Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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The competition that combines artistic fun with serious safety messages is now open to all Queensland primary school children from Prep to Year 6.
Twelve different pieces of artwork from Queensland primary students will be chosen to feature in the calendar, with a different safety theme for each month.
Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie said the competition is about creative young minds promoting the importance of farm safety.
“Raising awareness among primary school students and their communities about common safety hazards on farms and in rural settings is an ongoing campaign.
“Tragically, serious injuries and fatalities occur on farms and rural settings each year, the calendar serves as a creative and visual reminder covering overhead powerlines, being safe with electrical equipment, animal safety and the importance of washing hands after contact with animals.
"In the last year alone 26 Queenslanders lost their lives simply going to work. These aren’t just numbers—they’re 26 families left without a chance to say goodbye. The rural sector alone accounted for 10 of those lives.
“Our government backs our agricultural sector to continue to grow the economic output and that also means supporting safe and productive farming workplaces as well.
“We know many rural communities and schools have the calendar prominently displayed in the home throughout the year, educating Queenslanders of all ages to work and play safely on farm properties."
Member for Condamine Pat Weir said that the focus on rural safety around farms should never be forgotten.
“As someone who has been injured themselves from a farm accident, I know all too well the importance of the issue to local farming families,” Mr Weir said.
“It’s great that the focus is also about educating our next generation of farmers as well throughout primary schools in Queensland.”
Central Queensland’s Gogango State School’s teacher, Ms Wendy Thornton said the farm safety competition is a fantastic addition to our unit of work about farms.
“The students enjoy the challenge of illustrating farm safety aspects which are extremely important for each student to remember as they go about their daily lives in rural settings,” Ms Thornton said.
More than 40,000 copies of the calendar will be printed for statewide distribution. The competition is open until 27 June. The 12 winning entrants receive a $250 gift card and $500 for their school.
For information on how to enter and to download resources, go to WorkSafe.qld.gov.au.
By Owen Menkens, CANEGROWERS Chairman
It’s been a big week in cane country. Harvesters are up and running in the Tableland and Bundaberg districts, marking the start of the 2025 crush.
For growers, there’s nothing quite like seeing the first cane bins filling up – it signals a new season, a fresh start, and hope for better days after a challenging run last year.
Across the rest of Queensland, farms are almost ready. Growers are fine-tuning gear, checking fields, and waiting for their local mills to fire up.
No matter where you are, there’s a shared sense of anticipation and relief to be getting on with it.
Last season was one of the most difficult in recent memory. Wild weather, breakdowns, and industrial action delayed the harvest so long that some districts were still cutting in January.
By the time it was over, about a million tonnes of cane had been left in the paddock – not for lack of effort, but because the system simply didn’t hold up.
But cane farmers are a resilient bunch. We’ve done what we always do – rolled up our sleeves and got back to work. We've replanted, repaired and prepared. And now we’re ready to go again.
The forecast for this year is about 28.5 million tonnes of cane across 13 growing regions.
That’s a little lower than last year, mostly due to the recent widespread flooding across North Queensland – especially around the Herbert River district – which destroyed large areas of cane.
Even so, the mood among growers is cautiously optimistic. We’ve done our bit. Now we’re relying on the mills, the weather, and the supply chain to help turn that hard work into returns.
That won’t be easy. Labour shortages are still hitting hard. Skilled workers – from harvester drivers and haulout operators to mill staff – are in short supply.
And it’s not just sugarcane – agriculture right across the board is feeling the pinch.
That’s why CANEGROWERS is working with our local offices and the Queensland Farmers’ Federation to help address the shortage. Because no matter how good the crop looks, it doesn’t mean much if we don’t have the people to move it.
Last week also gave us the chance to keep up our pressure on the government in another critical area – disaster support.
Queensland’s Minister for Primary Industries, Tony Perrett, visited Ingham for the Link2Country Expo and a Community Cabinet meeting. While there, he met with growers still dealing with the impacts of the summer floods.
We made our position clear – disaster support needs to reflect the way farming works in 2025.
Right now, some growers are being ruled out of disaster funding because they earn part of their income from agricultural support services – things like planting or harvesting for other farms. But that’s still farming. And it’s often what helps keep smaller operations afloat.
After the floods, this issue hit home hard. Some farmers were denied help simply because their income didn’t fit the current rules.
That’s why CANEGROWERS, alongside the QFF, is fighting to modernise the rules under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. The system needs to catch up with the reality on the ground and make sure no grower is left behind when disaster strikes.
We’re grateful the Minister took the time to visit and listen. But now we need more than goodwill – we need action.
As crushing ramps up across the state, we’re keeping our eyes on more than just the crop.
We’re focused on securing the long-term future of this industry – one where growers are backed by fair systems, strong support, and a shared belief in the value of what they do.
Here’s to a smoother season ahead and a fairer go for every grower who puts in the hard yards.
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As we mark National Men’s Health Week, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank reflects with pride on the many years of support provided to the Sarina and District Community Men’s Shed.
In 2014, Community Bank Sarina provided a community grant to lay the foundations – quite literally – for the Sarina Men’s Shed location that is now the organisation's home. Close to $100,000 in funding supported essential infrastructure that enabled construction to begin and by 2015 it was operational.
Sarina Men’s Shed Chair Jon Eaton said that without the support from Community Bank Sarina the Men's Shed would not have been able to achieve their ambitions as a group.
“We are so thankful and will be forever grateful to Community Bank Sarina,” Mr Eaton said.
Since then, the shed has evolved into much more than a building. It’s a safe and inclusive space where men can share stories, build skills and support each other through life’s challenges. From health conversations to hands-on projects, the shed fosters belonging, reduces isolation and strengthens men’s wellbeing.
The shed plays an active role in the wider community, with members regularly contributing their time and skills to create furniture for local schools, build items for hospitals, kindergartens and support community events with custom projects and repairs.
Community Bank Sarina believes in funding initiatives that have a long-lasting impact and The Sarina Men’s Shed is a perfect example of this. It’s a testament to what’s possible when local people invest in local ideas, with real support and shared purpose.
As a profit for purpose organisation, Community Bank Sarina is proud to have stood alongside the Men’s Shed to continue supporting programs that prioritise connection, resilience and men’s health in our region.
Sarina Men’s Shed members enjoy a monthly BBQ and have an upcoming open day – stay tuned to their Facebook page for more details at https://www.facebook.com/SarinaMensShedQld.
Two Sarina Men’s Shed members working together on a community project. Photo supplied
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One thing I’ve come to really value in my role as Councillor is how often a simple conversation can make a difference. Whether it’s chatting to someone at my market stall, a message on Instagram or sitting down for a coffee with a local community group, these everyday moments are where the real work of a Councillor happens!
People sometimes imagine that Councillors spend most of their time in council chambers, debating complex policies or poring over budgets. While meetings and reports are 100 per cent part of the role, in my opinion the heart of local government is much closer to home. It’s about listening to you, the people who live in this community and understanding your concerns and making sure your voices are heard.
That is the role. Councillors are here to represent you. To listen, ask questions and make sure your voice gets into the room where decisions are made.
I’ve learned over time that local government works best when it’s truly a two-way street. When we work together, we can make real progress – not just on the big projects, but the everyday things that improve quality of life in our community.
I want to encourage everyone to get involved in their local community in whatever way feels right. Maybe it’s volunteering for your kid’s sports team, joining a local group, lending a hand at a fundraiser, or just showing up to a community event. It all makes a difference.
Local democracy isn’t about voting every four years – it is ongoing communication and connection. When we work together, we can tackle the issues that matter most and build a region we’re all proud to call home.
I am not just working for this community, I am living and raising my family in it too.
I work for you. Whether that is fixing something that’s broken, backing great local ideas or pushing for better community orientated outcomes, my role is to stand up for the people who live and work here every day.
By Cr Ash-Lee Johnson
📞 0432 673 012
📧 cr.ash-lee.johnson@mackay.qld.gov.au
📷 @cr.ash_lee.johnson
In a significant step towards supporting vulnerable Queenslanders, the Queensland Government has officially opened a purpose-built Vulnerable Persons Hub in Mackay — a place designed to offer compassion, connection, and coordinated care for those in crisis.
By bringing together key specialist units under one roof, the Hub will deliver a unified, trauma-informed response that places safety, dignity, and recovery at the forefront.
Inside the thoughtfully designed facility are two dedicated safe rooms, including a child-friendly space, built to offer a calm and secure environment for police interviews and support service interactions.
Police will work closely with external agencies and non-government organisations based at the facility on a rotating basis, to strengthen collaboration and extend wraparound care to those in need.
**Key teams based at the Hub include:
Mackay Domestic, Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit
DFV High Risk Team
District Crime Prevention Coordinator
Crime Assessment and Management
Victim Engagement Team
Liquor Enforcement and Proactive Strategies
Volunteers in Policing
Police Liaison Officers
The LNP has criticised the former Labor Government’s record on domestic and family violence, claiming that incidents rose by 218% over the past decade, with Queensland Police responding to a DFV incident every three minutes.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie said the Queensland Government was taking critical action to better support victims and address unacceptable rates of domestic violence.
“The Vulnerable Persons Hub is more than a building; it’s a commitment to early intervention, to community safety, and to providing the most vulnerable Queenslanders with the support and dignity they deserve,” Minister Purdie said.
“Today marks a major milestone in our commitment to victim-centric policing and early intervention, setting a new benchmark for how police and support services work together to protect victim-survivors.
“I would like to thank all the frontline police and support staff who have contributed to this important initiative.
“The Mackay Vulnerable Persons Hub is a significant step forward for policing in Queensland, and a proud milestone for the Mackay community.”
The facility is not open to the public for walk-ins and operates strictly by appointment to maintain the confidentiality, safety, and dignity of victim-survivors.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie was in Mackay to officially open the new Vulnerable Persons Hub — a purpose-built facility designed to provide a safe, trauma-informed response for Queenslanders in crisis
The Hub brings key police units together under one roof to offer a unified approach to victim support, ensuring the safety, dignity and recovery of the state’s most vulnerable are always front and centre. Photos supplied
The Greater Whitsunday region is once again taking bold steps toward a low-carbon future with the return of its highly anticipated event, "Decarbonisation Accelerated: Continuing the Conversation".
Following the success of last year's sold-out Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit, this year's event will deepen the discussion around practical decarbonisation strategies and amplify regional voices in the national conversation. Attendees will engage in dynamic discussions on:
Strategic Flexibility in a rapidly changing business environment.
ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) as a driver of responsible growth.
Diversification of the METS sector to unlock new opportunities.
Technology Transformation and carbon-reducing innovations.
From Strategy to Action: Implementing sustainability for long-term success.
Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said this event is more than just conversation—it's about collaboration and action.
"We're bringing together some of the brightest minds in sustainability and innovation to help local businesses stay competitive and future ready," said Ms. Porter. She added, "We know that the environment and narrative around carbon emissions and technologies is changing, and this event is about cutting through the talk and identifying what's real for 2025 and beyond".
Featured Speakers Include:
Neil Glentworth – Strategic Thought Leader and Data Driver
Dr Michael Simioni – APAC Regional Decarbonisation Leader, GHD
Katrina Dent – CEO, Reef Catchments
Dr Vanessa Rauland – National Climate Director, ICN
Paul Hodgson – Executive Director Regional Futures – Energy Transitions, CQUniversity
Mick Liubinskas – Climate Tech Advisor, Climate Salad
Kevin Kane – Managing Director, Broadstrokes
Ms. Porter noted that as industries embrace sustainable practices, events like this are vital to ensuring regional voices are not only heard but are leading innovation from the ground up.
"The core focus of this year's event will be how to take strategy to action and the sustainable steps in between," said Mr Steven Boxall, Chief Executive Officer of Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE).
Mr. Boxall further stated that the regional focus on METS sector diversification, future industries, and ESG implementation underscores the importance of collective, strategic action in building regional resilience.
"It's a unique opportunity to hear from the people who are actually out there doing the work—solving problems, driving investment, and building a low-carbon economy from the regions outward," he said. He also highlighted that "in addition to the speaker sessions, the event will also highlight local projects and innovation case studies, showcasing how the Greater Whitsunday region is putting theory into action".
Participants can expect robust discussions, practical takeaways, and networking opportunities with leaders from business, government, academia, and the community in attendance. The event will also introduce the newly appointed Greater Whitsunday ESG Service Providers, offering attendees direct access to expert support and guidance.
Ms. Porter emphasised, "This is a must-attend event for businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve, remain competitive in evolving supply chains, and contribute to a sustainable future for the Greater Whitsunday region".
Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Location: Resources Centre of Excellence, 65 Crichtons Road, Paget, Mackay
Time: 8:00 am - 1:30 pm
Register now to be part of the conversation and help shape the region's decarbonisation journey.
Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/continuing-the-conversation
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank celebrated 20 years of community impact in our region with a special celebration on Saturday, 7 June – acknowledging the many people who’ve been a part of this momentous journey. Directors, former directors, staff, shareholders and community leaders gathered to reflect on the milestones achieved and Community Bank Sarina’s proud record of reinvesting over $4.2 million into local organisations and initiatives since opening in 2005.
The night also featured a lucky door prize of a personal prize back and the chance to nominate two not-for-profits for a $1000 donation each. The prize was won by scholarship recipient Jordan Ruddell, who selected the Sarina Army Cadets and the Sarina Men’s Shed.
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank directors (L–R) Nicholas McDougall, Ann Fordyce, Karen May, Maree Franettovich and Rainee Shepperson gathered to celebrate 20 years of local reinvestment and community connection at a special anniversary event on Saturday. Photo credit: Joshua Nay, Rebel Nation
See the photos here:
Mackay Regional Council has reassured the Sarina community that its museum items will be returned to the township once a project documenting the items of significance is completed.
Mayor Greg Williamson said that complex process was expected to be completed in about six months and the collection would then be returned to Sarina.
“The museum rationalisation project is, for want of a better term, a ‘stocktake’ of our museums collections,” Mayor Greg Williamson said.
“This has been a mammoth task, which began with Pioneer Valley Museum before moving onto Mackay Museum and now Sarina," he said.
“Lessons learnt from the work at Pioneer Valley and Mackay showed the process can be done quicker and easier if the collection is moved off-site, which is what we have done with Sarina.
“There has been community angst in Sarina, and we acknowledge that we may not have communicated sufficiently with residents about this project.
“That has contributed to fears that the museum collection was being taken to Mackay permanently.”
Mayor Williamson said that was not the case and council had been making that clear in meetings with stakeholders.
The latest meeting was with the Sarina Progress Association in Sarina earlier in June, attended by the Mayor and councillors and senior council staff.
“An important part of this process is that, as well as identifying significant items of interest in the collection, it will also highlight what the gaps are, and we’ll be able to put the call out to the community to try to fill those gaps," he said.
Although the museum collection will be returned to Sarina, it may not be put back into the old Sarina Museum building in the Field of Dreams, as it is not currently fit-for-purpose for protection and conservation of a museum collection.
Mayor Williamson said council was also undertaking in parallel a process to look at the entire Sarina Field of Dreams precinct and how it could be reinvigorated.
“We’re not saying the museum collection will definitely not return to that old building, but we want to look at all options to ensure optimum use of that precinct.
“We are committed to working with the community every step of the way on future improvements to Sarina Field of Dreams.”
Mayor Williamson said council was also continuing work on options for an interim regional museum.
Staff are currently working on the museum rationalisation project, with a focus on the Sarina collection. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council
Seagrass is thriving off the Isaac region’s coastline according to the latest monitoring data collected by the Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership.
Researchers have been able to track seagrass condition off Clairview’s coastline for the past seven years, thanks to continued investment from Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd (DBCT P/L, also known locally as Daly Bay) and Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure (DBI).
Principal Research Scientist at James Cook University’s Centre for Tropical Water and Ecosystems Research (TropWATER), Professor Michael Rasheed has led the collection of seagrass data since monitoring began in 2017.
Using a low-flying helicopter, Professor Rasheed and his team survey at least 145 intertidal sites across three meadows – two along the shoreline, and one at Flock Pigeon Island.
“After seven years of the annual monitoring program, seagrasses in the Southern Inshore Zone are in some of the best condition to date, indicating a healthy marine environment, with water quality and environmental conditions favourable for seagrass growth,” Professor Rasheed said.
“In the latest data, we are seeing some really positive signs with the two mainland meadows recording their highest ever results for area and biomass indicators.
“The southern mainland meadow in particular has shown a continuous expansion in spatial area year-on-year since 2017, which is great to see.”
DBCT P/L Manager of Safety, Risk and Environment Ricci Churchill has experienced the seagrass field work first-hand.
“I was so grateful to join the JCU TropWater scientists as they completed their seagrass surveys a few years ago, and to experience it knowing that the research is possible thanks to funding from DBCT P/L and DBI,” Ms Churchill said.
“At DBCT P/L, we are very proud of our investment into the Southern Inshore Monitoring Program, because prior to 2017 there was no data available for seagrass, coral or water quality in this reporting region.
“Now, after almost a decade of monitoring, we have a strong dataset that continues to grow, and the ability to provide meaningful information to the community about the health of the local marine environment.”
Most recently, DBCT P/L and DBI committed $415,000 to fund the Southern Inshore Monitoring Program for an additional three years, ensuring the collection of data on coral, seagrass and water quality through to June 2026.
DBI Site Manager Tim Ffrost said supporting the monitoring program was a natural fit for DBI.
“Our operator, Daly Bay first introduced the Southern Inshore Monitoring Program to us in 2019, and straight away we saw it was a natural fit, and we were really excited to be involved,” Mr Ffrost said.
“The marine environment is critically important and being able to contribute to ongoing monitoring and data collection of this ecosystem ties back to one of our key objectives of understanding and protecting the condition of our local environment.
“We also see a lot of value in local partnerships because by collaborating and pooling resources like we’ve done with this program, you can achieve greater outcomes for both the environment and the community.”
The latest seagrass grades will be published in the Healthy Rivers to Reef Waterway Health Report Card, due for release in July 2025.
For more information on the Southern Inshore Monitoring program, visit www.healthyriverstoreef.org.au.
DBCT P/L Manager of Safety, Risk and Environment Ricci Churchill and DBI Site Manager Tim Ffrost look at the latest Southern Inshore results. Photos supplied
JCU TropWATER team Chris Van de Wetering and Professor Michael Rasheed undertaking seagrass field surveys at Clairview
Cinzia Cattaneo, Jaime Newborn (Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership), Professor Michael Rasheed (JCU TropWATER), Ricci Churchill (DBCT P/L), Tim Ffrost (DBI) and Chris Van de Wetering (JCU TropWATER)
JCU TropWATER’s Chris Van de Wetering records seagrass data while up in the helicopter
A helicopter is used to survey the large areas of seagrass off the coast of Clairview
An aerial view of the Southern Inshore Marine zone at high tide
With cowboy boots dusted off and the sweet scent of fresh-cut grass in the air, Country Fest Queensland is set to roll back into Bloomsbury from June 27–28, promising two days of music, mateship and good old-fashioned country hospitality under the stars.
The paddocks are primed, the line-up’s locked in, and the buzz is building – from long-time fans to curious first-timers, there’s plenty to be excited about.
Among them is Mackay local Bianca O’Connor, who scored VIP tickets online.
“We’re big fans of James Johnston,” said Bianca.
“They’re bringing country music to the northern region of Queensland and I think it’s great to support local and international artists… they’ve really given us an opportunity to see live music again.”
For headline act James Johnston, the event strikes a chord on a personal level.
“Country Fest Queensland is everything I love about country music,” he said.
“It’s out underneath the stars, there’s plenty of beer… there’s bucking bulls and great country music.”
Fresh off the back of chart-topping tracks like Raised Like That, Johnston’s grounded, storytelling style continues to resonate.
“My songs are stories from my upbringing or the life I’m living now,” he said.
“I just bought a little farm with my family, and I’ve got a bunch of new songs coming out about those stories.”
Now living in the Sunshine State, Johnston says returning to the Mackay region always feels special.
“Country music is born in regions like Mackay… I feel like I’m just part of the crowd.
“For so many years, I used to be out there watching events like this… now the fact that I get to be on that stage singing my songs, it always makes it really special.”
Behind the scenes, excitement is also running high.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said council is proud to support the event for a third year.
“This isn’t just a music festival – it’s a celebration of the region and a boost for our local economy,” he said.
“We’re expecting more than 4,000 people, and with weather like this, you never know… they might just stay for a while!”
Festival Director Regan Anderson said the program encourages campers to arrive early and soak up the atmosphere.
“It’s got a real honky tonk feel to it,” he said.
“We’ve got people coming from across the country – and even New Zealand. The line-up’s phenomenal, and the PBR bull riding will be absolutely world-class.”
From Max McNown to Randy Houser, the stage is stacked and the vibes are strong.
“It’s gonna be a hell of a night,” Johnston said.
“I’m just excited to see everyone out there.”
Tickets are selling fast…so dust off your boots, round up your crew, and get set for a weekend of live music, open skies and pure country magic!
Get your tickets now at www.countryfest.com.au
Country Fest Queensland returns to Bloomsbury on June 27–28, promising two days of unforgettable country music, mateship, and down-to-earth hospitality, featuring headline act James Johnston and a lineup sure to bring the region alive under open skies. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
By Hannah McNamara
What began as a fascination with the police force while watching the popular TV show Cops in the ’90s has transformed into a legacy spanning nearly three decades: one marked by blood, sweat, and a quiet commitment to uncovering some of the region’s most confronting crimes.
Retired Detective Sergeant Paul Arnold officially signed off last Wednesday during an emotional “piping out” ceremony held at Mackay Police Station, where officers past and present gathered to honour his service and bid farewell.
When asked how he got involved in the police force, he humorously said “It’s a bit cliché, but it was all because of a TV show called Cops.
“I applied for the job in my local area and to my surprise, I was successful,” said Mr Arnold.
Known for his steady leadership, mentorship, and unshakeable ties to the Mackay community, Mr Arnold’s retirement at age 60 brings to a close a distinguished chapter in Queensland policing.
Many officers across the region count Mr Arnold as a pivotal figure in their careers.
District Officer Superintendent for Mackay and the Whitsundays, Dean Cavanagh, reflected on his early years under Arnold’s guidance.
“I was a young detective under Paul – I learned a lot from him,” he said.
“It’s sad to see someone with so much experience leave, but it’s exciting to see him start a well and truly well-deserved retirement.”
“It’s fantastic to see him reach that milestone…especially in investigative roles, which are very demanding.”
For Mr Arnold, the day brought mixed emotions. Grateful for the recognition, he was deeply moved as he reflected on the people, moments, and memories that had shaped his career.
“I wonder where the years have all gone,” he pauses.
“I’ve had a wonderful time in the police service,” he said.
“I’ve done things that other people won’t do. I’ve seen things that a lot of people don’t want to see, or never get the opportunity to see…But what I have had is the privilege of working with some incredible people along the way.”
Mentorship, he said, was one of the most fulfilling aspects of the job.
“To have had the opportunity to teach and mentor people and watch them progress in the organisation…it’s a great privilege.”
One case that left a lasting mark on him was the death of Jason Garrels in 2012 – a tragedy that brought the community together in pursuit of justice.
“There’s probably one job that stands out, and that is the death of Jason Garrels,” Mr Arnold said, as tears filled his eyes.
“The courage of that family, and Michael Garrels in particular, was… it was just an incredible job to be involved in.
“To watch groups of people come together to get the result… was very touching, and it’s a case I’ll never forget.”
Among the heavy cases were lighter moments too, like the time he solved a robbery involving a not-so-clever disguise.
“I had an armed robber who had used a sock to mask his face – with eyeholes cut out,” he laughed.
“He vehemently denied committing the offence, but when he took his shoes off in the interview room… he had one sock on.”
“That ultimately led to searching his room and finding the other sock – with the eyeholes cut out... And from that, it led to a successful arrest and conviction.”
After officially graduating from the Oxley Police Academy in 1996, Mr Arnold served in South Brisbane before taking up a permanent position at West End Station. He transferred to Mackay CIB in 2000 and spent the next 25 years dedicated to the Mackay CIB and CPIU teams.
While his journey began with Cops on TV, it unfolded into something far more profound.
“It’s been way better than Cops,” he smiled.
With retirement now officially underway, Mr Arnold is planning to spend quality time with his wife, three children, and his first grandchild – Albie Paul, who proudly carries his grandfather’s name.
“I’ve got a new grandson I’d love to spend some time with, and my family... and we’ll do some travel.”
And while their travels may take them far, Mr Arnold says Mackay will always be home.
“Where we end up, I’m not sure… but I look forward to the journey.”
His parting wisdom to the next generation of officers is to “Work hard. Be inquisitive. And have the courage to stand by what you believe in.”
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Don your mask, lace up your finest frock, and prepare for an evening of intrigue, illusion and ill-fated love – because the bard himself is calling you to Catherine McAuley College for a night like no other.
On Saturday 21 June, the CMC Murder Mystery will whisk guests away to 16th-century Verona, where a grand masquerade ball is being held to celebrate the union of Juliet Capulet and the mysterious Count Erfit. But as history has shown – where there are masks, there may also be murder.
This adults-only soirée promises an evening dripping in drama and decadence, with guests assigned their secret identities on arrival. Will you be a Capulet, celebrating in splendour? Or a Montague, crashing the party in disguise? You’ll find out when you enter the grand hall.
Amid the candlelight and whispers, one thing is certain – a crime will unfold, and you’ll be part of the story to uncover who’s behind it. Was it a jealous suitor? A bitter cousin? Or a love-struck rogue with vengeance in their heart?
Your ticket includes a welcome drink, a lavish three-course meal catered by Sinful Kitchen, and a night of captivating entertainment. There will be a bar onsite with drink tokens available for pre-purchase to keep the revelry flowing.
Costumes of all kinds are welcome – just don’t forget your mask. After all, in Verona, nothing is quite what it seems.
So rally your fellow nobles (tables seat ten), dust off your cloak, and prepare to step into Shakespeare’s world – where passion burns bright, secrets run deep, and not everyone makes it out alive.
Only five tables remain, and tickets are disappearing faster than Romeo at curfew.
Catherine McAuley College Murder Mystery Masquerade Ball
What: An immersive masquerade ball with a Shakespearean twist, featuring a murder mystery to unravel. Guests will be assigned secret identities upon arrival and will enjoy a welcome drink, a three-course meal by Sinful Kitchen, and captivating entertainment.
When: Saturday, 21 June 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM AEST
Where: Catherine McAuley College, 239 Nebo Rd, West Mackay
Tickets: Available now via Humanitix.
Please note: This is an 18+ event. Parking is available via the Nebo Road entrance and at the rear of the building with access on Field Street. The Field Street access will be locked after midnight.
Don't miss this unforgettable evening of mystery and masquerade!
Soon after I arrived in Mackay I was talking with a middle-aged couple who mentioned they had been to a particular restaurant and, not being familiar with the local cuisine, I asked what the food was like.
“The meals aren’t very big,” the wife said.
In other parts of the world I’d heard criticisms such as “the steak was tough” or “the fish was oily”.
My friend Mick tells the old joke about the bloke at a Chinese restaurant who complains to the waiter that “this chicken is rubbery”.
“Ah, thank you very much,” the waiter replies. You’ve got to be shamefully politically incorrect to even get that joke. It’s disgusting and I don’t know why I laugh every time Mick says it when we’re eating Asian food.
But the scathing comment from the locals I asked about the food at a particular restaurant was not that the food was bad, just that the meals weren’t very big.
I’ve noticed that in some restaurants, those known for “fine dining”, the quantity of food seems to be less important than the quality.
However, I get it … you don’t want to pay for a meal and leave the restaurant feeling hungry. Mackay practicality.
It was an early signal to me that Mackay people tend to like big things. When I first arrived, Holden still made cars and apparently Mackay had the highest per capita ownership of Club Sports. They liked big V8s.
These days they are more into big 4WDs and SUVs. Witness the number of RAMs and other monster trucks on the road.
The belief that big is better became an issue a few years later when certain residential developments with much smaller blocks were taken to the Mackay market.
Precincts such as the Woodlands Estate in Andergrove, Plantation Palms in Rural View and Blacks Beach Cove were all designed with smaller blocks than the usual Mackay offering.
While Mackay home-owners were accustomed to typical 700-800+sq m blocks, suddenly there were blocks of 300-500sq m. They were a bit like those meals at the Mackay restaurant I mentioned, not very big.
In those days many of those properties were snapped up by investors and rented out. Many of us, me included, said Mackay people were never going to buy those properties because they want big blocks, properties where you can fit a shed and get access for a boat or a caravan.
And it is true that many Mackay people did not want them. They wanted bigger blocks and the space they offer for vehicles and boys’ toys.
But over the past year properties have been selling in those estates in the high $500,000s, $600,000s and $700,000s. The blocks are small and they’re not for everyone but Mackay is showing that the market is more diverse than we thought.
Not everyone has a caravan, a big boat and a massive 4WD. Mackay has changed … there is now a terrific, divergent ethnic mix that makes the place more interesting and culturally complex. Many of those people have different requirements to the typical old Mackay buyers.
We have had an influx of young professional people from southern cities who have also helped break the mould.
And there are plenty of older people who want to downsize to something modern and low-maintenance and they are snapping up properties on smaller blocks.
So while many Mackay people will still focus on the size of the meal and the car and the block, we are changing. Many busy Mackay people want the convenience of a smaller block with a modern home that requires little maintenance.
In Mackay it’s no longer one size fits all.
By Hannah McNamara
Sixty-five years have passed, but the grief still lingers.
On June 10, the Mackay community gathered to remember the 29 lives lost in Australia’s worst civil aviation disaster at the time – the crash of TAA Flight 538 in 1960. Among them was Mr Col Benson, local Historian, former Air Force radio technician and long-time Mackay RSL member, who helped organise the solemn anniversary.
“I was a schoolboy when it happened… the whole of the community was in shock,” he said.
Mr Benson had returned to Mackay after the long weekend to a city in mourning. One of the victims was a boy a year older than him.
“Even today, people in their 70s, 80s, 90s remember where they were that night,” he said.
“That plaque gave people somewhere to focus their grief.”
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson echoed the community’s pain, remembering how residents could identify aircraft by sound.
“I remember my father saying, ‘Wow, that’s really low,’” he recalled.
“Surely it can’t be happening in our town… But it did.”
The tragedy prompted major safety reforms, including the invention of the black box flight recorder.
Lawrence Manning, son of Walkley-winning journalist Rod Manning, offered a poignant tribute.
“While it was 65 years ago, the loss… has resulted in intergenerational pain.
“It is the human element – the expressions of sympathy, the sharing of grief and concern for each other – that is enriched the entire community down the years.”
In Mackay, remembrance is not a date on a calendar, but rather a promise kept.
“There’s still grief, but at least we can all share it as a community,” said Mr Benson.
Earlier this month, 94 proud individuals officially became Australian citizens at a special ceremony held at the MECC.
Mayor Greg Williamson and councillors welcomed the new citizens, who hailed from 25 countries including the Philippines, South Africa, Thailand, Italy, Namibia and Nepal. The ceremony was a celebration of the rich cultural diversity that continues to shape and strengthen the Mackay region.
Since citizenship ceremony records began in 2013, Mackay has welcomed new Australians from 106 different countries, a remarkable reflection of our community’s inclusive spirit and growing global connections.
A new citizen celebrates her big moment with Mayor Greg Williamson during the recent citizenship ceremony at the MECC. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council
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