Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Students with a creative flair are being encouraged to step forward and submit their artwork for the chance to see it projected onto the façade of Australian Parliament House. The opportunity is open to creative students in Years 5 and 6 across Dawson, with selected artworks set to feature as part of Canberra’s Enlighten Festival 2027, which will run from February 26th to March 8th and celebrate light, art and creativity. As part of celebrations marking 100 years of Parliament in Canberra, artworks from every Australian state and territory will be projected onto the Australian Parliament House façade. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP said the opportunity would allow young artists to showcase what makes the Dawson region special. “Our part of Queensland is pretty hard to beat when it comes to inspiration,” Mr Willcox said. “We have the Great Barrier Reef, cane fields, beaches, rainforest, rivers, farmers, fishing, wildlife and some of the most unique communities in the country. “There is plenty there to put on the big screen, and in this case, the screen is Parliament House itself.” From the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and cane fields to local wildlife and communities, students are being encouraged to draw inspiration from the places, people, animals, plants and landscapes that make their part of Australia unique. Mr Willcox said he would love to see Dawson represented among the artworks selected for the national display. “I would love to see a slice of Dawson among them,” Mr Willcox added. “Imagine walking around Canberra at night and seeing Parliament House illuminated with artwork created by a student from Dawson. “That would be something to be proud of.” The program also provides students with an opportunity to engage with civics and learn more about the home of Australia’s democracy. Mr Willcox is encouraging schools, teachers and parents across Dawson to support creative Year 5 and 6 students to take part. Submissions close Thursday, October 29th. A student toolkit containing tips and templates, along with a fact sheet for parents, is available through the Parliament House website at aph.gov.au/StudentArtwork. Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP is calling on creative Year 5 and 6 students across the region to submit their artwork for the chance to feature on Australian Parliament House during Enlighten Festival 2027. Photo supplied
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Mackay’s CBD and St Patrick’s Church on River Street were filled with officers in blue last Tuesday 29th September, as Queensland Police Service officers gathered alongside local representatives and members of the public to honour the lives of those who never came home from their shift. A march through the Mackay CBD was followed by a memorial service at St Patrick’s Church for National Police Remembrance Day. Officers and staff from across Mackay joined members of the community to honour those who lost their lives in the line of duty and reflect on their courage, dedication and sacrifice. Mayor Greg Williamson spoke about the community’s appreciation for police and the important role officers play across the region. He highlighted how police are often the first people the community turns to when there is a safety concern, while also recognising officers as members of local families and communities. “The people of Mackay call them when there's community safety at risk. And so, today, there's a chance for us, as a community, to join with the police force and say, We, as a community, really appreciate what you do.” “To the people who put their hand up to be in the police force, thank you. Thank you for what you are doing for us as a community, and for Queensland in general.” “Quite often, we take the police for granted, but that's who we call first, when there's a community risk apparent.” Mackay Whitsunday District Officer Superintendent Dean Cavanagh spoke about the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice and the lasting impact their deaths have had on families, friends, colleagues and the wider community. He also reflected on the strong attendance at the memorial and the respect shown towards those being remembered. “Today we come together as one voice to remember those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice.” “We gather not only to remember their courage, but also to acknowledge the profound impact their loss has had on families, friends, colleagues, and this community.” “It’s a privilege to see such a strong attendance here today, and it always demonstrates the enduring respect held for those that we remember.” “Please remember that today’s an opportunity to recognise the values of service, sacrifice and a reminder that behind every badge is a person.” “With honour they served.” On Tuesday 29th September, Mackay police officers, local representatives and community members gathered for National Police Remembrance Day. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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A one-year-old girl has tragically died following a fatal traffic crash in Dysart on Sunday, 27th September. Emergency services were called to Golden Mile Road at about 9.05am after a single vehicle left the road and rolled. The one-year-old girl was declared deceased at the scene. A five-month-old boy also sustained serious injuries in the crash. The driver, a 22-year-old Moranbah woman, sustained minor injuries. Police are appealing for anyone who may have information, including dashcam or CCTV footage, to come forward. The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. There were no further updates at the time of print.
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A thoughtful act of kindness is helping bring a little extra warmth to premature babies and their families at Mackay Base Hospital. My Hospital Foundation recently expressed their gratitude to the team Mackay Youth Justice Services, for a delivery of hand-knit premature baby beanies. The cosy hats were knit by a young person in connection to the service as part of their community hours, with help from Indigenous Service Support Officer Jackie T. “These beautiful handmade gifts have been donated to babies at Mackay Base Hospital and will bring comfort to families during a very special time,” a spokesperson said. “Acts of kindness like this make a real difference in our community. Thank you for your generosity and support.” The beanies are a reminder that even small gestures can make a big impact, with the young person's time and effort helping to support local families when they need it most.
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Sharon Ashman.
Anxiety can affect the way we think, feel, and respond to everyday experiences. It can create a cycle of worry, physical tension, avoidance, and reduced confidence.
While psychotherapy remains one of the most effective treatments for anxiety, research increasingly highlights the value of combining psychological strategies with regular exercise to support recovery and long-term wellbeing. Over the coming weeks we will explore why combination of psychotherapies and exercise gets the best results
Psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), helps people understand the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Through therapy, individuals learn to identify unhelpful thinking patterns, challenge anxious beliefs, develop coping strategies, and gradually face situations they may have been avoiding.
Exercise complements this process by supporting changes within the body and brain. Physical activity helps regulate stress hormones, improves mood-related chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, and reduces physiological tension associated with anxiety.
Exercise can also help individuals become more comfortable with physical sensations linked to anxiety, such as an increased heart rate or faster breathing.
Together, psychotherapy and exercise create a powerful mind–body approach. Exercise does not need to involve intense workouts. Walking, swimming, yoga, gardening, cycling, or gentle strength training can all provide benefits. The goal is regular movement that feels achievable and sustainable.
For many people, recovery from anxiety is not about eliminating all anxious feelings, but learning that anxiety can be managed. Psychotherapy provides the tools, while exercise helps reinforce confidence, reduce stress, and reconnect people with their bodies.
“If you’d like more support in managing ADHD for yourself or your family, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give Cristie 0488667264 or me 0418708214.”
Queenslanders waiting for elective surgery are set to receive treatment sooner, with the State Government expanding its Surgery Connect program to help reduce wait times and restore people's mobility, independence and quality of life.
Backed by a $247 million investment in the 2026–27 State Budget, the program has already delivered more than 35,000 additional procedures across the state. The latest funding will also bring 11 new service providers on board, including in Mackay and Townsville, improving access to surgery for regional Queenslanders.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the addition of new service providers and bolstered funding was good news for anyone waiting on life changing surgery with thousands of additional procedures supported by the program.
“Procedures like cataract surgery, joint replacements and ear nose and throat surgeries significantly improve a patient’s quality of life,” Mr Last said.
“Research has proven that long delays waiting for these procedures means symptoms worsen, pain increases and there is an impact on the patient’s mental health.”
“This is why we are partnering with providers to ensure these patients can access these surgeries sooner.”
Mr Last said the Crisafulli Government's $1.8 billion investment in elective surgery was already delivering results, with the statewide elective surgery waiting list falling to 58,496 patients. He said the reduction followed years of rising demand, with the list reaching a high of 66,632 after increasing year on year over the previous decade.
“Since February 2025 more than 35,000 procedures have been delivered and in turn helped stabilise the Queensland elective surgery waitlist.”
“Besides the obvious benefits for patients, Surgery Connect reduces the pressure on our health staff who, through no fault of their own, have been forced to delay surgeries.”
The Whitsunday community continues to show its willingness to rally behind those in need, with the Whitsunday Escape raffle raising an incredible $45,600 to support Lucy Scarrott in her fight against cancer.
The Charter for a Cause raffle kicked off nearly two months ago, offering locals the chance to give back to four-year-old Lucy after she was diagnosed with medulloblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer that has required her family to relocate to Brisbane while she undergoes treatment.
Determined to lend a hand, Whitsunday Escape launched the fundraiser with the help of Geoff St Clair and Kim Mitchell, who generously donated a five-night charter aboard their brand-new Seawind 1370, Sidetracked.
The holiday, valued at around $11,000, was offered as the major prize, with 1,000 raffle tickets made available at $50 each and proceeds going towards Lucy and her family.
By the time the raffle closed on the 31st July, 912 tickets had been sold, bringing the final amount raised to $45,600.
“We were blown away by the community response, both locally and from the Whitsunday Escape Community,” said Jaclyn Watson, general manager of Whitsundays Escape.
“We are so grateful to the owner for donating the charter on his brand-new boat, and to the Proserpine Lions Club for supporting us to run this raffle and collect the money, as well as distribute it to the family.”
“It really has been a community effort and we are so humbled to be part of it.”
For Lucy and her family, that funding comes at a vital time. Lucy just finished 30 complete rounds of radiation therapy and is nearing the end of her first seven cycles of chemotherapy.
The family says she’s dealt with the treatment better than expected, though it has begun to start taking its toll.
Depending on where she is in each treatment cycle, her blood counts and whether she is battling any viruses or infections, Lucy has been swapping in and out of patient care at the Queensland Children’s Hospital.
For the family, the generosity from back home has allowed them to stay together, giving them the chance to devote their time to being by Lucy’s side.
“It means we can spend this time together as a family and focus on giving Lucy the support she needs,” the family said.
“It is a long hard road for Lucy, so being able to surround her with family every step of the way truly means the world.”
While the raffle has now wrapped up, those still wishing to donating to Lucy and her family can do so through their GoFundMe page:
Proserpine Mill processed close to 82,300 tonnes of cane for the week, which is the highest weekly throughput for the season to date. The season total is now just over 572,000 tonnes.
Average weekly CCS came in above budget, at 14.22 units. The highest weekly CCS sample for the week was 17.00 units, from a rake of KQ228 plant cane in the Kelsey Creek District.
Harvesting operators are again reminded to follow siding procedures when delivering or collecting bins.
These procedures are designed to safeguard the safety of all users and maintain the efficient operation of our sidings. Please check that all your operators have completed the mandatory siding induction.
Our cane trains work around the clock, seven days a week, so please continue to use your train brain and always take care around the cane rail network.
Seven people are facing 24 charges after police targeted a string of alleged break-ins, thefts and other offences across Bowen.
Bowen Criminal Investigation Branch Detectives, assisted by Whitsunday Tactical Crime Squad Officers, executed several search warrants as part of Operation Mackay Essence in late July.
Officers also conducted 43 street checks and 383 roadside breath and drug tests as part of the crackdown.
One of those arrested was a 22-year-old Bowen man accused of committing several offences across the area between 16th - 22nd July.
Police allege the man entered a Champion Street facility on 17th July and stole a vehicle, before attempting to enter a Don Street business the following day. On 21st July, he is suspected of entering a Linley Street hotel and stole tools, a firearm and ammunition, before a further alleged break-in at a Peter Delemothe Road business on 22nd July.
The 22-year-old faces multiple charges, including entering premises, willful damage, unlawful use of a motor vehicle and stealing a firearm or ammunition. He remains in custody and is due before Bowen Magistrates Court on 1st September.
A separate investigation saw a 20-year-old Bowen man charged over several alleged incidents between 16th and 21st June involving stolen fuel, a trailer and other property, as well as the alleged unlawful entry of a Linley Street premises.
He faces two counts of stealing, along with one count each of stealing a vehicle and entering a dwelling with intent and is due before Bowen Magistrates Court on 18th August.
After the crash. Photos supplied by Rogin Taylor
After 61 years in the cockpit, experienced Whitsunday pilot Rogin Taylor has walked away uninjured from another frightening incident after his aircraft collided with an airport utility vehicle on the runway at Whitsunday Coast Airport.
At 5pm on Saturday 8th August, Whitsunday Sports Aviators Club president and Proserpine Aero Club vice-president Rogin Taylor was bringing his Atec Zephyr into Whitsunday Coast Airport, where he planned to leave the aircraft ahead of a four-day flying safari around North Queensland with four mates.
After touching down on Runway 11, Rogin said he spotted an airport utility vehicle stationary about 100 metres ahead.
With the aircraft already committed to the landing, he veered right in an attempt to avoid a head-on collision, but the left wing struck the vehicle, snapping off and spinning the plane around completely.
“It was distressing, actually a little bit frightening,” said Rogin.
Despite the impact and damage to the aircraft, Rogin escaped the collision without injury, although he said damage to the cockpit controls made it difficult to climb out.
Rogin said he expected the vehicle to move clear of the runway before his aircraft reached it, believing the driver had seen him in time. He claimed the driver later told him he had been unable to see the approaching plane due to the setting sun.
The incident also disrupted operations at Whitsunday Coast Airport, with a departing Jetstar service delayed while the aircraft’s debris remained on the runway.
Whitsunday Regional Council acknowledged the incident in a statement following the collision.
“The safety of passengers, airport personnel and all airport users remains Council’s highest priority,” Council said.
“The incident has been reported to the relevant aviation authorities and is currently under investigation.”
“As the matter is under investigation, Council will not comment further on the circumstances of the incident at this time.”
This isn’t the first time the seasoned pilot has survived a frightening incident, having previously watched one of his aircraft burst into flames and, in 2022, survived a crash into the Proserpine River.
That crash left his aircraft completely submerged, with the pressure luckily freeing both Rogin and his passenger from the plane before they spent around 40 minutes swimming to shore through the most densely crocodile-populated river in Queensland.
Despite all this, Rogin is unwavering in his love for flying, and even has plans of getting back in the plane sooner than you’d believe.
“I just put it all behind me,” Rogin said.
“I also have another airplane which I'll probably fly later this week.”
Amanda Camm MP, Premier David Crisafulli, students from Proserpine state high school and St Catherines Catholic College cutting the ribbon and officially opening the new office. All photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
Amanda Camm MP has officially cut the ribbon unveiling the new Whitsunday Electorate office in Proserpine, drawing in all types of community members, alongside a surprise appearance from Premier David Crisafulli.
The new office marks a fresh chapter for the Whitsunday electorate, with Ms Camm welcoming and thanking guests through the doors to celebrate the opening alongside her staff, community representatives, students and volunteers.
The Premier was among those in attendance, making a surprise trip to Proserpine to help officially open the office, cut the ceremonial ribbon and chat with attendees, while sharing his optimism for the future of the community.
“There is a future, let me tell you there is a future, and you're living it and you're feeling it at the moment,” Mr Crisafulli said in a speech at the opening.
“[Amanda Camm] loves the community, she’s served it across two levels of government, she believes in you and she fights hard for you.”
Ms Camm used the gathering as an opportunity to recognise several standouts within the community who have gone above and beyond through their time and commitment.
Among those recognised was Lyn Burke, who received a special acknowledgement for her contribution to the community, alongside Val and Michael Kimpton for their efforts in delivering the recent Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival, and Shane from Fierce Signage in Mackay for his quick work installing the new signage in time for the grand opening.
She also recognised members of her electorate team, thanking them for the work they do behind the scenes to support her and the wider Whitsunday community.
“There are so many people here who contribute so much, but really go above and beyond with their time and their commitment,” Ms Camm said.
“In doing so, it really showcases our community as well.”
A 60 year old sea turtle has been returned home after rehabilitation. Photo source: Eco Barge Clean Seas
A mature green sea turtle believed to be approximately 60 years old has returned to the sea after months of rehabilitation at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, operated by Eco Barge Clean Seas.
Regina has been released back into Whitsunday waters at Hayman Island following her recovery from a serious boat-strike injury and buoyancy syndrome, near the area she was discovered.
Resort staff had been closely monitoring her condition over several months when it became clear that intervention was needed.
The Centre’s dedicated volunteer turtle carers provided daily treatment, monitoring and nutritional support. Her wound gradually healed, her buoyancy improved and she regained the strength needed to return to the wild.
“Regina’s recovery is a wonderful example of what can be achieved when the community comes together to protect our marine wildlife,” said Libby Edge, Founder and CEO of Eco Barge Clean Seas.
“To see her regain her strength and return to the wild is incredibly rewarding for everyone involved in her rescue and rehabilitation.”
The rescue has reminded local boaties to slow down in areas where turtles are known to occur and maintain a careful lookout for marine wildlife, and sparked deep gratitude for the hardworking volunteers dedicating their time to looking after our beautiful reef.
Whether you're arriving for a tropical holiday, heading out to explore the islands or travelling to and from the region, Whitsunday Transit is helping locals and visitors stay connected every step of the way.
As the Whitsundays' leading transport provider, Whitsunday Transit operates a fleet of modern, air-conditioned buses and coaches, meeting all incoming and departing flights at Whitsunday Coast Airport in Proserpine. Guests are then transported to a variety of destinations and accommodation providers throughout Airlie Beach and the surrounding area.
The service also caters to passengers travelling by rail, with vehicles meeting all arriving and departing Queensland Rail services at Proserpine.
For those eager to experience some of the region's most iconic attractions, Whitsunday Transit provides convenient connections to the Whitsunday Islands, the Great Barrier Reef and the world-famous Whitehaven Beach, with regular services stopping at the Cruise Whitsundays Maritime Terminal at the Port of Airlie.
In addition to tourism services, the company offers school transfers and charter services, with a range of vehicles available to accommodate groups of all sizes.
Recognised as a Queensland Good to Go business, Whitsunday Transit continues to play an important role in helping people discover everything the region has to offer.
From the moment visitors arrive to the time they head home, the team is ready to welcome passengers aboard and connect them with the beauty of the Whitsundays.
For more information, visit whitsundaytransit.com.au
Some places are too good to stay secret, even if the locals wish they could.
Just 45 minutes north of Airlie Beach, at the end of one of the Whitsundays' most scenic coastal drives, sits Dingo Beach Hotel – the kind of old-school Queensland pub that reminds you why the best discoveries are often found off the beaten track.
With absolute beachfront views, an easy-going atmosphere and genuine North Queensland hospitality, it's the sort of place where lunch has a habit of turning into an afternoon, and an afternoon can easily become a weekend away.
Since new owners took the reins in March 2025, the much-loved local icon has undergone a thoughtful refresh, with improvements designed to make the venue even more comfortable and welcoming while preserving everything that makes it special. It's still the relaxed coastal pub locals love – just better than ever.
Whether you're chasing a hearty pub meal, a cold beer overlooking the Coral Sea or simply somewhere to slow down for a while, Dingo Beach Hotel delivers the kind of authentic Queensland experience that'sbecoming harder to find. It's pet-friendly, offers comfortable motel-style accommodation if you decide to stay the night, and even has a Thirsty Camel bottle shop on site, making it a handy stop for travellers and boaties stocking up for their next adventure.
If you're visiting the Whitsundays and want to experience more than the usual tourist trail, this hidden gem is well worth the detour. Enjoy live music every Saturday and Sunday, and keep an eye on the Dingo Beach Hotel Facebook page for upcoming gigs, events and what's happening next.
To plan your visit, head to dingobeachhotel.com.au
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Images supplied by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
While kittens often capture the spotlight, older cats have just as much love to give and are often overlooked when it comes to finding a forever home.
Mackay Pet Rescue is encouraging locals to consider adopting a mature feline, highlighting the many benefits that come with welcoming an older cat into the family. Unlike kittens, senior cats have already developed their personalities, making it easier for adopters to find a companion that suits their lifestyle. They are often calmer, well-socialised and happy to settle into a comfortable routine.
Among the rescue's current residents looking for loving homes are Elodie, Violet and Aggie, three beautiful older cats with plenty of affection to share.
The rescue team also attended the Together for Shelter Expo at Queens Park this Thursday from 10am to 1pm. Following the success of last year's event, Mackay Pet Rescue once again offered free items to visitors, while a veterinarian was on site providing health checks and vaccinations.
A representative from Zoetis was also in attendance, contributing giveaways and information, while support from the Mackay Community Foundation helped make the day possible through a community grant and donated supplies from local businesses.
For these deserving older cats, a second chance could make all the difference.
Contact Mackay Pet Rescue Inc for more information
If you find yourself in the mood for some bad news, if you really want a solid dose of negativity, if you think things are humming along a bit too nicely and you want to suck the life out of it and sink into a state of overwhelming negativity … the easiest thing to do is turn on the TV news.
The bad news could be any number of things; crime is a good one, particularly violent crime against innocent people. Let it get in your head and your depressed mood is set up for the day.
The cost of living is another beauty. Electricity costs, petrol, interest rates, inflation … turn on the morning news and you can hear all about it and set yourself up for the day.
The bad news for home owners has all been about how the property market is collapsing. It’s a national story and there is no doubt that some cities are being smashed with low clearance rates at auction and falling prices. Sydney is suffering the most.
It is definitely true that since the Federal Government’s decision to ban negative gearing on housing other than brand new builds and to increase capital gains tax, there has been a change to property markets around the country.
Investors are running for the hills in Sydney and showing a serious lack of interest in Melbourne and Brisbane.
The Government’s idea was to make property more affordable for first home buyers but in those big cities the first home buyers seem to be holding off as the prices fall. Meanwhile, home owners in those cities are stressed as they see the value of their properties fall. Strangely, most people don’t want the value of their home to fall.
But the national news coverage doesn’t tell you anything about Mackay. What are buyers doing here?
One good way of assessing that is to look at the number of loan applications and submissions from mortgage brokers to banks for those loans.
Gardian CEO Ben Phillips was until recently in charge of Gardian Finance’s Mortgage Choice franchise and in his new CEO role he obviously continues to have his finger on that pulse.
He spoke with Gardian real estate’s sales team the other day to tell us that whatever we might be hearing about the real estate situation around the country, it is a different story here.
The big indicator is the number of people in Mackay who are applying for loans to buy properties here.
The Gardian Finance/Mortgage Choice franchise is one of the most successful in the country and the number of loan applications in a particular month or quarter gives a good indication of the number of buyers in our market.
Gardian Finance’s Mortgage Choice franchise is 14th in the country for the dollar value of settlements (we are competing against much higher prices in southern cities) and is fourth in Australia for the number of submissions for loan approvals.
So current loan applications through Gardian finance tell us something about the number of buyers out there.
Ben said that in the month of July, we had the fourth-highest number of loan submissions in 26 years of business. That’s not bad in a supposed property downturn.
“We are incredibly busy with loan applications from Mackay buyers,” Ben told me.
“It shows that you can listen to the national news but Mackay seems to run differently to the capital cities and the settlement and loan submission numbers show that Mackay is getting on with it and people want to buy properties
“This is the best year we have had in terms of loan submissions and July was one of our strongest months ever.”
“Ninety-two per cent of the loan submissions are for owner-occupiers who want to put down roots in Mackay, people who love this place and feel confident about its future.”
You won’t hear about that on the national news but it’s worth knowing.
Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant. Photo source: Blacks Real Estate
Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant, bringing decades of experience in commercial print and marketing to the Mackay property industry.
Roy recently commenced his new role with the agency and is set to assist clients across the region with the sale of residential and commercial properties.
His background in print and marketing is expected to provide valuable insight for vendors looking to effectively present and promote their properties in a competitive market.
Blacks Real Estate said Roy’s extensive experience working with businesses and clients throughout his career would be an asset to the team and future clients alike.
Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients across the wider region.
(L-R) Previous Community Bank Sarina scholarship recipients and Sarina State High School students Wyatt, Makayli and Makylha attend a Community Bank Sarina hosted business networking event at Sarina Art Gallery. Photo supplied
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is calling on current Year 10 students at Sarina State High School (SSHS) to apply for the 2027 Senior Schooling Scholarships, an opportunity that has already supported many local students to pursue their career goals.
From future teachers to an aspiring nurse and tradesperson, previous recipients are utilising their scholarships to support their education, develop new skills and build connections within their community.
2026 scholarship recipients and current Grade 11 students Makayli Moyle and Makylha Bourke are both working towards careers in education.
Makayli said the scholarship has helped her stay focused on her studies and has reduced financial pressure.
“After finishing school, I plan to attend university and study a Bachelor of Education to become a primary school teacher. I hope to build a career where I can make a positive difference in children's lives by helping them learn, grow, and enjoy school,” Ms Moyle said.
Fellow recipient Makylha Bourke said the scholarship had supported both her studies and her connection with the wider community, as she works towards becoming a Physical Education Teacher. She is currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) through the CQUniversity SUN (Start Uni Now) Program.
“This scholarship has helped me over the past year with financial assistance for my extra school curricula, as well as helping me get to know the wider Sarina community,” Ms Bourke said.
2025 recipient Wyatt McKewen has utilised his scholarship to obtain a drone licence, purchase tools for his trade and undertake Certificate II Engineering Pathways studies, while also securing multiple apprenticeship interviews and joining the Sarina Rural Skills Centre Committee.
Fellow 2025 scholarship recipient Katie Stevenson is preparing for a career in nursing, having attended the James Cook University Heroes in Health program, where students gain insight into what it’s like to work across multiple health care disciplines.
Applications are now open for two $2,000 scholarships, available for SSHS students entering Year 11 in 2027.
These scholarships are supported through the Community Bank Sarina Community Engagement Program under the youth and education pillar, helping improve youth connectedness, enhance educational opportunities and build community leadership skills.
Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the scholarships are an investment in the next generation of local leaders.
"We’ve partnered with SSHS since 2017 to support more than 20 students with scholarships, encouraging them to work towards their careers and to develop the confidence and skills that will support them beyond school."
Ms Franettovich said seeing past recipients thrive demonstrated the lasting impact of the scholarship program.
"We're proud of what our scholarship recipients are achieving and encourage Year 10 SSHS students to apply. You don't need to have the highest grades, we're looking for well rounded young people who are committed to their education and their community."
Applications for the 2027 Community Bank Sarina SSHS Senior Scholarships close on 31 August 2026. To request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.
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