At 5.50pm this Sunday 13 October the annual Miners Memorial Day will commence at Collinsville Workers Club but this year it is even more special to the Collinsville and Whitsunday community.

This year marks the 70th year since seven miners lost their lives in the state mine in Collinsville.

The disaster was a Carbon Dioxide CO2 gas outburst and happened at 5:50pm at the Collinsville State mine on 13 October 1954.

The gas outburst was later said to be 98% CO2 and the seven men died from asphyxiation.

The seven Collinsville men who died were Alex Parkinson, Peter Miller, Henry Petersen, Frederick Ernest Walker, James Reid Logan, Arthur Shrubsole and Herbert Ruff.

Two other men, Robert Munro and J. A. Baker were severely affected by the CO2 outburst and were taken to hospital to make a recovery.

The mining disaster has affected all miners and the broader Collinsville community for generations.

Even today, people who have since moved away from Collinsville often return specifically to be part of the Memorial Day.

President of the Memorial Committee Brett Murphy said for the first time this year they will also be honouring the two horses that passed in the mine during the disaster.

“This year we will be having for the first time a plaque for the two horses that died down there that day,” explained Brett.

“It was always about the men, but we've decided that the horses needed to be on the wall as well.”

The plaques will be unveiled by one of the horse handlers.

Brett also said that Memorial Day is always important to past and present miners, due to the closeness and relationships you develop in the mines.

“Underground workers form a family very quickly when they're working underground, and I believe that that's because of the danger, and you've got to look after each other,” said Brett.

“Basically, you really need to be looking after each other and be like family.

“And when someone from your family dies, and especially if it's seven people out of your family die on the one day, you can imagine how they felt.”

What: Miners Memorial Day
Where: Collinsville Workers Club
When: Sunday 13 October, 5:50pm start

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The community marched to pay their respects following the  Collinsville State mine disaster which claimed the lives of seven men on 13 October 1954

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Geoffrey Huegill, an Australian swimming legend and dual Olympian, boasts an incredible career with 72 international medals, including two Olympic medals and six world champion titles. Known for his dominance in the 50 metres butterfly, Geoff also held eight world records throughout his career.

Although originally from Mackay, Geoff now resides in Singapore but maintains strong ties to his hometown as he cherishes his time visiting his mother, friends, and family in the Mackay region.

Understanding the challenges faced by regional athletes, who rarely have access to world-class mentors, Geoff is passionate about inspiring the next generation of swimmers.

He recalls his own journey, beginning in Mackay, where he was raised with a strong work ethic and grew up swimming at local clubs.

“I grew up in Mackay, and it’s always special to come back and visit my mum and reconnect with the community… hopefully this is the start of many trips back,” Geoff said.

“Swimming is a connector and it's really helped me in my life.

“I'm still in the pool in some way, shape or form every single day and I'm very blessed to have that opportunity, and for me, it all started in Mackay.”

During his visit to the region, Geoff will conduct a series of swimming clinics tailored for athletes of all skill levels. These sessions will cater to a wide range of participants, from club and regional swimmers to state and national competitors, as well as those involved in surf sports and open water swimming.

• Club and regional swimmers specifically for Butterfly, Sprint, Speed and Skills on Sunday 13 October at 08:30-11:00 at Pat Wright Swim School

• State and national swimmers specifically for Butterfly, Sprint, Speed and Skills on Sunday 13 October at 11:30-14:00 at Pat Wright Swim School

• T.O.M.S (Triathlete, Open Water, Masters Swimmers) for competitors wanting to fine tune ALL strokes, dives and turns on Friday 11 October at 17:00-19:30 at Mackay Memorial Pool

• Surf Swimmers especially for surf sports athletes. This pool-based session will focus on building skills and endurance necessary for the unique, dynamic conditions faced in the surf on Wednesday 16 October at 16:00-18:30 at Mackay Memorial Pool

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Photo source: Australian Olympic Team (Facebook)

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Last week, 25 local men and women gathered at Paradiso in Airlie Beach to support the Mama Paulina Mangare Foundation of Tanzania and its Chief Patron, Dr. Joseph Masika OAM, a White Ribbon Ambassador and Rotarian.
The Foundation supports education and social needs such as ‘period poverty’ in rural areas for vulnerable school girls whose parents cannot afford to pay for their education.
Local charity worker Sandy Clark had worked with Dr Masika for several years at the Australia Tanzanian Services Foundation as a board member:
“Joseph called out for help last week and as he had supported so many of our African fundraising projects of course I jumped to help him. Overseas organisations battle for funding so I said I would see what was possible,” explained Sandy.
“Within a week we sold our seats and managed to get some support from local businesses with items for a silent auction and a raffle. What a great and compassionate community we live in!
“Local, well-known woman about town, Heather Sutton, volunteered to help me on the day with the raffle and silent auction and she has proven to be a great supporter of all of our fundraisers.”
Live Life Pharmacy in Cannonvale provided a fantastic prize for the raffle, which was a huge basket of perfumes and beauty products valued at around $300.
Michael Thomas won the prize and gifted it to his guest, Zena Glendening. Silent auction donations included a $100 Precision Auto service voucher, a Palm Beach diffuser from Jungle Trader, a $100 dining voucher from Paradiso, a $200 Hamilton Island voucher from Luxury Holidays, a Vibe Yoga voucher, and artistic gifts from local artist Trudy Hastings.
The event was a financial and social success, and final proceeds will be announced midweek.
Sandy’s next fundraiser on Friday November 15, is an evening cocktail party ‘Moulin Rouge Soiree’. The event being held from 6pm to 9pm will raise funds for the build of medical staff quarters at the Arthur Wina Memorial Hospital in Nalolo, Zambia, one of the poorest parts of Africa.
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WHAT: Moulin Rouge Soiree
WHERE: Whisper Gin Bar & Restaurant, Airlie Beach
WHEN: Friday November 15 from 6pm-9pm

Mama Paulina Mangare Foundation helps support vulnerable school girls
The Moulin Rouge Soiree and fundraiser promises to be a huge success
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Do you have enough supplies to last you three days in the case of a disaster? Are you even sure what you might need to get you through?

Mackay Regional Council and Woolworths have again joined forces to make it easier for Mackay region residents to organise their disaster supply kit.

From now until November 19, each of the region’s eight Woolworths stores will have two dedicated aisle ends stocked with key items for household disaster kits.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council had installed banners with tear-off shopping lists out the front of Woolworths stores, that customers can rip off and take into the store with them.

“These shopping lists have been specially designed to list most of the key items that a household would need in an emergency situation,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We know that our region is vulnerable to some of the worst disasters, such as cyclones, floods and bush fires,” he said.

“It is essential that everyone has at least three full days of supplies, including water, non-refrigerated food items, medicines and toiletries.

“We recommend that an emergency kit is kept in a safe dry place at all times as we head into disaster season.”

Woolworths Caneland Store Manager Jackie Good said shoppers would find handy aisle signage highlighting items from the list inside stores.

“Our Mackay team is here for their community and many locals will already be familiar with the role we play in disaster recovery to ensure households can restock their pantries with essentials,” Ms Good said.

“While we’ll always work to get our stores open as soon as possible after a disaster, road closures and flood waters can mean some residents simply aren’t able to get to us, and that’s why we want to help them build up a supply of essentials that they can rely on,” she said.

Visit the Disaster Dashboard at disaster.mackay.qld.gov.au for more information on how to Get Ready.

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Woolworths Caneland Store Manager Jackie Good met with Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson to discuss how residents can organise their disaster supply kit. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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During their regular turtle spotting sunset cruise, Whisper Cruises discovered what appeared to be an injured turtle floating off Cannonvale Beach about 100m from Pigeon Island.

Upon closer inspection they discovered it had sadly died. They retrieved the critically endangered Hawksbill turtle and took it to the VMR boat ramp where Libby Edge, from Eco Barge Clean Seas and the turtle hospital, took care of the body.

It was evident that the turtle had been struck by something, though not a propeller.
Tragic events such as these emphasise the importance for boaters to observe the "Go Slow for Turtles and Dugongs" buoys recently installed by Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ).
These buoys are crucial for safeguarding these vulnerable species from preventable harm while they feed on seagrass.
With ample open water available for faster speeds, boaters are urged to reserve those areas for high-speed activities and to slow down near seagrass beds, which are critical feeding and breeding grounds for turtles and dugongs.

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The poor injured turtle which was collected by Whisper Cruises

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is calling on candidates in the upcoming Queensland state election to prioritise urgent action on critical issues affecting the local business community. With a focus on infrastructure, affordable insurance, and enhanced regional influence, the Chamber has identified key areas that require immediate government attention.

Priority 1: Urgent Road Infrastructure

The Chamber highlights the frequent closures and congestion of the Bruce Highway and Shute Harbor Road, which pose significant safety concerns and economic costs for local businesses. Chamber members are calling for the reinstatement of state budget funding for road projects and a long-term strategy to improve connectivity and safety for both residents and businesses.

Priority 2: Accessible Business Insurance

Small businesses in the Whitsundays are struggling with rising insurance costs and limited coverage options. The Chamber is advocating for the abolition of stamp duties on insurance products and amendments to the Reinsurance Pool to ensure fair and affordable insurance for all businesses.

Priority 3: Stronger Regional Influence and Representation

The Chamber emphasises the need for a more equitable distribution of resources and representation for northern Queensland. Local voices must be heard in state policy decisions to address the persistent imbalance favouring Southeast Queensland.

In addition to these priorities, the Chamber has highlighted other pressing issues, including the regional housing crisis, rising utility costs, and the need for streamlined government processes to support local businesses.

The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has invited all candidates to provide formal responses regarding their commitment to addressing these critical issues and will publish them Friday 11 October via  www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au
 

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Mackay needs a representative who understands the community’s needs on a deeper level—someone embedded in its fabric with a proven track record of delivering for the region.

Belinda Hassan, Labor’s candidate for the seat of Mackay, is that leader. As a fifth-generation local with years of dedicated service, Belinda is ready to take her advocacy to a higher level, tackling larger-scale issues like homelessness, cost-of-living pressures, and regional development.

Belinda’s passion for addressing the housing crisis is evident in her strong push for new housing solutions. Under her advocacy, the government’s Homes for Queenslanders Plan is delivering 79 new homes to the Mackay and Whitsunday region, including 27 modular units, ten of which will be in Mackay by early 2025. These modular homes are designed for faster delivery and will provide immediate relief to those struggling with housing. In addition to the modular homes, seven 1-bedroom units are currently under construction in North Mackay.

"This is something I fought hard for," Belinda notes.

"Homelessness is not just a statistic—it’s a real issue affecting real people in our community."

Belinda aims to be a fierce advocate for Mackay on the state level, ensuring that local concerns are addressed in meaningful ways. Her previous term with Mackay Regional Council gave her firsthand experience of what people in Mackay want and need—whether it’s housing, employment, or essential services. Now, she’s ready to channel that experience into larger issues, like finding solutions for homelessness and fighting for Mackay to get its fair share of mining royalties.

The Labor government’s broader commitment to easing cost-of-living pressures is another area where Belinda is eager to make an impact. As part of a progressive team tackling these challenges head-on, Labor has implemented measures such as publicly-owned fuel and electricity retailers to drive competition, $1,000 energy rebates for households, 50-cent bus fares, free kindy for 4-year-olds and reduced vehicle registration fees.

“Mackay needs a representative who is not only grounded in the community but also part of a team that is delivering real, tangible benefits for locals,” says Belinda.

The Queensland government has committed a record $11.2 billion in concessions for families and businesses in 2024-25—an increase of more than 31% compared to the previous year. This includes billions in expanded measures such as lower public transport fares, motor vehicle registration cuts, and financial support for first-time home buyers, to name a few. Belinda is dedicated to ensuring Mackay fully benefits from these initiatives, helping residents manage the rising cost of living and ensuring no one is left behind.

Belinda’s vision for Mackay goes beyond addressing the immediate challenges. She wants to see Mackay grow as a bio-futures hub, tapping into the region’s potential for innovation and economic diversification. She believes in a prosperous Mackay, where progress is made not just in infrastructure, but in creating long-lasting social and economic benefits for future generations.

Belinda’s roots in the local community, her understanding of regional issues, and her ability to bring state resources to bear make her the ideal candidate for Mackay. For those seeking a representative who combines local passion with state-level influence, Belinda Hassan is ready to lead.

For more information or to get in touch with Belinda's campaign, please email belinda.hassan@queenslandlabor.org or call 0412 421 451.

Advertisement for Belinda Hassan, authorised K Flanders Level 1, 16 Peel St South Brisbane QLD

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Eastern Curlews Arrive In Mackay After Massive Migration

Australia’s largest migratory shorebird - the eastern curlew (Numenius madagascariensis) – has recently been spotted on the beaches around Mackay.

This critically endangered species travels up to 20,000 kilometres each year via the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. The route takes them to Australia from their European summer nesting sites in northern China and Russia.

After thousands of kilometres of flying, the eastern curlew can lose between 40% to 70% of its body weight and even begin to digest its muscles for energy. Therefore, it is essential for them to rest and feed undisturbed when they arrive in Australia to replenish their energy and recover from the exhausting journey.

Unknown to many, their global population has seen declines of up to 80% in the last 30 years. During the austral summer non-breeding season, an estimated 73% of the species’ population migrate to Australia, emphasising the importance of protecting this species when visiting our shores.

Reef Catchments, the local Natural Resource Management (NRM) Group, are thrilled to commence a four-year project that aims to support efforts to reverse the trajectory of critically endangered eastern curlew, as well as the endangered red goshawk, within the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region.

Reef Catchments Project Officer, Kellie Best, elaborates, “The project will deliver fauna surveys and targeted habitat restoration activities as well as support feral animal management across the region.”

The eastern curlew is known for being skittish and will take flight at the first sign of danger. In particular, unrestrained domestic dogs running along the beach are a major disturbance to the birds while trying to eat and rest.

The Mackay/Central QLD Coast is an important roosting area for rebuilding muscle and fat. To help our visiting eastern curlews, beachgoers are encouraged to observe them from a distance (100m+) and use a leash when walking dogs to avoid frightening and chasing shorebirds, burning vital energy.

Local birdwatchers can enjoy spotting these beautiful birds along our coastline. They have a predominantly coastal distribution and can be seen on coastal sand/mudflats and wetland areas.

Eastern curlews can often suffer from mistaken identity and are best recognised by their distinctive beak, which is long and curves downwards, averaging 18 centimetres long. They use their long bills when foraging for food, such as crustaceans and small molluscs, by probing in the sediment.

This project is funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust and delivered by Reef Catchments, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel. Reef Catchments are the Natural Resource Management (NRM) group for the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region. It facilitates change and works for long-term solutions to sustain, protect, and improve our region’s natural resources and environment, now and into the future.

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Eastern curlew (Numenius madagascariensis) at Bucasia Beach, August 2024 (photo credit: Kellie Best)

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The Queensland Government Election Day is only two weeks away and it is important that our Whitsunday community’s voices are heard to ensure our region gets the investment it deserves!
 
I have been clocking up the frequent flyer points in recent months with visits to Canberra and Brisbane for face-to-face meetings with key Federal and State Government Ministers and their staff to advocate strongly for future funding for major projects that will transform the Whitsundays.
 
The Whitsunday Coast Airport Masterplan, the Airlie Beach Skyway Project, the Lake Proserpine Stage 2 Masterplan and the Bowen Foreshore Masterplan are just some of the priority projects that are critical to boosting tourism, driving local jobs, and future-proofing our Whitsunday region.
 
This election we are simply asking for Our Fair Share because Council cannot do this on our own. We need to partner with both tiers of government to ensure we can deliver the important service and community infrastructure that is required to support our rapid population growth.
 
We’ve got a lot of roads – over 1780 kilometres of Council maintained roads - and that’s why it is so important that we continue to advocate for additional funding through state and federal road maintenance, recovery, and betterment programs.
 
Linked to our strong budget spending on a local roads program by Council, it is vital we gain Federal and State Government funding assistance so we can deliver a road network that is safe and useable for our residents right across the Whitsunday region.
 
We have had a couple of commitments in the past week with the Bowen Jetty approved and funding allocated prior to the actual election. This project is too important to the community to be left waiting for an outcome.
 
Well done to the NQBP team, look forward to seeing construction start and working with you to deliver our region’s next great landmark and progress for revitalising Bowen’s waterfront precinct.
 
Yesterday the current Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm gave an election commitment of $10 million towards a new boat ramp and trailer parking at Shute Bay.
 
This is much needed as our Whitsunday community has a deep connection with the water and boats with one of the highest rates of boat ownership per capita in the country.
 
More boat ramps not only mean more access for locals and tourists alike, but they also reduce congestion and improve safety on our waterways.
 
Expanding these facilities will help us support local businesses, boost tourism, and maintain the incredible liveability that makes the Whitsundays so special.
 
Whether you're a keen angler, a recreational sailor, or simply enjoy a day on the water with your family, the addition of the proposed 4-lane boat ramp with trailer parking for 149 vehicles is exciting news for our community.
 
Mayor Ry Collins

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Pioneer State High School student Yasmin Johnston has made an outstanding achievement through her participation in the Seed Foundation and Connect 'n' Grow program, which partners with Mackay Hospital and Health Service to offer Indigenous students the chance to begin their healthcare career while still in school.

The year 12 student was named Dux of the 2024 graduating class, recognising her exceptional dedication and work ethic. She completed her placement hours three months ahead of schedule, which led to her being awarded an impressive cadetship for midwifery training in 2025.

Throughout the program that spans Year 11 and 12, Yasmin earned a Certificate II and III in Health Services Assistance and gained hands-on experience as a trainee in midwifery at Mackay Hospital and Health Service’s Labour Ward. Her time in the program exposed her to a wide range of experiences and her supervisors praised her commitment and adaptability.

Yasmin’s achievements are a reflection of her passion for healthcare, and her efforts have secured her a promising future in midwifery.

If you are currently in Year 10 and interested in this program for next year, visit www.connectngrow.edu.au

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Yasmin (centre) is pictured below with Tom Wix (Deputy, PSHS), Corrie Thompson (Seed Foundation), Darren Bailey (trainer, Connect ‘n’Grow) and Sharlene Miller (SAT coordinator, PSHS). Photo source: Pioneer State High School (Facebook)

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The Adelaide to Whitsundays flights have been operating since early September and have proven successful with local residents and incoming tourists alike.

The new route is providing Adelaide locals with a new direct, fast and cheaper route to The Whitsundays, Australia’s best tourist destination.

The influx of Adelaide travel-makers is increasing numbers for the Whitsundays tourism, but it also supplies locals with a new holiday destination.

CEO of Whitsunday Coast Airport Craig Turner said this new destination makes reaching capital cities more accessible for people here in the Whitsundays.

“Living in regional North Queensland, distance is a challenge for people. So, to be able to have connectivity to places like Adelaide, it makes the Whitsundays equally more liveable because you have cost effective and convenient flights to capital city destinations that make Australia a lot smaller,” said Craig.

“It is about offering a different experience to the Whitsundays for example going to enjoy a fire and some beautiful red wine from the Barossa in winter.

“Or go and see the seals down at Kangaroo Island.

“It is about the diverse experiences that we don't get in the Whitsundays.”

Adelaide is known as the City of Churches, but more excitingly, it is known for its wine regions, dining and great events year-round.

In late summer, 21 February – 23 March the Adelaide streets are bustling with excitement as everyone takes advantage of the warm evenings and fantastic shows.

For lovers of food Adelaide offers Tasting Australia in early May. It’s a celebration of food and a unique eating and drinking experience that only South Australia can offer.

In cold July many would think Adelaideans are hiding inside trying to stay warm, but this is not true. In July Illuminate Adelaide shines bright across the city, giving locals and travellers a winter festival filled with light, art, music and technology.

South Australia is known globally for its exceptional wine regions. The Adelaide Hills, McLaren Vale and the Barossa, deliver amazing wines. The d’Arenberg cube is a unique cellar door with food, art, wine tastings and experiences that make it a must visit destination.

Cricket and AFL enthusiasts will love Adelaide Oval for its exceptional match day atmosphere that is unrivalled.

The Whitsunday to Adelaide flights currently run three times a week but Craig hopes to grow this to five flights a week and then daily.

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The d’Arenberg Cube in McLaren Vale South Australia is a unique and must visit location for wine enthusiasts

Your next holiday could be to Adelaide thanks to Whitsunday Coast Airport direct flights

Adelaide Oval provides sporting fans with AFL, test cricket and more

Photos supplied

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Natural Body And Beauty Clinic

Looking to feel radiant and rejuvenated in time for summer?

Natural Body and Beauty Clinic on Palmer Street is offering the ultimate solution to help clients feel radiant and rejuvenated for summer. Their Honey Cellulite Detox Ritual is ideal for those preparing for the season's big events, from races to Christmas parties.

The Ultrasound Body Contouring treatment at the clinic targets cellulite with low-frequency sound waves, breaking down fatty tissue in areas like the thighs and buttocks. This process smooths and reduces cellulite, sculpts and tones the body, and enhances skin elasticity while promoting circulation and lymphatic flow.

Following this, the clinic’s signature Pure Fiji Honey Cellulite Treatment combines Fijian honey and coconut milk in a luxurious body scrub and masque. This revitalizing ritual eliminates toxins, firms the skin, and leaves it feeling soft, nourished, and hydrated. Perfect for post-pregnancy or anyone seeking a natural skin boost, the treatment is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids for long-lasting hydration and firmness.

Clients who book four treatments by the end of November will also receive $100 worth of Pure Fiji retail products as a bonus.

Natural Body and Beauty Clinic offers a transformative experience, helping clients look and feel their best as they step into the summer season.

naturalbodyandbeautyclinic.com.au

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Explore the vibrant community around Evans Ave in North Mackay, where natural hidden gems, local attractions… and a big banana await.

Check Out Carr St Avenue

Start your adventure at Carr St Reserve, where you’re met with a dirt track that leads in and around the mangrove bushland. It's an ideal spot for an exploratory walk in nature, and if you venture far enough, you might just find yourself admiring the stunning views of the Pioneer River.

Take A Selfie With The Big Banana

After enjoying the wonders of nature, make your way over to the corner of Palmer Street and Harbour Road for a fun photo opportunity with the iconic Big Banana. Once a bustling produce store, this quirky landmark is now a beloved part of the Mackay landscape. A quick selfie with the Big Banana will surely bring a smile to your face and create lasting memories of your visit.

Explore Retail Options

Continue your journey along Evans Ave, where an array of unique dining and retail options awaits. Whether you're craving a strong coffee, a slice of delicious pizza, or a hearty meal at a local pub, you’ll find a variety of establishments to satisfy your appetite. In addition to food, the avenue boasts numerous shops, offering everything from beauty services and home retail to supermarkets and accommodations, ensuring you have all you need during your outing.

Walk, Ride And Play At John Breen Park

This park has it all! From playgrounds suitable for toddlers, all the way up to flying foxes for the older children, it features shaded areas, picnic tables, accessible parking, restrooms and even a bike path. Whether you're bringing the kids or looking to get some exercise, this is the perfect park for you.

Spot Wildlife At The Gooseponds

Bring your binoculars and wrap up the day at the Gooseponds. Enjoy the diverse wildlife, including friendly ducks and geese, and a loop pathway for walking, jogging, or biking. Alternatively, find a cozy spot on the lush grass to enjoy a delightful picnic with treats from your earlier stops. Count the different species you see and relish the joy of being surrounded by nature's beauty!

From parks and natural landmarks to dining and shopping, there’s something for everyone to enjoy along the scenic Evans Avenue!

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Carr St Reserve

Gooseponds

The Big Banana

John Breen Park

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Do you want to learn how to raise happy and healthy kids? Take the family along to the inaugural Healthy Kids Expo to be held at Cannonvale State School on Sunday 20 October which will feature interactive activities and exhibits designed to "inspire, educate, and elevate" families towards healthier, happier lives.

Exhibitors and speakers will include experts in nutrition, naturopathy, chiropractic, physiotherapy, psychology, fitness, yoga, meditation, and sleep health.

Tim Oberg, Founder of the Healthy Kids Project, enthused about the event:

"We aim to bring together a diverse group of providers and businesses in one central location, empowering parents to find answers to their questions. The health landscape is flooded with information and misinformation, and what defines health for one person may not hold true for another.

“By creating an opportunity for parents to engage with a variety of experts all in one place, we hope to foster positive outcomes for both families and the businesses involved."

While this is an educational day, it is also set to be fun, with face painting, boogie bounce and roller skating for the kids to enjoy whilst the parents are being informed.

“It is an event for everyone, we don't want parents to think they've got to leave the kids at home,” Tim emphasised.

“I am looking forward to seeing people turn up to the event and at the end of the day, we're doing this to try and help our children and help families.”

Make sure you check out the Expo for all information on keeping your kids healthy!

What: Healthy Kids Expo
When: 20th October, 10am
Where: Cannonvale State School

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Learn how to keep your kids happy and healthy

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Next year, Mackay Regional Council will welcome six new employees through its doors as apprentice and trainees.

The Apprentice and Trainee Intake program is now taking applications for a variety of roles across the organisation.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Apprentice and Trainee program offered an opportunity for successful applicants to gain entry level pathways not only into council but the wider workforce.

“Council is a fantastic place to start your career and we encourage people from all walks of life to consider taking on a role in our organisation,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We have a variety of roles available, from libraries to mechanical and horticulture,” he said.

“Our apprenticeships and traineeships often lead to full time work at council and we are very proud to say we have many of our past apprentices and trainees still working here even 10 years later.

“Council prides itself on its apprentice and trainee program as it is vital for long-term workforce planning, helping to transfer knowledge from one generation to the next and building skills and capacity, not just for council but for our community.”

Civil Construction trainee Luke Pain said his traineeship has enabled him to learn a wide variety of skills.

“I’m doing a Certificate II in Civil Construction and am also learning concreting, which includes form setting, curbing, slabs, driveways and footpaths,” Mr Pain said.

“I have had so much support from the team here at council and I have really enjoyed my time here so far,” he said.

Former Horticulture trainee Tahni Cross said council had provided her with an opportunity for a career change.

“For me it’s been a great way to try something different - to transition to a role outside of the office and broaden my skillset,” Ms Cross said.

“I did a Certificate III in Horticulture at council’s Nursery and then moved to Natural Areas on the Beach Crew and now I am a full-time Parks Maintenance Officer at the Botanic Gardens,” she said.

“I strongly encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship or traineeship to apply for one of the council roles.”

In 2025, council is offering the following Apprentice and Trainee opportunities:

- 2 x Apprentice Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanic.

- Horticultural Trainee.

- Civil Construction Trainee.

- Live Production and Staging Trainee.

- Library Services Trainee.

Council encourages applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, anyone re-entering the workforce, those from a non-English speaking background, individuals with a disability, impairment or long-term condition, school leavers or an adult worker wishing to change careers or gain new skills.

Applications for the 2025 Apprentice and Trainee Intake are now open, more information on the positions available can be found at mackay.qld.gov.au/traineeintake

Applications will close October 25.

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Former Horticulture trainee Tahni Cross now works full time as a Parks Maintenance Officer at the Botanic Gardens. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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