It’s certainly a special day for many people around Mackay and the Whitsundays. We’re just about a month away from Santa coming to town in his Kingswood Sleigh, and I’m sure he’s bringing his hungry reindeers along for the ride to eat up a few sugar cane sticks for energy.

Today is a good day if you want to get your Christmas shopping started. The Paxtons Night Markets are on at the PCYC this afternoon, plus there’s even more markets at the Mackay Showgrounds tomorrow, and the Troppo Markets next Sunday at Mt P.

So many ways to get Santa to have the best time this year.

Another way is to get your houses decorated in readiness for Dec 25. If it’s massive lights and trees out the front of your pad, or if it’s a small decoration on the front window, let us know so we can check out the locations and get into the Christmas spirit.

We love having the lights’ locations on the 4MK website to make it super easy to find the great light displays. If you’re riding shotgun in the car of a night, you can see where you are, and how close the closest lights are to you. It really is a great way to get into the spirit.

Oh, and another thing, have you got the annual Christmas Carols in the Gardens in your diary yet? Saturday Dec 7 at the Meadowlands Amphitheatre from 5:30. Santa will be making a very special entrance with all the kids there, there will be heaps of food vans, and kids’ activities. Plus, some of the best carols with the Mackay Big Band ready to get you singing your hearts out in West Mackay.

Plus, something cool too. Last year our Grinch was there running amok, well this year his lair is even bigger, and cooler, so you and your kids can get photos with the green guru and keep the shots as a memento of the great night with the family.

If you have a calendar on the wall, have a look at how many weeks there are left before Christmas. There’s five weekends left to get stuck into shopping and getting the house in order. Five weeks to start working out food, presents and of course how many bon-bons you must buy.

So many decisions. I hope it all works out for you.

If you are going to get that great spot by the beach for camping, get in now otherwise it may already be taken.

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

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Last night, the Whitsundays experienced a remarkable event as corals across the region simultaneously spawned, releasing millions of egg and sperm bundles into the water. This annual reproductive phenomenon is crucial for reef restoration, and Reef Catchments, along with key partners from the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), Southern Cross University, Traditional Owners and local tourism operators, were on-site to collect coral spawn as part of the innovative Boats4Corals program.    
The project team were strategically positioned around the Whitsundays to find the best coral spawn slicks thanks to surveys delivered last month, which looked at the presence or absence of coral eggs.    
AIMS project lead Dr Deborah Foote said: “This year’s coral assessments were a great success. Participants from four local organisations took part in the checks, building capacity in the region for future reef restoration initiatives. The team identified plenty of coral colonies with eggs, which provided valuable information when choosing sites for collection of coral spawn.”
The collected spawn was promptly transported to specially designed larval pools at Hook Island, where it will develop into coral larvae over the next five to six days. Once the larvae are ready to attach themselves to the ocean floor, they will be strategically released into degraded reef areas, providing these habitats with a much-needed recovery ‘boost.’
Reef Catchments Manager, Cass Hayward, says, “Coral spawning is an amazing event. It brings so much new life into the system. Through Boats4Corals we are trying to funnel some of that new life into particular areas which need a helping hand.”
Since the inception of the Boats4Corals project in 2020 which builds on a technique pioneered by Southern Cross University’s Distinguished Professor Peter Harrison, hundreds of millions of coral larvae have been successfully released into sites that have suffered considerable damage from Cyclone Debbie, with a focus on areas that have shown slower recovery than others. These efforts are vital as we work towards understanding how best to help enhance the resilience of the Great Barrier Reef’s coral ecosystem and supporting the long-term health of marine biodiversity.
A significant outcome of this project has been the training and upskilling of local tourism operators and Traditional Owners, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in this important conservation work. By involving local communities in these efforts, the project is fostering a deeper connection to the reef and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Great Barrier Reef Foundation Managing Director Anna Marsden said: “Right in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays is a critical sanctuary for the Reef’s diverse marine life. 
“The Foundation is pleased to be working hand in hand with scientists, the tourism industry, local community, Traditional Owners and Reef Catchments in the Whitsundays to help reefs recover from the impacts of climate change, including coral bleaching and increasingly severe cyclones using an innovative larval reseeding technique,” Ms Marsden said.
“The combination of the tourism industry’s leadership, boats, local knowledge, and people-power with scientifically-backed knowledge allows us to achieve reef restoration at a greater scale than researchers can achieve alone.” 
Reef Catchments Manager, Cass Hayward, elaborates, “Larval reseeding has been pioneered by scientists and researchers. Boats4Corals is all about the sharing of that information and method with local people. Building local capacity, such as within the tourism industry and Traditional Owners, is really the crux of this project.”
Reef Catchments invites the Whitsunday community to stay tuned to their social media channels for updates on the final numbers of spawn collected and larvae released.
The Reef Islands Initiative is a Great Barrier Reef Foundation program, supported by funding from Lendlease, the Australian Government’s Reef Trust, the Queensland Government and the Fitzgerald Family Foundation. Delivery of the Whitsunday Reef Islands Initiative is managed by Reef Catchments and is in partnership with the local Reef community including Traditional Owners, reef managers, scientific researchers, and tourism operators.
For additional details about this project and Reef Catchments’ ongoing efforts to restore reef health in the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region, visit www.reefcatchments.com.au.

“Coral spawning is an amazing event. It brings so much new life into the system. Through Boats4Corals we are trying to funnel some of that new life into particular areas which need a helping hand.”

Coral spawning. Photo credit: Johnny Gaskell

Tourism operators around a larval pool. Photo credit:  Johnny Gaskell

Boats4Corals team releasing coral larvae. Photo credit:  Cass Hayward

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Simon Hood
Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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As you know, October 31 marked the close of marketing nominations for the 2025 season.
With the dust now settled, we have registered a pleasing increase in the number of growers and GEI tonnes nominated through to Wilmar Grower Marketing in our milling regions.
A common theme with growers who nominated us is the financial benefits Wilmar has delivered over the last few seasons.
Wilmar’s Production Risk Pool continues to outperform QSL’s Harvest Pool, and the Allocation Account is adding a significant premium to the forward price that growers lock in through the Target price mechanism.
We will continue to work hard to maximise that premium as, being a large grower ourselves, it has a direct impact on our financial return.
Other positive commentary from growers relates to the work done by our local Grower Marketing consultants. Most of the team have direct agricultural backgrounds, so have an affinity with the challenges growers face each day. Their willingness to go over and above on a personal level, and their passion to see our growers succeed financially, means very few growers choose to leave Wilmar marketing.
Another pleasing result was the interest shown in our new Managed Pool Plus. The launch of this product for the 2025 season was in direct response to feedback regarding sugar price volatility.
The last 24 months have seen some big swings in sugar prices. Many growers who like the control of forward pricing are fatigued by the market gyrations. By laying off some of that control into the Managed Pool Plus, they get the benefit of having longer-term price management without the worry of having to watch the market on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, the concept of having access to the pool manager on a quarterly basis through a webinar format, provides further education around price risk management.
Again, thank you to all growers who chose Wilmar to manage their GEI price exposure for the 2025 season. Our team will work hard to ensure your trust is repaid.

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Proserpine Grower Marketing Consultant Shirley Norris with Grower Marketing Manager Simon Hood.

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One of the things I noticed about my father when I was a kid was that he would tuck his shirt into his underpants.
The idea was to keep the shirt tight and tidy and never untucked. But it was one of those “daggy” things your father did, so in the interests of being young and “cool” you would never do it yourself.
He would always carry a handkerchief as well, as did most people in those days, although they were more commonly known as a hankie.
I didn’t have much choice about the hankie because my mother would make sure I had one before heading off to school. But I reckon I stopped using hankies when I was about 17, when mum wasn’t as involved in such matters.
Two incidents, involving a couple of friends, reminded me of these old practices the other day.
I’ve got a Pommy mate who starts the working day looking okay but as it goes on he looks scruffier and scruffier, usually with his shirt partially untucked.
He’s not very good at keeping secrets and is known as a bit of a “canary”. So for some reason he told a colleague the other day that he had tucked his shirt into his underpants to keep himself looking tidy during the day. So everyone knew about the shirt-tuck. Too much information.
But it was a case of Back to the Future for me as I recalled my dad’s shirt-tucking practice.
Later in the day it was a case of Back to the Future II. I saw a gentleman from a very nice, established Mt Pleasant address take a sip of a beverage, proffer a comment on young people or something like that, and reach for his handkerchief.
The Mt Pleasant gent is a mate of mine and I have written about him previously, in particular his opposition to the practice of people wearing fishing shirts into places he deems unacceptable, like dining establishments.
I know what you are thinking: Please spare us from the affectations of this Mt P dandy with his leafy neighbourhood, pretentious kerchiefs and tut-tutting about fishing shirts and the like. Fair enough.
But the truth is my Mt Pleasant mate grew up in the tough streets of South Mackay in the 1960s and ’70s and, while he has worked his way up to a nice life, he hasn’t forgotten his roots.
For him, it’s not a handkerchief but a hankie. And, while seeing him bring out a hankie was a blast from the past for me, I reckon he had never stopped carrying one.
Some things in real estate might also seem like a blast from the past but, in fact, never went away and are now very popular.
Witness low-set brick veneer houses built in the 1970s and 1980s with their archways and sunken lounges … they are being snapped up for prices much higher than just a couple of years ago.
Not long ago people looked down their noses at the old brick veneer houses with archways, lino and shaggy old carpet. They seemed so “dated”.
But the truth is they are well-built, on decent-sized blocks with good vehicle access, all on one convenient level for people of all ages.
And they are in very central locations such as Mt Pleasant, South Mackay, Glenella, Beaconsfield and Andergrove. Investors love them because they know tenants will be lining up with rental applications.
Before the new owners or tenants move in, the orange carpet is usually replaced with more neutral-coloured carpet and the lino is replaced with vinyl planking.
The archways are left as they are because, just like tucking your shirt into your undies and carrying a hankie, they are back baby.

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Celebrating Mackay's 1900s Chinatown and bringing the essence of it into the modern day is the inspiration behind a new city heart project.
Mackay’s historic Chinatown sat between Wellington and Macalister streets, and from River Street to Gordon Street, from 1880 to 1930 and was an area of market gardens and Asian grocers.
It’s this area of River Street that the Mackay City Heart Collective plans to activate, thanks to $12,200 in funding approved in the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) round one of grants.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the grant would be used to create a fusion of celebrations.
“Mackay City Heart Collective is well-known for producing high quality activations in our city, the new BeeMindful mural in Seventh Lane being one of their most recent,” Mayor Williamson said.
“They have received this grant to bring a series of Chinese Lunar New Year celebration events into the area that was historically our Chinatown,” he said.
“The events would fuse Chinese New Year, the Lantern Festival and Spring Festival, and take place between January 29 to February 12, 2025, to create an 'Asian Spring' inspired festivity.
“The City Heart Collective artists will beautify the area with fish-related elements place in a variety of locations in the City Heart.”
Artist Lalune Croker has also received $7756 to create Asian lanterns to hang from both the Whitsunday Hotel and Ford petrol station during Chinese New Year to celebrate Mackay’s historic Chinatown.
Also funded in this RADF grants round were:
   • Tiffany Grace Music - $9900 to record five news songs ready for release with photos and videos.
   • Grace McDonald Azure Glass - $8540 to deliver a masterclass in printing techniques on thick kiln formed glass.
   • Noosa Film Academy - $7756 to deliver narrative video therapy digital storytelling workshops and red-carpet community screening events for Mackay disadvantaged and low socio-economic youth.
   • Home, Heart and Heritage: A Culinary Journey through the Mackay Region by Michelle Camilleri - $5940 to produce a series of video documentaries that celebrate the region’s diverse cultures, local art and the artistry of home cooking.
   • Mangrove: Peeling back the Past by Janet Ambrose - $5505 to complete a publication of portraits, stories and artworks to showcase artists and Elders from the Multigenerational Multicultural community of Mackay.
   • Creative Connection Workshops with Fiona Flohr - $4730 to deliver a series of pottery workshops through The Neighbourhood Hubs and Migrant Women’s Group.
   • A Very Merry YarnBomb with the Northern Beaches Community Network - $1870 to deliver four crochet workshops, mentoring a community group to create a Christmas-themed yarnbomb installation.
The next round of RADF is now open and closes on February 5, 2025. Speak with the Arts Development Officer to discuss your project on phone 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or by email creative@mackay.qld.gov.au.

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Chinese greengrocer in Mackay circa 1880 -1930. Image source: Mackay Historical Society

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The Mackay Isaac region was celebrated in full force at the Queensland Tourism Awards last Friday night, with local operators, businesses, and events gaining state-wide recognition for their commitment to excellence in tourism. 

Mackay Isaac Tourism's CEO, Jeff Stewart-Harris, said he was proud to witness the Mackay Isaac region shine at the prestigious black-tie event.
 
“I had the privilege of attending the Queensland Tourism Awards on Friday night alongside some of our local operators, businesses, and stakeholders, and it was fantastic to see our region represented,” said Mr. Stewart-Harris.
 
“It’s a real testament to the exceptional talent and hard work of our local tourism community here in the Mackay Isaac region.”

Award Placements:
Oh Deere Farm Stay, Bronze in Unique Accommodation
Between the Tides (Queensland Music Festivals), Silver in Cultural Tourism
Windmill Motel and Events Centre, Bronze in Business Events Venues
St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend (Isaac Regional Council), Bronze in Festivals and Events
 
In the crowd amongst over 1,000 attendees were owners of Oh Deere Farm Stay Karinda and Dale Anderson who were just ecstatic at the achievement.
 
“Receiving Bronze is an incredible honour and a reflection of our dedication to providing visitors with a genuine, memorable farm stay experience”, said Mrs Anderson.
 
“This award highlights our commitment to sustainable tourism and authentic storytelling, and we’re thrilled to share this success with our team and community.
 
“We look forward to welcoming even more visitors to the Mackay Isaac region into the future”.
 
Property Manager of the Windmill Motel & Events Centre Leanne Green said they are incredibly honoured to be acknowledged at the Queensland Tourism Awards.
 
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team, who strive every day to provide exceptional experiences for our guests.” 
 
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the recognition for St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend highlights the strong relationships between community and council to promoting a sustainable tourism event.
 
“Winning the Bronze at the Queensland Tourism Awards is a testament to the hardworking volunteers, our valued partners and the entire Isaac team.
 
“Their commitment has brought to life an event that immerses visitors in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the St Lawrence Wetlands,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
 
CEQ of Queensland Music Festivals Daryl Raven was humbled by the announcement at the Queensland Tourism Awards. 

“We would like to especially thank the Yuwi people, the traditional custodians of the region, for sharing their stories and heritage, which were central to this project,” Mr Raven said.
 
“I’d also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Greg Williamson for his continued support and commitment to fostering a thriving tourism landscape in Mackay.”
  
As the region celebrates this achievement, it looks forward to building on this momentum and showcasing even more of what makes Mackay Isaac unforgettable in the years to come.

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Dale and Karinda Anderson from Oh Deere Farm Stay won a bronze award in the Unique Accommodation category at the Queensland Tourism Awards. Photo credit: Oh Deere Farm Stay

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The Importance Of Remembering Those Who Served

By Hannah McNamara

Last Monday marked the 106th anniversary of the armistice in 1918. On the 11th of November each year, we come together as a nation to remember and honour more than 103,000 names that remain imprinted on both the bronze panels in the Australian war memorial, and on the hearts of their loved ones. Known as the ultimate sacrifice, many young men and women were sent out to fight - for our country, for our communities, for our families, and ultimately, for our freedom. Though the years go by, let us never forget the imprint they’ve had on our lives, and let us be grateful that we now get to live a life that some veterans never got to live. Lest We Forget.

“It’s going to be young people who will be the ones to continue to tell these stories,” said Mr. Mike Goodwin OAM.

As the years go by and new generations arise, the call to remembrance has never been so urgent. Each year, veterans young and old, gather with fellow survivors of the war, each tarnished with memories of serving either in the field, in the Air Force or on a ship. Most under the age of eighteen, they were sent out to defend our country, entering with fear and the uncertainty of their return.

More than 416,000 Australians volunteered for service in World War I. 324,000 served overseas, more than 60,000 Australians died, 4,000 became POWs and more than 100,000 were wounded.

As veterans, families and community representatives gathered at Jubilee Park Cenotaph last Monday, honourable men and women adorned themselves in badges, suits and red poppies on the 11th of the 11th, in remembrance of the day in 1918, where World War I ceased.  

To fully grasp the relief and joy of knowing that the battle was over, mixed with feelings of overwhelming grief for their mates that didn’t make it out alive is something that, we - as civilians will never be able to comprehend.

Image the heavy guns…falling and hitting the ground, the skies no longer filled with smoke and debris, the sound of birds chirping, and the thought of coming home to their families. Though most were injured physically, the shockwaves of the emotional scarring remained for years to come.

As the years go by, and the last of the World War veterans grow old, their greatest wish is to share their stories with the upcoming generations in fear of their sacrifice being forgotten.

Mr. Mike Goodwin OAM is a history teacher, and was honoured to be a guest speaker at this year’s Remembrance Day ceremony. He reflected on the importance of educating the next generation.

“I’d like to take a few moments, if I could, to talk about using the positive ideals of the ANZAC legacy to celebrate our future, because as we know, our future is with young people.

“When I talk about the future, of course, I’m talking about young people and the role they play in our ANZAC legacy.”

Mr. Goodwin then shared a memorable experience from a school trip to Anzac Cove and the “beautiful” Ari Burnu Cemetery, where he aimed to bring the history of the ANZACs to life for his students.

“They were so connected,” he said.

“They didn’t want to leave.

“Just as we were about to leave, I noticed there was one student sitting at a grave…so I went over to get her, and I'll never forget the next few moments…

“She looked up at me, her eyes were full of tears and there were tears rolling down her cheeks, and she looked into my eyes and she just shook her head.

“And she said, ‘Sir’, And she looked back at the grave, she looked back up at me, she said, ‘Sir…he died on my birthday,’ she said, ‘now I'm going to have to live two lives.’

The audience was moved by the many touching anecdotes shared by Mr Goodwin.

Through continuously teaching the next generation, Mr Goodwin along with the RSL hopes to prolong the vitality of remembering those who laid down their life for our country.

Attending his first Remembrance Day Service, was the region’s newly appointed Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, who said the day was a “very emotional moment” for him.

“It’s a very emotional time, and there are no words of thanks that you can ever give to a youngster going off and fighting for our freedom… but I think the legacy we have here in Mackay is just wonderful.”

A Mackay Tiger Moth Museum flew past around 11:11am.

As the years pass, may we never forget the impact they’ve made on our lives, and remain grateful for the life we enjoy - one that some veterans never had the chance to experience.

Lest We Forget

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Veterans,their families and distinguished guests gathered at the Jubilee Park Cenotaphon the 11^th of the 11^th to remember the fallen andcommemorate those still standing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mayor of Mackay Greg Williamson, CEO Scott Owen, Deputy Mayor Karen May, and Councillor Heath Patton

Mayor Greg Williamson

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP and Mr Andrew Willcox MP Federal Member for Dawson

Student Musicians Kayla Lovern on the violin from Mackay State High School and Billy Hancroft on the trumpet from North View State School.

Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President and Vietnam Veteran, Ken Higgins

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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This week, we gathered in quiet reflection for Armistice Day on Monday, 11th November—a day that marks the end of the First World War in 1918. It was a moment to remember that, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the guns fell silent after four years of relentless warfare. It’s more than a date etched in history; it’s a solemn reminder of the price paid for our freedom—lives cut short, families forever changed, and dreams left unfulfilled.

Across our towns, people stood together in silence, united not just in grief but in gratitude. We remembered the men and women who gave everything in the hope that future generations would live without the shadow of war. It’s a powerful call for all of us to learn from the past, to understand the weight of those sacrifices, and to cherish the peace they fought so hard to secure. You can read more from our journalist Hannah about the ceremonies and reflections from our community on pages 4, 10, and 11.

Yet, remembrance is not only about looking back; it's about shaping a better tomorrow. It was heartening to see the newly sworn-in youth council stepping up, ready to carry the torch forward. These young leaders, featured on page 5, remind us that the future is in capable hands—hands that are eager to build a world worthy of the sacrifices of the past.

We do have a more clear and present danger upon us. With the dry conditions across our region, the threat of fires is on the rise. In recent weeks, we've seen multiple blazes, including one devastating fire that left a local family with nothing but the clothes on their backs (see page 12). This is a stark reminder of how quickly disaster can strike, turning lives upside down in a matter of moments. As we head into disaster season, it's crucial for all of us to stay vigilant, be prepared, and look out for one another. There’s more on what you can do to get ready for storm season on page 9.

As we remember those who sacrificed so much, we’re reminded that the responsibility for our future lies in our hands—shaped by the choices we make today, and the strength we draw from each other.

Amanda

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The North Mackay Bowls Club Ladies have shown a generous spirit by clearing out their former club uniform shirts to support those in need.

Since merging with the men's team and adopting a new club shirt, numerous high-quality garments - some never worn - have been left unused in closets. Rather than letting these shirts sit idle, the club decided to donate them to a third-world country, where they will be put to good use.

Helen Fleming, the club’s Ladies Secretary, expressed her amazement at the number of shirts collected, with many in pristine condition.

“It was unbelievable how many shirts came to light, some have never been worn,” she noted, grateful for the members' willingness to contribute to the project.

The initiative was brought to fruition with the help of Ladies President Lidia McCarthy, Vice President Hilary Jones-Rowan and Secretary Helen Fleming. Together, they organised the collection and arranged for the garments to be sent off. St Vincent de Paul generously agreed to ship the shirts, ensuring they reach their new home where they can make a real difference.

Through this donation, they are helping provide clothing to those in need, showing that even the smallest acts of kindness can mean the world to someone else.

How can you make a difference in somebody’s life today?

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Ladies President Lidia McCarthy, Vice President Hilary Jones-Rowan and Secretary Helen Fleming. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group recently achieved an unforgettable victory at DanceRites 2024, Australia’s premier national dance competition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups. Hosted at the iconic Sydney Opera House, this event brought together nearly 300 dancers from all over the country to showcase their culture, language, and heritage. For the Mackay group, it was their very first time entering the competition, and they brought home the win.

“Pretty much, we practiced all year around,” explained Frank Cook, a proud member of the group.

“We were preparing for NAIDOC events, Reconciliation Week, and other celebrations, so we kept practicing and perfecting our routine for DanceRites,” Frank said.

This dedication paid off, especially in the final round, where the group’s unique performance captivated the judges and audience alike.

Reflecting on what set them apart, Frank noted, “Our final performance was really special. It wasn’t something that had been done before.

“We used flag signals to represent the Mackay postcode which tied into the uniqueness of the song, and the dance was inspired by a captain using the environment around him with the winds and the tides.

The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural group’s win is not just a personal achievement for the dancers but a significant victory for the whole Mackay community. Frank shared that “we’re still trying to comprehend what happened it was such a spontaneous entry…There was eighteen groups all up, and we came out on top.”

Frank says the group represents a holistic approach to culture, including singing, dancing, language, and traditional practices like cooking and hunting.

“We’re not just a dance group,” Frank explained.

“We try to represent our heritage and identity in everything we do.”

He encourages the youth to go and sit down with their elders and get that cultural knowledge.

“There’s only a few elders left and once it’s gone that’s pretty much our walking library, so take that time to sit with the elders, get that story, get that language and get that history.”

The group extends their gratitude to all supporters, sponsors and community members who backed them all the way up to their victory with fundraisers and encouragement. Their victory is a shared achievement that honours the strength of culture. Next year, the group will return to DanceRites 2025 as honoured guests, leaving a lasting mark at the Sydney Opera House in 2024.

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The Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group danced their way to victory at DanceRites 2024, celebrating culture, language, and heritage on the iconic stage of the Sydney Opera House! Photo credit: mkytsiculturalgroup (Instagram)

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Twelve young people from across Mackay were sworn in as Youth Councillors last month to represent local young people at Mackay Regional Council for the next 18 months.

At a ceremony held at the Mackay Regional Council chambers the 2024/2025 Youth Council became the second in the region to be sworn in, marking the beginning of their term in office.

More than 2000 young people aged 11 to 17 cast votes at 18 polling locations across the local government area in August to elect the 12 members.

Youth councillor Nate Ralph said the swearing in ceremony was a powerful event that begin the second term of the youth council, which can provide the youth of Mackay a voice.

“I am extremely privileged to speak on behalf of the young people of Mackay and give them a seat at the table,” Nate said.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said this program, now in its second year, gave youth a voice in shaping the community’s future.

“It's inspiring to witness such a diverse group of young leaders ready to make a difference.” he said.

“I had the privilege of swearing in our new Youth Council. The ceremony started with a meaningful smoking ceremony, setting the stage for positivity on this important journey.”

The Mackay Youth Council will serve an 18-month term in office from October 2024 to May 2026. They will have a $10,000 budget to deliver their priority agenda.

The Mackay Youth Council is part of a partnership between Mackay Regional Council and the Foundation for Young Australians, a pilot program being delivered with local councils in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

Meet the Mackay Youth Council

●Amelia Webber

●Elena Mathew

●Ethan Forde

●Lila Munt

●Lily Cheyne

●Logan Ivory

●Magenta Arthy

●Natacha McKay

●Nate Ralph

●Nathaniel Espartinez

●Soham Rana

●Zena Ali

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The 2024/2025 Mackay Youth Council, pictured with Mayor Greg Williamson, was sworn into office in October. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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Do you know what can go into our recycling bins?

This National Recycling Week (November 11 to 17), Mackay Regional Council is encouraging residents to check out the new sorting guide available on council’s website.

Recycle Mate is a web-based app which provides users with tailored information to ensure it is relevant to our Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).

Recycle Mate can be accessed on council’s website or directly via Recycle Mate’s website or mobile phone app.

Users can search or simply take a photo of the item they wish to dispose of and within seconds find out which bin it can go into – it’s that easy!

Mayor Greg Williamson said anything that council could do to assist residents in “recycling right” was a positive step forward.

“Council is committed to reducing our contamination levels. Contamination is simply putting the wrong item in the wrong bin,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Common contamination items we find at the MRF range from nappies and green waste to bottle top lids and soft plastics,” he said.

“Contamination is costly – council pays a fee to dispose of contaminated recycling to landfill, so anything we can do to reduce the rate of contamination, benefits not only our environment, but our ratepayers.

“We understand that it can be confusing, especially when what each council accepts as recycling can differ from region to region.

“Recycle Mate eliminates the confusion by ensuring the information is specific to each council and their recycling facility.”

With National Recycling Week kicking off on Monday, November 11, now is the time to get familiar with what can and can’t be recycled.

To find out more head to mackay.gov.au/sortmywaste

Recycle Mate is a nation-wide project led by the Australian recycling industry though strategic direction from the Austrian Council of Recycling (ACOR). Both state and federal governments have invested in the app as part of a joint waste management strategy.

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Council's new website feature is making recycling easier than ever

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has provided a $20,000 community grant to fund a new trailer fit out for the 131 Army Cadet Unit (ACU) Sarina, creating an off-grid headquarters for field training activities and community events.

Equipped with sustainable solar and battery technology, the trailer features communication device chargers, a refrigerator to keep vital supplies fresh, whiteboards, lighting, new signage and a dedicated first aid area.

For over 50 years the 131 ACU Sarina has provided a safe and challenging environment for local youth, teaching them essential life skills and playing a crucial role in youth development.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May emphasised that both Community Bank Sarina and 131 ACU Sarina share a commitment to nurturing future leaders in the region.

“We have previously supported the Sarina Cadet Unit with community investments for portable toilets and a sun safe marquee, and this trailer will further enhance the unit’s training capabilities, keeping cadets and volunteers safe and prepared in all environments,” Ms May said.

“The 131 ACU Sarina has produced cadets who have gone on to contribute significantly to our community, many of whom credit their experiences at cadets as significant to their growth and success.

“For many young people in Sarina, the 131 ACU is a space where they feel respected and supported, and we take great pride in backing such an important program for our community.”

Captain Amy Bradford, Officer Commanding 131 ACU Sarina, said the cadets had been “trying to get the trailer on the road for over two years” and was grateful for Community Bank Sarina’s support in bringing it to completion.

“We’re a not-or profit organisation that relies on fundraising to deliver this national youth development program, that proudly shares the character and values of the Australian Army,” Captain Bradford said.

“The trailer is a modern addition for us and will create interest in our program, encouraging new cadet recruitment and reinforcing our role in serving the Sarina community.”

For more information on applying for Community Bank Sarina Community Grants, please contact executive@communitybanksarina.com.au.

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Photo caption: Cadets at the 131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina stand proudly with their new trailer, provided with a Community Grant from Community Bank Sarina

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A fast-moving vegetation fire broke out in West Mackay on Thursday, November 7, blowing thick clouds of smoke across the area as emergency services from multiple agencies assisted on scene.

The fire ignited near the old cemetery on Cemetery Road around 12:30pm, rapidly spreading across dry grassland and threatening nearby businesses, including Meals on Wheels and the Mackay Women's Centre. Evacuations were quickly carried out as a precautionary measure.

Ten fire crews were dispatched to the scene, with police redirecting traffic and establishing roadblocks to ensure the safety of local residents. The blaze was fuelled by dry vegetation, making it difficult for heavy equipment to access the fire's core.

In response, fire crews conducted strategic backburns to contain the fire to the North and West. Aviation rescue crews remained on standby with long-range water cannons in case the fire spread.

The fire’s intensity was exacerbated by the dry conditions, with thick grass and high winds making containment a challenge. As smoke spread across the region, authorities issued advisories for residents to stay indoors, close windows and doors, and avoid driving through areas affected by smoke. While no properties were at risk, emergency services continued to monitor the situation closely.

Parts of Hume Street, Cemetery Road, Holland Street, and Shakespeare Street were closed to traffic to allow emergency crews to manage the fire safely.

By the end of the day, after several hours of firefighting efforts, all roads in the vicinity of West Mackay were reopened.

Though the fire was contained, authorities are now urging locals to exercise caution and “be very careful,” particularly smokers who may carelessly dispose of cigarette butts from their vehicles. With the scorching season approaching and the fire risk escalating, it is more important than ever to act responsibly and prevent further incidents.

Discover general safety guidelines and stay updated on future developments via www.fire.qld.gov.au.

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Multiple roads were closed to protect local businesses and residents as thick smoke billowed from a fast-moving vegetation fire in West Mackay on Thursday, November 7. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Year 6 students at Bucasia State School are putting their creativity and business skills to work, transforming old toys into renewed treasures to help raise funds for their school.

Inspired by a UK charity, students Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker have designed a fundraiser that transforms unwanted stuffed toys into “adoptable” gifts. Each toy will come with an adoption certificate and a hint of scented oil, offering a unique and affordable gift option for all at the school’s Christmas fair.

The project acts as both a fundraiser and a key component of a business and economics assessment, challenging the students to create a budget-conscious business plan. With a starting budget of just $20, they devised their idea in a group whilst taking into account factors such as cost management and marketing.

Mitchell’s mum, Nicole, praised the project, saying, “It’s a really good initiative for them… and they’re working very hard on it.”

“The boys’ idea is to reuse unwanted stuffed toys, clean them, put a little bit of nice-smelling oil on them, and then make up little adoption certificates… and ultimately adopt them out for gold coin donations at their school Christmas fair as gifts.”

The project has already drawn a multitude of community support around her neighbourhood after she pitched the idea to her neighbours in a community Facebook page. Since her call for donations, many locals have contributed their pre-loved toys to be restored, including a senior who generously donated her entire collection of cherished stuffed bears, knowing they would bring joy to the next generation.

“The little community here really gets in and behind projects like this,” Nicole added.

As Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker continue their preparations, they’re still welcoming more stuffed toy donations to expand their selection. The students hope their efforts inspire future classes to find creative ways to support their school and give back to the community.

The Bucasia State School Fair is an event that brings together students and families, and this year, with creative initiatives like the boys' adoption booth, it promises to be even more special. The fair will offer students across all grades a chance to enjoy festive shopping, games, and activities, all while supporting school resources.

If you would like to donate a stuffed toy to this cause, please contact nicoleandray2@gmail.com

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Through creativity, community support, and a touch of business savvy, Mitch, Jenson, Zac and Parker – who is absent from the photo - are turning unwanted stuffed toys into 'adoptable' gifts for their school Christmas fair. Photos supplied

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