Porters have kindly donated a bench in honour and memory of Kennedy Elfverson, a young girl described as ‘a ray of sunshine’ who battled epilepsy and sadly passed away in February this year.  

The unveiling of the Friendship Benches, adorned in Kennedy's beloved colours, marked a heartfelt moment for the school community. Alongside this gesture, a successful fundraiser was held, generating over $2000 in support of Epilepsy Queensland.

The donation of a bench in honour and memory of Kennedy’s vibrant young soul, represents far more than just a physical object, it symbolises a community's collective love, remembrance, and commitment to supporting a cause close to their hearts.
Kennedy's infectious personality, marked by her courageous battle with epilepsy, touched the lives of many within the region and school community that had the privilege of knowing her.
Mackay West State School posted to Facebook, thanking Porters for donating the friendship bench in admiration of Kennedy.
Followed by “Kennedy will always be remembered by our students when we see her rainbow bench in the playground.”

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Porters donated a ‘friendship bench’ in honour and remembrance of Kennedy Elfverson, a lively young soul who tragically passed away in February this year. Photo Credit: Porters Mackay (Facebook)

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By Hannah McNamara

It’s no secret that crime, specifically in relation to theft and the unlawful use of a motor vehicle, seem to have progressively worsened within the region.

In regards to a recent head-on collision that unfolded early last week, a Suzuki Swift was stationary at a red light in Rural View when a 4-wheel-drive, allegedly driven by an unlicensed and under-the-influence driver, was reported to have run the red light, veering onto the opposite side of the road, resulting in a high-impact collision. The unlicensed driver who was allegedly under-the-influence was arrested and charged at the scene.

A witness who preferred to remain anonymous commented, “Something seriously has to be done, and soon, somebody could have lost their life and for what?”

While police confirm this incident was not linked to vehicle theft, the instances of stolen vehicles, dangerous driving and a threat to public safety remain an escalating concern.

Statistics from Mackay Police show that since 2001, crime specific to vehicle theft was the highest ever in the region last year in 2023, with approximately 631 cases deemed as an ‘Unlawful Use Of Motor Vehicle’.

Over a period of three months, between January and March this year, statistics show that there have already been 209 cases subject to this ongoing issue, not including the recent months of April and May which are yet to be tallied.

In response to these shocking numbers, our regional police services are doing everything they can to not only prevent the issue but keep the community safe.

While we steadily depend on our diligent police officers to combat this issue, Mackay District Crime Prevention Coordinator, Steve Smith, shared his insights on how we as residents, can do our part by preventing the issue in the most effective way possible.

Sergeant Smith said, “Car thieves are easily frustrated – for thieves to steal your car they need possession of your keys to do it.

“Where you store your keys in the home matters – the key hooks on the wall, the kitchen bench, a bowl on the table - it’s a bad idea to store keys in these places – keep them secured out of sight,” he added.

“I know people are likely tired of hearing these messages – but it’s far more frustrating to have your car stolen and damaged or worse.”

Alternatively, some other ways to prevent car theft is to ensure your doors are locked, take your keys with you, lock your wheel and install a GPS tracker.

“If you are doing all that you can to secure your car and the keys then the odds will favour you,” Sergeant Smith added.

“Outside of this, we want to work with the community to catch those responsible for stealing cars.”

In light of keeping clear of reckless drivers, it’s important to always stay vigilant when driving and report anything that seems out of the ordinary.

“If you witness anything which you believe to be suspicious, please tell us straight away.”

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The 4-wheel-drive involved in an accident at Rural View last week where its driver was allegedly arrested for being unlicensed and driving under the influence. Photo source: Facebook

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What does a change strategist who has inspired 500,000 people across five continents; a national net-zero leader with in-depth knowledge of decarbonisation and a founder who combines maggots and biotechnology all have in common?

They are just some of the world -leading speakers and experts taking the stage at the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit on Thursday May 23, at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention centre (MECC).

This one-day event, the first of its kind for the Greater Whitsunday region, will feature 30 influential speakers who are leading conversations across the decarbonisation movement.

Announcing the impressive line-up of speakers, Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the summit program was curated to feature world class experts who tackle tricky subjects with practical, positive advice.

“Our region is unique globally and these speakers have been selected because of their extensive knowledge base but also their enthusiasm to work with our local businesses to ignite their decarbonisation journey,” Ms Porter said.

“This is a unique opportunity for our region to not only learn from but engage with these global leaders.”

Ms Porter said the summit is targeting small and medium business owners and operators who are ready to take the next steps on their decarbonisation journey.

“Our region’s businesses will learn a diverse range of solutions and strategies for a low carbon future,” she said.

Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) Chief Executive Officer Mr Steven Boxall, CEO said the quality of our keynote speakers is a testament to the importance and urgency of the decarbonisation challenge.

“By bringing together these world-class experts, we aim to foster collaboration and innovation that will propel our industries towards a cleaner, more sustainable future in our region," Mr Boxall said.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit opens at 8.30am with four keynotes throughout the day including change strategist Michael McQueen; ThinkZero founder and Managing director Cle-Anne Gabriel; Vice President of Climate at BHP Graham Winkelman and Founder of Goterra Olympia Yarger.

Michael McQueen, is a multi-award-winning speaker, change strategist, and bestselling author of ten books. With clients including Google, Toyota, and Mastercard, he has helped some of the world's most successful brands navigate uncertainty and stay ahead of the curve. Michael will share his insights into the shifts toward a decarbonised world and how local change can have a global impact.

Cle-Anne Gabriel is the Founder and Managing Director of ThinkZero. She is a sustainable development specialist, consultant, author, and public speaker, and a national leader in this space in Australia. Gabriel brings her in-depth knowledge of decarbonisation and net-zero strategies to the table to assist businesses in commencing their net-zero journeys. She will also explore case studies from her own experiences and where businesses have successfully changed to a decarbonised future.

Graham Winkelman, Vice President of Climate at BHP is responsible for BHP's public commitments to decarbonisation across both its operations and broader value chain. Graham will provide valuable insights into the role of government and long-term policy settings to support the transition to a lower-emissions economy.

Olympia Yarger is the founder of Goterra, where she leads the vision of redefining waste management with biotechnology and eco-friendly infrastructure design. Olympia will provide a passionate example of building products that allow businesses to meet a growing consumer demand for sustainable service provision and agile infrastructure capability.

The summit will also feature morning and after sessions, panel discussions, followed by breakout streams, where attendees can focus on various aspects of decarbonisation, including people, industry, environment, and opportunity. The afternoon session will involve more keynotes, a regional panel and roundtable discussions that will provide further inspiration and practical guidance for local businesses looking to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Also featured in the summit program will be some of Australia’s leading decarbonisation experts and leaders from industry and government including QLD Hydro, Clean Energy Council, Main Sequence, Sedgman, Cauldron and the Sustainable Minerals Institute.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit will conclude with networking drinks at 4.30pm. For more information and tickets visit Decarbonisation Accelerated website.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a joint initiative of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) and Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3).

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Change strategist Michael McQueen

ThinkZero founder and Managing director Cle-Anne Gabriel

Founder of Goterra Olympia Yarger

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Three Mackay Hospital and Health Service midwives have been acknowledged for
their dedication in delivering skilled and compassionate care to women and their families.

Staff from across the MHHS including the Mackay Base Hospital Women’s Health Unit took some time out on Friday to celebrate the midwifery profession and acknowledge the outstanding contributions of their colleagues ahead of International Day of the Midwife on Sunday 5 May.

The Mackay HHS delivers more than 1650 babies every year so it was important
to recognise the vital work midwives do for women, babies and families, Acting
Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery Paul McAllister said.

“Having a baby is one of the most significant and memorable events in a parent’s life and midwives play a vital role in helping care for that most precious of gifts,” he said.

International Day of the Midwife is a formal opportunity to recognise midwives’
ongoing commitment to maternal and newborn health and always placing women and families at the centre of care.

At an awards ceremony held at Mackay Base Hospital on Friday, three awards were
presented to staff acknowledging excellence in the profession.

The award recipients were:
• Emerging Midwife Award (postgraduate): Briony Sheahan, Mackay
Women’s Health Unit.
• The Outstanding Nursing and Midwifery and Leadership Award: Victoria
Noyce, Mackay Women’s Health Unit
• Exceptional Midwifery Care Provider Award (consumer/patient
nominated): Nickey Pilgrim, Proserpine Hospital.

Midwifery is a very rewarding career where unique relationships are established with women to make a real difference to their pregnancy, birth and early parenting, Mr
McAllister said.

“Today we congratulate our colleagues and the recipients of these awards and thank all midwives for your dedication to midwifery and the valued role you play in bringing
new life into the world,” he said.

“It’s a privilege to be there at the beginning of new life as women become mothers and provide the best advice as families embark on the journey of parenthood.

“Midwives provide a safe place for women to discuss issues and build trusting
relationships throughout the duration of pregnancy, labour, birth and the postnatal
care.

“It’s through these relationships, midwives become trusted members of families and
communities,” Mr McAllister said.

International Day of the Midwife is observed each year on May 5 by more than 50
nations and co-ordinated by the International Confederation of Midwives.

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Proserpine Director of Nursing Donna Martin, Exceptional Midwifery
Care Provider Award winner Nickey Pilgrim and Executive Director Public
Health and Rural Services Terry Johnson.

Clinical midwife consultant Victoria Noyce and Nurse Unit Manager
Maternity Kylie Clark

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Volunteer organisations in Dawson are set to receive a huge boost in funding as Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox this week announced that the region will receive more than $66,000 in funding as part of the 2023-24 Volunteer Grants, which will directly impact 20 local organisations.
 
Mr Willcox said that these grants are critical in supporting and recognising the role that volunteers play within our community.
 
“Volunteers play a crucial role in our communities, and their selflessness and dedication to our region deserves recognition and support,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“Volunteering also provides an effective pathway to get people into jobs, helps break down the barriers of marginalisation and fosters community participation.
 
“To all the volunteers across the Dawson electorate, I say thank you and congratulations. You truly are the backbone of our society.
 
“This funding is well deserved, keep up the incredible work that you do,” Mr Willcox said.
 
The 2023-24 Volunteer Grants provide organisations with grants of $1,000 to $5,000 to benefit the work of their volunteers. Including to purchase minor equipment, provide training, cover fuel costs, promote awareness of volunteering opportunities or adjust policies and procedures to strengthen member safety.
 
“Any volunteer or community organisation who wishes to can contact my office via email at Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au to be added to our grant list to receive information about any current or future grants.”
 
ON FARM CONNECTIVITY PROGRAM NOW OPEN!

The On Farm Connectivity Program is now open with rebates of up to $30,000 available to cover up to 50% of the cost of eligible smart farming technology.

Take advantage of this opportunity to help assist with monitoring livestock, improving water efficiency, optimising soil quality, and improving farm logistics.

To find out if you’re eligible, or to apply visit: http://www.business.gov.au/.../on-farm-connectivity-program

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The Queensland Government has announced $2 million to enhance educational access for Isaac residents living in the heart of coal and agricultural communities.

Thanks to this funding, Isaac Regional Council will establish two Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah, joining 21 other regional communities across Australia.

These centres are strategically designed to bridge the gap between regional students and campus resources.

Students will have access to comprehensive educational support services, including tutoring, counselling, and academic guidance.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said, “As the cost of living continues to rise across the country, leaving home and the regions to access higher education is getting harder. 

“Distance education can be challenging without the right support. This funding is about making sure our potential is not pre-determined by our postcodes.”

Whether students need assistance with coursework or study strategies, the centres will provide a safe and inclusive environment for learning.

“Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah will offer quality facilities, educational support, programming, and social networks for those undertaking university.

“Together we can ensure this access to opportunity is at our doorstep,” Mayor Vea Vea added.
The Isaac Country Universities Centres will bring like-minded students together, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

By studying with a parent education provider while using the regional centres as a campus, students can overcome geographical barriers.

Regional and rural students are currently 20% less likely to seek tertiary education compared to their metropolitan counterparts.

However, the changing job landscape demands that 90% of jobs in the next five years will require some form of degree or qualification.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said that every Queenslander deserves opportunity regardless of where they live.

“This means opportunity to have a safe and secure home, access to quality and safe healthcare, good meaningful employment, and the ability to improve themselves through education.”

The national job shortage has led some individuals to prioritise employment over education.

The Isaac Country Universities Centres aim to reverse this trend by providing accessible educational pathways.

With only 13 per cent of Isaac residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher level of education, there is a clear gap in support for higher education and vocational study in the region.

These study hubs will play a crucial role in addressing this disparity and empowering residents to improve their prospects through education.

Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace said, “Earlier this year I was also proud to announce almost $40 million for the Isaac Regional Council to construct the Isaac Resources Centre of Excellence.

“Funded through the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund, this project will help advance technologies in the resources sector and enhance educational opportunities for the region.”
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FAST FACTS
   • Queensland Government to invest $2 million to open Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah
   • The centres will provide more opportunities for regional Queenslanders to diversify their skills and reduce the cost of accessing education.
   • Clermont and Moranbah will join a nationwide network of 21 communities across Australia with Country Universities Centres

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea at the announcement that $2 million will be funded by the State Government to enhance educational access for Isaac residents. Photo credit: Isaac Regional Council

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Get ready for ZACH MACH, a multisport event designed for individuals ranging from weekend warriors to elite athletes, spanning from all ages, set amidst the stunning outdoors of Mackay. Rooted in the values of adventure, community, and health, ZACH MACH aims to unite participants in celebrating the spirit of adventure while promoting overall well-being.

This event pays tribute to the vibrant life of Zach Roberts, a remarkable young individual who had a profound love for adventure and people. Zach, cherished as a grandson, son, brother, and former student of Mackay Christian College, tragically lost his life in a traffic accident at the age of 18.

Nikki Giles, Event Manager for ZACH MACH touched on the importance of honouring Zach and his legacy at the multisport event, as participants gear up for 40k’s of mountain bike riding, 10’ks of kayaking, a 10km trail run as well as a 30km cycle to top it off located “in the beautiful Pioneer Valley,” Nikki described.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said “it’s not for the faint hearted, but we have almost 300 competitors this year which is absolutely outstanding.

“It’s about celebrating the beautiful environment we live in and that’s what ZACH MACH does, it compliments what we’ve done for the mountain bike track.

“People from all over Queensland are taking part in ZACH MACH and it’s a stake in the ground for our region,” Mayor Williamson added.

Get ready for an exhilarating, down-and-dirty challenge on May 11th and 12th! Take on nature's hurdles, traverse muddy paths, and dive into the excitement of tackling the elements.

Sign up for the ZACH MACH or MINI MACH Adventure Challenge either solo, as a duo, or in a relay team. Select the stages that resonate with your adventurous spirit, conquer them, and proudly vie for prize money in each stage you undertake. This is your adventure, play by your own rules!

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Get ready to participate in the ZACH MACH challenge in commemoration of Zach Roberts, a cherished former student of Mackay Christian College who passed away at the age of 18. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

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From humble beginnings to a creative powerhouse, redhotblue is widely known for their radical thinking and strategic approach to marketing and design which has earned them the Australian Enterprise Awards title of ‘Best Creative Marketing Agency 2024’.

The team, led by Director Jody Euler, said that they were humbled by the recent award win that highlighted their extensive contributions and leadership of the industry over the past 26 years to everyone from small regional businesses through to multi-national organisations.

“We’re beyond grateful to have not only been nominated but having been awarded this incredible title. We truly love what we do, and I couldn’t be prouder of the team I’ve built around me who are the backbone of my business,” said Jody Euler, Director of redhotblue.

One of the standouts against the other nominees was redhotblue’s approach to their work which considers more than just outcomes and primarily focuses on building relationships and staying true to their values-based business model.

“We don’t shy away from honesty and bravery. While that is not always the easy road to take, it has really set us apart from others in the industry and gained us a solid reputation for high standards. It’s a highly competitive space and I have watched several businesses unable to withstand the landscape.

Especially in today’s digital world, the difference in what we offer is our custom and unique approach to our client journey. We get very deep in understanding their goals on a personal level, but also walk them through ideas that they wouldn’t have considered or thought of without us – we offer far more than the usual cookie-cutter approach,” she said.

Over the past 26 years, redhotblue has helped a range of clients, including not-for-profits, government agencies (Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, Queensland Police, Central West Hospital and Health), numerous public health services (see Domestic Violence campaign–featured), professional services from consultants to lawyers and architects, fashion and cosmetic industries, hospitality, engineering, mining and heavy industry, shopping centres, retailers, political campaigns, and everything in between.

Redhotblue has proudly gained the recognition of several prestigious awards over the years, including the more recent Creative Agency of the Year 2023 [Central Queensland] and believed that the industry had advanced by removing the barrier of locality which had expanded their service area and positioned them amongst agencies in major cities.

“When I first opened my doors in 1997, my clients were all word-of-mouth and walk-ins. We are now lucky to have the opportunity to work with clients around the world,” she said.

“This has really changed and progressed the way we operate and opened a whole new world of possibilities for our industry. We’re beyond excited for what the future holds!”

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After spending five years in the far north, Anne Scully has expanded her skills and expertise as an educator. Recently, she has transitioned to the Clinical Excellence Unit at Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), where her focus is now on providing training in rural facilities within the region, following her previous tenure with the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service.

Partner Trevor Wall has also joined her at Mackay Base Hospital (MBH) as the maintenance coordinator for BEMS.

Driven by a passion for adventure, the couple decided to depart from Mackay after dedicating 25 years of service at the Mater Hospital and Base Hospital, heading north to begin a new chapter of their career on Thursday Island.

“Trevor had been up there on a variety bash and was just so impressed by the beauty of Thursday Island,” Anne said, “so when the role of nurse educator was advertised, I jumped at it and we dragged the two boats up north.

“I really grew as an educator working there. I had to work autonomously and was the sole nurse educator but was supported by co-educators for the outer islands,” Anne said.

“I was planning and delivering multiple education programs in the 26-bed hospital as well as all the mandatory and specialised training.

“It was a blessing really as it was a great chance to grow my skills as an educator, but it’s not for everyone.

While registered nurses (RNs) are the backbone of healthcare, nurse educators are the foundation, she said.

Anne takes great pride in instilling in new nurses a better understanding of the healthcare system and their patient’s needs.

She’s looking forward to “jumping in” and supporting the education needs of staff at rural MHHS facilities including Clermont, Moranbah, Bowen, Proserpine and Sarina.

It was the warm community welcome upon arriving in Mackay in 1990 that enticed her to stay and raise her family here. She felt the same coming back to Mackay earlier this year.

“We are back now to be good grandparents. The place has changed but the people are the same,” Anne said.

“Now I’m back, it’s wonderful to see so many of my former nursing students and how they have really grown into their varied nursing careers.”

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Treasured healthcare educator, Anne Scully returns to Mackay after gaining experience in rural facilities within the region. Image Sourced

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A Mackay family has celebrated a remarkable milestone last month as three of its members, spanning two generations, graduated at the CQUniversity Graduation Ceremony.
Mother, Suzanne Francisco, shared the graduation celebrations with her daughter Natasha Otto and son Reece Kinnersly. 
"I am extremely proud of my children and their dedication to their studies,” she said. 
“It's a rare and special moment for our family to witness us graduating together, underscoring the importance of education and perseverance."
Graduating with a Doctor of Education (EdD), Dr Francisco’s aptitude for academia has proven to be a source of inspiration to her children, holding an array of CQUniversity undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. 
As a CQU alumnus, Dr Francisco previously graduated from a Bachelor of Learning Management (Primary) with Distinction in 2003 and a Master of Learning Management (Special Education) in 2008. 
Following a similar path into the education profession, Natasha graduated with a Masters of Education (Secondary) and a Diploma of Digital media. She also previously completed a Bachelor of Digital Media. 
Further proving the family’s dedication to academic excellence and lifelong learning, Reece also completed a postgraduate qualification, graduating with his Masters of Engineering Management. 
In 2010, the Chartered Engineer completed his Bachelor of Engineering (Co op) Mechanical with First Class Honours and a Diploma of Professional Practice. 
Dr Francisco emphasised their family’s beliefs on the importance of education in shaping the community.
“Both Reece and I are passionate about educating the next generation. In our spare time we have worked as sessional academics at the CQU Ooralea campus," Dr Francisco said. 
“We believe in the power of education to transform lives and uplift communities.” 
Dr Francisco added that her youngest son, Alexander was interested in continuing the family legacy. The current Year 11 student is interested in studying psychology after he graduates high school next year. 
By CQUniversity

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L-R Alexander, Natasha, Suzanne and Reece

Dr Suzanne Francisco accepting her testamur from CQU Chancellor Mr Graeme Innes AM

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Mackay Pet Rescue Inc responded urgently to a distressing call concerning a male duck, known as a drake, found in a dire state at the Gooseponds late last week.
The rescue team arrived with a harrowing sight as blood stained the male duck’s neck and his movements were hindered by evident pain.
Without hesitation, the compassionate team sprang into action and took him under their wing to ensure the best possible outcome for his safety and well-being.
The drake was transported to the teams experienced and beloved carer, Robin Morgan, where she tended to his wounds and provided the duck with the comfort of her safe hands and loving care.
The drake is receiving the attention and treatment necessary for his healing and he is on the road to recovery under the influence of his caretaker, Robin.
Though his path to full health may come with challenges, the commitment of Mackay Pet Rescue Inc ensures that he will have the best chance to recovery under their care.
He will spread his wings once again and return to his home at the familiar waters of the Gooseponds once he has recovered from his injuries.

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Mackay Pet Rescue rescued an injured male duck from the Gooseponds late last week. Photo Credit: Mackay Pet Rescue (Facebook)

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Our Conservation and Communities team work on a wide
range of projects from wetlands to threatened species,
weeds, pests, drought resilience and working with the
Traditional Owners Reference Group.

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The State Government marked Labour Day earlier this week by announcing new workplace entitlements for Queensland public sector workers, including a nation-leading 10 days of reproductive health leave.

The leave can be used for things like fertility and IVF treatment; chronic reproductive health conditions like endometriosis; preventative screening for things like breast and prostate cancers; and other treatments associated with reproductive health like hysterectomies and vasectomies. It will be in place no later than the end of September this year.

The Government will also begin to pay superannuation to those on unpaid parental leave to ensure new parents – and especially women – are not left with gaps in their retirement savings. Currently, superannuation is only paid during periods of paid parental leave.
From July this year, superannuation will be paid for every single week of the entire 52-week period of parental leave for Queensland public sector employees, whether the leave is paid or not.

Premier Steven Miles said it wasn’t good enough that the primary caregiver, predominantly women, are disadvantaged at retirement.

“That’s why my government will begin to pay superannuation to those in the public sector on all parental leave, paid and unpaid, to ensure the ongoing economic security of new parents, especially women,” he said.

“As Queensland’s largest employer, I am proud my government is leading the way when it comes to supporting workers and their families.

“It builds on other nation-leading policies we’ve introduced, like the first paid domestic and family violence leave, which has since been taken up by other employers.”

The 2023 Queensland Gender Equality Report Card shows that the average superannuation balance gap between men and women was 19.8% (2020-21 data) and only 13.9 per cent of Queensland women can rely on their superannuation as their main source of retirement income.

The government said it has no legislative power over the leave and superannuation arrangements of the private sector, but previous government policies – such as the country’s first paid domestic and family violence leave – have been taken up by other employers and in other jurisdictions.

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
CANEGROWERS represents the voice of 76% of Mackay Sugar growers. Over 90% in Plane Creek. We’ve been successfully providing stable representation in this region since 1926.

Our members have always had the certainty of a Cane Supply Agreement that has been successfully negotiated and maintained by CANEGROWERS Mackay bargaining representatives. They have the weight of 100 years of experience and the resources to resolve issues arising out of that agreement to the satisfaction of members. We bring that same strength to dealing with any issue from farm gate through to our export markets.

Although giving top-level representation for our growers is our core business, CANEGROWERS is more than grower service and advocacy, it offers opportunities for growers to come together as a community and share ideas and time, whether through branch meetings, shed meetings, or through affiliated groups like CANEGROWERS Network Mackay.

Last week, nine members of CANEGROWERS Network Mackay travelled to Ingham to join around 100 women at the Annual Women in Sugar Australia conference. CANEGROWERS, and the district office CANEGROWERS Herbert River are major sponsors of the event, but it is also a coming together for the women in canefarming, nearly all of whom are also CANEGROWERS members.

It’s important to celebrate and support the community of growers. CANEGROWERS Network meets bi-monthly, and has for many years provided a space for women in farming to expand skills and knowledge as well as connect. They are their own organisation but also a vital part of the fabric of our grower community.

Branch meetings offer a different way for growers to connect. They are held monthly and are open to all members. There are branches at Racecourse, Calen, Marian, Plane Creek (Koumala) and Finch Hatton. Sometimes it’s as simple as a place to get together and discuss matters of growing and cane supply, sometimes it’s a critical rallying point as growers grapple with a major issue. It is the forum for putting forward your point of view.

Branch meetings are a way that issues can travel through from the grassroots membership and be addressed by the appropriate area committee, district board and on into State Policy Council where relevant. It’s a powerfully democratic grassroots model that has a clear flow of communication from grower across the organisation, but it’s also a way of being, a community of growers with common experiences, goals and issues.

We’re all farmers, and we need to stick together, and make sure that the meetings and opportunities happen, where grower families can get together and talk. That means more than just having a district office to go and get help. It's like having common areas where our members can come and have a coffee in the town office. It’s our members knowing that they can come find us at events like the local ag shows, and know they can have a chat, maybe grab a shady seat for a minute.  Our members are the backbone of their own organisation.

For CANEGROWERS Mackay, it’s always more than making sure that growers get a fair deal from millers, from governments, and from other parts of the industry. We are about a structure that supports the community that supports it: that’s how we came together 100 years ago, and we’ve only got better at it.

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Members of CANEGROWERS Network Mackay travelled to the Women in Sugar Australia conference held in Ingham over April 30- May 1.  Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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Mackay Area Committee, with Mackay Sugar CEO Jannik Olejas, touring Marian Mill to view maintenance season works on May 2. Photo credit: Mackay Sugar

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Amidst the rustle of sugarcane fields, a significant agreement was reached on April 30, 2024, between Mackay Sugar and QCAR. This milestone marked the culmination of extensive negotiations, paving the way for a new Cane Supply and Processing Agreement (CSPA) that would govern supplies to Mackay Sugar's three mills in Farleigh, Marian, and Racecourse.

Deliberations spanning multiple meetings led to the formulation of an agreement that granted members of QCAR in the Central Region the authority to operate and supply cane under a distinctive Mackay Sugar/QCAR arrangement. While rooted in the robust framework established by Mackay Sugar with other Bargaining Representatives over the years, this agreement boasted notable additions, signifying a new era of collaboration and cooperation in the sugar industry.

The new agreement sets out a course for how the growth and supply of cane is to take place and observes the ever-changing expectations of consumers and the communities in which we operate.

It is increasingly important to be recognised as ‘environmentally sustainable’ by way of accreditation, holding up the standards which Australian sugar is globally recognised for. 

“It has been crucial to us, as a sugar producer and seller of sugar in global markets, that we have a partner who so clearly states their ambition around sustainable practices” says Brent Casey, Mackay Sugar’s General Manager, Commercial & Agriculture.

QCAR is dedicated to advocating and empowering Queensland agriculture producers by fostering sustainable farming practices for a prosperous future.

QCAR Director and lead negotiator in the Mackay area, Chris Punzell said, “Mackay growers have been eagerly awaiting an alternative cane supply agreement and enhanced grower representation.

“I was confident that this would materialise, and I am delighted that it has become a reality. By listening to the needs of farmers, we have successfully secured this agreement to benefit the farming community.”

QCAR Executive Director, Panikos Spyrou said, “With this agreement, we have provided our growers in the Mackay Region with contractual certainty – however we will, true to our spirit in Securing a Stronger Future, keep looking at ways to amend the CSPA to the benefit of both the growers we represent and the miller with whom we cooperate.

“Joined in this effort with Mackay Sugar we have pinpointed several mutually advantageous improvements to collaborate on for the 2025 crushing season. Interested growers can access these enhancements through QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

The agreement, which comes into force immediately, is in principle of a four-year rolling agreement that ensures stability and certainty for both growers and miller.

Mackay Sugar CEO, Jannik Olejas expressed his appreciation of the work done by saying, “I commend all parties involved in the constructive discussions that have led to this first agreement between Mackay Sugar and QCAR. We do acknowledge the innovative and open-mindedness that we have been met with and look forward to working together to ensure we have a relevant and balanced agreement in place at all times.”

Also in recent QCAR news, Panikos Spyrou, the Executive Director of QCAR, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Stephen Ryan's appointment as CEO, following the QCAR board's approval of his proposal.

The former CEO said, “I'm excited to have the opportunity to focus more intently on strategic initiatives and the specialised work I undertake for QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

“This shift allows me the flexibility to engage in additional activities outside the realm of QCAR's operations.”

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(L-R): QCAR Member Tony Bugeja, Mackay Sugar Limited CEO Jannik Olejas (standing), QCAR Director and Lead negotiator Chris Punzell

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