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Local tourism operators are expressing concern toward troubling times ahead, with the federal government’s new visa restrictions set to shrink the backpacker workforce that drives seasonal operations. The Federal Government’s proposed cuts to Working Holiday Visas have raised concerns across two of the Whitsundays’ biggest industries. Bowen farmers warned that fewer backpackers could leave crops unpicked, and now tourism leaders in Airlie Beach have added that the same cuts could leave local businesses scrambling to find workers that aren’t there. At Airlie Beach’s Heart of the Great Barrier Reef sign, Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth and Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins spoke about what the proposed changes could mean for a region that relies heavily on tourism. “We can't have Airlie Beach named Australia's top tourism town in the small category and then have the knees cut out from us by federal policy,” Tim said. The proposed changes form part of the Federal Government’s effort to reduce migration, a topic that has been of hot debate by all three parties that Mayor Ry Collins believes the working holiday visas should be separated from. “Obviously the federal government is really coming in with broad brushstrokes to try and address the publicly perceived issue around net overseas migration (NOM),” said Mayor Collins. “Some of the dialogue I heard last week in Canberra was actually taking that working holiday maker class completely out of the NOM calculation. “I think that's a fair and reasonable way that they can make the numbers look as good as they want but it won't affect the actual number of workers that are here to support our industries.” The new restrictions look to cut the second-year extension on Working Holiday Visas from 57,000 to 45,000 slots, and 3rd year extension from 31,000 to just 5,000. According to Tourism Whitsundays, the Whitsundays hosts about 3,500 backpacker workers at any given time of the year. “I think for regions like the Whitsunday’s unemployment rate is lower than the national average by 0.9%, so at a 3.5% unemployment rate, we just don't have the workforce there that can pick up these roles that the working holidaymaker delivers for our communities,” Tim said. According to figures released by Tourism Whitsundays, in the year ending March 2026, domestic visitors spent $959.1 million in the region and international visitors spent a further $271.8 million. This spending was made possible by the abundance of workers delivering those experiences. “[Working holidaymakers] do a terrific job already in delivering world-class experiences, particularly here in the Whitsundays,” said Mayor Collins. “We do see working holidaymakers really take up that mantle, particularly in areas like customer service roles, hospitality roles, housekeeping roles... “What we're asking for is that we can stay strong as an entire tourism industry.” Having just returned from Canberra, the pair said raising regional and statewide voices is crucial to persuading the Federal Government to reconsider how the proposed restrictions would apply. “And then at a federal level, obviously through our federal member Andrew Wilcox, but we've also engaged with the members of the Labor Party around that as well. “But unfortunately it's starting to feel like a number of issues that we're campaigning on…along with things like disaster recovery funding arrangements which was one we linked into last week.” Photo caption: Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
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In this world of AI and other technological advancements, you don’t want to be the person who wanders around the office like a big old clumsy Tyrannosaurus Rex bumping into all the youngsters and stepping on their laptops and other devices. It’s one of the challenges of our times; getting the balance right in business in a world that is increasingly controlled by AI, robotics and a rapidly changing IT environment. I remember, some years ago now, when older family members had refused to embrace computer technology and mobile phones etc. They were really left behind and felt excluded in a world that had moved ahead without them. I’ve got a 19-year-old son who doesn’t have to think about it. Current and evolving technology is part of his life and, like others in his age group, he is completely at ease with something that is just part of his make-up and comprehension of the world around him. The trap you can fall into is letting the kids do all the IT stuff for you. My son set up our old TV with all the streaming services etc, which was the easy option for me, but I find it’s important to get involved and do it yourself otherwise everything will move ahead and you won’t be able to do things for yourself. But I am still stuck in some of the old ways. If I am ordering a takeaway meal I still ring the restaurant and go and pick it up. The old T-Rex wanders into the Thai or Indian joint and picks up his plastic bag of goodies, pays, and drives home. There aren’t many of us left. Uber Eats baby. Everyone has embraced it. My wife and daughter were having dinner together in Brisbane recently and my daughter noticed that her stockings or tights had “run” or a ladder in them. My wife suggested she jump in the car and drive to a nearby supermarket and get another pair. But my daughter ordered a new pair to be delivered to the restaurant by Uber. They were there in a jiffy and the night continued without the pesky interruption of having to leave the restaurant to buy them. It’s a great example of the modern world making things easier and how many of us need to ensure we are adjusting and understanding how things can now be done. There is another side to the coin, however. People have told me that I should get AI to write my columns. They say I could give it some examples of columns I have written and give it an idea for a new column and tell it to knock out 600 words on my chosen topic in my style of writing. It’s something I would never do. Apart from the fact that it would somehow seem like I was cheating, it would also not be authentic. I feel that however boring or pedestrian my stories and comments are, at least they are mine. They have come from my noggin, my experiences. It is my take on the world, not something that has been cobbled together by artificial intelligence. It’s similar in the world of real estate and, I’m sure, business generally. You need to embrace the technology, use it when it creates a better service, a superior experience for buyers and a better result for sellers. But there is still a place for picking up the phone and calling buyers, following up from open homes, doing the hard work that needs to be done as an agent. In a world of AI, robotics and Uber Everything the human element, the person-to-person connection still needs to happen to deliver good service and create the best result for clients.
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Maisy is a beautiful little soul who seems to understand that the very best place in the world is right beside someone she loves. She is affectionate, gentle, social and wonderfully trusting. She loves curling up on a welcoming lap, snuggling into your arms and settling close enough to make you feel as though you have always belonged together. Maisy is generous with her purrs, her cuddles and her sweet little air biscuits. She even places her paw in your hand as if to say, “I choose you.” But this gorgeous girl is not only a champion snuggler. Maisy is playful, curious and full of kitten joy. She loves exploring her toys, chasing anything that moves and turning ordinary moments into entertainment. She will happily amuse herself, but everything is even more fun when her favourite person joins in. She has that perfect combination of affection and personality, soft and loving when it is time to cuddle, and playful and bright when it is time for fun. Maisy will bring warmth to your home, companionship to your days and a little paw to hold whenever you need it. If you are looking for a kitten who will play with you, curl up with you and love being part of your life, Maisy may be the girl you have been waiting for. Maisy has been desexed, microchipped, received her first vaccination, been wormed and is litter trained. She is ready to begin her beautiful new life as a much-loved indoor companion. To arrange a meet and greet with Maisy, please call Ros on 0403 814 318.
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Tarren McAuley, Web Director and Co-Owner I remember when those AI posters started popping up – the first one looked kinda different. By the end of the week, when I’d seen 30 of them, I was much less enamoured + actively scrolled past anything that had that telltale paint smear style font. It’s not that the quality had gotten any worse between me seeing that first one + when I was sick of them by the 30th. But it was no longer novel or original. I think AI is especially susceptible to this because as soon as someone discovers a winning formula, everyone else jumps on the bandwagon, but because everyone is getting similar outputs, it gets old – quick. I think brands can fall into a similar trap. Humans are always looking for inspiration + when seeking it out, where better to look than the other players in your field. If you’re a tech company, you’re going to look at Samsung, Apple + the like. But when that happens too much, you get a feedback loop of samey-ness. For me, this is best exemplified by airline logos. Look at Qantas + Virgin, probably the two biggest brands in Australia. Both use a red plane-like icon, w/ their logo in big letters next to it. Bit cherry picked but even the other big players’ logos are similar - Emirates uses mainly red + shakes it up by having a slightly more exotic font. Jetstar ditches the red for orange + has their icon at the end but it has similar visual markers. This isn’t unique to logos, like w/ the poster example earlier – it could be your social tiles, your website or even your company email sig. Whatever it is, if you wake up one day + notice that the other businesses around you are looking a bit too similar, that should be your sign to start looking at a rebrand to shake off the rust + re-establish your unique identity. You know, until the cycle repeats again!
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A 60 year old sea turtle has been returned home after rehabilitation. Photo source: Eco Barge Clean Seas
A mature green sea turtle believed to be approximately 60 years old has returned to the sea after months of rehabilitation at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, operated by Eco Barge Clean Seas.
Regina has been released back into Whitsunday waters at Hayman Island following her recovery from a serious boat-strike injury and buoyancy syndrome, near the area she was discovered.
Resort staff had been closely monitoring her condition over several months when it became clear that intervention was needed.
The Centre’s dedicated volunteer turtle carers provided daily treatment, monitoring and nutritional support. Her wound gradually healed, her buoyancy improved and she regained the strength needed to return to the wild.
“Regina’s recovery is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when the community comes together to protect our marine wildlife,” said Libby Edge, Founder and CEO of Eco Barge Clean Seas.
“To see her regain her strength and return to the wild is incredibly rewarding for everyone involved in her rescue and rehabilitation.”
The rescue has reminded local boaties to slow down in areas where turtles are known to occur and maintain a careful lookout for marine wildlife, and sparked deep gratitude for the hardworking volunteers dedicating their time to looking after our beautiful reef.
Whether you're arriving for a tropical holiday, heading out to explore the islands or travelling to and from the region, Whitsunday Transit is helping locals and visitors stay connected every step of the way.
As the Whitsundays' leading transport provider, Whitsunday Transit operates a fleet of modern, air-conditioned buses and coaches, meeting all incoming and departing flights at Whitsunday Coast Airport in Proserpine. Guests are then transported to a variety of destinations and accommodation providers throughout Airlie Beach and the surrounding area.
The service also caters to passengers travelling by rail, with vehicles meeting all arriving and departing Queensland Rail services at Proserpine.
For those eager to experience some of the region's most iconic attractions, Whitsunday Transit provides convenient connections to the Whitsunday Islands, the Great Barrier Reef and the world-famous Whitehaven Beach, with regular services stopping at the Cruise Whitsundays Maritime Terminal at the Port of Airlie.
In addition to tourism services, the company offers school transfers and charter services, with a range of vehicles available to accommodate groups of all sizes.
Recognised as a Queensland Good to Go business, Whitsunday Transit continues to play an important role in helping people discover everything the region has to offer.
From the moment visitors arrive to the time they head home, the team is ready to welcome passengers aboard and connect them with the beauty of the Whitsundays.
For more information, visit whitsundaytransit.com.au
Some places are too good to stay secret, even if the locals wish they could.
Just 45 minutes north of Airlie Beach, at the end of one of the Whitsundays' most scenic coastal drives, sits Dingo Beach Hotel – the kind of old-school Queensland pub that reminds you why the best discoveries are often found off the beaten track.
With absolute beachfront views, an easy-going atmosphere and genuine North Queensland hospitality, it's the sort of place where lunch has a habit of turning into an afternoon, and an afternoon can easily become a weekend away.
Since new owners took the reins in March 2025, the much-loved local icon has undergone a thoughtful refresh, with improvements designed to make the venue even more comfortable and welcoming while preserving everything that makes it special. It's still the relaxed coastal pub locals love – just better than ever.
Whether you're chasing a hearty pub meal, a cold beer overlooking the Coral Sea or simply somewhere to slow down for a while, Dingo Beach Hotel delivers the kind of authentic Queensland experience that'sbecoming harder to find. It's pet-friendly, offers comfortable motel-style accommodation if you decide to stay the night, and even has a Thirsty Camel bottle shop on site, making it a handy stop for travellers and boaties stocking up for their next adventure.
If you're visiting the Whitsundays and want to experience more than the usual tourist trail, this hidden gem is well worth the detour. Enjoy live music every Saturday and Sunday, and keep an eye on the Dingo Beach Hotel Facebook page for upcoming gigs, events and what's happening next.
To plan your visit, head to dingobeachhotel.com.au
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Images supplied by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
While kittens often capture the spotlight, older cats have just as much love to give and are often overlooked when it comes to finding a forever home.
Mackay Pet Rescue is encouraging locals to consider adopting a mature feline, highlighting the many benefits that come with welcoming an older cat into the family. Unlike kittens, senior cats have already developed their personalities, making it easier for adopters to find a companion that suits their lifestyle. They are often calmer, well-socialised and happy to settle into a comfortable routine.
Among the rescue's current residents looking for loving homes are Elodie, Violet and Aggie, three beautiful older cats with plenty of affection to share.
The rescue team also attended the Together for Shelter Expo at Queens Park this Thursday from 10am to 1pm. Following the success of last year's event, Mackay Pet Rescue once again offered free items to visitors, while a veterinarian was on site providing health checks and vaccinations.
A representative from Zoetis was also in attendance, contributing giveaways and information, while support from the Mackay Community Foundation helped make the day possible through a community grant and donated supplies from local businesses.
For these deserving older cats, a second chance could make all the difference.
Contact Mackay Pet Rescue Inc for more information
If you find yourself in the mood for some bad news, if you really want a solid dose of negativity, if you think things are humming along a bit too nicely and you want to suck the life out of it and sink into a state of overwhelming negativity … the easiest thing to do is turn on the TV news.
The bad news could be any number of things; crime is a good one, particularly violent crime against innocent people. Let it get in your head and your depressed mood is set up for the day.
The cost of living is another beauty. Electricity costs, petrol, interest rates, inflation … turn on the morning news and you can hear all about it and set yourself up for the day.
The bad news for home owners has all been about how the property market is collapsing. It’s a national story and there is no doubt that some cities are being smashed with low clearance rates at auction and falling prices. Sydney is suffering the most.
It is definitely true that since the Federal Government’s decision to ban negative gearing on housing other than brand new builds and to increase capital gains tax, there has been a change to property markets around the country.
Investors are running for the hills in Sydney and showing a serious lack of interest in Melbourne and Brisbane.
The Government’s idea was to make property more affordable for first home buyers but in those big cities the first home buyers seem to be holding off as the prices fall. Meanwhile, home owners in those cities are stressed as they see the value of their properties fall. Strangely, most people don’t want the value of their home to fall.
But the national news coverage doesn’t tell you anything about Mackay. What are buyers doing here?
One good way of assessing that is to look at the number of loan applications and submissions from mortgage brokers to banks for those loans.
Gardian CEO Ben Phillips was until recently in charge of Gardian Finance’s Mortgage Choice franchise and in his new CEO role he obviously continues to have his finger on that pulse.
He spoke with Gardian real estate’s sales team the other day to tell us that whatever we might be hearing about the real estate situation around the country, it is a different story here.
The big indicator is the number of people in Mackay who are applying for loans to buy properties here.
The Gardian Finance/Mortgage Choice franchise is one of the most successful in the country and the number of loan applications in a particular month or quarter gives a good indication of the number of buyers in our market.
Gardian Finance’s Mortgage Choice franchise is 14th in the country for the dollar value of settlements (we are competing against much higher prices in southern cities) and is fourth in Australia for the number of submissions for loan approvals.
So current loan applications through Gardian finance tell us something about the number of buyers out there.
Ben said that in the month of July, we had the fourth-highest number of loan submissions in 26 years of business. That’s not bad in a supposed property downturn.
“We are incredibly busy with loan applications from Mackay buyers,” Ben told me.
“It shows that you can listen to the national news but Mackay seems to run differently to the capital cities and the settlement and loan submission numbers show that Mackay is getting on with it and people want to buy properties
“This is the best year we have had in terms of loan submissions and July was one of our strongest months ever.”
“Ninety-two per cent of the loan submissions are for owner-occupiers who want to put down roots in Mackay, people who love this place and feel confident about its future.”
You won’t hear about that on the national news but it’s worth knowing.
Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant, bringing decades of experience in commercial print and marketing to the Mackay property industry.
Roy recently commenced his new role with the agency and is set to assist clients across the region with the sale of residential and commercial properties.
His background in print and marketing is expected to provide valuable insight for vendors looking to effectively present and promote their properties in a competitive market.
Blacks Real Estate said Roy’s extensive experience working with businesses and clients throughout his career would be an asset to the team and future clients alike.
Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients across the wider region.
(L-R) Previous Community Bank Sarina scholarship recipients and Sarina State High School students Wyatt, Makayli and Makylha attend a Community Bank Sarina hosted business networking event at Sarina Art Gallery. Photo supplied
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is calling on current Year 10 students at Sarina State High School (SSHS) to apply for the 2027 Senior Schooling Scholarships, an opportunity that has already supported many local students to pursue their career goals.
From future teachers to an aspiring nurse and tradesperson, previous recipients are utilising their scholarships to support their education, develop new skills and build connections within their community.
2026 scholarship recipients and current Grade 11 students Makayli Moyle and Makylha Bourke are both working towards careers in education.
Makayli said the scholarship has helped her stay focused on her studies and has reduced financial pressure.
“After finishing school, I plan to attend university and study a Bachelor of Education to become a primary school teacher. I hope to build a career where I can make a positive difference in children's lives by helping them learn, grow, and enjoy school,” Ms Moyle said.
Fellow recipient Makylha Bourke said the scholarship had supported both her studies and her connection with the wider community, as she works towards becoming a Physical Education Teacher. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) through the CQUniversity SUN (Start Uni Now) Program.
“This scholarship has helped me over the past year with financial assistance for my extra school curricula, as well as helping me get to know the wider Sarina community,” Ms Bourke said.
2025 recipient Wyatt McKewen has utilised his scholarship to obtain a drone licence, purchase tools for his trade and undertake Certificate II Engineering Pathways studies, while also securing multiple apprenticeship interviews and joining the Sarina Rural Skills Centre Committee.
Fellow 2025 scholarship recipient Katie Stevenson is preparing for a career in nursing, having attended the James Cook University Heroes in Health program, where students gain insight into what it’s like to work across multiple health care disciplines.
Applications are now open for two $2,000 scholarships, available for SSHS students entering Year 11 in 2027.
These scholarships are supported through the Community Bank Sarina Community Engagement Program under the youth and education pillar, helping improve youth connectedness, enhance educational opportunities and build community leadership skills.
Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the scholarships are an investment in the next generation of local leaders.
"We’ve partnered with SSHS since 2017 to support more than 20 students with scholarships, encouraging them to work towards their careers and to develop the confidence and skills that will support them beyond school."
Ms Franettovich said seeing past recipients thrive demonstrated the lasting impact of the scholarship program.
"We're proud of what our scholarship recipients are achieving and encourage Year 10 SSHS students to apply. You don't need to have the highest grades, we're looking for well rounded young people who are committed to their education and their community."
Applications for the 2027 Community Bank Sarina SSHS Senior Scholarships close on 31 August 2026. To request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.
Students at Cummins South Pacific (in Paget) as part of their heavy mechanical experience. Photo source: Mackay Engineering College
The wheels are already turning for a group of Sarina State High School students, who have been getting a taste of the engineering industry through the Try Trade program at Mackay Engineering College.
Students recently visited Cummins and Autocorner, where they gained valuable hands-on experience in the automotive and mechanical sectors.
A representative from Sarina State High School praised the students' enthusiasm, strong work ethic and willingness to learn, while thanking the teams at Cummins and Autocorner for supporting the valuable industry experience.
“Opportunities like these help students explore future career pathways and develop practical skills that will benefit them well beyond the classroom,” the school stated.
“A huge thank you to the teams at Cummins and Autocorner for supporting our students and providing such valuable industry experiences.
"We're proud of everything our students have achieved – keep up the great work!”
Sarina will celebrate a significant milestone later this month with a community event recognising more than 250 years of combined history, creativity and local connection.
Sarina Community Arts & Crafts will host a triple birthday celebration on Saturday 29th August, marking 30 years of Sarina Arts & Crafts, 100 years of the Mt Pelion State School Building, and more than 120 years of the Old Sarina Courthouse and Watch House.
The celebration will be held at Railway Square, Field of Dreams, Sarina, from 9am, with official ceremonies, cake cutting and formalities taking place from 10.30am.
The event will celebrate the people, places and stories that have helped shape Sarina, with the volunteer-run Sarina Community Arts & Crafts group continuing to provide a space for local makers to share their creations.
Community members are invited to attend, reflect on Sarina’s rich history and enjoy a day of connection, creativity and celebration.
What: Sarina’s 250-Year Triple Birthday Celebration
When: Saturday 29th August, from 9am
Where: Railway Square, Field of Dreams, Sarina
Image source: Shutterstock
The Queensland Government has taken the next step in its review of the State's Financial Provisioning Scheme, releasing the Terms of Reference that will guide an assessment of whether the framework is effectively supporting both environmental rehabilitation and future investment in the resources sector.
The review was announced in Mackay during the Queensland Mining & Engineering Expo on Wednesday, 22nd July, with the Government saying it aims to ensure Queensland remains competitive as global demand for critical minerals continues to grow.
The Financial Provisioning Scheme requires resource companies to provide financial security, pay annual contributions to a central fund, or both, to cover rehabilitation costs if mining operations are abandoned or environmental obligations are not met.
The review will examine whether the scheme strikes the right balance between managing financial risk while encouraging investment, particularly from smaller explorers, mid-tier companies and emerging operators.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the review was progressing in response to concerns raised by industry.
"The Financial Provisioning Scheme has been one of the top three issues raised with me by smaller explorers and operators. We listened to our miners, we committed to a review last month and we're getting on with delivering it," Mr Last said.
"The world is entering a new era of resources growth, and the Government recognises the need for Queensland to have the most appropriate policy settings to capitalise.
"Our vision is to build on Queensland's reputation as a global resources leader and this review will ensure we are promoting new investment while balancing environmental obligations.
"We will work closely with industry as the review progresses to make sure we deliver the right settings for future development."
The Terms of Reference outline a broad assessment of the scheme's performance, Queensland's competitiveness with other jurisdictions, the treatment of small and mid-tier operators, investment settings and risk classification rules.
Consultation on the review is expected to open in September, with stakeholders invited to provide feedback on potential improvements to the scheme.
QRIDA is offering disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000 to help eligible Mackay primary producers restore their businesses after the 2025–26 severe weather events. Photo source: Shutterstock
Primary producers across the Mackay region impacted by severe weather, flooding and tropical cyclone events between December 2025 and April 2026 can now access disaster recovery grants of up to $75,000 to help restore their operations.
The Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) is administering the Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants, designed to assist eligible primary producers with the costs of clean-up, repairs and reinstatement following the Queensland Monsoon Trough, Cyclone Koji, Cyclone Narelle and associated severe weather events.
Mackay Regional Council is among the local government areas declared eligible for the assistance whereby eligible producers can apply for an initial grant of up to $10,000 to begin immediate recovery work, with subsequent applications available up to a combined maximum of $65,000, bringing the total assistance available to $75,000.
The grants can be used for a wide range of recovery activities, including purchasing or hiring equipment for clean-up, repairing damaged buildings and fencing, replacing essential plant and machinery, restoring crops, purchasing fodder, replacing deceased livestock and covering additional labour costs associated with recovery efforts.
The funding is intended to help primary production enterprises recover from direct physical damage caused by the disaster events and resume normal operations as quickly as possible.
To be eligible, applicants must operate a primary production enterprise within an activated disaster area, hold a valid Australian Business Number (ABN), demonstrate direct damage from the eligible disaster event and intend to continue operating in the affected region.
QRIDA is encouraging producers who need assistance with the application process to contact its Disaster Support team, with personalised appointments and regional support available to help applicants prepare and lodge their claims.
Applications remain open until 6th January 2027. For more information, eligibility guidelines or to apply, visit the QRIDA website, www.qrida.qld.gov.au, or phone 1800 623 946.
Queensland's new Critical Minerals Strategy aims to grow the State's resources sector by accelerating investment, processing and manufacturing. Photo source: Australian Mining
The Queensland Government has unveiled a new strategy aimed at accelerating the State's critical minerals sector, with the plan expected to support jobs, attract investment and strengthen regional economies, including resource-rich areas such as Mackay.
Delivering Queensland's Critical Minerals Future 2026–30 outlines the Government's vision to position Queensland as a globally recognised supplier of critical minerals by expanding extraction, processing, refining and manufacturing capabilities.
The strategy follows a $146 million commitment in the State Budget to help unlock Queensland's critical mineral reserves and respond to increasing global demand for resources essential to renewable energy technologies, advanced manufacturing and modern infrastructure.
Queensland is home to significant reserves of critical minerals, along with an established mining sector, skilled workforce and processing expertise, placing the State in a strong position to capitalise on changing global supply chains.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the plan would help Queensland move beyond exporting raw materials by strengthening the entire critical minerals value chain.
"We've seen the impact that recent geopolitical uncertainty and export restrictions have had on global supply chains and the need for secure and reliable sources of strategic resources," Mr Last said.
"The Delivering Queensland's Critical Minerals Future 2026–30 sets out key actions to grow Queensland's value chain to expand processing, refining and manufacturing to build a global supply chain that is shielded from externalities that halt critical and strategic resources.
"The world is knocking on Queensland's door, and we are ready to capitalise on this generational opportunity that will deliver long-term jobs and economic opportunities to regional Queensland.
"We have the resources, industrial capability, energy and importantly, the will to deliver critical minerals to the world and get this done."
The strategy aims to encourage new investment while strengthening Queensland's role as a reliable supplier of the minerals needed to support global manufacturing and secure supply chains in the years ahead.
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Junior doctors swapped hospital wards for an underground mine during a unique Mackay training exercise, gaining firsthand experience in managing complex emergency situations while exploring the rewards and challenges of a career in regional medicine. Photos supplied
Hard hats replaced lecture halls when junior doctors headed underground as part of an immersive training exercise during the 2026 Junior Doctors Conference in Mackay.
Delivered through a collaboration between the Australian Medical Association Queensland (AMAQ) and James Cook University's Northern Queensland Regional Training Hubs (NQRTH), the workshop gave participants firsthand experience of the challenges and opportunities of regional medicine.
Held at the Resources Centre of Excellence on July 26, the sold-out program included three simulated emergency scenarios: a cardiac arrest, a crush injury and an underground fire.
Working alongside personnel from Anglo American and the Queensland Mines Rescue Service, participants built leadership, communication and rapid decision-making skills while gaining valuable insight into practising medicine in regional communities.
JCU NQRTH Regional Medical Training Manager Cherie Miller said, “Attracting and retaining Australian-trained doctors in regional communities is critical to the future of healthcare in Queensland.”
“This workshop gives junior doctors and medical students an authentic insight into the range of situations and clinical challenges they may encounter while practising in regional areas — not just in hospitals, but in complex, real-world industrial environments.
“What we’re offering here is something junior doctors simply don’t get in a city-based training pathway.
AMAQ President Erica Gannon said the program highlighted Mackay as a place where doctors can build rewarding and diverse careers.
“First-hand experience of high stakes disaster response is the kind of unique training we know will spark excitement and enthusiasm for our members,” the associate professor said.
Anglo American Grosvenor Mine rescue captain Boyd Buschmann, who competed in this year's International Mines Rescue Competition in Zambia, drew on more than 20 years of experience to develop the emergency scenarios, saying the workshop was a valuable opportunity to share practical knowledge gained through decades of emergency response and preparation.
“If these junior doctors choose a career in regional medicine, there’s a good chance they’ll one day be called upon to support situations where these skills can make a real difference,” he said.
“The scenarios we created were designed to be as realistic as possible because that’s how people learn. We wanted the junior doctors to experience the kinds of challenges they could face managing complex situations and working effectively with other emergency response teams.
“It’s important we share our learnings with the next generation so they enter the workforce better prepared for complex emergencies whether it’s on an industrial site, at a road crash or in the community.”
Following the mines rescue scenarios, junior doctors worked with Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) senior medical staff to further enhance their judgment in clinical environments.
Mackay HHS Chief Executive Sean Birgan said the doctors involved had first-hand experience in responding to major trauma events involving multiple casualties.
“Our senior medical staff can provide invaluable insight into the realities of responding to situations like these and they are keen to inspire future rural and regional specialists,” he said.
Mackay's much-loved M&P Services – Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day has once again sold out, with players, sponsors and supporters preparing to hit the fairways on August 14th in support of local charities. Photo source: M&P Services
One of Mackay's most anticipated charity events is almost here, with the 11th annual M&P Services – Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day set to return to the Mackay Golf Course on Friday 14th August.
Once again, the event has sold out, with players, sponsors and supporters coming together for a day of friendly competition, plenty of laughs and, most importantly, fundraising for local charities that continue to make a meaningful difference across the region.
Year after year, the event has grown in both size and impact, raising more than $75,000 in 2025 alone. Organisers are now hoping to make the 2026 event the biggest and most successful yet.
While the golf itself is always fiercely contested, the day has become known for much more than what happens on the fairways. Fantastic prizes, raffles, great company and a strong sense of community spirit have helped turn the annual event into a highlight on the local calendar.
There will also be plenty of eyes fixed on the course as players take their shot at the impressive $40,000 Penske Hole-in-One Prize, which is sure to add another layer of excitement to an already action-packed day.
Organisers have extended their gratitude to the businesses whose support has helped make the event possible.
Major sponsors for the 2026 charity day include Key Solutions Group, Southern Cross Industrial Group (SCIG), Penske Australia & New Zealand, Steelforce Mackay, Blacksmith Jacks, RIMEX Australia, GB Industries, Jaws Buckets & Attachments, Triple M, MM Electrical Mackay and QCCS Pty Ltd.
M&P Services thanked the companies for their ongoing generosity and commitment to the Mackay community, saying their support plays a vital role in ensuring local charities continue to receive much-needed assistance.
As anticipation builds, organisers will continue sharing sponsor spotlights, behind-the-scenes updates and a few glimpses of what participants can expect on the day.
Although places have once again been snapped up by long-time supporters and perpetual sponsors, those hoping to become involved in future events can join the waiting list by contacting marketing@mpservices.net.au.
With another sell-out event, strong community backing and thousands of dollars destined for worthy causes, the countdown is officially underway!
What: M&P Services – Key Solutions Group 11th Annual Charity Golf Day
When: Friday 14th August
Where: Mackay Golf Course
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