By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
CANEGROWERS represents the voice of 76% of Mackay Sugar growers. Over 90% in Plane Creek. We’ve been successfully providing stable representation in this region since 1926.

Our members have always had the certainty of a Cane Supply Agreement that has been successfully negotiated and maintained by CANEGROWERS Mackay bargaining representatives. They have the weight of 100 years of experience and the resources to resolve issues arising out of that agreement to the satisfaction of members. We bring that same strength to dealing with any issue from farm gate through to our export markets.

Although giving top-level representation for our growers is our core business, CANEGROWERS is more than grower service and advocacy, it offers opportunities for growers to come together as a community and share ideas and time, whether through branch meetings, shed meetings, or through affiliated groups like CANEGROWERS Network Mackay.

Last week, nine members of CANEGROWERS Network Mackay travelled to Ingham to join around 100 women at the Annual Women in Sugar Australia conference. CANEGROWERS, and the district office CANEGROWERS Herbert River are major sponsors of the event, but it is also a coming together for the women in canefarming, nearly all of whom are also CANEGROWERS members.

It’s important to celebrate and support the community of growers. CANEGROWERS Network meets bi-monthly, and has for many years provided a space for women in farming to expand skills and knowledge as well as connect. They are their own organisation but also a vital part of the fabric of our grower community.

Branch meetings offer a different way for growers to connect. They are held monthly and are open to all members. There are branches at Racecourse, Calen, Marian, Plane Creek (Koumala) and Finch Hatton. Sometimes it’s as simple as a place to get together and discuss matters of growing and cane supply, sometimes it’s a critical rallying point as growers grapple with a major issue. It is the forum for putting forward your point of view.

Branch meetings are a way that issues can travel through from the grassroots membership and be addressed by the appropriate area committee, district board and on into State Policy Council where relevant. It’s a powerfully democratic grassroots model that has a clear flow of communication from grower across the organisation, but it’s also a way of being, a community of growers with common experiences, goals and issues.

We’re all farmers, and we need to stick together, and make sure that the meetings and opportunities happen, where grower families can get together and talk. That means more than just having a district office to go and get help. It's like having common areas where our members can come and have a coffee in the town office. It’s our members knowing that they can come find us at events like the local ag shows, and know they can have a chat, maybe grab a shady seat for a minute.  Our members are the backbone of their own organisation.

For CANEGROWERS Mackay, it’s always more than making sure that growers get a fair deal from millers, from governments, and from other parts of the industry. We are about a structure that supports the community that supports it: that’s how we came together 100 years ago, and we’ve only got better at it.

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Members of CANEGROWERS Network Mackay travelled to the Women in Sugar Australia conference held in Ingham over April 30- May 1.  Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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Mackay Area Committee, with Mackay Sugar CEO Jannik Olejas, touring Marian Mill to view maintenance season works on May 2. Photo credit: Mackay Sugar

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Amidst the rustle of sugarcane fields, a significant agreement was reached on April 30, 2024, between Mackay Sugar and QCAR. This milestone marked the culmination of extensive negotiations, paving the way for a new Cane Supply and Processing Agreement (CSPA) that would govern supplies to Mackay Sugar's three mills in Farleigh, Marian, and Racecourse.

Deliberations spanning multiple meetings led to the formulation of an agreement that granted members of QCAR in the Central Region the authority to operate and supply cane under a distinctive Mackay Sugar/QCAR arrangement. While rooted in the robust framework established by Mackay Sugar with other Bargaining Representatives over the years, this agreement boasted notable additions, signifying a new era of collaboration and cooperation in the sugar industry.

The new agreement sets out a course for how the growth and supply of cane is to take place and observes the ever-changing expectations of consumers and the communities in which we operate.

It is increasingly important to be recognised as ‘environmentally sustainable’ by way of accreditation, holding up the standards which Australian sugar is globally recognised for. 

“It has been crucial to us, as a sugar producer and seller of sugar in global markets, that we have a partner who so clearly states their ambition around sustainable practices” says Brent Casey, Mackay Sugar’s General Manager, Commercial & Agriculture.

QCAR is dedicated to advocating and empowering Queensland agriculture producers by fostering sustainable farming practices for a prosperous future.

QCAR Director and lead negotiator in the Mackay area, Chris Punzell said, “Mackay growers have been eagerly awaiting an alternative cane supply agreement and enhanced grower representation.

“I was confident that this would materialise, and I am delighted that it has become a reality. By listening to the needs of farmers, we have successfully secured this agreement to benefit the farming community.”

QCAR Executive Director, Panikos Spyrou said, “With this agreement, we have provided our growers in the Mackay Region with contractual certainty – however we will, true to our spirit in Securing a Stronger Future, keep looking at ways to amend the CSPA to the benefit of both the growers we represent and the miller with whom we cooperate.

“Joined in this effort with Mackay Sugar we have pinpointed several mutually advantageous improvements to collaborate on for the 2025 crushing season. Interested growers can access these enhancements through QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

The agreement, which comes into force immediately, is in principle of a four-year rolling agreement that ensures stability and certainty for both growers and miller.

Mackay Sugar CEO, Jannik Olejas expressed his appreciation of the work done by saying, “I commend all parties involved in the constructive discussions that have led to this first agreement between Mackay Sugar and QCAR. We do acknowledge the innovative and open-mindedness that we have been met with and look forward to working together to ensure we have a relevant and balanced agreement in place at all times.”

Also in recent QCAR news, Panikos Spyrou, the Executive Director of QCAR, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Stephen Ryan's appointment as CEO, following the QCAR board's approval of his proposal.

The former CEO said, “I'm excited to have the opportunity to focus more intently on strategic initiatives and the specialised work I undertake for QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

“This shift allows me the flexibility to engage in additional activities outside the realm of QCAR's operations.”

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(L-R): QCAR Member Tony Bugeja, Mackay Sugar Limited CEO Jannik Olejas (standing), QCAR Director and Lead negotiator Chris Punzell

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Indulge Mum in a thrilling day at the races this Mother's Day weekend! The Amateurs Race Day promises an unforgettable experience of live local racing, vibrant Fashions on the Field, and an atmosphere buzzing with excitement on Saturday, May 11. Immerse yourselves in the glamour of trackside festivities. Sip champagne at the exclusive Champagne Bar or revel in the excitement from the Winning Post Trackside Marquee. For a more intimate affair, opt for a private Marquee or embrace the lively ambience of General Admission. Treat Mum to a day filled with thrills, laughter, and the joy of shared moments at the races.
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Morning Tea, Hoy, and Mini Cent Sale
Come and celebrate Mother's Day with the Calen QCWA ladies. Enjoy a wonderful Morning tea followed by Hoy and a Mini Cent Sale on Wednesday, May 15 at 120 McIntyre Street, Calen. $10.00 admission for a 9.30am start.
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Markets For Mum
Treat Mum to a delightful day out at the Eungella Community Markets, a vibrant showcase of local talent and produce. Indulge in a home-style brunch, sip on barista coffee, and explore an array of unique stalls offering everything from handmade crafts to artisan body soaps. With family-friendly picnic areas and a bustling atmosphere, it's the perfect setting for a relaxed Sunday outing. Join us in celebrating community spirit and the memory of Ruth Micallef. Sunday, May 12. 9am – 1pm.
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Paint N Sip
"Generations Painting: A Mother's Day Celebration" at Northern Beaches Bowls Club promises delightful family memories. Join a Bottletops & Brushes' artist for step-by-step guidance in recreating a beautiful painting together. Indulge in a delectable High Tea Buffet and enjoy bubbly drinks upon arrival to set the festive mood. Sunday, May 12, from 2:30pm.

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Mother's Day is a time to honour and appreciate the incredible women in our lives who have nurtured, guided, and loved us unconditionally. While spoiling your mum on this special day might sound like an expensive endeavour, it doesn't have to break the bank.
Firstly, consider the power of heartfelt gestures. A handwritten letter expressing your love and gratitude can mean more to your mum than any expensive gift. Take the time to reminisce about cherished memories, recount moments that have shaped your relationship, and share your hopes for the future. Your words will undoubtedly touch her heart and create a lasting memory.
Offer to cook her favourite meal or prepare a homemade brunch complete with her favourite snacks. Not only will this show your appreciation for her, but it will also give her a well-deserved break and some much-needed relaxation time.
Pro Tip – There are a range of lovely local establishments offering Mother’s Day menus and high teas. Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant and The Eight are affordable places to dine on a budget. If you’re looking for a special high tea or picnic, check out Vintage Farmhouse Kitchen.
Get creative with DIY gifts that are both thoughtful and affordable. Put together a personalised photo album filled with pictures of special moments you've shared together. You could also create a scrapbook, hand-painted mug, or custom candle using materials you already have at home. These handmade gifts add a personal touch and demonstrate the effort and thought you've put into making Mother's Day special.
Pro Tip – If creating a gift isn’t your thing, reach out to the talented team at Cherish Hampers. These unique hampers are individualised with lush goodies Mum is sure to love.
Plan a day of quality time together without spending a dime. Take a leisurely stroll in the park, have a picnic in the backyard, or embark on a scenic hike. Engage in activities that your mum enjoys, whether it's crafting, gardening, or simply relaxing with a good book. The key is to focus on spending time together and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Consider DIY spa treatments at home. Set up a relaxing atmosphere with scented candles, soothing music, and fluffy towels. Treat her to a homemade facial mask using ingredients from your kitchen, such as honey, yogurt, or oatmeal. You could also give her a manicure or foot soak to help her unwind and feel rejuvenated.
Surprise your mum with breakfast in bed, a bouquet of handpicked flowers, or a heartfelt playlist of her favourite songs. Don't underestimate the power of simple gestures that show your thoughtfulness and appreciation.
Spoiling your mum on a budget is all about creativity, thoughtfulness, and quality time together. Remember, it’s often the little things that mean the most and leave a lasting impression.

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Amidst the rustle of sugarcane fields, a significant agreement was reached on April 30, 2024, between Mackay Sugar and QCAR. This milestone marked the culmination of extensive negotiations, paving the way for a new Cane Supply and Processing Agreement (CSPA) that would govern supplies to Mackay Sugar's three mills in Farleigh, Marian, and Racecourse.

Deliberations spanning multiple meetings led to the formulation of an agreement that granted members of QCAR in the Central Region the authority to operate and supply cane under a distinctive Mackay Sugar/QCAR arrangement. While rooted in the robust framework established by Mackay Sugar with other Bargaining Representatives over the years, this agreement boasted notable additions, signifying a new era of collaboration and cooperation in the sugar industry.

The new agreement sets out a course for how the growth and supply of cane is to take place and observes the ever-changing expectations of consumers and the communities in which we operate.

It is increasingly important to be recognised as ‘environmentally sustainable’ by way of accreditation, holding up the standards which Australian sugar is globally recognised for. 

“It has been crucial to us, as a sugar producer and seller of sugar in global markets, that we have a partner who so clearly states their ambition around sustainable practices” says Brent Casey, Mackay Sugar’s General Manager, Commercial & Agriculture.

QCAR is dedicated to advocating and empowering Queensland agriculture producers by fostering sustainable farming practices for a prosperous future.

QCAR Director and lead negotiator in the Mackay area, Chris Punzell said, “Mackay growers have been eagerly awaiting an alternative cane supply agreement and enhanced grower representation.

“I was confident that this would materialise, and I am delighted that it has become a reality. By listening to the needs of farmers, we have successfully secured this agreement to benefit the farming community.”

QCAR Executive Director, Panikos Spyrou said, “With this agreement, we have provided our growers in the Mackay Region with contractual certainty – however we will, true to our spirit in Securing a Stronger Future, keep looking at ways to amend the CSPA to the benefit of both the growers we represent and the miller with whom we cooperate.

“Joined in this effort with Mackay Sugar we have pinpointed several mutually advantageous improvements to collaborate on for the 2025 crushing season. Interested growers can access these enhancements through QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

The agreement, which comes into force immediately, is in principle of a four-year rolling agreement that ensures stability and certainty for both growers and miller.

Mackay Sugar CEO, Jannik Olejas expressed his appreciation of the work done by saying, “I commend all parties involved in the constructive discussions that have led to this first agreement between Mackay Sugar and QCAR. We do acknowledge the innovative and open-mindedness that we have been met with and look forward to working together to ensure we have a relevant and balanced agreement in place at all times.”

Also in recent QCAR news, Panikos Spyrou, the Executive Director of QCAR, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Stephen Ryan's appointment as CEO, following the QCAR board's approval of his proposal.

The former CEO said, “I'm excited to have the opportunity to focus more intently on strategic initiatives and the specialised work I undertake for QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

“This shift allows me the flexibility to engage in additional activities outside the realm of QCAR's operations.”

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(L-R): QCAR Member Tony Bugeja, Mackay Sugar Limited CEO Jannik Olejas (standing), QCAR Director and Lead negotiator Chris Punzell

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With a rise in viral and bacterial respiratory infections and deaths, it makes sense to vaccinate, yet many of us don’t! This Cold and Flu season is meant to be a coming together of various infections such as the usual suspects - Influenza, COVID of course (it isn’t going away as we now have a new one - XBB). Plus, some newcomers such as RSV which used to be only seen in kiddies under two mainly. And a rise again in the old foes such as Whooping Cough and a resurgence of Diphtheria.
So why you may ask do people resist getting vaccinated? Here are a few reasons.
   1. VACCINE FATIGUE We are all sick of getting them especially after all the COVID boosters.
   2. DISTRUST Some people have grown rightly or wrongly to distrust vaccines due to social media hype and confusing health messages around COVID and previously the MMR vaccine for children which has been thoroughly disproven to cause Autism.
   3. CAUSE ILLNESS However, a response if you have a vaccine of a high temp, runny nose etc shows your immune system is responding well. Also, in the cough and cold season you could already have a virus brewing, and then have a Flu shot and blame the vaccination. It's only a portion of the strains of flu and all dead so it can’t make you get the Flu!
   4. TOO BUSY Our lives are so full, that doing preventative health activities including seeing the GP or Pharmacists for a vaccination is low on the priority list.
   5. CONFUSION What should you be getting and when? Flu annually, Covid when new boosters come out, and then 10 yearly it’s the Tetanus, Diphtheria, Whooping Cough Vaccines, and Shingles after 50 if you had chicken pox as a child and many more examples.
   6. UNAWARE A teen or at the young adult stage doesn’t have it on their radar, they were told or made to have immunisations by parents, or school etc.
   7. UNSAFE There are always stories on the news or social media where a rare side effect has occurred from a vaccine. However, most people don’t put in perspective that it’s much more dangerous just driving daily.
   8. PERSONAL Other reasons exist too of course.
So, what is the answer?  In my humble opinion I believe ‘Knowledge is Power’ – so become an expert - this website has all the reputable studies and explanations you will ever need. That way you can decide for yourself or raise questions with your GP and ultimately protect yourself, your loved ones and those who can’t be immunised in the community.
After all, prevention is better than cure!
https://www.science.org.au/education/immunisation-climate-change-genetic-modification/science-immunisation
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Yours in Good Health
Dr Mags Swenson

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Shane Webcke will be in the Sarina region this June, sharing the highs and lows of his illustrious career on the football field (including the Brisbane Broncos!), and of his life now as a farmer, family man, businessman, author, news presenter and guest speaker.

At the peak of his rugby league career, Shane was renowned as one of the best front rowers in the world. He represented Queensland on 24 occasions and represented Australia in 26 tests. He played for the Brisbane Broncos for 12 years and was named the Daly M Prop of the Year three times.

Shane swears he is “still a Bronco through and through”, having taken his work ethic from the football field to his farm in Southern Queensland, where he balances family life with his wife and three children, alongside his professional career behind the news desk at Seven.

Appearing as the keynote speaker for Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s community dinner to celebrate 19 years in business on June 8, Shane will share his knowledge, passion, and experience, and how resilience and sense of community have been shaped by personal loss and hardship.

Having tragically lost his father in a workplace incident when he was just 18, this experience instilled Shane with the importance of developing personal resilience.

“I had just started my professional football career when the news (of my father’s passing) meant my world had been ripped apart.”

“I share my passion and experience with many audiences across Queensland and Australia, in the hope it will motivate others,” Mr. Webcke said.

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Don’t miss this opportunity to see Shane Webcke in person at the Celebration of Community Anniversary Dinner, tickets close May 12 – visit bit.ly/communitydinner2024 to book today.

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World War II Veterans are few and far between these days, however Sarina was honoured to see three of these national treasures attend the Sarina Anzac Day main service last month.

The three WWII veterans in attendance were; Mr Len Lister, 100, who served in New Guinea with the AIF 2/12th Battalion, Mrs Connie Turpin, 98, and Mrs Vonnie Deem, who will turn 101 in May.

The Sarina dawn and main Anzac Day services attracted large numbers, making the day a solemn yet beautiful occasion.

The Koumala service featured veterans, service personnel and students as well as horses and riders in Lighthorse uniforms.

Thank you to everyone who came out. It was amazing to see the Anzac spirit alive and thriving.

LEST WE FORGET.

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Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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My birthday is on the 17th, which is next week, and I’ll be honest, I just had to do the maths and work backwards on dates just to remember how old I was.

For the record, and for anyone playing at home with a Casio scientific calculator from grade 10 at Milton Street High, I am 55 years old, and that makes me 56 this time next week.

Whilst that’s great, I’ll get to cut a cake, and hear mates sing happy birthday in the office with horrible tuning, and open cards from my kids, but what is a birthday really? Can you tell me?

For me, as I live by myself, it is just another day. You get up, pat yourself on the back (if it doesn’t cause you to head to Physio Isaac), you go to work, come home, eat some cake, watch the footy and go to bed, then repeat in another 365 days! To me, that’s living!

This year however it will be different, my dad is coming up to celebrate with me and my kids. He decided he wanted to come up to Mackay again and see me and the grandkids, but only when it was cooler than it was in January! You remember then, right? Of course you do. Disgusting humidity, heatwave after heatwave, and every day sitting in the air conditioning just trying not to sweat on the dog sitting at your legs. I really wish I had a dog too.

Dad booked his flights (not Bonza, lucky him) and he said he wanted to be here for my birthday. So, I’ve done the hard work and gotten everything ready. Booked a table at Souths Suburban for dinner, locked in lunch at Eimeo and a few other excursions and treats so Dad will feel at home again (we all lived here from 1981 before he went back home to Sydney)

The birthday will be a nice time to spend with Dad, but the other thing that will be extra special will be that Dad will be here with me on the 3rd anniversary of Mum passing away. He reminded me on Anzac Day that that was the day that Mum went into hospital and never came home again. It was tough hearing it from your 83-year-old father, so I am glad we will be together on the 19th to help each other and remember the great times with Mum.

For whatever you have planned this weekend or next, savour each moment as you never know when it will be your last.

On that note, I’m off to the kitchen. Know a good chocolate birthday recipe?

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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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Kucom took a popular David Tristram comedy to the North Queensland Festival of One-Act Plays (NQ-FOOAP), which was held in Townsville on the May Day long weekend. Last Tango in Little Grimley was first performed by Kucom at the old Shakespeare Street Theatre 30 years ago and is still one of the funniest and most relatable one-act plays about a struggling amateur theatre company – and last Saturday adjudicator Pamela Cassidy obviously agreed, because she awarded Kucom the trophy for Best Play, while Director Carolyn Roche received the Best Director award. The cast included Geoff Stewart-McLean, Tessa King, John Irvine and Bronwyn Grannall.

We congratulate the winners in the other sections – Townsville Little Theatre and Perry Studios. There were some wonderful moments, and some intriguing new scripts to explore.

Big thanks go to Kucom members Monica Stewart-McLean and Anne Clutterbuck and the crew at Townsville Civic Theatre for their technical support, to everyone involved in the festival for making us so welcome and helping us out with props and technical equipment - and to all the lovely people who came up to tell us how much they enjoyed our presentation.

We can’t wait to go back to the NQ-FOOAP in 2025!

Our next production

Following the one-act plays in February and the recent production of The Murder Game, Kucom’s 2024 season continues in July with The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race, a comedy by Australian playwright Melanie Tait. Directed by Luana Royle, The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race will be a Mackay Festival Fringe event.

Early Bird bookings opened on Monday 6 May, for one week only – there’s still time to grab the cheap tickets, the Early Bird won’t be flying away until Sunday night.

Season dates: 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 & 27 July at 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2pm on Sunday 21 July.

Book online at: https://events.humanitix.com/the-appleton-ladies-potato-race
Alternatively, if you’re not comfortable with online transactions you can also book your tickets by phone. Just call Kucom’s Public Relations Officer on 0419756840.

We’re looking forward to our road trip!

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Contributed by Kucom Theatre.

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Kucom’s 2024 season continues in July with The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race, a comedy by Australian playwright Melanie Tai, book your tickets now! Photo Credit: Kucom Theatre (Facebook)

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With Queensland Police statistics showing a steady increase of crime levels in the Mackay region since 2012, the State Government are aiming to combat the issue with the recent announcement of new Police Service recruits.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles came to the region last week to bring the exciting news that 900 positions over the next three years will be filled to fortify community safety in the Central Police Region.
This includes 57 new Police Officers for the Mackay, Whitsundays, and Capricornia regions.
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Boosting Police Personnel
A Step Towards A Safer Community

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On April 26, the State Government announced a significant increase in Queensland Police Service personnel, with an additional 900 extra positions announced over three years as a key component of its Community Safety Plan.
This investment will deliver 57 new police positions across Mackay, Whitsundays and Capricornia.
Premier Steven Miles said, “My government has a strong Community Safety Plan for Queensland. 
“We’re giving our frontline the resources they need to keep our communities safe, and ensure Queenslanders feel safe.
“The team in Mackay has completed over 5,000 engagements with young people and their families – an incredible effort that is making a positive difference in the lives of Queenslanders.”  
Commissioner of Police Steve Gollschewski welcomes the Government’s announcement on behalf of QPS and says the additional police personnel will boost the officer positions as well as the number of staff members supporting the frontline.
“Additional resources will assist us in our commitment in keeping the community safe and ensuring they feel safe,” he said.
This month, the Mackay Youth Co-Responder team marked three years of early intervention operations to help drive down youth offending and reoffending
Despite a globally tight labour market, Queensland is leading the nation when it comes to police recruitment.
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said, “We’ve already seen programs like our Youth Co-Responder initiatives making a real difference in our community.
“This expansion will mean that they can do even more good work helping our young people before they go down the wrong path.”
The comprehensive incentive package, combined with an aggressive recruiting campaign has seen the recruit pipeline improve by 200 percent in the last year.
The Queensland Police Service also advises that the number of police officers, combined with recruits undergoing training, is now the highest it has ever been in Queensland’s history.
Nearly 700 recruits are currently undergoing training and over 2,000 applicants are in the recruit pipeline, which is a record for Queensland’s Police Academies.
Commissioner of Police Steve Gollschewski encourages those that are interested in becoming a police officer to join QPS now.
“A career in policing is a career like no other, and the incentives currently available to applicants means there’s no better time to join the Queensland Police.” 
Concluding the announcement, Police and Community Safety Minister Mark Ryan extended a heartfelt thank you by stating “I want to thank our police officers right across Queensland for their incredible commitment to their local communities, because I know how much Queenslanders appreciate the efforts of police on their behalf.”

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Premier Steven Miles speaking in Mackay last week.

Commissioner of Police Steve Gollschewski
Northern Beaches Sgt Mitch Benson
Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

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So, here I am, embarking on one of the toughest conversations I never imagined having to have. It's the 'how do I even start this' dialogue.

Of course, as with most things in life, the best way is to dive headfirst into the uncomfortable because, well, that's what I do. I talk, I write, I process my emotions. And this, is just another chapter in my story, another bend in the road that I must navigate. So, let's talk about it.

Last week, I received news that no one ever wants to hear: I've been diagnosed with colon cancer. Cue the awkward silence, the sense of shock, the avoided eye contact and the hesitant words even my closest friends struggle to find. But I'm not one to shy away from the tough stuff. It's part of my journey, part of my narrative, and now, quite a literal part of me.

Now, let's rewind a bit. While it’s uncomfortable to talk about health and private bodily functions, if this account helps one person to seek an early diagnosis then it’s been worth every awkward word.

About a year ago, my husband and I welcomed our little miracle into the world. Along with the joys of motherhood came the not-so-pleasant side effects, including everyone's favourite topic: hemorrhoids. So, when I started experiencing bleeding from 'back there', it was only natural for my GP to assume hemorrhoids. But as time went on, and the bleeding persisted, it became clear that something more serious might be at play.

Fast forward to two weeks ago when I found myself in the emergency department, feeling dizzy, nauseous, and utterly fatigued. Little did I know, my iron and hemoglobin levels were at a critical point, putting me at risk of cardiac arrest. And here I was, passing my constant fatigue off as just a normal part of motherhood mixed with the stress of a deadline-dictated career.

But life has a funny way of grabbing your attention, doesn't it? So, off I went for a colonoscopy, expecting to hear about hemorrhoids or maybe a polyp or two. Instead, I was blindsided with the news that there was a growth, believed to be cancerous, and surgery was imminent.

And just like that, my world was turned upside down. Tears streamed down my face as the reality of my diagnosis sank in. Thoughts of my little boy not remembering his mum, of the uncertainty that lay ahead, flooded my mind. Amidst the chaos, there was a strange sense of surrealism, a momentary disconnect from the gravity of the situation while I struggled to process the information.

As I navigate this uncharted territory, I have found much love in the unwavering support of friends and family. I have to say that the professionalism and care of the staff at Mackay Base Hospital has also been excellent.

And so, here I am, ready to face whatever comes next, armed with a healthy dose of humour, a sprinkle of optimism, and a whole lot of resilience. After all, I'm just a girl with a literal shitty cancer, ready for whatever this next chapter brings.

Amanda

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Northern Beaches
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Walkerston
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mackay
Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

Dysart
Photo credit: Isaac Regional Council

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Northern Beaches
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Walkerston
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mackay
Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

Dysart
Photo credit: Isaac Regional Council

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Norman Arthur Waterson, also known as 'Norm', has invoked great courage and resilience throughout his life journey, having served in World War II at just sixteen years of age, he now stands as an inspiration to those lucky enough to know him.
Born on December 11th, 1923, in Mackay, he attended Swaynesville School Sarina, laying the foundation for a life marked by service and dedication. His life story intertwines with the archives of history, particularly during his service in World War II from 1939 to 1945, where he displayed remarkable bravery and commitment to his country.
As a member of the Royal Australian Infantry Corps, Mr. Waterson boarded on a journey of duty and sacrifice that took him to the rugged terrains of Papua New Guinea from May 16th, 1943, to July 31st, 1944.
He then served in Bougainville from December 23rd, 1944, to May 2nd, 1946, showcasing his ongoing commitment to serve his country through courage and fortitude, earning him the respect and admiration of his fellow comrades and now the future generations that have come along since.
In a touching tribute during this year's dawn service on ANZAC Day, Mr. Waterson's contributions were recognised by Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President and Vietnam Veteran Ken Higgins OAM, who highlighted his extraordinary dedication and the enduring legacy he has imparted to his family and fellow veterans.
Among the heartfelt words spoken was the acknowledgment of Mr. Waterson's extensive service during World War II, spanning across the islands and northern Australia, where he served with distinction, followed by a heartfelt appreciation of his attendance on the day.
Ken Higgins said, “He certainly covered some country during the second World War up in the islands, in North Australia, where he served with great distinction.”

“Norm, we’re so proud to have you here this morning,” Mr Higgins remarked.
Present at the service were Mr. Waterson's grandsons, who attested to his inspirational presence in their lives. They spoke of him not only as a war hero but also as a beacon of family honour.
Ros Waterson, expressed profound gratitude, emphasising how his grandfather's legacy has shaped their lives and instilled in them a sense of pride and admiration.
“He’s been a big inspiration to us growing up, we’re very proud of him, he’s a role model and we get to carry his awesome name,” he said.
Throughout his lifetime, Norman Arthur Waterson has carried a mantle of responsibility with grace and humility. As a grandfather and role model, he has inspired countless individuals with his enduring spirit.
As we reflect on Mr. Waterson's remarkable journey, spanning a century of dedication and sacrifice, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for his service to our country. His impact on our community is immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift generations for years to come.

When Mr Waterson was asked the secret to his longevity, his humorous response was "Rum," and his insightful advice for younger generations was: "just hard work."
Norman Arthur Waterson is not just a veteran, but a symbol of great courage and diligence.

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(Left to right) Norman Arthur Waterson with Korean Veteran, Liu Burley and Mackay RSL Sub-Branch President and Vietnam Veteran, Ken Higgins.

100-year-old Veteran, Norman Arthur Waterson was acknowledged for his service at the Mackay 2024 ANZAC Dawn Service. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

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