In response to the escalating issue of homelessness within the community, Pioneer State High School has stepped up to make a significant impact. With an astounding show of solidarity and compassion, the school has donated an impressive 4000 tins of food to support the efforts of Chances Op Shop in addressing the needs of homeless individuals within the community.
Chances Op Shop has become an essential base for those experiencing homelessness in Mackay, offering vital services such as hot meals, warm clothing, and a safe space for respite during the day. The generous donation from Pioneer State High School will undoubtedly strengthen the organisation's ability to continue to provide essential support to individuals in need.
The initiative taken by the school reflects a growing sense of community responsibility and empathy towards those facing adversity. Through collective action and collaboration, the students, parents, and teachers of Pioneer State High School have rallied together to make an outstanding difference in the lives of those in need.
The heartfelt appreciation expressed by the team at Chances Op Shop was posted to Facebook, stating, “Thank you for doing the can drive again and a huge thank you to all of the students, teachers and parents who organised, contributed or helped.

“This will help immensely to continue providing food to people experiencing homelessness in Mackay.”

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Pioneer State High School students, parents and teachers gathered 4000 tins of food to donate to Chances Op shop to feed the mouths of those who are facing homelessness

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The Isaac region’s newly elected Council members have taken their oath in the heart of the Bowen Basin last week.
The declaration of office ceremony, led by Isaac Regional Council Acting CEO Darren Fettell, welcomed a new Mayor and eight Councillors to their elected positions following the 16 March poll results.
The ceremony was held at the Isaac Regional Council Batchelor Parade Chambers in Moranbah, with family and staff in attendance to witness this significant event.
Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, who served as Councillor for 12 years, said she was looking forward to another four-year term with a team that is committed to serving the community and driving positive change.
“It’s an honour to serve the Isaac region, and I congratulate each of the divisional Councillors on their appointment,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
“Together with the new council we will make Isaac a better place for all.”
Mayor Vea Vea paid tribute to past councillors, who set a solid foundation for the new council team.
“The Isaac region and its councillors are respected across the country for their advocacy and ability to drive change,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
“I look forward to working with my team, industry and government to ensure that our region continues to be the powerhouse of the nation.”
The Council appointed the Deputy Mayor at its post-election meeting on Friday, 5 April 2024, voting for Jane Pickels. Cr Pickels has served on council for 12 years and will help lead the recently sworn in team.
KELLY VEA VEA - MAYOR
TERRY O’NEILL Division 1 Rural Clermont, Coppabella and Glenden
VERN RUSSELL Division 2 Dysart
MELISSA WESTCOTT Division 3 Moranbah
SIMON WEST Division 4 Moranbah
ALAINA EARL Division 5 Moranbah
JANE PICKELS  - DEPUTY MAYOR - Division 6 Clermont
RACHEL ANDERSON Division 7 Moranbah and Middlemount
VIV COLEMAN Division 8 Nebo

(left to right): Cr Viv Coleman, Cr Melissa Westcott, Cr Alaina Earl, Mayor Kelly Vea Vea, Cr Rachel Anderson, Cr Vern Russell, Cr Simon West, Cr Terry O’Neill, Cr Jane Pickels (Deputy Mayor)

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The Mackay community witnessed a significant moment last week as the newly elected Mackay Regional Council was officially sworn in at a ceremony held at the 500 Pavilion, Mackay Showgrounds. The council's inauguration marked the beginning of a new chapter in the region's governance.
Amidst a gathering of local officials and community members, Mayor Williamson, alongside 10 councillors, solemnly took the oath of office administered by council’s CEO Scott Owen. Among the returning councillors were familiar faces such as Martin Bella, Belinda Hassan, Alison Jones, and Karen May, while newcomers George Christensen, Namarca Corowa, Ash-Lee Johnson, Nathenea MacRae, Heath Paton, and Peter Sheedy joined the council ranks.
This historic moment resonated deeply as Namarca Corowa became the first councillor of First Nations descent to be elected to the Mackay Regional Council, marking a significant milestone in the council's diverse representation.
Addressing the gathered audience, Mayor Williamson articulated his vision for the council's term ahead, stating, "We will, as one council, deliver the good governance for our community that the act requires us to do. We will passionately advocate for the reason that we are elected to serve. And we commit as one council to represent the aspirations and issues in our community and we will do that through robust discussions.
“The next four years is going to be very exciting and I am honoured and humbled to be Mayor of Mackay Regional Council with such a diverse team, I think this is going to be a fantastic term."
With Mayor Williamson's words echoing a sense of unity, purpose, and commitment to community representation, the newly sworn-in Mackay Regional Council embarks on its journey to serve and shape the region's future for the next four years.

L-R: Cr Karen May, Cr Martin Bella, Cr Peter Sheedy, Cr Belinda Hassan, Cr Ash-Lee Johnson, Mayor Greg Williamson, Cr George Christensen, CEO Scott Owen, Cr Namarca Corowa, Cr Alison Jones, Cr Heath Paton, Cr Nathenea MacRae. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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By Amanda Wright

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Mackay bids farewell to a cherished war hero and author, Tom Barry, who passed away last month at the age of 101. Tom's memory and remarkable wartime experiences continue to resonate within the community, immortalised through his poignant memoir, A Prodigious Leap. His legacy of courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to his country will forever be etched in the annals of WWII history.
In commemoration of his extraordinary life, the Mackay RSL Sub-Branch organised a heartfelt poppy service at Jubilee Park, where friends, family, and fellow veterans gathered to honour Tom's profound sacrifice and enduring spirit. Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President Ken Higgins paid tribute to Tom's illustrious military service, highlighting his distinguished accolades and unwavering dedication to his nation.
"Tom was awarded the 39-45 Star, the African Star with First Army Clasp, the Italian Star, and the War Medal 39-45.
“101 years, what a wonderful life,” Mr Higgins remarked.
“Tom was a character, a man's man, he had wonderful stories to tell, and I'll bet some stories didn't make the book, but there's enough in there to know he had a very interesting life.
“He was a very young soldier, 17, and what he went through at the age of 20 is nothing short of astonishing, the responsibility he had in Italy is unreal. I can only imagine what he went through when he got captured.
“We remember him for what he did, who he was, and we are saying a fond farewell to a great man," said Higgins.
Tom's memoir, A Prodigious Leap, chronicles his extraordinary odyssey from his humble beginnings in Sunderland, England, to the battlegrounds of World War II. His vivid recollections of courage, camaraderie, and resilience offer a testament to the human spirit's triumph over adversity. Despite the harrowing ordeals he endured, including his capture by German soldiers and subsequent torture, Tom's unwavering resolve and steadfast determination never wavered. His memoir stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to sharing his wartime experiences, ensuring that future generations never forget the sacrifices made by those who served.
Tom's beloved wife, Ann, fondly remembered her husband as a great father and husband. "Tom was a man who would take command of any situation," she remarked, reflecting on their cherished years together.
As the sombre notes of a lone bugler echoed through Jubilee Park, among the solemn faces and bowed heads, stood a testament to the enduring legacy of a true war hero, Tom Barry.
Lest We Forget.

Members of the RSL Mackay Sub-Branch as well as friends and family of the late Tom Barry gathered at Jubilee Park to pay their respects to the war hero who passed away last month. Photo credit: Amanda Wright
The late Tom Barry with RSL Mackay Sub-Branch President Ken Higgins in 2022 when Tom completed his book, A Prodigious Leap. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox is encouraging organisations across the electorate to apply for funding under the Play Our Way Program which has been designed to make sport more welcoming for women and girls.
 
This funding program, which will run over three years, aims to deliver long-term benefits and improvements that address participation barriers faced by women and girls in sports.
 
Mr Willcox believes this grant opportunity will make a lasting difference to the communities within Dawson.
 
“Unfortunately, in rural and regional areas, sporting clubs and facilities are underfunded and under-resourced,” Mr Willcox said.
 
“This funding is crucial to ensuring our future sports stars aren’t continually disadvantaged to make do with substandard sporting infrastructure.”
 
The funding program is open to applications from local governments, community organisations, not-for-profit organisations, and sporting organisations.
 
Successful grant recipients will use the funding to provide safe, inclusive, quality and sustainable facilities, equipment and initiatives while helping women and girls to remain involved in sport for life.
 
“I know of a few clubs in my electorate that rely on fundraising activities to maintain and improve their facilities, this grant program will provide a much-needed boost to these fundraising activities, giving our local communities the sporting infrastructure that they need and deserve,” Mr Willcox said.
 
Applications close Monday 29 April at 2pm.
 
For eligibility criteria, or to apply, visit: www.health.gov.au/our-work/play-our-way-program

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The Queensland Police Service has announced new police officer growth allocations for the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday Region. A total of 20 extra police positions have been allocated this financial year with Academy training and recruitment efforts at record levels.
In addition, 28 new police vehicles have been allocated to Central Region, 17 of which have been allocated to Mackay Whitsunday District (vehicle allocation includes Bowen, Clermont, Mackay, Moranbah, Sarina, and Whitsunday).
The extra police positions will be allocated across the area in various capacities. This includes assigning five additional police officers to the Mackay Tactical Crime Squad, along with three additional police officers for the Mackay Police Station. Within the Mackay Police Station, the Child Protection Investigation Unit (CPIU) will see an addition of one police officer.
Two extra police officers will be allocated to the Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station, while the Bowen Police Station will receive four additional police officers. In Moranbah, one additional general duties police officer and one extra police officer for Moranbah Scenes of Crime will be assigned. The Sarina Police Station will have one additional police officer, and the Proserpine Police Station will see an increase of one police officer and one additional Highway Patrol Officer.
Premier Steven Miles met with police officers in Mackay last week and said, “Queenslanders tell me they want to see more police in their communities.
“With this uplift, an extra 20 police will be recruited to the Mackay and Whitsunday region by mid-next year as part of our record boost to the frontline.
“It’s my commitment to Queenslanders that more police and the tools they need to keep communities safe are being delivered where police tell us they are needed.”
Acting Police Minister Meaghan Scanlon said that in addition, police have announced Operation Whiskey Legion, which will see officers from specialist units deployed to regions, including the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region, to provide further support to local police to disrupt and prevent crime.
“And further to that initiative, the government has provided police in the region with additional funding to conduct extreme high-visibility police patrols so that members of the community can be reassured by the on-going presence of police in public places like shopping centres and other high pedestrian traffic areas,” she said.
Mackay and Whitsundays District Officer Superintendent Graeme Paine said, “Community safety is at the core of our values and these additional frontline and specialised officers combined with extra resources will bolster these efforts.
“We are committed to reducing crime in the Mackay and central Queensland communities and these additional officers will be a welcomed tool to help us achieve that goal.
“Local residents can rest assured these officers will work hard to support and protect their community with a focus on preventing, disrupting and investigating crime.”

Premier Steven Miles met with local police officers last week to discuss the allocation of additional police positions in the greater Mackay region

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Paying it forward is now easier than ever with Containers for Change Container Exchange Points being installed on public bins around the region.
The Container Exchange Points allow anyone to place their drink containers into them for someone else to collect and return at their preferred Containers for Change location for a 10-cent refund.
Mackay Regional Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Scott Owen, said council was excited to roll out the program for the region to combat several recycling issues.
“It is literally a pay it forward program – from those who don’t want, to those who need it,” Mr Owen said.
“It also assists council in combatting the issue of contamination in our public recycling bins,” he said.
The stations will be rolled out over the coming months and will be attached to existing rubbish bins in 70 locations across Mackay.
Natalie Roach, CEO of Container Exchange said a lack of dedicated drink container bins in public places meant millions of recyclable and refundable containers were still going to waste across Queensland each year.
“Residents and visitors who don’t want to hold on to their empty eligible containers for a 10-cent refund can now place them in a Container Exchange Point on a public bin for others to collect.
“Mackay has embraced Containers for Change, returning more than 304 million containers for recycling since 2018.
“This has refunded more than $30.4 million to the pockets of local households, charities, and community groups. With the availability of the new Container Exchange Points in public places we are excited to see that figure continue to grow even further.
Container Exchange is the not-for-profit organisation that implements Containers for Change in Queensland on behalf of the Queensland Government.

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Pay it forward by placing your drink containers into the newly designed bins for others to access and collect

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A building at 8 River Street, earmarked for a refurbished food and beverage outlet, will be demolished.
The existing structure, formerly Maria’s Donkey, is structurally compromised and not suitable for refurbishment.
It will be demolished and the riverbank site reinstated.
A portion of the budget council had committed for refurbishment of the building will be used for investigating design options for the development of the prime riverfront site.
The balance of funding will be set aside to go towards delivery of a preferred option once approved.
The council-owned 8 River Street is adjacent to the State Heritage-listed Paxton’s building. However, it is not part of that property and is not heritage listed.
Director Planning, Growth & Sustainability Aletta Nugent said demolition was the best decision in terms of safety and financial responsibility.
“This will make the area safe,’’ she said.
“It will also provide a greenfield option for a new development on this prime site, with activation of the space in the interim,’’ she said.
“A new greenfield option will help capitalise on the site’s potential, including over-water opportunities, and include flood immunity in any new build.’
Work on the site, being undertaken by Woollam Constructions, was paused late last year while council determined the best value for money approach.
Ms Nugent said council was aware of the damage present however it was only after the deck was demolished, internal walls removed, and concrete flooring removed that the full extent of issues with the building were uncovered.
“More pylons than originally thought would also have needed to be replaced which adds significant cost,’’ she said.
“Recommended alternative piling methods and associated costs were significantly over budget.”
The building was braced at that time to make it safe and the contractor vacated the site.

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The former Maria’s Donkey site will be demolished as the building has been deemed to be structurally compromised and not suitable for refurbishment

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In the mosaic of industries that form the backbone of our economy, agriculture stands tall as the bedrock upon which prosperity is built. Beyond its role in nourishing our bodies, agriculture fuels economic growth, fosters rural development, and sustains communities across the nation. As we navigate the complexities of modernity, it's imperative to recognise and support the farmers who toil tirelessly to feed our nation.
Agriculture, the quiet giant, forms the foundation of a thriving nation. It's the engine that turns seeds into sustenance, fuels economic growth, and fosters vibrant rural communities. From sprawling cane fields to paddocks of cattle, agriculture is a living, breathing testament to ingenuity and hard work.
Agriculture's economic impact goes far beyond grocery bills. It contributes a whopping $80 billion to the Australian economy, a testament to its vital role. This impact extends beyond farms, creating jobs in processing, transportation, and countless other interconnected industries.
Strong agricultural communities are the lifeblood of regional Australia. By supporting our farmers, we ensure the continued prosperity of these regions. This ripples outward, strengthening local businesses that provide essential goods and services. It also invests in infrastructure, from roads and bridges to schools and hospitals, ensuring a high quality of life for rural residents.
Marking its fifth year as a premier agricultural event, the Mackay Ag Trade Expo has solidified its reputation as a regional staple. This year's expo promises to be bigger and better than ever, showcasing the latest innovations and technologies that are transforming every aspect of primary production.

Michelle Landry
Federal Member for Capricornia

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The anticipation is mounting as the countdown commences for the highly awaited Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo 2024, now set to unfold at the Mackay Showgrounds. This event promises to be a remarkable celebration of all facets of agriculture. 

Julie Crowley, Coordinator for the event, expressed profound appreciation for the tremendous support from the local community.

"We've been overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response from exhibitors, with bookings flooding in daily.

“We have an extraordinary lineup of stallholders already confirmed, ensuring two days brimming with action, displays, products, and services catering to all aspects of agriculture and rural lifestyles," she stated. 

In welcoming the change of venue, Ross Dodt, representing the Mackay Show Association, shared his excitement.

"The Mackay Show Association is thrilled to host the Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo at the Mackay Showgrounds.

“We are looking forward to partnering with Wests Leagues Club to bring this event to the community and showcase our agricultural industry to the region," Dodt remarked. 

Highlighting the significance of agricultural shows in Australian culture, Julie emphasised the importance of local business support for the Expo's growth and future success.

"We extend our heartfelt thanks to the businesses that have secured their sites for 2024.
 
“The Expo is proud to welcome back its esteemed naming rights sponsor, Mackay Sugar, a member of the Nordzucker Group.

"Mackay Sugar brings professionalism and excitement to our event and showcases their commitment to the Sugar Industry in our region.

“We eagerly anticipate collaborating with them not only in 2024 but also in the years ahead," Julie remarked. 

The 2024 Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo will take place at the Mackay Showgrounds, on Friday, April 19th, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, April 20th, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. 

Attendees can expect a family-friendly atmosphere, with live music by The Gottani Sisters, whip-cracking demonstrations, line dancing, exhibitor demonstrations on both days, and a special kids zone on Saturday featuring kids rides and various attractions. 

For more information, please visit www.mackayagtradeexpo.com.au or contact Julie Crowley at West’s Leagues Club by calling 4959 2480 or emailing julie@weststigersmackay.com.au. 

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Images from last year's Mackay Sugar Ag Expo. This year will be one you won’t want to miss! Images supplied

What: The Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo
When: Friday, April 19th from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, April 20th, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. 
Where: The Mackay Showgrounds
Tickets: FREE ENTRY!

What Is The Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo?

The Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo is a bi-annual event showcasing the latest innovations, products, and services in agriculture. With a focus on fostering community engagement and industry growth, the Expo serves as a platform for networking, education, and celebration within the agricultural sector.

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Canegrowers Mackay
120 Wood St, Mackay
P: (07) 4944 2600
www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au

Elimix
105 Webberley St, West Mackay
P: 0415 712 425
Find us on facebook

Greater Whitsunday Alliance
Lev 1, 224 Victoria St, Mackay
P: 07 4845 8222
www.gw3.com.au

M&P Services
1 Diesel Dr, Paget
P: (07) 4898 0500
www.mpservices.net.au

Mackay Containers
Mackay Trailers
41 Malcomson St, North Mackay
P: (07) 49 400 722
www.mackaycontainers.com
www.mackaytrailers.com

Mackay Forestry
Dunwoody Road, Ball Bay
P: 1800 819 008
www.mackayforestry.com.au

Michelle Landry Office
71-73 Denham St, Rockhampton
P: (07) 4922 6604
Shop 8/13 Sarina Beach Rd, Sarina
P: (07) 4943 2722

Phoenix Powersports
165 Paradise St, Mackay
P: (07) 4952 2436
www.phoenixpowersports.com.au

Reef Catchments
Suite 1, 85 Gordon St, Mackay
P: (07) 4968 4200
www. reefcatchments.com.au

Western Suburbs Leagues Club
Branscombe Rd, Walkerston
P: (07) 4959 2480
www.weststigersmackay.com.au

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Looking to transform your land quickly and efficiently? Look no further than Mackay Forestry Mulching Solutions, your ultimate land-clearing experts!

As the excitement builds for the upcoming Mackay Ag Trade Expo, Mackay Forestry stands ready to showcase its cutting-edge solutions for land maintenance. With a fleet of high-powered Fecon mulchers and dedicated ASV135F machines equipped with 38 hammer and knife teeth, along with skilled operators, Mackay Forestry is primed to tackle any challenge faced by rural landowners in Queensland.

Whether it's clearing thick vegetation, tackling troublesome trees, or creating fire breaks, Mackay Forestry’s machines are designed to topple and grind with precision. Mackay Forestry co-owner, Steph Gordon, said that from large-scale projects to smaller jobs, Mackay Forestry has the equipment and expertise to get the job done swiftly and safely.

“Mackay Forestry mulchers are the go-to when your goal is to clear land quickly, safely and efficiently,” she said.

With a wide range of machines designed to topple and grind logs, trees, thick lantana, luceana, along with all the other problem trees and shrubs, it’s the perfect option for selectively clearing large tracts of land, roads, house pads, fire breaks and much more.

“We are now able to reach all sectors and have machines working long-term jobs as well as helping out customers who only need a few hours to clear that acre of land that can take years to bring under control,” Steph added.

Mackay Forestry’s machines will be on display at the Mackay Ag Trade Expo for attendees to observe, with a presentation from an operator to explain the use and parameters of the machine to cater to your property or project needs.
 
Whilst at the Ag Expo, Mackay Forestry will touch on key divisions such as land clearing and vegetation control, which is quick, efficient and effective, along with soil rehabilitation, biological and mineral nutrient stabilisation which is also fast, effective and gives the balance to all organic practices. 

“We understand what farmers and landowners go through and deal with on a daily basis which gives us a unique insight into land management, especially when dealing with the enormous variety of solutions, some very expensive and ongoing.

“When you are developing a program for your land, come and have a chat to us and see how we can help you.”
 
Don't miss the opportunity to learn more about Mackay Forestry’s innovative solutions at the Mackay Ag Trade Expo!

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In a scene straight out of a sci-fi movie, Mackay's manufacturing landscape is about to witness a futuristic transformation, thanks to an innovative grant from the State Government. Key Solutions Group, a prominent player in the region's industrial sector, is set to revolutionise its operations with the acquisition of not one, but two cutting-edge Motoman AR1440 series welding robots. Alongside these mechanical marvels, the company will also integrate Power-Trac seam finders/trackers and rotary screw compressors, heralding a new era of efficiency and productivity.
This will expand its manufacturing capacity and grow the business, resulting in as many as eight new jobs and upskill 28 current employees.
Key Solutions Group specialises in pipe welding, repairs and component manufacturing and is a major service provider to Mackay’s critical mining and agriculture sectors.  
Purchasing this new machinery has been made possible thanks to $500,000 in funding from Round 3 of the Queensland Government’s Manufacturing Hubs Grant Program.
The equipment is expected to reduce production costs by 30 per cent and generate private sector investment of more than $1.2 million.
Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher and Resources Minister Scott Stewart visited the business last week and said the company’s success demonstrates that the Queensland Government’s commitment to the industry is paying dividends.
“Every time we see a Queensland manufacturer take advantage of these grant programs, I know that it’s a step in the right direction for creating a more resilient and robust manufacturing sector,” Minister for Manufacturing, Glenn Butcher said.
“We have helped so many businesses throughout Queensland, just like Key Solutions Group, with leaders who can see an opportunity to expand their factory’s capabilities, an opportunity to secure more clients and grow their business.
“We have heard from many manufacturers that it’s challenging to recruit staff for welding roles and so wherever possible, automation is solving some of those problems.
“It also means staff can be upskilled to new roles and some of those manage the robotic part of the process.”
Key Solutions Group managing director, Frank Attard said that this grant will enable his business to take a major step forward in its growth journey.
“We’ll be able to achieve significantly greater efficiencies in time usage and labour output, which will ultimately result in better service to our growing customer base,” he said.
“The robotic manufacturing facility project will be a key ingredient in our business growth path and we’re looking forward to bringing in more customers with a broader product and service offerings.”

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Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher, Key Solutions Group managing director Frank Attard and Resources Minister Scott Stewart

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Cigarettes can take 15 years to break down, causing damage to marine life, whilst have the ability to enter the food chain as a microplastic and are considered to be a major contributor towards fires.

Knowing this, the No More Butts team are putting the final touches to a series of Big Butt Hunts, to be held across four different locations in North Queensland such as Innisfail, Ayr, Airlie beach and Mackay, this April to tidy up the region in an attempt to combat cigarette littering.

Mackay’s event will be held on Sunday 14th April at the Bluewater Lagoon, starting from 8.30am for an expected finish by 10am.

At the first event in 2022, more than a dozen volunteers picked up 4,500 butts in just under an hour. In 2023, 20 volunteers joined forces to comb the streets of Cairns for cigarette butts.

After one hour, volunteers from several different organisations and businesses had collected a total of 10,350 butts.

The success of this event saw two further events held in December 2023 in partnership with the Sea Shepherd Marine Debris Campaign, Rye, Victoria and Surfers Paradise played host to the groups, who picked up more than 14,000 butts.

Executive Director of No More Butts, Mr. Shannon Mead, said “partnering with councils, businesses, local rangers and other like-minded groups is having a great impact.

“Although our ultimate goal is to ban plastic cigarette filters, for now, we need to spend a lot of effort on education and prevention, as well as picking up these toxic nasty plastic parcels.”

Jumping into the “butt mobile” in April, No More Butts founder Mr. Shannon Mead will travel from Innisfail to Mackay to participate in the four events across two weekends.

Identifying hot spots, based on previous visits and community feedback, Mr. Mead is optimistic that others may join him in the hunt for as many butts as possible.

Although some essentials will be on hand, participants are encouraged to bring their own gloves, sunscreen, a hat and a water bottle.

Interested community members can learn more at https://bit.ly/nqldbh24 or at No More Butts on Facebook.

No More Butts have also been raising awareness of the issue that discarded vaping devices pose on our environment. Based in Queensland, Australia, No More Butts is a registered charity with ACNC.

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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The Rural Fire Service has served an important role in the way rural communities have responded to fire and protected their homes and agribusinesses.
Over recent years, there has been some degradation of the service, and now the state government overhaul - that should have worked to improve rural communities’ capacity to respond to fire emergencies – seems to actively disempower the Rural Fire Service (RFS).
The RFS is an organisation of volunteers. They are people with excellent skills in containing fire and with extensive knowledge of their local landscape and managing fire outbreaks. They are professional land managers, who work their own agribusinesses in cane farming, grazing and other types of farming. They understand how fire can behave in their farming systems and the wider district.  They understand how local weather conditions are important when considering a course of action to control a fire. They really are the experts in fighting their fires- they know the land best, and the RFS was set up in recognition of this.
Because they live where their RFS brigade is, they have skin in the game and the capacity to respond quickly and effectively. It is part of the nature of fire, that once it happens, response needs to be quick off the mark. The RFS takes this responsibility seriously, and as a result, the current system works effectively.
The RFS has been in need of structural improvement and increased support, but the legislation heading to parliament currently appears to miss the mark on the improvements the RFS has sought. The Disaster Management and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 brings together the Rural Fire Service and the Queensland Fire and Emergency Service under the one banner of the Queensland Fire Department.
Under the legislation, the RFS – best recognised as yellow trucks- is losing a great deal of its autonomy to the more urban-centric QFES (ie: red trucks). While the RFS sought to have a Rural Fires Board that had some weight, the panel that will eventuate would only have capacity as an advisory body. Section 130 states: “To remove any doubt, it is declared that the RFS advisory committee is not a decision-making body.”
The commissioner will now be empowered to dismiss an RFS volunteer.
These changes also call for an increased demand of RFS volunteers in training hours, from the present 12 months to three to five years. Safety is important, and training is always valuable, but not if it makes it impossible for those volunteers to have their existing skills and capabilities recognised and be empowered to take actions and make decisions during active fire incidents. These are all disincentives to volunteering.
Fire emergencies can be highly fluid situations that demand deep local knowledge and the capacity to act quickly.
The legislation means that they will be led by the professional firefighting arm of the Queensland Brigade, and the commissioner has the right to determine who would lead the management of a fire incident.
Someone can have all the professional training under the sun but still not be the best equipped with specific knowledge and understanding to best know how to fight a bushfire.
In drafting legislation, there was only one week for the RFS and the broader community to respond. The legislation is being rushed, and that will be to the detriment of rural and regional Queensland.
We live in a time of increasingly extreme weather. Anything that reduces a rural community’s capacity to respond to this is at the very least, foolhardy.
It is our great concern that the changes will impact on growers and graziers to their detriment. It is a slap in the face to rural communities and the RFS, that have effectively served their communities for many years.  The legislative changes, if passed in Queensland Parliament, will be a disaster for the RFS and rural communities, and bigger disasters will follow.

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Biosecurity Solomon Islands (BSI) and Honiara Herbarium staff together with Australian Department of Agriculture staff have recently returned from a plant health survey in the Solomon Islands. These joint plant health surveys are a key part of a collaborative partnership that has been running for over a decade which has enabled Australian departments and BSI to work together on many shared biosecurity priorities and activities.

This year the plant health survey had two key focus areas, Honiara the capital city and Lata in Temotu Province. Solomon Islands recently hosted the Pacific Games 2023 in Honiara and as with any large regional event, the Pacific Games had the potential to increase biosecurity risk. This risk could have been due to the increased importation of construction materials and catering, the influx of travellers, spectators and workers from around the region. In response to this, BSI took a number of precautionary steps including increasing their staffing at the borders and follow-on plant and animal health surveillance activities.

This most recent joint plant health survey linked in with BSI’s established post-games trapping program. It involved visiting ‘high-biosecurity-risk’ sites around Honiara with the aim of detecting any exotic plant pest threats that may have been introduced as a result of the Pacific Games. The timing of this increased surveillance immediately following the Games is important as it provides the best opportunity to detect, respond and potentially prevent the further spread of a biosecurity incursion.

The team also surveyed sites in and around Lata in Temotu Province. The key pathways of interest in Lata were the movement of international tourist yachts, foreign logging activities and cross-border movement and trade with Vanuatu.

Activities such as these strengthen formal and informal networks between Australia and the Solomon Islands, increase capacity for detection and response to biosecurity incursions within the Solomon Islands and contribute information on emerging pest threats in the region.

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The entomology team setting up fruit fly traps around the guesthouse in Lata, Temotu Province. In picture Michael Gorton (DAFF) and Gideon Suda (BSI). Photo credit: Emily Lamberton

Survey team members (George Harunari and Emily Lamberton) drill a coconut palm to sample the heart tissue for any disease. Photo credit: Lynne Jones

Gideon Suda (BSI) and Michael Gorton (DAFF) undertaking field surveillance in Lata, Temotu Province. Photo credit: Emily Lamberton

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