“This is the best place in the world.”

“You’ll never find a better place than this in the world.”

This is how two regulars at the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre describe the place where they go to relax, connect and enjoy a range of activities.

The Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre provide group social support to the elderly or people living with disabilities.

Workshops, art therapy and DrumFun are just some of the things they offer.

Chief Executive Officer, Jayne Milne says through their workshops and activities they hope to combat the onset of dementia and provide an all-abilities environment.

People absolutely love going to the centre and Jayne said that they have recently had a participant that was extremely sick but he had to come back in for his own peace of mind and mental health.

“He had to come back in here even though he's not well, his daughter said that her Dad’s mood picked-up afterwards, he was really depressed and as soon as he walked back in here you’d never know anything's wrong with him,” Jayne added.

The Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre offers transport so everybody can be included if they want to participate in social connection, support and of course fun activities.

With a host of exciting new events coming up, it’s understandable why people do not want to miss out.

This Friday they have a high tea, luncheon to celebrate Mother’s Day, and at the end of the month they have their Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser.

The Biggest Morning Tea will be open to the public too.

Jayne believes in getting the members out to have a little bit of fun and the next outing is the Mad Hatters Tea Party.

“That's just something to get the guys out for a little bit of fun, because we do an outing each month.”

The Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre is kind of a hidden gem, Jayne says people predominantly hear of them through word of mouth.

With this in mind, Jayne would like to get a message out to the community that any elderly people or those living with a disability are welcome to attend this free service.

Jayne says the main thing they focus on is creating a safe environment.

“We try and make it as safe an environment as possible, a place they feel loved, welcomed and valued.

“We’re almost like second family to some people.”

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Chief Executive Officer, Jayne Milne. Photo Credit: Daniel Heggie

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More than 250 students and their family members attended Proserpine State High School’s Apprenticeship and Traineeship Evening last week.
 
Industry representatives flew in from a range of locations, including capital cities and apprentice guest speakers travelled in from mine camps to speak at the school’s inaugural event.
 
The aim of the evening was to prepare students for entering the workforce and helping them understand what’s involved in an apprenticeship or traineeship application process.

It also provided students with the opportunity to meet industry experts and ask questions face-to-face.
 
Guest speakers from Abbott Point Operations, Wilmar and MAS National discussed application processes, what employers are looking for from applicants and the importance of report cards, resumes and cover letters when applying.

They also highlighted the importance of knowledge of the business you are applying for and what services and support are in place once you start an apprenticeship or traineeship.
 
A panel of former Proserpine State High School students who are currently undertaking apprenticeships and traineeships inspired students with their stories of success. 
 
Proserpine State High School Senior Schooling Officer Mrs Bernie Porter thanked those who attended, especially representatives from each of the industry businesses for giving up their valuable time to speak with families about their child’s future employment opportunities.
 
“We’ve already received positive feedback from attendees who are looking forward to next year’s event,” she said.

“We’re hoping to make it bigger and better next year with a wider variety of industry representation.”
 
The following day MAS National staff followed up at the school with an apprenticeship information session where Proserpine State High School Certificate II Skills for Work students were able to have their resumes proofed and participate in mock interviews to prepare them for their transition into the workforce.
 
“We are extremely grateful to all our industry attendees and presenters for the investment in making this event such a success,” said school Principal Mr Don McDermid.  
 
“Their commitment to supporting, guiding and inspiring the next generation of young people making their way into the workforce has been invaluable. 

“Our school looks forward to continued partnerships with business and industries to provide students with a broad array of post-school pathways when entering the workforce.”  

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Proserpine State High School Senior Schooling Team. Photo supplied

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Don’t miss out on the all-day Mother’s Day celebrations at the Reef Gateway, where your festivities will be covered from sunrise to sunset.

If you’re early risers the buffet breakfast starts at 9am and runs until 11am, it’s a great way to start the morning.

Filled with all of your hot and cold food favourites, it will be a breakfast that will delight.

The breakfast costs $36 for adults, $15 for ages 6-12 and under 5’s are free.

Mum will also get a complimentary drink on arrival after 10am.

If Mum feels like a lie in on Mother’s Day, the Reef Gateway is open are lunch and dinner too.

Reserve a table and you can enjoy their à la carte menu, filled with all of your pub favourites.

But it’s not just food and drinks that Mum will enjoy, there is also live music, which will run from 12pm – 3pm.

Whether Mum enjoys breakfast, lunch or dinner, the Reef Gateway will please everyone this Mother’s Day.

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For those of us who think little of jumping into a car at a moment’s notice and scooting off to Mackay in an hour and a half, day or night, it’s hard to imagine a time when Mackay was reached via Bowen per boat! Such was the case in 1908 when Mrs Eliza Fuller, her husband and very young daughter and son decided to visit friends there.
This is her story reported in the “Proserpine Guardian”.
Friends from Proserpine, the Velongs, had sold their farm and moved to a hotel in Mackay and invited the Fullers to visit. As Mrs Fuller previously had seen only Bowen and Proserpine, the invitation was accepted.
Travelling anywhere in those times was an undertaking of considerable dimensions. In addition to intense preparation days beforehand, it meant catching a 6 am coach to Bowen (after coming to Proserpine from their Strathdickie farm) and sitting in the sun in an open coach until they arrived in Bowen at 5pm then to bed in one of the hotels.
Room service was poor in those days. The proprietor forgot to call the family early next morning in time for breakfast before embarkation and, after a frenzied late call of “Boat’s in!” they just had time to throw clothes in a basket after quickly dressing and running for it.
They were allocated a tiny cabin for the day’s run to Mackay, but nothing to eat, except an ice cream, until Midday.
More troubles in Mackay when the primitive landing arrangements had to be foregone owing to rough seas. Disembarkation was managed by slinging several people (the Fullers and their very young children in one lift) in a tarpaulin over the side of the ship’s winch, into a waiting row boat.
As it was too rough for the ship to land, one can imagine what it was like in a small row boat. Wet and tired, passengers were taken up the river and arrived at the hotel at dusk. But not their luggage basket which did not come ashore until ten o’clock the following morning.
Although it took two long days to reach Mackay, the visit was enjoyed however Mrs Fuller was not impressed with that town at that time, as there were so many swamps around in the low-lying areas.
They were enjoying the unusual break from the farm when late one day Mr Fuller heard a sugar boat returning direct to Proserpine that night. There was a wild rush to pack and say goodbye and they managed to board the vessel at 7 pm. Mrs Fuller and her two children were shown to a small shelter to spend the night.
It was rough and uncomfortable, lying on bare boards but they were too seasick to care. Mr Fuller spent the night on the open deck, talking and dozing, with the boat eventually running up the Proserpine River and reaching the old Glen Isla landing at six o’clock the next morning. In those days, much cargo was landed at this spot in the river which was serviced by a mill loco tramway pulling cane trucks equipped with a low cross rail on which passengers could sit.
Mr Fuller had left his horse and buggy at the family’s farm out towards Breadalbane, and after a quick breakfast and some shopping in town, they harnessed the horses and were back home by noon.
Eliza Fuller certainly never had another trip quite like that again. And whilst it was a primitive journey, it was far preferable to going to Bowen via Proserpine – another a day’s journey by coach.

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Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum
The landing at Glen Isla

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Darren Sullivan
I'd probably say as far as the population and how much people want it, yeah, there would be, but probably not as much as other places. Most people just went down to Cannonvale or Airlie Beach where they have a bit more access to that. And I’d like to see more up here in Proserpine, it wouldn’t be a bad thing.

Nikki Ellis
I don't think there's enough here at all. But yeah, I think, art exhibitions and other things like that, I would absolutely like to see that. I'm a bit of a recluse. I stay at home a lot. So, I don't really come out and do stuff. But I think with what the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) is doing with the comedy festivals is good, but I think there needs to be more.

Christine Perry
I'm just traveling through, but I do actually travel around Australia, I've been on the road for two and a half years. So, I go visit all these different towns. And this is my exploration walk to see what this is like. So, the one thing that does impress me is the cultural centre up there and then I noticed walking down here there was like a dance studio and those sorts of things and I think you don't see that too often. So that's a plus in I suppose a small country town.

Betty Atkinson
Well, for the older populations, what we have here with the PEC, the shows that come to the entertainment centre, it’s sufficient for them. But I think it's more the people down towards Cannonvale, the younger generation, the talk of an art gallery and other things would interest them, I think that would be very helpful.

Toni-Ann Parry
More museums would be good. I know we've got one here in Proserpine and an art gallery it would be good. There’s only one museum here, and I’m in Airlie Beach so no, there isn’t enough, there’s only one.

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Life's hurdles have a knack for showing up uninvited, don't they?

I have always believed in a balance in life, a yin and yang, that we must battle through the bad to truly appreciate the good. Well, over the past few weeks, I've found myself facing a series of challenges that have tested my strength in ways I hadn't quite anticipated. And I hope there’s a whole lot of good around the corner.

Firstly, I want to extend my sincerest thanks to everyone who reached out after hearing about my cancer diagnosis. Your emails were greatly appreciated, reminding me of the genuine connections we share within our community.

Unfortunately, recent scans have shown that the cancer isn't content to stay put in my bowel and has decided to explore a bit further. Surgery is still my next step in a couple of weeks, but it is looking like the road may be a bit longer with a few more twists and turns to navigate.

To add extra complexity and heartache to the mix, my little one has decided to join the chaos with a bout of Adenovirus and RSV. Because, you know, one illness just isn't enough these days. Unfortunately we’ve spent the long weekend in hospital with him as he battles for breath. So here I am, writing to you from the hospital cafeteria, trying to fight my heavy eyes with a lukewarm cup of coffee.

On a brighter note, as we approach Mother's Day, let's take a moment to celebrate the incredible women who bring love and light into our lives. May your day be filled with endless kisses and cuddles. And to those dusting off their dancing shoes for the Mayor's Ball on Saturday night, let's make it a night to remember, shall we?

I hope to see you there, if my little one has made his way home by then.

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Amanda

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Porters have kindly donated a bench in honour and memory of Kennedy Elfverson, a young girl described as ‘a ray of sunshine’ who battled epilepsy and sadly passed away in February this year.  

The unveiling of the Friendship Benches, adorned in Kennedy's beloved colours, marked a heartfelt moment for the school community. Alongside this gesture, a successful fundraiser was held, generating over $2000 in support of Epilepsy Queensland.

The donation of a bench in honour and memory of Kennedy’s vibrant young soul, represents far more than just a physical object, it symbolises a community's collective love, remembrance, and commitment to supporting a cause close to their hearts.
Kennedy's infectious personality, marked by her courageous battle with epilepsy, touched the lives of many within the region and school community that had the privilege of knowing her.
Mackay West State School posted to Facebook, thanking Porters for donating the friendship bench in admiration of Kennedy.
Followed by “Kennedy will always be remembered by our students when we see her rainbow bench in the playground.”

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Porters donated a ‘friendship bench’ in honour and remembrance of Kennedy Elfverson, a lively young soul who tragically passed away in February this year. Photo Credit: Porters Mackay (Facebook)

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By Hannah McNamara

It’s no secret that crime, specifically in relation to theft and the unlawful use of a motor vehicle, seem to have progressively worsened within the region.

In regards to a recent head-on collision that unfolded early last week, a Suzuki Swift was stationary at a red light in Rural View when a 4-wheel-drive, allegedly driven by an unlicensed and under-the-influence driver, was reported to have run the red light, veering onto the opposite side of the road, resulting in a high-impact collision. The unlicensed driver who was allegedly under-the-influence was arrested and charged at the scene.

A witness who preferred to remain anonymous commented, “Something seriously has to be done, and soon, somebody could have lost their life and for what?”

While police confirm this incident was not linked to vehicle theft, the instances of stolen vehicles, dangerous driving and a threat to public safety remain an escalating concern.

Statistics from Mackay Police show that since 2001, crime specific to vehicle theft was the highest ever in the region last year in 2023, with approximately 631 cases deemed as an ‘Unlawful Use Of Motor Vehicle’.

Over a period of three months, between January and March this year, statistics show that there have already been 209 cases subject to this ongoing issue, not including the recent months of April and May which are yet to be tallied.

In response to these shocking numbers, our regional police services are doing everything they can to not only prevent the issue but keep the community safe.

While we steadily depend on our diligent police officers to combat this issue, Mackay District Crime Prevention Coordinator, Steve Smith, shared his insights on how we as residents, can do our part by preventing the issue in the most effective way possible.

Sergeant Smith said, “Car thieves are easily frustrated – for thieves to steal your car they need possession of your keys to do it.

“Where you store your keys in the home matters – the key hooks on the wall, the kitchen bench, a bowl on the table - it’s a bad idea to store keys in these places – keep them secured out of sight,” he added.

“I know people are likely tired of hearing these messages – but it’s far more frustrating to have your car stolen and damaged or worse.”

Alternatively, some other ways to prevent car theft is to ensure your doors are locked, take your keys with you, lock your wheel and install a GPS tracker.

“If you are doing all that you can to secure your car and the keys then the odds will favour you,” Sergeant Smith added.

“Outside of this, we want to work with the community to catch those responsible for stealing cars.”

In light of keeping clear of reckless drivers, it’s important to always stay vigilant when driving and report anything that seems out of the ordinary.

“If you witness anything which you believe to be suspicious, please tell us straight away.”

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The 4-wheel-drive involved in an accident at Rural View last week where its driver was allegedly arrested for being unlicensed and driving under the influence. Photo source: Facebook

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What does a change strategist who has inspired 500,000 people across five continents; a national net-zero leader with in-depth knowledge of decarbonisation and a founder who combines maggots and biotechnology all have in common?

They are just some of the world -leading speakers and experts taking the stage at the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit on Thursday May 23, at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention centre (MECC).

This one-day event, the first of its kind for the Greater Whitsunday region, will feature 30 influential speakers who are leading conversations across the decarbonisation movement.

Announcing the impressive line-up of speakers, Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the summit program was curated to feature world class experts who tackle tricky subjects with practical, positive advice.

“Our region is unique globally and these speakers have been selected because of their extensive knowledge base but also their enthusiasm to work with our local businesses to ignite their decarbonisation journey,” Ms Porter said.

“This is a unique opportunity for our region to not only learn from but engage with these global leaders.”

Ms Porter said the summit is targeting small and medium business owners and operators who are ready to take the next steps on their decarbonisation journey.

“Our region’s businesses will learn a diverse range of solutions and strategies for a low carbon future,” she said.

Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) Chief Executive Officer Mr Steven Boxall, CEO said the quality of our keynote speakers is a testament to the importance and urgency of the decarbonisation challenge.

“By bringing together these world-class experts, we aim to foster collaboration and innovation that will propel our industries towards a cleaner, more sustainable future in our region," Mr Boxall said.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit opens at 8.30am with four keynotes throughout the day including change strategist Michael McQueen; ThinkZero founder and Managing director Cle-Anne Gabriel; Vice President of Climate at BHP Graham Winkelman and Founder of Goterra Olympia Yarger.

Michael McQueen, is a multi-award-winning speaker, change strategist, and bestselling author of ten books. With clients including Google, Toyota, and Mastercard, he has helped some of the world's most successful brands navigate uncertainty and stay ahead of the curve. Michael will share his insights into the shifts toward a decarbonised world and how local change can have a global impact.

Cle-Anne Gabriel is the Founder and Managing Director of ThinkZero. She is a sustainable development specialist, consultant, author, and public speaker, and a national leader in this space in Australia. Gabriel brings her in-depth knowledge of decarbonisation and net-zero strategies to the table to assist businesses in commencing their net-zero journeys. She will also explore case studies from her own experiences and where businesses have successfully changed to a decarbonised future.

Graham Winkelman, Vice President of Climate at BHP is responsible for BHP's public commitments to decarbonisation across both its operations and broader value chain. Graham will provide valuable insights into the role of government and long-term policy settings to support the transition to a lower-emissions economy.

Olympia Yarger is the founder of Goterra, where she leads the vision of redefining waste management with biotechnology and eco-friendly infrastructure design. Olympia will provide a passionate example of building products that allow businesses to meet a growing consumer demand for sustainable service provision and agile infrastructure capability.

The summit will also feature morning and after sessions, panel discussions, followed by breakout streams, where attendees can focus on various aspects of decarbonisation, including people, industry, environment, and opportunity. The afternoon session will involve more keynotes, a regional panel and roundtable discussions that will provide further inspiration and practical guidance for local businesses looking to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Also featured in the summit program will be some of Australia’s leading decarbonisation experts and leaders from industry and government including QLD Hydro, Clean Energy Council, Main Sequence, Sedgman, Cauldron and the Sustainable Minerals Institute.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit will conclude with networking drinks at 4.30pm. For more information and tickets visit Decarbonisation Accelerated website.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a joint initiative of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) and Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3).

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Change strategist Michael McQueen

ThinkZero founder and Managing director Cle-Anne Gabriel

Founder of Goterra Olympia Yarger

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Three Mackay Hospital and Health Service midwives have been acknowledged for
their dedication in delivering skilled and compassionate care to women and their families.

Staff from across the MHHS including the Mackay Base Hospital Women’s Health Unit took some time out on Friday to celebrate the midwifery profession and acknowledge the outstanding contributions of their colleagues ahead of International Day of the Midwife on Sunday 5 May.

The Mackay HHS delivers more than 1650 babies every year so it was important
to recognise the vital work midwives do for women, babies and families, Acting
Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery Paul McAllister said.

“Having a baby is one of the most significant and memorable events in a parent’s life and midwives play a vital role in helping care for that most precious of gifts,” he said.

International Day of the Midwife is a formal opportunity to recognise midwives’
ongoing commitment to maternal and newborn health and always placing women and families at the centre of care.

At an awards ceremony held at Mackay Base Hospital on Friday, three awards were
presented to staff acknowledging excellence in the profession.

The award recipients were:
• Emerging Midwife Award (postgraduate): Briony Sheahan, Mackay
Women’s Health Unit.
• The Outstanding Nursing and Midwifery and Leadership Award: Victoria
Noyce, Mackay Women’s Health Unit
• Exceptional Midwifery Care Provider Award (consumer/patient
nominated): Nickey Pilgrim, Proserpine Hospital.

Midwifery is a very rewarding career where unique relationships are established with women to make a real difference to their pregnancy, birth and early parenting, Mr
McAllister said.

“Today we congratulate our colleagues and the recipients of these awards and thank all midwives for your dedication to midwifery and the valued role you play in bringing
new life into the world,” he said.

“It’s a privilege to be there at the beginning of new life as women become mothers and provide the best advice as families embark on the journey of parenthood.

“Midwives provide a safe place for women to discuss issues and build trusting
relationships throughout the duration of pregnancy, labour, birth and the postnatal
care.

“It’s through these relationships, midwives become trusted members of families and
communities,” Mr McAllister said.

International Day of the Midwife is observed each year on May 5 by more than 50
nations and co-ordinated by the International Confederation of Midwives.

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Proserpine Director of Nursing Donna Martin, Exceptional Midwifery
Care Provider Award winner Nickey Pilgrim and Executive Director Public
Health and Rural Services Terry Johnson.

Clinical midwife consultant Victoria Noyce and Nurse Unit Manager
Maternity Kylie Clark

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Volunteer organisations in Dawson are set to receive a huge boost in funding as Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox this week announced that the region will receive more than $66,000 in funding as part of the 2023-24 Volunteer Grants, which will directly impact 20 local organisations.
 
Mr Willcox said that these grants are critical in supporting and recognising the role that volunteers play within our community.
 
“Volunteers play a crucial role in our communities, and their selflessness and dedication to our region deserves recognition and support,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“Volunteering also provides an effective pathway to get people into jobs, helps break down the barriers of marginalisation and fosters community participation.
 
“To all the volunteers across the Dawson electorate, I say thank you and congratulations. You truly are the backbone of our society.
 
“This funding is well deserved, keep up the incredible work that you do,” Mr Willcox said.
 
The 2023-24 Volunteer Grants provide organisations with grants of $1,000 to $5,000 to benefit the work of their volunteers. Including to purchase minor equipment, provide training, cover fuel costs, promote awareness of volunteering opportunities or adjust policies and procedures to strengthen member safety.
 
“Any volunteer or community organisation who wishes to can contact my office via email at Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au to be added to our grant list to receive information about any current or future grants.”
 
ON FARM CONNECTIVITY PROGRAM NOW OPEN!

The On Farm Connectivity Program is now open with rebates of up to $30,000 available to cover up to 50% of the cost of eligible smart farming technology.

Take advantage of this opportunity to help assist with monitoring livestock, improving water efficiency, optimising soil quality, and improving farm logistics.

To find out if you’re eligible, or to apply visit: http://www.business.gov.au/.../on-farm-connectivity-program

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The Queensland Government has announced $2 million to enhance educational access for Isaac residents living in the heart of coal and agricultural communities.

Thanks to this funding, Isaac Regional Council will establish two Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah, joining 21 other regional communities across Australia.

These centres are strategically designed to bridge the gap between regional students and campus resources.

Students will have access to comprehensive educational support services, including tutoring, counselling, and academic guidance.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said, “As the cost of living continues to rise across the country, leaving home and the regions to access higher education is getting harder. 

“Distance education can be challenging without the right support. This funding is about making sure our potential is not pre-determined by our postcodes.”

Whether students need assistance with coursework or study strategies, the centres will provide a safe and inclusive environment for learning.

“Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah will offer quality facilities, educational support, programming, and social networks for those undertaking university.

“Together we can ensure this access to opportunity is at our doorstep,” Mayor Vea Vea added.
The Isaac Country Universities Centres will bring like-minded students together, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

By studying with a parent education provider while using the regional centres as a campus, students can overcome geographical barriers.

Regional and rural students are currently 20% less likely to seek tertiary education compared to their metropolitan counterparts.

However, the changing job landscape demands that 90% of jobs in the next five years will require some form of degree or qualification.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said that every Queenslander deserves opportunity regardless of where they live.

“This means opportunity to have a safe and secure home, access to quality and safe healthcare, good meaningful employment, and the ability to improve themselves through education.”

The national job shortage has led some individuals to prioritise employment over education.

The Isaac Country Universities Centres aim to reverse this trend by providing accessible educational pathways.

With only 13 per cent of Isaac residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher level of education, there is a clear gap in support for higher education and vocational study in the region.

These study hubs will play a crucial role in addressing this disparity and empowering residents to improve their prospects through education.

Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace said, “Earlier this year I was also proud to announce almost $40 million for the Isaac Regional Council to construct the Isaac Resources Centre of Excellence.

“Funded through the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund, this project will help advance technologies in the resources sector and enhance educational opportunities for the region.”
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FAST FACTS
   • Queensland Government to invest $2 million to open Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah
   • The centres will provide more opportunities for regional Queenslanders to diversify their skills and reduce the cost of accessing education.
   • Clermont and Moranbah will join a nationwide network of 21 communities across Australia with Country Universities Centres

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea at the announcement that $2 million will be funded by the State Government to enhance educational access for Isaac residents. Photo credit: Isaac Regional Council

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Get ready for ZACH MACH, a multisport event designed for individuals ranging from weekend warriors to elite athletes, spanning from all ages, set amidst the stunning outdoors of Mackay. Rooted in the values of adventure, community, and health, ZACH MACH aims to unite participants in celebrating the spirit of adventure while promoting overall well-being.

This event pays tribute to the vibrant life of Zach Roberts, a remarkable young individual who had a profound love for adventure and people. Zach, cherished as a grandson, son, brother, and former student of Mackay Christian College, tragically lost his life in a traffic accident at the age of 18.

Nikki Giles, Event Manager for ZACH MACH touched on the importance of honouring Zach and his legacy at the multisport event, as participants gear up for 40k’s of mountain bike riding, 10’ks of kayaking, a 10km trail run as well as a 30km cycle to top it off located “in the beautiful Pioneer Valley,” Nikki described.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said “it’s not for the faint hearted, but we have almost 300 competitors this year which is absolutely outstanding.

“It’s about celebrating the beautiful environment we live in and that’s what ZACH MACH does, it compliments what we’ve done for the mountain bike track.

“People from all over Queensland are taking part in ZACH MACH and it’s a stake in the ground for our region,” Mayor Williamson added.

Get ready for an exhilarating, down-and-dirty challenge on May 11th and 12th! Take on nature's hurdles, traverse muddy paths, and dive into the excitement of tackling the elements.

Sign up for the ZACH MACH or MINI MACH Adventure Challenge either solo, as a duo, or in a relay team. Select the stages that resonate with your adventurous spirit, conquer them, and proudly vie for prize money in each stage you undertake. This is your adventure, play by your own rules!

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Get ready to participate in the ZACH MACH challenge in commemoration of Zach Roberts, a cherished former student of Mackay Christian College who passed away at the age of 18. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

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From humble beginnings to a creative powerhouse, redhotblue is widely known for their radical thinking and strategic approach to marketing and design which has earned them the Australian Enterprise Awards title of ‘Best Creative Marketing Agency 2024’.

The team, led by Director Jody Euler, said that they were humbled by the recent award win that highlighted their extensive contributions and leadership of the industry over the past 26 years to everyone from small regional businesses through to multi-national organisations.

“We’re beyond grateful to have not only been nominated but having been awarded this incredible title. We truly love what we do, and I couldn’t be prouder of the team I’ve built around me who are the backbone of my business,” said Jody Euler, Director of redhotblue.

One of the standouts against the other nominees was redhotblue’s approach to their work which considers more than just outcomes and primarily focuses on building relationships and staying true to their values-based business model.

“We don’t shy away from honesty and bravery. While that is not always the easy road to take, it has really set us apart from others in the industry and gained us a solid reputation for high standards. It’s a highly competitive space and I have watched several businesses unable to withstand the landscape.

Especially in today’s digital world, the difference in what we offer is our custom and unique approach to our client journey. We get very deep in understanding their goals on a personal level, but also walk them through ideas that they wouldn’t have considered or thought of without us – we offer far more than the usual cookie-cutter approach,” she said.

Over the past 26 years, redhotblue has helped a range of clients, including not-for-profits, government agencies (Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, Queensland Police, Central West Hospital and Health), numerous public health services (see Domestic Violence campaign–featured), professional services from consultants to lawyers and architects, fashion and cosmetic industries, hospitality, engineering, mining and heavy industry, shopping centres, retailers, political campaigns, and everything in between.

Redhotblue has proudly gained the recognition of several prestigious awards over the years, including the more recent Creative Agency of the Year 2023 [Central Queensland] and believed that the industry had advanced by removing the barrier of locality which had expanded their service area and positioned them amongst agencies in major cities.

“When I first opened my doors in 1997, my clients were all word-of-mouth and walk-ins. We are now lucky to have the opportunity to work with clients around the world,” she said.

“This has really changed and progressed the way we operate and opened a whole new world of possibilities for our industry. We’re beyond excited for what the future holds!”

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After spending five years in the far north, Anne Scully has expanded her skills and expertise as an educator. Recently, she has transitioned to the Clinical Excellence Unit at Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), where her focus is now on providing training in rural facilities within the region, following her previous tenure with the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service.

Partner Trevor Wall has also joined her at Mackay Base Hospital (MBH) as the maintenance coordinator for BEMS.

Driven by a passion for adventure, the couple decided to depart from Mackay after dedicating 25 years of service at the Mater Hospital and Base Hospital, heading north to begin a new chapter of their career on Thursday Island.

“Trevor had been up there on a variety bash and was just so impressed by the beauty of Thursday Island,” Anne said, “so when the role of nurse educator was advertised, I jumped at it and we dragged the two boats up north.

“I really grew as an educator working there. I had to work autonomously and was the sole nurse educator but was supported by co-educators for the outer islands,” Anne said.

“I was planning and delivering multiple education programs in the 26-bed hospital as well as all the mandatory and specialised training.

“It was a blessing really as it was a great chance to grow my skills as an educator, but it’s not for everyone.

While registered nurses (RNs) are the backbone of healthcare, nurse educators are the foundation, she said.

Anne takes great pride in instilling in new nurses a better understanding of the healthcare system and their patient’s needs.

She’s looking forward to “jumping in” and supporting the education needs of staff at rural MHHS facilities including Clermont, Moranbah, Bowen, Proserpine and Sarina.

It was the warm community welcome upon arriving in Mackay in 1990 that enticed her to stay and raise her family here. She felt the same coming back to Mackay earlier this year.

“We are back now to be good grandparents. The place has changed but the people are the same,” Anne said.

“Now I’m back, it’s wonderful to see so many of my former nursing students and how they have really grown into their varied nursing careers.”

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Treasured healthcare educator, Anne Scully returns to Mackay after gaining experience in rural facilities within the region. Image Sourced

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