Five local businesses have been forced to shut their doors and face hefty fines after a major crackdown on illicit tobacco and vape sales in Mackay.

Illicit tobacco and vape products have been seized and stores closed in raids across Mackay as strict new laws were enforced in the region for the first time.

The Mackay Public Health Unit (MPHU), a division of Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), has confirmed that over the past three weeks, eight unlicensed tobacconists who were found selling illicit tobacco and vapes had stock seized, and five of these faced forced closures.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Director of Public Health Brigid Fenech said the raids were executed following significant planning since new legislation came into force in September 2024.

“This sends a clear message that illegal tobacco sales will not be tolerated in the community,” Ms Fenech said.

“Our public health officers will continue to be vigilant to ensure retailers of tobacco, vapes and other smoking products comply with the law.”

Entry powers were enacted, and searches executed with the assistance of the Queensland Police Service on tobacco stores across the city.

Under strict new laws, the stores were hit with on-the-spot fines, ordered to close for 72 hours and contraband including nicotine vapes and illicit tobacco known as chop chop, was seized.

Other contraband found in the raids included vape liquid refills, illegal cigarettes, ice pipes and bongs.

Under these powers, Queensland authorities can now enforce an on-the-spot 72-hour closure on premises operators found to be repeat offenders of selling illicit products or operating without a smoking product licence.

Penalties have also increased, with retailers facing up to two years' imprisonment and employees fined up to $32,260 if they are found to be working in a store supplying smoking products during the closure order period.

Penalty infringement notices will be issued with summons to appear in court for charges under the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act and the Medicines and Poisons Act.

Seizures since 20 March 2025 included:
• Loose tobacco (chop chop) – 39.7kg
• Illegal vapes – 1620
• Illegal cigarettes – 132,941
• Bongs – 475
• Ice pipes – 208

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Five Mackay tobacconists have been shut down and face steep penalties after raids uncovered the sale of illicit tobacco, vapes, and other contraband under newly enforced laws. Photos supplied

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This Mother’s Day, show mum how much she means to you with a gift she'll treasure forever. As a special thank-you, the first 200 shoppers who spend $50 at specialty stores or $100 at Coles, Kmart, or Woolworths and visit our pop-up during selected hours on Thursday and Saturday will receive a FREE Louenhide bag.

To make your gift extra special, enjoy gift wrapping services from Thursday, May 8 to Saturday, May 10, with all proceeds supporting the Mackay Hospital Foundation. With a vibrant mix of brands catering to every style and budget, Mount Pleasant Centre is the perfect place to find the ideal gift for Mum this Mother’s Day.

www.mountpleasantcentre.com.au

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A powerful string of funding pledges from the LNP could breathe new life into two critical Mackay projects – tackling youth homelessness and preserving a century-old community landmark, while a third pledge aims to make Mackay's CBD safer.

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox has committed $170,500 to help renovate six two-bedroom units leased by Kalyan Youth Services, a not-for-profit organisation struggling to meet skyrocketing demand from young people experiencing homelessness.

“Youth homelessness remains a major issue in Mackay, with more and more young people on the brink of homelessness,” Willcox said.

“In recent years, the not-for-profit organisation saw more than 265 young individuals seeking shelter but had to turn away up to 80 per cent of clients because of insufficient accommodation in Mackay.”

The renovations would allow Kalyan to double its capacity, from housing six youths to 12.

“We really need to partially renovate the six units located on Park Street in Mackay, but it can be very hard to find the money being a not-for-profit organisation,” said Mackay Housing Service Manager Louise O’Brien.

“From February 2024 to February 2025, we had an unmet need of 216 young people we weren’t able to support because our facility was full.

“Out of those 216, 142 were females. For 76 of them, the reason we couldn’t assist was simply because our youth shelter was full.”

The LNP has also promised $50,000 to upgrade the Mackay Masonic Centre, a heritage-listed building that has stood for over 100 years.

“The building is in desperate need of some upgrades as the current electrical switchboard is full of asbestos and the roof is leaking,” Willcox said.

“A Dutton LNP government will commit $50,000 to two new electrical switchboards and roof upgrades.”

Mackay Masonic Centre Chairman Bill Boyd welcomed the support, noting the upgrades are vital for safety and community access.

“The property has been owned by Mackay Freemasons for over 100 years, but we want to see to it that we hold it in trust for the people of the town far into the future,” Boyd said.

“The funding commitment will ensure the building is up to a safe standard so the Masonic Centre can continue to serve the community well into the future.”

An elected Coalition Government will also commit to $200,000 to improve lighting at the Gregory Street Bus Stop, Wood Street Car Park Corner of Victoria Street and Macalister Street and 7th & 8th laneway in the Mackay CBD.

The Mackay city area is becoming more popular with families, with developers looking to revive the CBD and Waterfront area. Unfortunately, it is also where some people engage in anti-social behaviour, resulting in incidents occurring.

“I have been working with Mackay Regional Council to develop a solution to keep our community safe in the CBD and Waterfront areas,” Mr Willcox said.

“This project will be delivered under the Safer Communities Fund, ensuring the region have appropriate security lighting infrastructure in place.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said the lighting project would assist with public safety in the City Centre.

“We want people visiting our City Centre at night for dining and entertainment to feel safe and this lighting will help achieve that," Mayor Williamson said.

“This project also complements the work being done by our City and Waterfront team to activate spaces through the CBD," he said.

In addition to funding pledges, Mr Willcox also announced a ground-breaking Regional Australia Future Fund, to deliver a guaranteed annual funding stream in perpetuity for regional, rural and remote Australia.

Mr Willcox said the fund is in recognition of the contribution regional Australians make in growing our national economy and the unique challenges faced now and into the future.

A Coalition Government will preserve a portion of commodity windfall receipts towards the establishment of the Regional Australia Future Fund to grow this fund to $20 billion.

“This is about putting regional people in Dawson first and leaving a legacy for future generations,” Mr Willcox said.

“Once established, the fund will invest a fair share of the profits created through the hard work of regional Australians back into Dawson. It means we don’t have to fight for funding shortfalls to provide infrastructure in regional areas.

“The fund will deliver secure and sustainable long-term funding to tackle challenges that hold back regional communities and invest in building the long-term economic foundations of regional Australia to address future challenges.”

The funding stream will supplement – not replace – normal government funding across these critical areas where regional Australia faces unique challenges.

“This is an historic moment for the one third of Australians who live outside the big capital cities – a perpetual fund to future-proof regional Australia against short-termism and governments who leave regions behind."

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Demand for youth homelessness support in Mackay is skyrocketing, with Kalyan Youth Services turning away up to 80 per cent of young people seeking shelter due to limited accommodation. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The Mackay Masonic Centre urgently needs upgrades to address safety concerns, with $50,000 pledged for essential electrical and roofing improvements. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox in Mackay’s CBD, where he’s pledged $200,000 to improve lighting and boost community safety in key city locations

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Three outstanding local students have been awarded scholarships from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, in association with CQUniversity.

Neve Macdonald and Taylah Hayles were officially presented with higher education scholarships, while Fletcher McFadzen received an apprenticeship scholarship at a special event held at CQUniversity Mackay City Campus during Queensland Youth Week (6–12 April).

The students received a total of $24,000 towards their studies, reinforcing Community Bank Sarina’s commitment to investing in education and empowering the next generation of local professionals and tradespeople. Community Bank Sarina has contributed $230,000 in scholarships over the past 13 years to support local students.

Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said it was fitting that Community Bank Sarina presented scholarships during Queensland Youth Week, taking the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of young people in regional areas.

“We were incredibly proud to present Neve, Taylah and Fletcher with these scholarships and look forward to seeing all they will accomplish in the years ahead,” Ms Franettovich said.

“Community Bank Sarina invests in scholarships because we know they offer students so much more than financial support – scholarships strengthen young people’s connection to their community, open doors to new opportunities, and build valuable leadership skills.”

“These connections can be invaluable when it comes to job prospects and developing confident and capable future employees or entrepreneurs.”

“We’ve seen great success from past recipients in their careers, and we’re confident that Neve, Taylah, and Fletcher will be no exception.”

Meet the 2025 Scholarship Recipients

Neve Macdonald – Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood) – $9,000 scholarship recipient

Hailing from Grasstree Beach, Neve is passionate about shaping young minds, having already completed a Certificate III in Early Childhood. She is eager to expand her skills and has had a strong presence in her community, including netball, rowing, and volunteering at school events. Neve expressed gratitude for her scholarship.

“I was so happy to receive this, it’s a huge opportunity that will help me cover university expenses, allowing me to focus on my studies,” Ms Macdonald said.

“Scholarships make a meaningful difference—not just by easing financial pressure, but by reminding students that their community is behind them every step of the way.”

Fletcher McFadzen – Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician – $6,000 scholarship recipient

Fletcher, a 2024 Sarina State High School (SSHS) graduate, has been passionate about becoming an electrician since early high school. With several weeks of work experience in the field and additional qualifications in fitness and electrotechnology, he has now secured an electrical apprenticeship with Aurizon. His strong work ethic has driven him to achieve success in his studies.

“Receiving this scholarship felt surreal, Community Bank Sarina’s support will give me the opportunity to become the best version of myself,” Mr McFadzen said.

“I would highly recommend future students apply—you never know what opportunities might come your way.”

Taylah Hayles – Bachelor of Education (Primary) – $9,000 scholarship recipient

Mackay local Taylah has always aspired to become a primary school teacher, believing education is the foundation for shaping future generations. Throughout school, she actively participated in the community as a MECC Youth Ambassador, volunteered at her school, and performed at local events with Theatre Arts Mackay Dance Excellence.

“Receiving this scholarship felt incredibly rewarding—it’s a recognition of all the hard work I’ve put into my education,” Ms Hayles said

“I look forward to taking part in professional development and pursuing my dream of becoming a teacher. I’d absolutely encourage other students to apply—scholarships open doors to even greater opportunities.”

Community Bank Sarina also offers Senior Schooling Scholarships at SSHS, with applications open in August. To find out more email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.

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(L-R) Community Bank Sarina’s Josie Dahtler, CBS Board Director Rainee Shepperson, CQU scholarship recipients Neve Macdonald, Fletcher McFadzen, Taylah Hayles, CBS Board Chair Karen May, CBS Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich and CQUniversity Associate Vice-President NQ Prof. Rob Brown. Photos supplied

Charmaine Matsen, Saskia Macdonald, Neve Macdonald, Amanda Macdonald and Sandra Matsen

Michael Hayles, Alyssa Hayles, Taylah Hayles and Gillian Hayles

Taya Murray, Geoff O'Connor, Rainee Shepperson, Karen May, Professor Rob Brown and Maree Franettovich

Vashti McFadzen, Fletcher McFadzen and Glenn McFadzen

2025 Scholarship Recipients: Neve Macdonald, Fletcher McFadzen and Taylah Hayles

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By Amanda Wright

The lights dimmed, the crowd hushed, and the big top came alive — and somewhere in the stands, a spark was lit.

At just four years old, Troy Smith was spellbound by his first circus – so much so that the colour, characters and sheer magic of it all never let go.

“I remember the animals, the popcorn, the excitement – I just fell in love with the atmosphere,” he said.

“From that day, the circus had my heart.”

His journey into the circus world was thanks to his mother, who inspired a lifelong passion and always encouraged him to chase his dreams, no matter where they might lead.

That childhood passion never wavered.

He became one of Australia’s finest jugglers, dazzling crowds with five-club routines and eight-ring acts. He performed with some of the nation’s most iconic travelling circuses and built a name for himself in a world that values both tradition and flair.

“I’ve worked with some of the best in the business,” he said.

“From city spectaculars to the rustic warmth of rural towns – it’s always felt like home under the canvas.”

As Marketing and Promotions Manager for Hudson's Circus, Troy promotes the stories and spectacle that keep audiences coming back for more.

One standout moment in his career came earlier this year, when he was invited to attend the prestigious International Circus Festival in Monte Carlo – a world-renowned celebration of circus arts held under royal patronage.

“It was a dream to be there,” he said.

“Monte Carlo is the pinnacle – the gold standard of circus. Just being in that space reignited everything I love about this art form.”

The opportunity wasn’t just a personal highlight – it reflected how far his career had taken him, and the trust placed in him to bring back inspiration and insight to shape the future of his own circus.

After years performing and presenting (including a stint as a show presenter at Dreamworld), his journey eventually led him to Hudson’s Circus – where he found not just a workplace, but a family.

“When I joined Hudson’s, I knew I was home.

“It’s a modern circus that still honours its heritage, and the care we have for our animals, staff and audiences is second to none.”

Now five years into his role, he’s the engine behind the scenes – organising media, booking radio interviews, rolling out posters, and putting up signs. His love for the lifestyle and his deep respect for Australian circus history drive him every day.

“Circus has changed, but the spirit hasn’t,” he said.

“I want to keep that alive – for the kids in the audience, and for those who came before us.”

Hudson's Circus returns with the opening night next Friday, the 25th April, with an all-new show – featuring fan favourites, new acts, and beloved animals.

For this marketing maestro, it’s another chance to share the magic that first drew him in all those years ago.

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Troy Smith, now leading the charge at Hudson's Circus, showing how far a passion for the circus can take you. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

A young Troy, juggling his way towards a future filled with circus dreams and showmanship. Photo supplied

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The RSPCA has today announced that after three decades of community supporters coming together to fight animal cruelty through the Million Paws Walk, this year will be the final walk as a national fundraising event.

With the help of up to 1.6 million paws - that’s 400,000 super pooches - and more than 750,000 superhumans, RSPCA’s iconic Million Paws Walk has raised a phenomenal $17 million for animals in need over its 30-year history.

In those 30 years, the event has brought joy and much needed funding to vital RSPCA services to care for tens of thousands of animals every year.

But in May 2025, the RSPCA will be hosting their final national Million Paws Walk events across the country.

The RSPCA has made the difficult decision to hang up the leash on the event due to cost-of-living pressures and a dramatically changed fundraising landscape since the pandemic.

“This was not a decision we took lightly,” says Emma Lagoon, RSPCA Queensland spokesperson.

“However, the financial strain on animal lovers and increasing event costs has meant Million Paws Walk is no longer able to provide what it once could to the community while also effectively fundraising for much-needed RSPCA services.

“The RSPCA feels it best to channel resources directly to support the animals in our care, and ensure every dollar donated to our cause supports the critical services and care that have become increasingly costly to provide.”

RSPCA’s Million Paws Walk final event in 2025 will be one of great significance and reflection. The national fundraising campaign has been instrumental in drawing animal lovers across the country together to raise much needed funds for animals less fortunate than their own.

“All of us at the RSPCA would like to thank our superhumans and superpooches that have pounded the pavement with us over the last three decades, as well as the thousands of staff and volunteers that have made our event possible year in and out,” says Ms Lagoon.

“Thanks 'a million' for being a part of our wonderful life-changing history!

“The RSPCA couldn’t achieve what we do each and every day without your compassionate, generosity and fun spirit.”

The RSPCA encourages everyone to step up as a superhero for animals in need and get involved for the final ‘walkies’ in May, as they bid farewell to their iconic event.

“While it will be sad to see our much-loved event go, let's make this last lap the biggest and best event showcasing your love for all creatures great and small!”

RSPCA Queensland will be hosting their final fundraising walk events at 8 locations across the state on Sunday 25 May:

• Brisbane
• Cairns
• Dakabin
• Gold Coast
• Mackay
• Noosa
• Toowoomba
• Hervey Bay

Ticket sales are on sale at www.millionpawswalk.com.au today.

What: Million Paws Walk – One Last Lap
When: Sunday 25 May 2025 | 8–11am
Where: Queens Park, Mackay
Tickets: On sale now at millionpawswalk.com.au

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Paws for the cause: Mackay dog lovers are invited to join the final ever RSPCA Million Paws Walk at Queens Park on Sunday 25 May, with a morning of fun, fundraising, and furry friends. Photo supplied

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Earlier this month, on Channel 7, Peter Dutton declared coal mining communities were “done” and that they had no future.

This is an insult to the people of Dawson and the thousands of families who rely on this industry.

Labor has invested in the Mining Centre of Excellence right here in Mackay, supporting the next generation of mining and new opportunities in critical minerals.

There is potential to re-mine slag heaps from existing coal mines to extract these minerals. That means new jobs, new technology, and a future that Dawson can lead.

As your Labor candidate for Dawson, I want to be clear that I am a strong supporter of our mining industry and mining jobs.

Mining — coal, critical minerals, and beyond — will continue to be a cornerstone of our region’s economy, and I will fight to protect and grow local jobs.

One of the other big things I am fighting for is investment in our highway.

The LNP had nine years to fix the Bruce Highway. Nine years of promises from Michelle Landry and George Christensen — and extraordinarily little to show for it.

We cannot keep patching it up. Take the Goorganga Plains — it needs urgent, permanent upgrades. Just over a week ago, I and many others were stranded, forced to stay overnight in Proserpine or Airlie Beach because the highway was closed. That’s unacceptable.

This is our region’s main economic artery. It keeps tourism moving, supports our farmers, and connects local industries to the rest of the country. It must be reliable — and right now, it’s not.
That’s why Labor is stepping up — committing an extra $7.2 billion on top of the $17.2 billion already invested in the Bruce.

If I am elected as the Member for Dawson, one of my top priorities will be making real improvements to the Bruce Highway between Mackay and Townsville.

One of the most exciting announcements recently is Labor’s plan to deliver the biggest investment in Medicare’s history — and that includes a new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic for Mackay.

Last year, the Base Hospital handled over 15,000 non-urgent cases.

This new clinic will take pressure off the Base and make sure people get the care they need, faster.
These urgent care clinics, which treat non life-threatening injuries, are fully bulk-billed and already proving hugely popular across Australia.

We’re also making sure families don’t need to reach for the credit card when they visit the doctor.
Our investment means 90% of all GP visits will be bulk-billed.

And we’re making everyday health more affordable — cutting the cost of medicines under the PBS so people can keep more money in their pockets.

Cost of living remains our number one priority.

It’s why we’re delivering free GP appointments, cheaper medicines, tax cuts and electricity rebates.
We’re also backing local businesses and supercharging regional industries — including right here in Mackay, through Labor’s Future Made in Australia Fund.

I’m passionate about growing and diversifying our traditional industries. This fund will give local companies the push they need to invest in value-added manufacturing — whether that’s turning sugar into biofuels, or using precision fermentation to produce things like egg white and powdered milk.

This isn’t pie-in-the-sky stuff. It’s real tech, real jobs, and real economic opportunity — right here for our farmers and regional industries.

We’ll make sure they’ve got the resources they need, and the infrastructure to support them — including a highway that actually works.

Labor is building a better future for the people of Dawson.

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Two late entries have added fresh intrigue to the race for Dawson, with the Australian Electoral Commission (AEC) confirming the official ballot draw for the federal election.

Held in Mackay using a blindfold and old-school bingo-roller system, the ballot draw randomly assigned the order in which candidates will appear on the voting slip.

In total, seven candidates have been confirmed for Dawson:

Michael Lockyer – Trumpet of Patriots

Alexander John Beaumont – Gerrard Rennick People First

Amanda Nickson – Family First

Andrew Willcox – Liberal National Party

Darren Brown – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation

Paula Creen – The Greens

Neil Wallace – Labor

One of the last-minute additions is Alexander John Beaumont, representing the newly formed Gerrard Rennick People First party. According to the party’s website, Mr Beaumont brings a "colourful and diverse" background across industries including advertising, technology, health, and education. A veteran of the Australian Defence Force, he served in both the signals and artillery corps and worked as a physical training instructor.

Mr Beaumont is described as a passionate advocate for freedom of speech, constitutional rights, and protectionism for the people. He also has experience as a coach in athletics, rowing and marathons, and held a presidential position with a Chamber of Commerce in his early thirties.

Another latecomer, Darren Brown of Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, is on the ballot — however, at the time of print, no candidate profile or campaign details could be found on the official One Nation website.

When asked about his draw position in the middle of the ballot, incumbent Andrew Willcox remained unfazed.

"I'm placed right in the middle, and at the end of the day, it's not important where you're placed on the ballot, it's what you do,” he said.

"I've put my best foot forward each and every day since being elected and I hope to continue the work I'm doing.

"It's been a steep learning curve going from local government into federal politics but I've got the experience, the training wheels are off and I'm ready to hit the ground running."

Early voting opens on April 22, with pre-poll centres located at:

Mackay Showgrounds 500 Pavilion

Shop 8, Northern Beaches Central, Rural View

Whitsunday Masonic Lodge, Proserpine

PCYC Whitsundays, Airlie Beach

Bowen PCYC

Sarina QCWA Hall

Moranbah Arts Council Building

Clermont Civic Centre

Blackwater QCWA Hall

Meanwhile, the AEC confirmed a record 98.2% of eligible Australians are enrolled to vote.

“This is the third election in a row at which we’ve set a record for Australia’s national enrolment rate,” said Electoral Commissioner Jeff Pope.

“Record enrolment like this doesn’t happen by accident. It represents a huge amount of work on the part of the AEC to engage with voters and reduce barriers for enrolment, and of course a fantastic effort from eligible Australians to get enrolled.”

“We’re particularly focused on Australia’s youth enrolment rates, and I’m pleased to report that it’s now extremely healthy.

"Well done, Australia.”

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Andrew Willcox stands beside the official ballot list for Dawson, unfazed by his mid-list placement as early voting approaches. Photo supplied

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By Sonia Ball, QCAR Central District Manager

Forty-eight days to kick off to the much anticipated and discussed 2025 sugarcane crushing season. That’s according to the QCAR clock (as at Sunday on our website) and that’s geared to a generic 1 June 2025 start date.

The big question on everyone’s lips is, will your mill be ready?

According to the recent mill maintenance program updates, which should have been received by most farmers and contractors, all Central District mills - Mackay Sugar’s three mills and Wilmar’s Plane Creek and Proserpine mills – state their maintenance programs are ‘on track’, despite the late finish.

Relieved? Yes. Confident? We’ll see.

The QCAR Central District team has this week been hosting its annual QCAR Central District Roadshows in Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek. Lending support to the local team were QCAR CEO Stephen Ryan, QCAR Chairman Christian Lago and the reinstated QCAR Central District Committee consisting of Chairman (and QCAR Director) Steve McKeering, Deputy Chairman Steve Fordyce and committee members Blair Watt and Craig Keating.

A bonus for the local team was to also have the support of Herbert River District Manager Lawrence Di Bella and Anna at all three meetings.

Nominations have closed for the QCAR District Committee elections, with our existing committee members all renominating and therefore no election was required. Voting is underway however in the Burdekin and Herbert River districts until 24 April 2025.

QCAR has thanked all nominees for their support and confidence in QCAR.

Finally, as we head into the long Easter weekend, QCAR would like to wish everyone a dry, comfortable and safe weekend.

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Some of the QCAR Central District Committee out and about recently attended this week’s QCAR Central District Annual Roadshows in Proserpine, Mackay and at Plane Creek. From left, Craig Keating, Chairman Steve McKeering and Deputy Chairman Steve Fordyce. Photo supplied

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Drowning in clutter and not sure where to start? You’re not alone…and you don’t have to do it alone either. Tidy Home Organiser is a fully insured Mackay-based service offering more than just a standard declutter. With a heart-led approach and a background in nursing and psychology, they understand the emotional toll clutter can take. Whether it’s a chaotic pantry, overflowing garage, or the sensitive task of managing a deceased estate, every job is met with care, compassion, and zero judgement. Decluttering is a form of self-care, and often, the hardest part is asking for help – but that first step can change everything. Book your free in-home consultation today… because you deserve to feel calm, in control, and truly at home again!

@ Tidy Home Organiser Mackay / francine@tidyhomeorganiser.com

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Whitsunday Anglican School’s Preparatory and Kindergarten students lit up the campus with creativity and colour during this year’s Easter Bonnet Hat Parade.

The annual celebration saw students don their handmade masterpieces, proudly parading hats adorned with bunnies, eggs, flowers, and all things festive. From sparkles to pipe cleaners, no detail was spared in the cheerful display of Easter spirit.

The event was made even more special thanks to the collaboration between students, teachers, and dedicated parent volunteers, whose combined efforts helped bring each bonnet to life.

It was a fun-filled occasion, celebrating not just Easter, but the creativity, teamwork and joy that make Whitsunday Anglican School such a vibrant place to learn and grow.

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Happy Easter, Mackay!

From chocolate flinging to joyful giggling, kids across the region are hopping head-first into the magic of Easter. With the long weekend finally here, families are soaking up the simple joys — sweet treats, sunny weather (hopefully) and time together.

In another egg-cellent display, students from Whitsunday Anglican School stole the show with their colourful Easter Bonnet Parade — a true showcase of creativity and community spirit (see page 27 for all the cuteness!).

And while the fun flows freely, it's also a time to reflect on the reason for the season. Find local church messages on page 26 — and enjoy this special time with loved ones.

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Local children are egg-cited to get into the Easter spirit. L-R: Stella Versaci, Braxton Ball, Millie Thomsett, Ivy Thomsett, Eli Thomsett, Brydon Wright, Alexis Versaci. Photo credit: Photos by Nell

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Mother's Day is a sacred pause, a moment to cradle in our hearts the quiet strength and boundless love that mothers gift to the world. It is a day to honour the women who have nurtured us, not just with their hands, but with their hearts — with patience that stretches as far as the horizon and tenderness that holds us steady through life’s storms.

A mother’s love is a soft melody, woven through every gesture, every whisper of wisdom, every sleepless night, and every sacrifice made in silence. She is the steady pulse at the centre of a home, transforming chaos into comfort, turning fleeting moments into memories, and quietly shaping the very souls she loves.

In the warmth of her embrace, we learn to dream, to stumble, and to rise again.

Her hands may bear the marks of years spent caring for others, but in those hands is also the power to heal, to guide, and to comfort. A mother’s love does not come with conditions, nor does it wait for a special day to shine; it is present always, unfurling like petals in the quiet moments of everyday life. It lives in the way she listens without judgment, the way she nurtures both body and soul, and the way she turns ordinary days into extraordinary ones.

But, let’s not forget the humour tucked within motherhood’s embrace. The art of juggling endless to-do lists with a smile, of turning a spilled glass of juice into a lesson in resilience, and of hiding chocolate like a secret treasure. The love is deep, but so too is the laughter, and sometimes, the mess. It’s in those unspoken moments, the ones full of chaos and sweetness, that motherhood reveals its true magic.

As Mother’s Day approaches next month, let us honour the mothers who do it all — with grace, laughter, and hearts that know no bounds. These are the women who make the world bloom, filling our lives with love, strength, and the warmth of a mother’s touch.

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What began as a passion for computers has evolved into a game-changing initiative transforming chemical safety practices across the country.

Tristan Turnbull, a 23-year-old Mackay-based rising star, has been named a finalist for the 2025 Channel 7 Young Achiever Awards for his pioneering work in hazardous chemical management. With a sharp focus on compliance, safety, and digital transformation, he has become one of the go-to experts in the mining and construction sectors for chemical handling, storage, and register systems.

His success comes after just three years of involvement in the family business, ALT Industries—initially brought on board to assist with weekend data entry tasks. However, his natural aptitude for technology and problem-solving quickly led him to develop streamlined systems now used by major national chemical management firms.

“I’ve pretty much used computers all my life. I used them a lot in my previous job too, so doing this kind of work just made sense, and I enjoy doing it,” Tristan said.

His father, John Turnbull, Assessor Area Manager of ALT Industries, said, “He’s always been someone who takes something and tries to make it better.

“We’re very proud, and he should be incredibly proud of the work he’s achieved.”

These innovations, including a custom-built app designed to replace outdated spreadsheets, have revolutionised how companies manage Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and chemical inventories. Through a 12-month traineeship and extensive qualifications in hazardous material handling, Tristan quickly expanded his skill set.

His hands-on approach is centred on support, not audits. Rather than conducting formal inspections like a typical auditor, Tristan focuses on providing practical, on-the-ground assistance. He offers gap analyses, on-site education, and easy-to-use tools that empower staff and simplify compliance, making it easier for businesses to meet safety and regulatory standards without feeling overwhelmed.

As a consultant, Tristan is known for his dedication and reliability, often regarded by clients as an extension of their own teams. In an industry where safety managers juggle multiple roles, having someone who can provide consistent, expert support has proven invaluable – particularly throughout regional Queensland.

Based in Mackay, Tristan’s work is placing regional Queensland on the map for innovation. His recognition as a Young Achiever highlights the high-calibre talent emerging from North Queensland and the significance of homegrown solutions in industries that typically look externally for expertise.

One of his most impressive accomplishments is the continual refinement of his custom chemical management app. Over the past three years, Tristan has revised the app multiple times to ensure it meets evolving industry regulations and the specific needs of each client.

His attention to detail and adaptability have set him apart, catching the eye of international firms. Discussions are underway to expand his services globally.

Now a finalist for the 2025 Channel 7 Young Achiever Awards, Tristan is also in the running for the People’s Choice Award – an opportunity for the public to support and recognise the incredible work he is doing right here in the region.

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23-year-old Tristan is revolutionising chemical safety nationwide with innovative digital systems, earning him a finalist spot in the 2025 Channel 7 Young Achiever Awards. The winner will be announced in Brisbane next month. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay Regional Council, in partnership with major industry associations, has developed a new tool for businesses to use to help combat the regional skills shortage.

The Workforce Attraction Toolkit is a completely free, comprehensive resource for businesses that can support employers in addressing their workforce needs.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay was a thriving region with a strong and diverse workforce of more than 67,350 people and an impressively low unemployment rate of 2.4 per cent at the end of 2024.

“As the demand for skilled workers continues to grow, attracting and retaining talent remains a challenge for local businesses,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This comprehensive resource is designed to help businesses effectively promote Mackay as a desirable place to live, work, invest and explore,” he said.

“It provides a range of helpful tips, resources and digital assets designed to help businesses and recruiters attract employees, especially from out of region.

“And why wouldn’t you want to come to our region – we have stunning beaches, a vibrant community, short commutes, excellent schools and affordable cost of living!”

You can download the toolkit today from www.mackayregionjobs.com.au

Minister for Manufacturing Dale Last said the initiative will receive in-kind support from the Queensland Government’s Manufacturing Hub in Mackay.

“Queensland is home to the world’s best coal and mineral reserves, but to get it out of the ground, we need skilled workers in local manufacturing as part of the vital supply chains to the resources sector,” Minister Last said.

“That means making sure regions like Mackay can attract the right people to service mining equipment and build the machinery needed for our local industries,” he said.

Queensland Manufacturing Hub Mackay Manager, Deb Allan said it had been fantastic to see the Queensland Manufacturing Hub Mackay, Resource Industry Network (RIN) and Mackay Regional Council join forces to tackle one of our region’s biggest challenges – attracting skilled workers.

“The Workforce Attraction Toolkit, which is focused on all businesses, is being released in conjunction with a suite of free downloadable resources focused on the manufacturing sector,” Ms Allan said.

“The recruitment resources include high-impact marketing collateral – including social media tiles, images and videos – that manufacturers can use in their ongoing recruitment efforts,” she said.

“These will be hosted on the Mackay Region Jobs website and will aim to increase awareness of Mackay’s career and lifestyle benefits among skilled workers, tradespeople and their networks.

Ms Allan said the resources were part of a strategy that would also see a targeted national marketing campaign promoting manufacturing jobs in Mackay across both metro and regional areas.

“A marketing campaign has been developed, and we are ready to launch,” she said.

“If you are a manufacturer and want to know more, get in touch with the Mackay Manufacturing Hub, located at the Resources Centre of Excellence in Paget.”

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