The Neighbourhood Hub, a leading community centre in Mackay, is proud to announce the launch of its new Early Connections Program, designed to support families in the Andergrove and Beaconsfield areas in accessing essential early childhood education, health, and developmental services.

The program, funded by the Queensland Government’s Department of Education, will provide increased pathways and connections for families experiencing vulnerabilities and disadvantage during the critical years leading up to school age. With a strong focus on early intervention, the Early Connections Program will help ease the transition from home life to early education, while also offering a wide range of parenting support, health checks, and developmental guidance.

Sophie Townson, Early Connections Program Coordinator, expressed her excitement about the new initiative, emphasising the program’s holistic approach to family support.

“I’m excited to offer this program and create a safe space where families can find the guidance and resources they need,” Sophie said.

“The Early Connections Program is about more than just providing information - it’s about building relationships and supporting families to overcome barriers.

“Whether it’s through connecting with education and health services, gaining support through playgroup, or helping to arrange health checks for their little ones, we want to ensure every child is supported during these pivotal years.”

The Early Connections Program aims to remove the common barriers many families face when accessing essential early childhood services. By strengthening links between families and local service providers, the program ensures families can access the support they need for positive and lasting outcomes in their child’s early development.

The Neighbourhood Hub is reaching out to organisations and community groups to help spread the word and refer families in the Andergrove and Beaconsfield areas who may benefit from the program and receive personalised support and resources tailored to their unique needs.

“We understand that families experiencing vulnerabilities often need extra help navigating the various services available,” Sophie added.

“Through our Early Connections Program, we aim to simplify that process, providing a central point of contact and ensuring that families are connected to the right resources as they embark on their journey of early childhood development.”

The Early Connections Program offers a range of services, including:

   • Access to early childhood education pathways: Connecting families with local early learning centres, kindergarten programs, and school readiness initiatives.
   • Health and developmental checks: Ensuring that children’s health, social, and emotional development is on track before they start school.
   • Parenting support services: Offering advice, weekly playgroups, and resources for parents to help them navigate the challenges of raising young children.
   • Referral services: Helping families access other community services, including mental health support, housing, and financial assistance.

To refer a family to the Early Connections Program, please contact Sophie Townson at The Neighbourhood Hub at sophiet@tnhub.org.au or phone (07) 4957 2626.

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The Neighbourhood Hub has launched the Early Connections Program in Andergrove and Beaconsfield to support families with access to early childhood education, health services, and parenting support, aiming to improve outcomes for children in their critical developmental years. Photo supplied

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This festive season, Inspirations Paint Cannonvale and Porters Mitre 10 Whitsunday are bringing Christmas cheer to the Whitsundays. Whether you’re sprucing up your space or adding the finishing touches to your dream project, Inspirations Paint has everything you need to create a home that inspires. From premium paint brands to expert advice, their team is ready to help make your vision a reality.
But that’s not all—Porters Mitre 10 is making spirits bright with Ham Mania, an unmissable Christmas giveaway! Shop at participating Porters Mitre 10 stores, including Mackay City, Mackay Trade Centre, Northern Beaches Trade Centre, Sarina, Marian, and Whitsunday to go in the draw to win a delicious ham every weekday between the 2nd and 20th December. It’s the perfect way to stock up on your holiday DIY and hardware needs while enjoying a little festive bonus.
So, whether you're looking to refresh your living room, build something new, or just get your hands on some Christmas cheer, these local stores have you covered. Visit Inspirations Paint Cannonvale and your nearest Porters Mitre 10 to make this season merry, bright, and oh-so-creative!
Remember, Christmas isn’t just a time for giving; it’s a time for creating—and Porters and Inspirations Paint are here to assist with all your DIY needs.

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Detectives have released CCTV footage as part of their ongoing investigation into the suspicious death of a 67-year-old Mackay man earlier last month.

John Patrick Hackett was discovered at his Gold Street unit in Mackay around 7:18 pm on Saturday, November 9, following a welfare check by family members.

A crime scene was declared, and police have launched a homicide investigation after receiving additional information including results from a post mortem examination indicating evidence of an assault.

As part of Operation Whiskey Glen, an Investigation Centre has been set up to examine the circumstances surrounding his death.

Police have released CCTV footage showing the John Patrick Hackett at a Goldsmith Street grocery store on November 5.

Investigators are appealing for information from anyone who may have witnessed an interaction or altercation involving John Patrick Hackett on the afternoon or evening of Tuesday, November 5.

They are also urging anyone who was in the vicinity of Gold Street, Mackay, between 5 pm and 7 pm on November 5 and may have seen him or has dashcam footage from the area to come forward.

Reference Number: QP2401927535

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Investigators have shared footage of John Patrick Hackett last captured at a Goldsmith Street grocery store on November 5. Photo credit: QPS Media

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Support for the region’s homeless, young indigenous entrepreneurs, local beach lifesavers,
dementia patients, and those living with disabilities will be boosted through North Queensland
Bulk Ports Corporation’s (NQBP’s) 2024-25 Community Fund.

Fourteen Community Fund recipients will share $100,000 in funding, with each initiative
expected to deliver strong benefits across NQBP’s port communities, in what is the most
diverse range of recipients in the Fund’s three-year history.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb congratulated the fourteen Community Fund
recipients.

“We had more than 50 strong applications in our third year of the Community Fund from a large
range of community groups across all of our port communities,” Mr Webb said.

“Our team worked carefully to evaluate each application, and I am proud to say each of our
successful applicants demonstrated an ability to make a real difference in their respective
communities.

“All the initiatives supported have a strong alignment with NQBP’s values of Care, Connection,
Courage and Curiosity.

“I am also pleased that this year, due to our increase in funding, we were able to support an
additional five community groups, up to fourteen from nine in the previous two years.

“I would like to thank all applicants for their interest in this year’s Community Fund, and we
encourage all community groups to consider applying for our next round,” he said.

Crossroads Arts CEO Autumn Skuthorpe was pleased to be a successful applicant.

“Our event, Loose Ends, celebrates the diversity of our community as part of International Day
for People with Disability celebrations,” Ms Skuthorpe said.

“The support from NQBP will ensure that Crossroad Arts can provide paid opportunities during
Loose Ends for artists with disability, and celebrate arts for all,” she said.

The NQBP Community Fund is open to non-profit groups and organisations, and registered
charities, and seeks to support events, programs and activities that align with NQBP’s vision to
be a leader in responsible port trade, where Queenslanders thrive for generations.

NQBP has proudly provided more than $1 million in community sponsorships and donations
over the last decade.

A full list of the 2024-25 Community Fund recipients is below:

Crossroad Arts Inc - An inclusive night-time activity in the Mackay CBD for young people with disabilities.
Community Accommodation & Support Agency - Food packs to assist rough sleepers during extended closures of major services, such as over Christmas.
   • Stella Maris Mackay - A Christmas shoe box and bag appeal to support seafarers at the ports of Mackay, Hay Point, and Abbot Point.
   • Whitsunday Community Services Inc - Equipment to expand The Pantry Program into a dedicated food bank, providing groceries through food rescue and donations.
   • Zonta Club of Mackay Inc - Hosting the 2025 International Women’s Day Lunch.
   • Bowen Community Centre - The Pram Pusher Group, creating a supportive space for mothers to connect through light exercise with their babies, and a Cooking Class project bringing older community members and new mums together to share budget-friendly recipes.
   • Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club - An intensive training camp in collaboration with clubs from the Wide Bay and Southeast regions.
   • Pacific-Australia Youth Association Inc. (PAYA) - A two-day Youth Entrepreneurship Regional Summit (YERS) held in Weipa.
   • Bowen Historical Society and Museum - Construction of a wheelchair-accessible ramp to improve access to the museum.
   • Weipa Running Festival 2025 - Hosting the Weipa Running Festival.
   • Bowen Old People's Home Society Ltd - Establishing a Dementia Café at Murroona Gardens in Bowen.
   • Bowen Flexi Care Inc. - The Digging to Dining project, an all-abilities garden initiative.
   • Port Denison Sailing Club - Replacing one of the motors on the club’s coaching and safety boat.
   • Whitsunday STEM Challenge Inc. - The Whitsunday Drone Challenge (WDC), a key event during the Festival of STEM.

NQBP is a Queensland Government-owned corporation responsible for the ports of Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point, and Weipa in far north Queensland.

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Crossroad Arts Inc will receive funding for an inclusive night-time activity in the Mackay CBD for young people with disability
Representatives from NQBP 2024-25 Community Fund recipients from Crossroad Arts, Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, Zonta Club of Mackay and Stella Maris Seafarers Centre at last night's stakeholder event. Photos supplied
Mackay Surf Lifesaving club will receive funding to assist with costs for an intensive training camp

Zonta Club of Mackay will receive funds to host its 2025 International Women’s Day lunch

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Tyler Wessling, an Electrical Engineer at Richglen, has had a sparking career, progressing from a university placement student to a full-time employee. His genuine passion for the trade testifies to how Richglen’s supportive work environment has enabled him to thrive, ultimately enhancing the quality of work delivered to clients.

Riley, Tyler’s younger brother, is following in Tyler’s footsteps, currently undertaking his 4th-year JCU placement with Richglen. Much like his brother, Riley is passionate about electrical engineering, and his experience is shaped by the same supportive work environment that allowed Tyler to thrive.

Tyler first joined Richglen in 2019 as part of a 24-week university placement program. After completing the placement, he was offered a full-time role by his electrical manager.

"The opportunity to continue working here after my placement was exciting," Tyler recalls.

"It felt like a natural fit, and I’m grateful for how welcoming the team has been."

Tyler’s interest in electrical engineering began during his physics studies, where he was drawn to the problem-solving and technical challenges.

"I’ve always loved the challenge and problem-solving aspects of electrical engineering.

“It felt like a natural choice compared to other subjects."

A typical day for Tyler involves collaborating with his team and clients to ensure projects run smoothly.

"We start the day by reviewing the work ahead, addressing safety concerns, and answering any questions from the crew.

“I also stay in close contact with our clients, providing reports to make sure we’re meeting deadlines and keeping our customers up-to-date."

One of the things Tyler and Riley value most about working at Richglen, is the strong sense of teamwork.

"The teamwork is really great here," Tyler said.

"I’ve been fortunate to work alongside engineers who have decades of experience.”

Looking ahead, Tyler and Riley are optimistic about their future and encourage others considering a placement with Richglen to apply, noting that the invaluable skills learned can open doors to multiple career pathways.

"I definitely see myself here long-term," Tyler said.

"Even if I eventually move on, the skills you gain here will be beneficial in the future, no matter what path you take."

Together, both brothers represent the growth and opportunities Richglen offers, continuing a legacy of success and dedication to the industry.

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Brothers Riley and Tyler Wessling

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Peabody announced an acquisition of world-class metallurgical coal assets from Anglo American plc last week, significantly strengthening Peabody’s position as a leading global supplier of steelmaking coal. The transaction, valued at USD 3.8 billion, is set to close in mid-2025, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
The acquisition includes four Tier 1 metallurgical coal mines in Queensland’s Bowen Basin—Moranbah North, Grosvenor, Aquila, and Capcoal—renowned for producing premium hard coking coal essential to steelmaking. The mines are projected to produce approximately 11.3 million tons in 2026, positioning Peabody to meet growing demand across key Asian markets.
Peabody President and CEO Jim Grech hailed the deal as a “rare opportunity to acquire premier assets at a compelling valuation” that aligns with the company’s strategic focus on seaborne metallurgical coal. He noted that the transaction would be “immediately accretive, highly synergistic, and transformative for Peabody’s future.”
The transaction is expected to bolster Peabody’s financial profile by generating significant cash flow and achieving substantial synergies of approximately $100 million annually through efficiency improvements. With an average mine life exceeding 20 years and substantial reserves, the acquisition elevates Peabody’s metallurgical coal output from 7.4 million tons in 2024 to over 21 million tons in 2026.
Anglo American Chief Executive Duncan Wanblad expressed confidence in Peabody’s stewardship of these assets, stating, “We are delighted to collaborate with Peabody to ensure a successful transition that benefits all stakeholders.”

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Productivity is set to return to Queensland worksites under proposed changes to Workplace Health and Safety laws, introduced in Parliament last week. The reforms aim to reinstate a 24-hour notice period for permit holders seeking right of entry, bringing Queensland in line with the Commonwealth Fair Work Act. Exceptions will apply only in cases of immediate or imminent risks to workers' health and safety.
This shift follows the suspension of Best Practice Industry Conditions and underscores the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to balancing productivity with worker safety. Announced last Thursday, November 28, the changes mark a significant step towards restoring efficiency and fairness on Queensland worksites.
Legislation introduced to the Parliament in the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games Arrangements and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024, will require Workplace Health and Safety permit holders to provide at least 24 hours’ notice to exercise their right of entry to a workplace.

Reintroducing the requirement to provide notice ensures management, and their safety specialists, are available on site when entry permit holders come on site to discuss any safety concerns.  

The amendments also provide consistency with the requirements of the Commonwealth Fair Work Act 2009, which requires permit holders give at least 24 hours’ notice before exercising an entry right.  

Deputy Premier and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie said all Queenslanders had the right to go to work, get paid well and to come home safely to their family. 

“These laws will stop the CFMEU using safety as an industrial weapon,” Mr Bleijie said. 

“The CFMEU’s cultural practice of bullying and intimidation that we see on Queensland worksites against workers, contractors, employers and the independent public servants who protect workers safety must end. 

“Reintroducing the requirement to provide at least 24 hours’ notice will provide a circuit breaker to recent tensions we’ve observed regarding entry and will provide employers with sufficient time to respond to WHS entry permit holders on issues that they may raise. 

“The LNP Government backs workers, their wages and their safety.” 

Recent changes introduced by the Electrical Safety and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2024 to permit health and safety representatives (HSR) and WHS entry permit holders (EPHs) to take photos, videos, measurements and conduct tests at the workplace when undertaking their roles will no longer proceed. 

This is following concerns raised by industry representatives about protecting the privacy of individuals in workplaces. 

Following these immediate law changes being introduced, the Queensland Government will also turn focus on the work health and safety framework to address gaps in the legislation around work-related violence and aggression.   

This will mean incidents of work-related violence and aggression, including physical and sexual assault, will come to the attention of the WHS Regulator, and that more serious events can be triaged for an inspectorate response.

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Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie at the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Office of Industrial Relations in Rockhampton

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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The Mackay Canegrowers Ltd AGM was held Wednesday 27 November with a good roll-up in a challenging year where many are still cutting their crop. It was great to see the 80 members and guests attend the event, to hear from myself, Deputy Chairman Joseph Borg and District Manager Michelle Martin on progress made in 2023-24 financial year and to the present.
We also heard from guest speaker Dr John Pickering on farming and resilience in tough times. John is a behavioural psychologist specialising in practice change, from Evidn. He is very familiar with the sugar industry, having worked with CANEGROWERS on Project CaneChanger almost a decade ago, when we were improving industry environmental sustainability and implementing Smartcane BMP. He was instrumental in achieving strong early growth of the program in the cane growing sector.
Thanks to all who attended to support the region’s strong grower representative organisation.

Ooralea Growers Jim and Sharon Pengelly with CANEGROWERS District Manager Michelle Martin
IMG_2752_Plane Creek grower Glen Brady with guest speaker Dr John Pickering
IMG_2755_Yalboroo grower Bruce Wallace and Mackay Sugar Agricultural Manager Damian Baxter
IMG_2758_Growers Peter Doyle and Paul Schembri
IMG_2768_ Growers De-Ann Grech, Jan Muscat, Therese Russell and Mary Wallace
IMG_2769_Canegrowers Mackay Director Phil Deguara, Marian Grower Anthony Deguara, with QSLs Brad Dunn
IMG_2778 Marwood Grower Tony Ross with Canegrowers Mackay Agricultural Economist John Eden
IMG_2781_CANEGROWERS Chairman Kevin Borg, Accounts Manager Elli Preston and Director Brett Leach

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This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
37,550
1,128,064
Average bin weight
3.69
3.89
CCS
13.74
14.13
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
38.7
14.42
Q253
8.3
12.52
Q240
9.1
12.71
SRA9
4.2
14.33
Q208
19.8
13.89
KQ228
2.4
12.82
Q232
3.0
13.84
Q138
5.1
12.75
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed 37,550 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season-to-date total to just over 1,128,000 tonnes.
Rain late in the previous week triggered a halt to harvesting and crushing operations.
Average CCS declined by 0.84 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 13.74 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 14.13 units.
Standover cane made up approximately 4.5 per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 fifth ratoon from the Main Line productivity area with a CCS of 16.80 units.
With the crushing season extending into the school holiday period, we ask parents and caregivers to talk to children about the dangers of playing on or around our cane rail network.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Inspired by the true story of a merino ram who was lost for five years in the bush near Canberra and set the record for the world’s heaviest fleece, A Woolly Tale is a delightful new fictional tale for children launched by the National Museum of Australia.

Written by author Jackie Hosking, A Woolly Tale follows the life and adventures of Chris, the world’s woolliest sheep, whose fleece is on display at the National Museum.

National Museum director Katherine McMahon said Chris the sheep is a beloved rural character who has enchanted visitors since his 41.1-kilogram fleece was acquired by the Museum in 2016.

“Chris became an international media story after his fleece was recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s ‘heaviest sheep fleece’, breaking records previously set in New Zealand by a whopping 12 kilograms.”

Author Jackie Hosking said she imagined what Chris the Sheep might have got up to during his “missing years”.

“Originally, I thought I might have him do something out of this world, like travelling to space but then opted for a more plausible story.

“I researched merino sheep and learned that they do not shed their wool and that they are foragers and eat a variety of plants, not just grass.

“These facts helped shape the story: one, that of course his fleece would keep growing and two, he’d be able to survive away from the sheep station.

“While I try to avoid writing stories that are didactic, I hope that children might see Chris as a courageous sheep, nervous at first but strong and determined in the end. And although he does run away in the beginning, he uses that time away to get to know himself until he feels brave enough to face his fears,” Ms Hosking said.

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A Woolly Tale, a new children’s book by Jackie Hosking, reimagines the story of Chris the Sheep, who became famous for having the world’s heaviest fleece. Photo supplied

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Up to $32.6 million over 4 years will be invested in the future of Australia’s sugarcane industry with research and development projects set to increase the productivity, profitability and sustainability of the Australian sugarcane industry.
Sugar Research Australia (SRA) and the Queensland Government’s Department of Primary Industries (DPI) are investing in a diverse portfolio of novel and strategic research activities. The new projects will target improved efficiency, competitiveness, sustainability and innovation for Australian sugarcane growers, milling companies, and regional communities.
Funding will be allocated as follows:
• $6 million to create transformational breeding technologies to develop high yielding and disease resistant varieties, and explore the potential for energy cane
• $12.1 million to overcome agronomic production constraints, optimise crop management, and improve the industry’s sustainability credentials to maintain market access for Australian sugar
• $6.8 million to develop sustainable management approaches for pests, weeds and pathogens and biosecurity preparedness
• $5.5 million to optimise operations for enhanced milling efficiency and develop opportunities to diversify revenue streams in the bioeconomy
• $2.2 million to increase adoption of available technologies that increase productivity, profitability and sustainability for sugarcane growers, millers, and regional communities.
SRA CEO Mick Bartlett said the rigorous multi-step approval process for applicants ensured that projects with the strongest potential to deliver real change and positive industry-wide outcomes were successful.
“The calibre of submissions was exemplary and represents the strong scientific standing we have in the sugar industry, particularly within SRA,” Mr Bartlett said.
“Each of these projects has the potential to deliver positive change, and whole-of-industry research outcomes capable of being adopted on farm and within the milling sector.”

SRA’s new CEO Mick Bartlett

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Beachgoers have come out in strong support for Professional Lifeguards, signing a petition in mass numbers to advocate for an increase in their wages.

Despite broadcasting record revenue, Surf Lifesaving Queensland is refusing to give Lifeguards a pay rise that keeps up with the cost of living.

In response to the stalemate at the bargaining table, the Australian Workers’ Union have taken to the beaches to rally public support for their cause.

AWU State Secretary Stacey Schinnerl said, “The community deserve to be made aware that the people that work so hard to protect us are not being treated with respect by SLSQ.

“We have been out at Queensland beaches talking to the public and putting up signs to give the public a chance to show their support.

“The campaign has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response.

“Many beachgoers were shocked at SLSQ’s disregard for the people who protect our community every day,” Ms Schinnerl said.

“The public is rightfully wary that there will not be enough Professional Lifeguards to keep the beaches open if the wages do not improve.”

Professional Lifeguards do the vast majority of QLD beach patrolling. There are not enough volunteers to protect the many beaches and lagoons.

Lifeguards’ ability to do the job they love is under threat. It is becoming increasingly unsustainable for Lifeguards to justify staying in the profession that they love with the lagging wages.

“Our beaches cannot stay open without them.”

The previous EBA offer was decisively voted down by the workforce.

“Lifeguards have put up with a string of unsatisfactory wage rises and now it’s time to draw a line in the sand and say enough is enough,” Ms Schinnerl said.

“We call on SLSQ to put a fair deal on the table that reflects the value that Professional Lifeguards bring to the community and keeps our beaches open.”

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It’s not every day a rock becomes a world traveller, but one Mackay stone has made an extraordinary journey—crossing continents to rest in the breathtaking glacial landscapes of Argentine Patagonia.
In 2023, Miriam Lizarraga, originally from Argentina, visited Mackay’s Artspace Museum and came across a community art project featuring a spiral of painted stones. The project, organised by local artist Ros Campbell, invited residents to decorate rocks to form a colourful snake sculpture. After the display, participants were encouraged to take the stones to spread the spirit of Mackay wherever they went.
For Miriam, this idea sparked a connection. As she admired the painted stones, one particular rock found its way into her hands and, ultimately, into her suitcase. Back in Argentina, she placed the rock in a stunning Patagonian setting, capturing the moment with photos to highlight the rugged beauty of her homeland.
Miriam shared her story: “I lived in beautiful Mackay and visited the art museum. The painted snake was so special, and I brought a stone back to leave it in a beautiful place in Patagonia. I hope you see these photos and feel inspired to visit my beautiful country!”
Her story has struck a chord back in Mackay. Elizabeth Springall, reflecting on the project, said: “The snake was such a wonderful community effort. It’s amazing to think one of those stones is now in Patagonia—a little piece of Mackay travelling the world!”
From the tropics of Mackay to the icy peaks of Patagonia, this humble rock now serves as a small but powerful symbol of connection, creativity, and global adventure.
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Photo credit: Miriam Lizarraga

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An Australian summer Christmas promises joy, sunshine, and backyard cricket—but it can also come with a side of stress. Here’s how to manage the madness with a splash of creativity and a sprinkle of festive fun.
1. Swap the stress for a beach day. Who says Christmas has to be formal? Pack a picnic, bring the cricket set, and celebrate with sand between your toes. Let the kids build sandcastles while you enjoy a much-needed breather by the waves.
2. Embrace the Aussie ‘bring a plate’ tradition. Ask everyone to bring their signature dish (yes, even if it’s store-bought). Sharing the load reduces stress and adds variety to the feast. Plus, Uncle Bob’s legendary prawn cocktail always steals the show.
3. Declutter your commitments. You don’t need to attend every event or have the house looking like a Pinterest board. Prioritise what truly matters—quality time with loved ones—and say no to anything that feels like too much.
4. Stay cool—literally. When tempers rise with the heat, have some fun with water fights, homemade icy poles, or a paddling pool for the kids (and maybe for yourself).
5. Look out for each other. The holidays aren’t always easy. Check in with friends and family—sometimes a quiet chat can mean everything. Visit the Grapevine Group website for tips on recognising the signs someone may need support, or call Lifeline on 13 11 14 if you’re worried.
Christmas isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection. Whether the pav collapses or the mozzies crash the BBQ, let laughter take the lead. Keep it simple, keep it sunny, and remember: the best gifts are your time and care.

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Can you believe that in just a few short days, it will be Christmas time! It just felt like yesterday that we were opening Easter eggs and riding all the roller coasters at the show.

How this year has flown by. It’s December and we are about to get a visit from the jolly man dressed in red. I hope you’re ready, because I am.

The shops are full, carparks are jam-packed with shoppers, and our radio is sprinkling in some all-time Christmas favourites to get you in the mood. Yes, Mariah and Michael B have come out of the wilderness to get us in the mood, and I reckon there will be some interesting festive favourites to get us smiling and thinking of all things tinsel and snow in the tropics.

I certainly am loving all the decorations around the region. From the Christmas trees at Habana, to the giant blow-up Santa in West Mackay with our mate Wilbur standing next to it in his Xmas swimming trunks! This time of the year is just magical. Next week we are hitting the road again for the annual Christmas Bus Lights Convoy and we’re heading to the Pioneer Valley, Sarina and Mackay. If you want tickets, get on the 4MK website and tell us where the light displays are, and you’ll be in the draw to grab seats on the buses.

Also, tomorrow night is an absolute highlight of the festive season, with the annual 4MK Carols in the Gardens at the Meadowlands Amphitheatre. We are kicking off all the fun from 5:30pm, so we’d love you to bring the family down to sing your hearts out, meet Santa, say gudday to the Grich in his lair, and treat yourself to some delicious food and fun entertainment just for kids in their zone. So much is happening and we can’t wait to bring it to you with the Mackay Big Band and a cast of thousands on the big stage.

Fast forward to next Saturday, we will be doing the big prize draws for the 4MK Santa’s Storage Shed, where nearly $20,000 worth of prizes will be handed out. There are 17 prizes, which means there will be 17 different winners to get excited. If you haven’t entered yet, there’s still time. We aren’t closing entries until tomorrow afternoon, so get shopping. Full list of locations at the 4MK website.

One more thing, and it’s a big one. If you haven’t yet heard, next Friday the 13th, I’ll be finishing up my time on the 4MK breakfast show after over 18 years with this fantastic company. I’ve been given another exciting opportunity right here in Mackay, so Friday next week will be my final show.

While it’s not goodbye, this is my final chat in this wonderful local paper. Thank you to the wonderful Amanda, and all the team to allow me to have a chat with you each fortnight. Have a wonderful Christmas and an even better New Year. I’ll see you up the road sometime soon, and remember, have fun!

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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