Introducing Mackay Base Hospital’s newest edition to the crew Tali - a wheaten Border Collie whose mission is to simply look cute and spread love to patients in need.

For some time now, the Mackay Hospital Foundation has been teaming up with Mackay Hospital and Health Service to get the official green light for a therapy dog at Mackay Base Hospital.

Clinical Nurse Claire works alongside Tali as a clinical therapy dog team, through Therapy Dogs.

Every week, Tali and Claire brighten up the Eat, Walk, Engage units at Mackay Base Hospital, and the response from patients has been incredible. Tali eagerly accepts pats from patients and is always ready to share some adorable puppy kisses.

Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate said, “Currently Tali and Claire come to the hospital one day per week for a few hours and for now, the visit is contained to two wards but seeing the welcome Tali has received and the smiles on the faces of patients, we’d eventually love to see the hours increased.”

Research has shown that interacting with animals helps to induce a relaxation response which in turn lowers blood pressure, slows breathing in those who are anxious and can even change the way pain is experienced. It’s also been noted there is some evidence to suggest that animal interactions can reduce the amount of medication that some patients require.

Therapy dogs can reduce stress and provide a sense of connection in difficult situations, as well as provide social and emotional support for individuals of all ages.

Tali and Claire are currently the only registered therapy dog team in the region.

Ms Algate noted that “Sometimes, improving health outcomes isn’t solely about medication.

“Seeing Tali brighten the lives of patients and witnessing the improved wellbeing in patients is heart-warming.”

Tali joins in on group activities, encouraging patients and motivating them to be more mobile. Research shows that staying mobile helps prevent functional decline and reduces the risk of falls during hospital stays. Tali’s visits are also boosting patients' moods, promoting relaxation, and improving their engagement with others.

Kristi said, “The approval process has been lengthy but I’m sure the staff and patients would agree, Tali and Claire have definitely been worth the wait”.

To find out more information about Mackay Hospital Foundation, visit
https://www.mackayhospitalfoundation.com.au/

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The Eat, Walk Engage team with Claire Cox, Kristi Algate and Tali. Photos supplied

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Clinical Nurse Claire Cox and Tali

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A delegation of 12 leading agribusinesses and innovators from the Greater Whitsunday region have travelled to Brisbane this week to attend evokeAG 2025, Asia-Pacific’s premier agrifood innovation event.

Supported by the Greater Whitsunday Agtech Hub and Regional Development Australia (RDA), this delegation had the opportunity to learn, experience, and promote the Greater Whitsunday region while exploring potential partnerships and collaboration opportunities that will strengthen regional agribusiness and innovation.

EvokeAG, hosted by AgriFutures Australia, is a world-class platform where industry leaders, researchers, investors, and policymakers unite to drive innovation and growth in the agrifood sector.

The event allowed Greater Whitsunday delegates to experience the latest advancements in agricultural technology, sustainability practices, and investment opportunities that could shape the future of the region’s agribusiness landscape.

The Greater Whitsunday delegation had a unique opportunity to connect with national and international stakeholders, positioning the region as a hub for agritech innovation.

The key goals of the delegation included:

• Exploring strategic partnerships and collaborations to enhance regional agribusiness development.

• Showcasing local agtech success stories that highlight Greater Whitsunday’s potential for investment and innovation.

• Promoting the Greater Whitsunday Agtech Hub online portal, an innovative platform supporting agtech adoption and business growth in the region.

• Gaining insights into emerging agricultural technologies and best practices to drive sustainability, productivity, and resilience in regional farming.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter emphasised the significance of this delegation in driving the region’s agricultural future.

“Greater Whitsunday has a thriving agribusiness sector, and evokeAG 2025 presents an invaluable opportunity for our local innovators to engage with global leaders, explore new investment streams, and bring cutting-edge advancements back to our region.”

Ms Porter said the evokeAG experience would continue with the sold-out evokeAG sideline event showcasing why the Greater Whitsunday region is best placed to embrace an emerging biomanufacturing sector.

Co-hosted by GW3, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), and the Queensland Government, the tour will provide insights into ground-breaking biorefining innovations and industry collaborations.

The Mackay biomanufacturing tour will offer delegates a firsthand look at cutting-edge innovations in biomanufacturing and agribusiness.

Highlights include a visit to the Mackay Renewable Biocommodity Pilot Plant and Mackay Sugar’s Racecourse Mill to explore precision fermentation and biorefining technologies.
An industry-focused lunch at the Resources Centre of Excellence will be followed by a tour of its underground mine simulator.

A regional showcase will feature key sites such as North Queensland Bulk Ports Port of Mackay and the Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) sugar terminal, demonstrating the region’s strong integration of industry, agriculture, and biomanufacturing.

Ms Porter said the Greater Whitsunday region has been leading an intensive campaign to establish this emerging industry in the region since 2018.

“This is an exciting time for Greater Whitsunday, and we are proud to showcase our region’s potential on the national and global stage.

“Mackay has long been recognised as an ideal location to lead a domestic biomanufacturing sector due to our abundance of feed stocks, sophisticated logistics network of roads, ports and rail as well as a highly skilled, technical workforce,” she said.

Contributed by Greater Whitsunday Alliance

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A new bursary has been announced to recognise the late Liz Alexander’s significant contributions to agricultural innovation in Queensland and beyond.

Unveiled by the Minister for Primary Industries at evokeAG 2025 - the Asia-Pacific region’s premier agrifood innovation event in Brisbane - the bursary will support an emerging AgTech leader by covering the cost of attending a future evokeAG forum.

The Crisafulli Government has honoured Alexander’s pioneering work by naming the initiative in her memory. A driving force behind Queensland’s AgTech ecosystem, Alexander played a pivotal role in programs such as AgFrontier and i4Connect and served on multiple boards, including Cotton Australia, Plant Health Australia, and QRIDA.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering a fresh start for Queensland and is focused on boostingthe State’s agricultural productivity to $30 billion by 2030.

That goal is underpinned by the Crisafulli Government’s $30M Sowing Seeds of Farming Innovation fund, which will deliver cutting-edge techniques and unearth the world’s best farming practices.

Minister Perrett said the bursary will be awarded to an outstanding leader in Queensland’s AgTech ecosystem, covering the cost of attending a future evokeAG forum.

“Liz Alexander was a true pioneer and a passionate advocate for Queensland’s AgTech sector,” Minister Perrett said.

“Liz championed not only technology and innovation, but also the people behind them — the start-up founders, investors, and enablers working to supercharge the productivity and sustainability of our primary industries.

“This bursary is about recognising those who continue to lead in that space and drive meaningful change in Queensland’s primary industries.

“I look forward to seeing the next generation of AgTech leaders emerge and continue the work that Liz so passionately championed” Minister Perrett said.

Sonya Comiskey, chair of the Agtech Advisory Group that works with the Department of Primary Industries to collaborate with farmers on AgTech innovations, said Ms Alexander’s leadership, vision and dedication to fostering innovation in agriculture was second to none.

“Liz has left a legacy that continues to shape the industry today,” Ms Comiskey said.

“This bursary will honour her contributions and inspire future generations of AgTech and regional leaders,” Ms Comiskey said.

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Liz passed away in July 2024 from complications related to her cancer treatment. She was 51. Photo source: CHDC

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The World Day of Prayer is a global ecumenical movement that unites
Christians in prayer and worship. This year, the Mackay community is
invited to gather on Friday, 7th March at 10:00 AM at St Ambrose
Church, Glenpark Street, North Mackay, to take part in this special
service of faith and fellowship.

Each year, a different country prepares the service, highlighting its
culture, challenges, and faith. In 2025, the Cook Islands has prepared
the worship program with the theme “I Made You Wonderful.” This
powerful message reminds us of God’s love, His creation, and the
unique value He has placed in each of us.

The World Day of Prayer encourages unity among all Christian
denominations, and invitations have been sent to churches across
Mackay to participate. The service will include prayer, scripture
readings, reflections, and songs of praise, celebrating our shared
faith in God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

Everyone is welcome to join this inspiring event and experience the
strength of communal worship. Let us come together in faith and
thanksgiving.

For further information, please contact 0411143185

By Anne Jennings - Mackay Unit Australian Church Women

WHAT: Prayer Day
When: Friday, 7th March at 10:00 AM
WHERE: St Ambrose Church, North Mackay

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Opinion Piece by Michelle Landry

Beef Australia’s internationally renowned event delivers enormous benefits to
Rockhampton and showcases our local beef producers on the global stage. That’s why
I’m proud to have invested $15.65 million over the past four events.

It’s good to see Labor finally commit funding but it took an election to get the Agriculture
Minister out of the city and into regional Australia. Rockhampton is the Beef Capital of
the nation, yet the only reason she’s here is for a political announcement.

The Minister has been criticised by agriculture organisations stating she is neglecting
regional communities. Independent Parliamentary Expenses Authority records show
that in her first three months as minister, she spent just one night in Cairns, with the rest
of her time in Tasmania, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. By the end of January 2025,
she had only visited Victoria and Western Australia once and had yet to set foot in the
Northern Territory.

Meanwhile, the cost of hosting events like Beef Australia is soaring, driven up by Labor’s
policies that make it more expensive to do business. Food prices are up 12 per cent,
electricity has skyrocketed by 32 per cent and inflation has been an average of 4.1 per
cent. It’s no wonder event costs are rising when Labor keeps making life harder for
regional Australia.

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Shed Happens Mackay hosted a leadership training retreat at the picturesque Seaforth Pines over the weekend of February 9. Surrounded by lush greenery and just a stone’s throw from the beach, the setting provided the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversations, personal growth, and team-building activities.

The retreat featured a range of engaging exercises designed to strengthen leadership and camaraderie. One highlight was a hands-on challenge where participants worked together to build a catapult using bamboo poles and ropes. Another thought-provoking exercise, inspired by military watchkeeping strategies, encouraged teams to plan and problem-solve under pressure. A particularly memorable moment came when attendees took turns writing uplifting messages on each other's backs—an activity that left many feeling encouraged and inspired.

Leadership discussions were further enriched by video sessions from the Shed Happens home office, covering topics such as burnout, controlling unwanted thoughts, and recognising narcissism. These sessions sparked deep conversations, reinforcing the group’s shared commitment to supporting men in their journeys.

A key focus of the retreat was refining Shed Happens Mackay’s vision and mission statements. While the core message remains the same, adjustments were made to provide greater clarity and alignment with the group’s purpose. Planning for the year ahead was also a priority, with discussions centring on how to better support local men.

The annual International Men’s Day Breakfast—a cornerstone of Shed Happens Mackay’s fundraising efforts—will return in November, once again featuring the announcement of the Mackay Man of the Year. However, after much consideration, the decision was made to discontinue the Art Show, allowing the group to focus on new, more impactful ways to engage with the community.

A powerful session was delivered by Grapevine Group, providing valuable insights into supporting individuals struggling with dark thoughts. The training led to an open discussion about the unique challenges men face in today’s social and political climate, highlighting the need for tailored support systems that address these realities.

Shed Happens Mackay is eager to put these insights into action, ensuring it remains a vital resource for men in the region. The group meets on the third Wednesday of each month, offering a welcoming space for fellowship and support. To stay updated on upcoming events and initiatives, visit Shed Happens Mackay on Facebook.

Contributed by Shed Happens Mackay

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Shed Happens Mackay’s leadership retreat at Seaforth Pines fostered personal growth, team-building, and strategic planning, reinforcing its mission to support local men. Photos supplied

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Queensland’s beekeeping industry is set to receive a major boost, with the State Government rolling out a $500,000 Community Bee Innovation Fund (CBIF) to tackle the threat of varroa mite—one of the most destructive pests facing honeybee populations worldwide.

Over the next three years, grants between $5,000 and $50,000 will be available to fund innovative projects aimed at strengthening biosecurity, improving varroa mite education, and developing management tools to protect the state’s beekeeping and pollination-reliant industries.

While Queensland remains free of varroa mite, recent detections in the NSW border town of Boggabilla have raised concerns about its potential spread. First detected in New South Wales in June 2022, the tiny parasite devastates beehives and poses a serious risk to Queensland’s $75 million honey industry and the $2.4 billion economic value of pollination services.

The grants will fully fund projects that either:

   Deliver innovative varroa mite education and training, or
   Develop innovative varroa mite management tools.

Beekeeping clubs, universities, local governments, agricultural businesses, and industry bodies are all encouraged to apply.

In addition to this initiative, the Crisafulli Government is reinforcing Queensland’s biosecurity with 100 new biosecurity officers over the next four years, ensuring stronger protection for primary industries.

Applications for the CBIF grants are now open, providing a crucial opportunity to help safeguard Queensland’s bee populations before the pest reaches the state.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said strong and responsive biosecurity is critical to the ongoing success of Queensland’s agricultural industries.

“This project empowers beekeepers, researchers and industry groups to develop creative solutions that strengthen our defences against varroa mite,” Minister Perrett said.

“It’s one of the many projects Queensland is working on to protect the sustainability of our beekeeping and pollination industries, which are crucial to our food security and economy.”

Round 1 of the grant program has opened, with applications closing at 5pm AEST on 24 March 2025.

For more information on the Community Bee Innovation Fund and how to apply, visit Community Bee Innovation Fund | Department of Primary Industries, Queensland

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Booking in a doctor’s appointment has never been more difficult or expensive, especially in regional Queensland, according to Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox.

Willcox has called out the Albanese Government, arguing that low Medicare rebates are causing GPs to abandon bulk billing, leaving patients to bear skyrocketing out-of-pocket costs.

With doctor shortages worsening and medical centres struggling to stay open, he warns that urgent action is needed to prevent further strain on communities.

Mr Willcox said “Medicare bulk billing rates have dropped by 11 percent and the average out of pocket cost to see a Doctor has skyrocketed by 45 percent which is simply not good enough.

“An elected Dutton Coalition Government will invest an historic $9 billion into Medicare to fix Labor’s healthcare crisis.

“This investment builds on the $500 million commitment already announced by the Coalition to restore critical Medicare funding for mental health support, after it was slashed in half by the Albanese Government.

“The Coalition welcomes the Albanese Government’s decision to finally listen to our calls to address the health workforce crisis with a comprehensive package of training measures.

“It has been no surprise that the Coalition has led the way with our $400 million plan to grow a strong pipeline of GP’s, which will provide junior doctors who choose to train as a GP in the community with financial incentives, assistance with leave entitlements and training support.”

“I have seen first hand medical centres being forced to close such as the centre in Bowen because of a major doctor shortages, resulting in patients having to travel long distances to find another GP.”

“I have visited Murroona Gardens Aged Care facility on a number of occasions and they simply don’t have access to doctors due to these shortages, to care for residents.

“The Coalition has a strong record on health and we have a plan go get Australia back on track and fix Labor’s healthcare mess.”

Opinion Piece, submitted by Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

Andrew Willcox calls for urgent action to fix Australia's healthcare crisis, highlighting rising costs, doctor shortages, and the Coalition's $9 billion plan to restore Medicare funding. Photos supplied

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Imagine a tiny hand wrapped around your finger, a loyal paw resting by your side, or the final embrace of someone dearly loved…these are the imprints that shape our hearts forever. But what if you could hold onto them, not just in memory, but as something you can cherish for a lifetime?

At Impressionable Kids Mackay, Allysha Zirbel has made it her mission to do exactly that. Whether it’s the delicate hands and feet of a newborn, the paws of a beloved pet, or even the hooves of a horse, no imprint is too big or too small to preserve.

“I can capture the whole family,” says Allysha.

“From newborns and adults, to dogs and horses… even chickens...you name it and I can do it.”

Having experienced a heart-breaking loss herself, Allysha understands the heavy weight of these moments - which is why she takes pride in her work, finding great joy in preserving such special moments for others.

“This is not something that I was able to do for my late husband, so I don’t have that memory for myself, and that’s why it's very important for me to give these memories to other people.

“What I love most about my job though is that I get to play with babies all the time…and I don’t need to keep them,” she laughs.

Offering 53 vibrant colours and over 40 frame mouldings, each piece is thoughtfully made to reflect the unique personality of the person or pet being honoured. And with a variety of options, you can keep that special someone even closer. Gift those around you with a precious fingerprint impressed on jewellery, a framed handprint, or a paw cast from a beloved family pet – it doesn’t get more sentimental than that!

Crafted right here in the region, you can find comfort in knowing that you or your loved ones won’t need to travel far.

“I do all the work here in Mackay, so they don’t actually leave the region.”

As a mother, Allysha finds great joy in meeting families, hearing their stories, and helping them hold onto life’s most valued moments. After all, Impressionable Kids Mackay is built on love, loss, and the understanding that time often moves too quickly.

“I love that I’m able to give those memories to families, because you just can’t get that time back.

“Life is so precious…and I want to capture it.”

Transform momentary touches into lasting treasures, and carry life’s most valuable memories close to heart with Impressionable Kids Mackay.

Contact ikidsmackay@outlook.com or phone 0437 630 313 for more information.

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In an exciting leap forward for wildlife discovery, a previously unknown species of Whirring Tree Frogs has been identified right here in the region, thanks to ground-breaking research by James Cook University, the University of Newcastle, and the South Australian Museum.

Originally thought to be one species, the new research discovered they were in fact three distinct species, with the Eungella Whirring Treefrog found on the top of the Eungella plateau, west of Mackay, and the Atherton Tablelands Whirring Treefrog found in the mountains south-west of Cairns.

The new research used data from genetics, morphology and frog calls to recognise them as distinct species.

JCU Associate Professor Conrad Hoskin said it’s an exciting discovery that could be crucial to the species’ protection.

“When they were all grouped together as one, you can’t see the significance of the fact that that the two northern populations are distinct species,” he said.

“They are hidden away, lumped in another species, and that means you don't recognise that Eungella and the Wet Tropics each have yet another highly localised species.

“And most importantly, you don't recognise them for conservation when they are contained within another species name. Now that they are named, we can assess their conservation status and needs.

“Both species should be recognised as endangered species. The Eungella species, in particular, has a tiny distribution with very little elevational space and is certainly under threat.”

Both species are a yellowish-brown colour, with flashy orange markings and black spots on their legs. Populations of these treefrogs were previously assumed to represent a more widespread species in south- east Queensland and north-east New South Wales.

Associate Professor Hoskin said now the new species have been named and recognised, the next step is to put in submissions to the state and federal governments outlining why they should be considered endangered species.

“These beautiful frog species are now pinned to the tops of some of Queensland’s highest mountain areas and are under serious threat from climate change,” he said.

“In the paper, we suggest that the Atherton Tablelands species should be nominated for Endangered, and the Eungella even a higher level, which is Critically Endangered.

“It's really exciting to recognise them for what they are, and conservation attention will hopefully follow.”

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Two new species of Whirring Tree Frogs have been discovered in Eungella, previously mistaken as one, with findings now highlighting their distinct status for conservation efforts. Photos supplied

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What if you could buy toys that are not only fun, but also educational AND good for the environment? It may sound too good to be true, but Playful Eco makes it a reality! This online toy store is every parent's dream, offering eco-friendly, sustainable toys that encourage creativity, promote learning, and instil a love for the planet.

At Playful Eco, each toy is crafted with care by an experienced early childhood teacher who understands the importance of fostering growth from a young age. Whether it’s wooden blocks, organic cotton dolls, or natural rubber toys, every product has been thoughtfully selected to support your child's development in a safe, fun, and eco-conscious way.

Crafted from non-toxic, biodegradable materials like bamboo, organic cotton, and natural rubber, Playful Eco’s toys provide peace of mind for parents. No plastic, no chemicals - just sustainable, high-quality materials that are both safe for little hands and better for the planet. These toys not only provide hours of fun, but also help children develop key educational skills they’ll use for a lifetime.

We all know kids can be a little rough on their toys, and that’s why durability is a priority at Playful Eco!

Designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily play, these toys are built to last. Whether at home or in a childcare centre, they’re tough enough to handle the enthusiasm of young children. This means Playful Eco toys aren’t just an investment in your child’s growth, but in long-lasting, high-quality playtime.

Choosing Playful Eco also means choosing a cleaner, greener future. The store’s commitment to eco-friendly packaging and sustainable practices ensures that every purchase contributes to reducing waste and carbon footprints. By supporting ethical manufacturers, Playful Eco works with partners who share the values of sustainability, fairness, and quality, ensuring that each toy is produced with care for both people, and the planet.

Tired of the chaos at crowded shopping centres? Shopping at Playful Eco has never been so simple. With easy navigation, detailed product descriptions, and fast, eco-friendly shipping, it’s the most seamless way to find the perfect toy for your little one. Whether you’re shopping for your own child, gifting others, or looking to implement eco-friendly toys into your business or childcare centre, Playful Eco has something for every age and developmental stage.

When you shop at Playful Eco, you say no to toys that end up in landfill, and yes to sustainable options that help your child develop, whilst protecting the environment. It’s a win - win!

“At Playful Eco, we’re more than just a toy store,” said Playful Eco Founder Aleisha Lade.

Contact info@playfuleco.com.au or call 1800 982 638 for more information.

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Melanie Grenier, an employee at one of Mackay's leading creative marketing agencies, redhotblue, will be shaving off her long locks and go bald to raise funds for medical ovarian cancer research.

This cause hits close to home for Melanie, whose family has been affected by various forms of cancer over the years, including her mother, who has been impacted by cancer multiple times. In addition, the redhotblue team is honouring the memory of a beloved former employee, who tragically lost her life to ovarian cancer several years ago.

"Sadly, most people have experienced cancer to some degree, so we know the impact it can have on the individuals suffering, and on the family" Melanie shared.

"It wasn’t until I decided to shave my head that I learned ovarian cancer has little to no standout symptoms, and no reliable early detection methods. It’s scary to think that people can be completely blindsided by this disease".

The majority of women and girls are diagnosed with ovarian cancer at an advanced stage, where the five-year survival rate drops to around 29%. Melanie hopes her fundraising efforts will encourage conversations about the signs and symptoms, early detection, and improved treatments, while also inspiring others to support ongoing research that could drastically improve outcomes for this disease.

Funds raised from the event will go towards the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF), Australia’s leading independent funder of medical ovarian cancer research. The OCRF supports promising research projects across early detection, treatment, prevention and more.

The Director of redhotblue, Jody Lee Euler, is very passionate about this cause and stated “if we all do our bit there is a real possibility of a future where an early detection can exist for this silent and deadly killer.”

Community members can donate to Melanie’s fundraising efforts online at www.ocrf.com.au/fundraise/bald-for-the-brave or contribute in-person at the event.

Tickets are now on sale via redhotblue’s facebook event page – BALD FOR THE BRAVE.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available with a unique twist. For anyone interested please contact the team at redhotblue on 4953 2833 or email: jody@redhotblue.com.au

Bald for the Brave is being proudly delivered by redhotblue. A special thank you to our sponsors: Maxyn Asher Hair, Ocean International and Life Publishing Group, home of Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper and Core Life Magazine.

Funds raised will be donated directly to Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation.

WHAT: Bald for the Brave
WHERE: Ocean International, poolside
WHEN: April 4th from 4pm – 10pm.

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From little things big things grow was a great way to describe the growth of Catherine McAuley College, Mackay, according to Principal Jim Ford.

“I think we would be quite unique in terms of our dramatic change in student and staff numbers for the start of the 2025 academic year,” Mr Ford said.

The Catholic co-educational College has commenced its fourth year of operation, having opened in 2022 with the expansion plan seeing the College add a new Year level each year until 2027 as it steadily builds to a full secondary school for Years 7 to 12.

Built on the site of the former Sugar Research Institute, a world leader in sugar research for over 50 years, the college is looking to lead the way in Catholic Secondary education well into the next 50 years and beyond.

“Most importantly, though, we are all about young people and their experience of school at Catherine McAuley College,” Mr Ford said.

“Everyone is new at the start of Grade 7. It’s an exciting and an anxious time for most with an array of uncertainties; ‘Will the teachers be nice? Will I make friends? Will the classwork be challenging? Will I know where to go?”

The answer to all the above, Jim Ford said, is YES.

“High school is an exciting time full of new experiences, challenges, changes, and a much broader curriculum than students have experienced so far in their educational journey,” he said.

“Our dedicated and passionate teachers and staff at Catherine McAuley College are here to make it happen supporting students and their families every step of the way,” Mr Ford said.

“It’s extraordinary growth and very much in line with forecast demand from a growing number of families choosing a Catholic secondary education, with our Senior phase to commence as of 2026 and enrolment enquiries are welcome now for year 11,” Mr Ford said.

Catherine McAuley College, striving to live the values of Learning, Courage, Faith and Mercy.

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By Hannah McNamara

In the shadows of rising living costs and a housing crisis, two Mackay organisations - CASA and Broken Ballerina Inc. - are battling to protect society’s most vulnerable. Women and children fleeing violence are sleeping in cars, with crisis services stretched beyond capacity.

“We’re providing motel stays, but it’s just a band-aid fix,” says Jules Thompson of Broken Ballerina.

General Manager at CASA, William Stafford says cases have shockingly doubled in a year. Despite working independently, both organisations collaborate to provide housing, counselling, and support services, reinforcing the importance of local partnerships in rebuilding lives and breaking the cycle of violence and homelessness.

Broken Ballerina Founder Jules Thompson and CASA General Manager William Stafford met last Tuesday to address the pressing challenges of domestic violence and homelessness. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

From Survival To Stability
The Push For Long-Term Solutions

Two powerhouse organisations in the Mackay region have shared their insights on two of the state's most pressing social issues – domestic violence and homelessness.

Domestic violence knows no boundaries, often hidden behind the walls of a house that’s meant to be a home. Yet, with the rising cost of living and a shortage of housing, local organisations like CASA (Community Accommodation Support Agency) and Broken Ballerina Inc. are struggling to provide the help survivors desperately need to break free from the violence.

“Women and children are sleeping in their cars because they’ve got nowhere else to go,” said Jules Thompson, founder of Broken Ballerina Inc.

“So many people are coming to us, but we simply don’t have the accommodation... we can only provide a few nights in a motel... and that’s just a band-aid fix.”

CASA General Manager William Stafford highlighted the overlap between domestic violence and the housing shortage, with cases continuing to rise.

“Last week, we had nearly 10 women come into our service after fleeing. With each case, we’re dealing with individuals who have endured extreme distress and emotional trauma,” said Mr Stafford.

“When we look at the stats, they’re showing about double the numbers we were seeing a year ago, so we’ve had to adapt as an organisation to meet the increased demand for support.

“It can be challenging at times to meet that demand, but our ultimate goal is to provide housing for those experiencing homelessness - whether through crisis accommodation or helping them find a long-term place to stay.”

Ms Thompson is working towards building a Broken Ballerina Safe Haven, where survivors can receive holistic support, including accommodation, employment, education, and counselling, to break not only the cycle of domestic violence but also its ripple effects.

“Our goal is to create a safe haven where people can access support and get back on their feet - whether that’s through employment, study, or breaking the housing cycle, which would be the ultimate goal.”

Both CASA and Broken Ballerina Inc are focused on a future where survivors can easily find housing. However, they agree that it’s crucial for survivors to be willing to accept help and stick to the plans in place to avoid setbacks.

Although both organisations operate independently, they often collaborate by referring clients to either CASA for housing or Broken Ballerina for additional support, such as escape bags or counselling.

Mr Stafford expressed the importance of collaborating with local organisations to provide the best possible outcome for those in need.

“We know we’re making a difference and we have had some really great success stories,” he said.

“It’s the spirit of collaboration that really makes a difference for clients and the wider community, so it’s important for us to maintain that level of collaboration with local DV services in Mackay.”

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Jules Thompson of Broken Ballerina Inc. and William Stafford of CASA are tackling domestic violence and homelessness in Mackay, providing emergency support and working towards long-term solutions. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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For nearly 50 years, the Mackay Scope Club has brought together women dedicated to fundraising for local causes. Meeting monthly at Breezes Retirement Village, the club’s efforts benefit various charities through sausage sizzles, raffles, and even Christmas gift-wrapping.

Ms Brenda Travaskis has been a member for almost a year now and thoroughly enjoys her time fundraising for those in need.

“We hold sausage sizzles, wrap Christmas presents outside Spotlight for donations, and organise Mother’s Day raffles,” she says.

“All the funds go towards supporting a variety of organisations within our community.”

Most recently, the club contributed their hard-earned funds to MARS Wildlife Rescue, a volunteer-run organisation dedicated to rehabilitating injured animals.

Mackay will soon host the National SCOPE Club Conference in June, bringing together members from across Queensland to expand their community impact.

Brenda encourages others to join and said “It’s a great way to meet people while giving back to the community.”

The Scope Club’s work has created lasting benefits for the region, fostering unity and positive change while supporting vital initiatives like MARS Wildlife Rescue and Care Kitchen.

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For nearly 50 years, the Mackay Scope Club has united women to fundraise for a variety of local charities. Photos supplied

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