’s worst nightmare”.
It’s annoying because the situation the reporter is describing is usually not a parent’s worst nightmare but something pretty bad. Bad, yes. Worst nightmare, no.
I won’t disturb readers by giving examples of “worst nightmares”, but you get what I mean.
Some years ago my wife, Sonia, and I went for a weekend break to the Coral Sea Resort in Airlea Beach and left our then-four-year-old daughter with my wife’s parents in South Mackay.
On our first evening away we experienced what news reporters would refer to as a “parent’s worst nightmare”.
We were relaxing in a water-front section of the resort and, around 5.30pm, rang my wife’s parents to check on how they were going with our daughter, Bianca.
My wife rang and I was sitting next to her, only hearing her end of the conversation.
After the initial “Hi mum, how are you etc”, my wife said “How’s Bianca?”
I couldn’t hear her mum’s reply but Sonia said: “You can’t find her?”
We exchanged fairly intense glances and I said “put her on speaker”. I discovered that the challenge in these situations is not to scream at your mother-in-law: “WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU CAN’T FIND HER?!!
We tried to stay calm and asked how long since they had seen her and she said it was about 15 minutes. They had a two-storey house and it would not be unusual for Bianca to be playing downstairs and out of sight for a short time.
The concerning thing was that Sonia’s parents had called out for her and gone looking but there was no sign of her.
Sonia’s mum said her dad was looking for her and we suggested she join him, call out, go past the neighbours etc but we said we will be calling back in exactly 15 minutes and please make sure you are ready for our call.
Several of the worst minutes of my life passed extremely slowly as my wife and I ran through the possible scenarios, all optimistic and none of them contemplating the unthinkable.
In about 10 minutes Sonia’s mum rang and said, “We’ve found her.”
Rarely does your state of mind go from one extreme (anxiety, deepest fears) to another (relief, joy, a celebration of all that is good in the world) in a space of a few seconds.
It turned out that Bianca had wandered next door to see people who had been long-time friends and supporting, friendly neighbours of my wife’s parents.
They offered her a drink and a biscuit and they had a nice little chat while my wife and I were quietly, desperately going out of our minds for about 10 minutes.
The irony, of course, was that the reason Bianca had disappeared for that short period was because her grandparents lived in a friendly neighbourhood where everyone knew and looked out for each other.
Bianca felt welcome and comfortable wandering over to the neighbours’ house and they were delighted to see her and have a chat.
It’s great to live in a suburb you love, with nearby neighbours you know and can rely on. It’s the terrific thing about buying a house, putting down roots, getting to know others in the street and knowing that everyone can identify who belongs and who doesn’t.
There is a natural crime-prevention antennae and a sense of community and safety that makes you feel at home.
The down-side is that when your kids are confident and adventurous and are feeling the neighbourly love, you can find yourself experiencing a “parent’s worst nightmare”.

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The new CEO emerging out of the partnership between two of Australia’s leading cane organisations has hit the road to meet with growers and members and share vital information about the integration.
Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) has joined forces with the Australian Cane Farmers Association (ACFA) in an effort to drive strategic and positive change across the industry.
Stephen Ryan has been appointed CEO of the joint venture and has recently completed a roadshow through the Far North Queensland and Herbert regions to explain the recent integration of the two organisations.
“This roadshow is about telling the members what we’re doing, what we intend to do, why we’ve done what we’ve done, how we can help them and what services we’re offering,” Mr Ryan said.
“Some of the comments and feedback we’ve been getting are very interesting, saying there are opportunities to do things differently which we’re trying to do.
“We’ve put together a regional focus from the Burdekin Head Office with a series of district committees and members to be grassroots driven but also have a presence in Brisbane with the Australian Cane Farmers Office.”
A canefarmer originally from northern New South Wales, Mr Ryan has been based in Brisbane and working for ACFA for 25 years.
With decades of experience liaising with growers from a member-based organisation, he looks forward to continuing this work alongside a powerful, local and centralised unit in QCAR.
“I’m what you might call an old hand in the industry now,” he laughed.
“I’ve been through a lot of scrapes and battles, deregulation and things like that.
“My experience is right across the industry in many different areas like policy, contracts, political negotiations and the local farming side of things.”
Mr Ryan has seen the sugar cane industry evolve over those decades and is focused on dealing with stakeholders as a unified organisation.
“It’s so important not to be fragmented,” he said.
“When you’re dealing with global partners, you have to be able to have the weight and the numbers behind you and you need to have enough people with specialties in different policy areas to be able to bring outcomes for the members.
“Different areas want different things, but I think the common thread is that if there are new processes and new products in the near future, they want to be able to have the ability to invest in that, to share in it and be part of the conversation.”
Mr Ryan will continue to hear from growers and members as the Roadshow continues through the Burdekin, Central Queensland and Southeast Queensland regions in coming months.
The final stages of the election and selection of committees have been completed ahead of the first board meeting to be held in the Burdekin today, Thursday May 16.
Chair Charles Quagliata said the sugarcane industry will see significant benefits from the partnership between QCAR and ACFA as the partnership leverages the collective expertise and resources of both organisations to strengthen the sugarcane industry.
“By joining forces, we are securing a stronger future for the growth of the sugarcane industry across Australia,” he said.
“This marks a pivotal moment for our industry and by combining our strengths, we can better serve our members and drive positive change.”
Mr Ryan concluded by saying the partnership signifies a new chapter for the sugarcane industry.
“We are committed to securing a prosperous future for all stakeholders through collaborative efforts,” he said.
“Together, QCAR and ACFA will spearhead positive change, nurturing industry expansion, and championing innovation, sustainability, and resilience within the sugarcane industry.”
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Stephen Ryan
FNQ meeting in Babinda
FNQ meeting in Innisfail
Photos supplied

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Six organisations will share in $4.38 million in funding from the Queensland Government to support sugarcane growers to implement improved management practices on their farms, boost productivity and improve the quality of water running off the land and flowing to the Great Barrier Reef.
The six organisations are:
   • Sugar Research Australia Limited (Wet Tropics and Burnett Mary regions)
   • Tropical Agricultural Services Pty Ltd (Herbert)
   • Farmacist Pty Ltd (Wet Tropics, Burdekin and Mackay Whitsunday regions)
   • Innisfail District Cane Growers Organisation Limited
   • Resource Consulting Services Pty Ltd (Mackay Whitsunday), and
   • Tully Cane Productivity Services Ltd

The organisations were selected following an open market process that invited agronomic industry experts to develop projects that will help sugarcane growers improve fertiliser use efficiency on their farms.
They will provide expert advice and support to help cane growers improve crop nutrient use through practices like refined fertiliser application rates, addressing soil constraints and farm management planning to save money and reduce the amount of fertiliser being lost to waterways.
The funding is part of a $125.1 million investment by the State Government to support agricultural industries including the cane, grazing, banana, horticulture and grain sectors to improve land condition, reduce losses to waterways and increase their business resilience.
Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Leanne Linard said that the state government is committed to protecting the Great Barrier Reef and the thousands of species who call it home.
“We know that poor quality water running off the land and out to the reef is a critical threat, and for many years sugarcane growers have been a key partner in our work to improve water quality, and I thank them for their ongoing support,” Minister Linard said.
“Growers have told us how much they value opportunities to work one-on-one with industry experts to gain valuable insights on how they can improve their productivity and profitability through improved farm management, which in turn benefits the environment through improved water quality flowing to the reef.
“That is why the government is pleased to provide funding for these organisations to work with growers to help them improve crop nutrient use, address soil constraints and enhance farm management planning to improve the quality of water flowing to the Great Barrier Reef.”
Minister Linard also said the government’s $125.1 million Sugarcane Practice Change Program builds on previous investments to focus on a whole-of-industry approach that works directly with farmers to improve land management practices across Reef catchments.
“There is another risk to the Great Barrier Reef – the election of a Crisafulli LNP government later this year. The LNP has no plans and no policies to protect the reef and the species who call it home and the Queenslanders who depend on it for work,” the Minister said.
Resource Consulting Services General Manager, Trevor Crook said, “RCS is teaming up with Farmacist to work with sugarcane producers through a program that places the business owners at the core.
“The program combines holistic management training, one-on-one business coaching and agronomic advice within a supportive learning environment to promote producer-led change in pursuit of their respective vision and goals. 
“Participants will discover and adapt techniques that increase profitability through improvements in the fertiliser efficiency of their farming systems.”

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Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Leanne Linard, speaking in Mackay on the importance of reef and island preservation. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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The ICE#11 sugar contract continues to be weighed down by the growing 24/25 forecast global trade surplus.
The early start to the Brazilian harvest, and clear weather, has resulted in record breaking production numbers being posted in the UNICA half monthly production reports for April. Seasonal cane tonnages are up and so is the ratio of sugar to ethanol production, particularly for this early in the season. This is forcing analysts to revise their sugar production numbers for Brazil.
Additionally, much needed rain in Thailand is improving the outlook for this year’s crop to climb back above 10M tonnes of sugar production. Combined with incremental increases in tonnage for Europe, China and Central America, there is a growing consensus around another surplus year in sugar production.
The speculative money has sensed that the path of least resistance has been down, and has consequently moved to net short position on the market to around 50,000 contracts.
The good news is that global stocks are low and demand remains strong. Even with the significant pullback in prices, the forward market still exhibits a slightly inverted structure in which nearby prices are higher than deferred.
Australian sugar is selling well into our traditional Asian markets and the solid physical premiums paid for the 23-season crop look likely to be repeated into this year’s pricing. While Brazilian ethanol parity is still well below current market levels, the import parity for raw sugar into Chinese refineries is resulting in some fresh business and plenty of price checking.
Following the close of the 24 season pricing nomination date (April 30), the grower’s GEI sugar pricing mix has shifted back to traditional pool pricing mechanisms for price management. After a couple of years of record returns for our Production Risk Pool, this is not a total surprise.
Further, the large volatility of prices over the last 18 months has left some growers who forward price feeling a bit whiplashed. As with all choices, there are trade-offs.
For those in the pools you can never be sure of your final price until well after harvest has been completed, whereas forward pricing gives you certainty and control of your own income.

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AUD Sugar Swap Price: 2024 season
AUD Sugar Swap Price: 2024, 2025 and 2026 seasons

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