On a typical night out, Jayme Wilson was enjoying dinner with her friend and children just as a police car pulled up nearby on the side of the restaurant.

As Jayme’s son Jack eyed off the police car, much to their surprise the kind officer noticed the young boys’ interest and called out, inviting him to meet a very special companion…his police dog.

In excitement and awe, Jack leaped at the opportunity to meet the dog on duty alongside friendly police officer, Paul.

During this encounter, Jack got the chance to discover the significant responsibilities that a police dog carries out in the police force as Paul took the time to educate young Jack and allow him to engage with the paw-patrolling pup!

Reflecting on the experience, Jayme expressed her gratitude towards the police officer Paul for his positive encouragement and willingness to teach her son about the police dog, embedding a positive impact on Jack.

“The officer was so gentle and encouraging to my son during the whole experience.

“This was such a positive experience for my son.

“Paul went the extra mile tonight for Jack and it really made his night,” she said.

“Thank you to Paul, the policeman.”

Caption: Kind police officer Paul, introduces young Jack to his police dog and teaches him all about the special duties of a paw-patrolling pup

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In a tragic incident that unfolded on Saturday, March 9, Ryan Craig, a 40-year-old resident of North Eton, lost his life in a boating accident at Kinchant Dam near Mackay. Mr Craig's heroic act of attempting to save his nine-year-old daughter from drowning during the incident has garnered widespread tributes from the community.

The sequence of events began when Mr Craig and his daughter went overboard from their boat sometime after 11 am, prompting an immediate search and rescue operation. Despite extensive efforts from volunteers, search and rescue personnel, and assistance from a passing jet skier who aided in the rescue of Mr Craig's daughter, Mr Craig's body was recovered from the dam after more than 48 hours of search efforts.

The circumstances leading to the accident, including the cause of the boat's breakdown, remain under investigation. Adverse weather conditions have been cited as a contributing factor, possibly resulting in the sinking of the vessel. Police said the boat was recovered from the dam just after 12pm on Sunday, March 10th.

Mr Craig's family was present at the time of the incident and was safely escorted to the dam's shore. His daughter, who was rescued from the water, was taken to Mackay Base Hospital as a precautionary measure.

In response to the tragedy, the recreational use of Kinchant Dam was temporarily suspended over the weekend to facilitate the search and rescue efforts. Multiple agencies, including the police, fire, ambulance, RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter service, SES, and VMR Mackay, collaborated in the operation.

The loss of Mr Craig has deeply affected the community, with an outpouring of grief and support expressed across social media platforms. Friends and acquaintances fondly remember Mr. Craig, affectionately known as RYNO6, for his positive impact and selfless actions.

As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, the community mourns the loss of Ryan Craig and extends heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.

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Caption: RACQ CQ Rescue was part of the emergency response in searching for Ryan Craig at Kinchant Dam. Photo supplied: RACQ CQ Rescue

Ryan and Sheena Craig

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Last week, the first Honours and Awards Ceremony for the Mackay Whitsunday Police District were held at the Ocean International Resort in South Mackay.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Graeme Paine and Acting Superintendent Emma Novosel were both on hand to present all awards.

Individual officers from across the district were selected to receive acknowledgements including National Police Service Medal, National Medal and Clasps, QLD Police Service Medal and Clasps, National Emergency Medal - linked to TC Debbie 2017, District Officers Certificate and Assistant Commissioner's Certificate.

In addition, residents and members from Neighbourhood Watch groups received Neighbourhood Watch Certificates reflecting their years of service.

The police service extended its thanks to the families of officers who live through the ups and downs and continue to show their support every day.

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Our beautiful blue water river is now more accessible than ever with the opening of the Pioneer River Floating Pontoon.

The pontoon can be accessed via a gangway from the Brisbane Street fishing pier, next to the Bluewater Quay.

Mackay Regional Council’s Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability, Aletta Nugent, said the pontoon was an exciting part of council’s Mackay Waterfront Riverside Revitalisation project.

“It’s fantastic to have this project reach fruition, thanks to an amazing joint effort by our council project team and contractor SMC Marine,” Ms Nugent said.

“The pontoon will open the river up to recreational and commercial watercraft users, allowing access to load and unload for a day of recreation,” she said.

The pontoon is designed for boating and non-motorised watercraft access, with commercial use by permit only.

Ms Nugent said while anglers could use the pontoon, watercraft would have priority use at all times.

“The Brisbane Street fishing pier, next to the pontoon, is obviously designed for keen fisher people, with artificial reefs sunk immediately in front of it,” Ms Nugent said.

“If anyone does choose to fish off the pontoon, it’s important that they wind in and clear the way for any approaching boats immediately,” she said.

“Our Mackay City and Waterfront team are working with the community and local businesses to roll out placemaking and activation activities across the city centre and waterfront.”

This project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

CANEGROWERS Mackay has been attacked on social media in recent weeks by a council candidate, who asserted that CANEGROWERS Mackay had collaborated with a Mayoral candidate to agitate on the rates issue.  

CANEGROWERS Mackay had extended an open invitation via social media to any Mayoral and council candidates to meet with the Board. The Board and District Manager have met with all who have requested such a meeting.

CANEGROWERS Mackay has not assisted, funded or endorsed any candidate in the upcoming local election.  

Rates and other rural issues have been a discussion point with all visiting candidates.

As a grassroots organisation, CANEGROWERS Mackay continues to advocate for ALL members in need. We will work with the new council on issues affecting our members, whether that is an issue of individual or collective concern. 

CANEGROWERS is unapologetic that it has spoken up for members who have had increases of up to 300 per cent in valuations, and who have had consequent substantial rate rises - into the thousands.

CANEGROWERS Mackay leadership went to council, meeting with the CEO, Mayor and Deputy Mayor as new valuations came in, in the first half of 2023.  

Council decreased the rate from 0.0278 to 0.0225, although it did not communicate this result to CANEGROWERS. That rate is still comparable to the rate paid by Paget mining service and engineering firms - many of which are major multi-national corporations. 

The CANEGROWERS Mackay leadership went to the media in September, following the release of rates notices, when it became clear that some growers – family businesses - were facing massive rates increases. 

The organisation’s decision to speak out came in response to member requests for advocacy, and predates any council electioneering. 

While it is positive that 60 per cent of growers have had a small decrease in rates, with the decrease in cents-in-the-dollar rate for the Cane farming land category, it remains a fact that growers on properties closer to the city and along the river – in areas like Richmond, Pleystowe, Habana, and valley areas that is being sought by lifestyle block landowners have suffered substantial Land Valuation increases. These areas are also typically quality agricultural land. While Council is not responsible for State Land Valuations, it does have the liberty to structure its rating system as it wishes, and can mitigate the impact of land valuations. 

Council rates and charges are a significant expense for our members and CANEGROWERS will continue to advocate on behalf of our members to keep all costs, including council charges, at reasonable levels. 

At the State level, CANEGROWERS has worked with the Qld Farmers Federation to raise the impacts of rates on farmers. Together we have advocated for the existing State guidelines for equity and fairness in rating practices to become mandatory and we have invested in 5 years of analysis to benchmark the rating practices of relevant councils across the State.  CANEGROWERS also meets regularly with the State Valuer General in an effort to ensure the valuation process is informed by the best possible data and knowledge.   

CANEGROWERS Mackay considers it vital that land under cane is retained and that productivity continues to flourish. This is vital for the viability of the industry into the future. It is a considered responsibility to speak up when there are issues - such as high rates costs – which challenge that.  It matters for our members, it matters for the sugar industry supply chain, and it matters for the regional economy. Sugar is a keystone sector, and its base is the 1200+ cane-growing businesses. 

Locally, over 5000 jobs rely on the sugar industry, and it is worth over $900M in the regional economy. Mackay Regional Council draws some $14.4 M in rates from the cane growing sector. 

It is indeed unfortunate that the banding system for rural properties that councillors sought to introduce in 2018 did not succeed, and succumbed to internal council conflict and disunity. CANEGROWERS Mackay is on the public record supporting the plan to band rural rates (Daily Mercury, 28/6/18) but ultimately it was a matter for the council of the day to determine.

It has also been distasteful to see the name of deceased CANEGROWERS Mackay CEO Kerry Latter derogated in the context of a chapter that is now history, for the sake of a cheap political rant.  There were no deals made by this organisation, there were no “missed” meetings, as suggested by the councillor in question.

We look forward to working with the incoming Mackay Regional Council, and we will maintain the fight for our members interests. 

We encourage members – and the regional community - to vote this local election according to their own conscience, priorities and concerns and how each candidate meets those criteria. 

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Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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As the vibrant hues of summer slowly fade into the golden shades of autumn, gardeners across Australia have a prime opportunity to embrace the changing seasons and engage in the art of autumn planting. Contrary to popular belief, autumn is not just a time for garden maintenance but also a perfect window for sowing seeds and transplanting seedlings. With its mild temperatures and ample rainfall in many regions, autumn sets an ideal stage for nurturing a variety of flowers and produce, ensuring a colourful and bountiful garden in the months to come.

One of the joys of autumn planting lies in the diversity of flora and fauna that can thrive during this season. From hardy perennials like pansies and violas to delicate blooms such as chrysanthemums and asters, there is a wide array of flowers that can be planted during this time. These plants not only add aesthetic appeal to the garden but also provide essential nourishment for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the overall ecosystem health.

In addition to flowers, autumn is also a prime time for planting a variety of fruits and vegetables, ensuring a fresh harvest throughout the cooler months. From leafy greens like lettuce and spinach to root vegetables like carrots and radishes, the autumn garden can be an abundance of nutritious produce.

Before diving into autumn planting, it's essential to consider a few key factors to ensure success. Firstly, selecting the right plants for your region and climate is crucial. While Australia boasts diverse climatic zones, understanding your local conditions will help you choose plants that are best suited to thrive in your garden. Additionally, preparing the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure can improve its fertility and structure, providing an optimal environment for plant growth.

Autumn planting offers a wonderful opportunity for Aussie gardeners to cultivate a vibrant and productive garden. By selecting the right plants, preparing the soil, and providing proper care, you can enjoy a bounty of blooms and produce that will brighten your outdoor space and nourish your body throughout the cooler months. So roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening tools, and let the autumn planting season begin!

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Mackay Regional Council employees have proven that serving the community runs in their veins.

Last month, council was presented the annual Red Cross Lifeblood Teams award for ranking number one in the Mackay region for the most blood and plasma donations in 2023.

Council’s contributions were tracked as part of Red Cross Lifeblood Teams program, which saw staff from more than 299 local workplaces roll up their sleeves to give blood and plasma throughout the year.

Council’s team made more than 162 donations in 2023, helping to save more than 486 lives.

Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Scott Owen praised council employees for their generosity which has helped to save so many lives.

“Giving to the community is something that comes naturally to our staff – it's in their blood,” Mr Owen said.

“I would like to congratulate and thank all of our employees who rolled up their sleeves to give blood in 2023 – what an excellent effort,” he said.

“Collectively, workplaces in the Mackay region made more than 3096 donations in 2023 as part of the Lifeblood Teams program, helping to save more than 9288 lives – a huge achievement!” he said.

“We hope to see even more workplaces get involved this year, as every drop counts.”

Community Resilience Officer Davina Harrison said she enjoyed giving blood and plasma knowing that it quite literally saved lives.

“I have a rare blood condition which prevents me from safely having children, so I had to receive special medicine which is derived from plasma donations to allow me to have my four beautiful children,” Ms Harrison said.

“They would not be here today if I didn’t have access to the medicine which is only available due to the generous blood donations of others,” she said.

“So, donating regularly is something really important and practical that I can do, which I know makes a big difference to so many people.

“It’s quick, easy and relatively painless! I strongly encourage others to donate.”

Figures from Australian Red Cross Lifeblood show that one in three people will need blood in their lives, but only one in 30 people donate.

The annual Lifeblood Teams challenge starts again in April and runs until September.

If you’d like to become a donor or register your organisation as a team, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au or download the Donate Blood app.

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Caption: Red Cross Australia Lifeblood Regional Partnerships Account Manager, Jacinta Jeffrey presents council’s CEO Scott Owen with the Lifeblood Teams award for the Mackay region

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St Patrick’s College Mackay Year 7 to 12 recently celebrated its Opening Year Mass and Investiture of the 2024 College Leaders at the College’s Senior Campus in Gregory Street.
 
Nine hundred people attended the special Mass which included students, staff, parents and local dignitaries.
 
Miss Leesa Jeffcoat AM, Diocesan Director Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton gave her address to the College and was joined by Michael McCusker, Assistant Director: Schools (Northern Region); Sister of Mercy Denise Hinton; Mayor of Mackay Greg Williamson, as well as St Patrick’s College Board members; College Parent Engagement Committee members and representatives from other Catholic schools in the diocese.
 
The celebration was led by Most Reverend Michael McCarthy, Bishop, Diocese of Rockhampton, St Patrick’s Parish Priest (Southern Cluster of Parishes) Rev Fr Matthias Ogwo, Parish Administrator of Pioneer Valley Parishes Rev Fr Gasper Peruvelil and Associate Pastor Southern Cluster Rev Fr Anthony Nguyen.
 
St Patrick’s College Principal Janelle Agius and College Board members received their respective certificates and pledge during the Commissioning Ceremony before the blessing of the College badges.
 
Bishop Michael McCarthy presented Nicola Chimes with the St Patrick’s Medal the Bishop Bernard Wallace Award for Dux of the College. Nicola, who achieved an ATAR Excellence of 99.25, was also the recipient of a Joan McGarry bursary and will study a Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours).
 
During the ceremony Miss Jeffcoat and Mrs Agius presented the 2024 Student Leaders with their College badge.
 
These included College Captains Matthew Gakowski, Evelyn O’Brien, William Radke and Lily Wardrop.
 
Others to receive badges were the Senior Student Representative Council: Melisa Li (Cultural Committee Chairperson); Paige Mooney (Indigenous Committee Chairperson); Gian Lim (Social Justice Committee Chairperson); Mackensie Brown (Sport Committee Chairperson); Kacee Ziegeler (Senior House Captain Argos); Amy Goode (Senior House Captain Badila); Aidyn McSherry (Senior House Captain Midas); Bryn Henson (Senior House Captain Oraya); Lana Barnes (Senior House Captain Pindar); Camryn Zeller (Senior House Captain Triton) and Gabrielle Ipson and Anthony Sorbello (College Board Student Representatives).

Badge recipients for the Mercy Campus Student Representative Council were; Izaac Noy (Mercy Campus Cultural Committee Chairperson); Madison Mooney (Mercy Campus Indigenous Committee Chairperson); Treyce Ciantar (Mercy Campus Sport Committee Chairperson); Hunter McGeary (Mercy Campus St Vincent de Paul Committee Chairperson); Cassian Radke (Mercy Campus e-Sport Committee Chairperson); Aaron Greenwood (Mercy Campus Photography Committee Chairperson); Charlotte Redfern (Mercy Campus Book Club Committee Chairperson); Bianca Maynard (Mercy Campus Auslan Committee Chairperson); Hannah Ashis (Mercy Campus Social Committee Chairperson); Kelsi Hazledine and Mackenzie Maunder (Mercy Campus House Captains Argos); Jack Law and Archy Townsend (Mercy Campus House Captains Badila); Dominic Sorbello and Isabella Webb (Mercy Campus House Captains Midas); Lucas Boshoff and Courtney Harris (Mercy Campus House Captains Oraya); Kate O¹Brien and Myah Rokic (Mercy Campus House Captains Pindar) and Nate Harding and Calvin Ramos (Mercy Campus House Captains Triton).

 
Badges were also presented to the Mercy Campus Homeroom Captains: ARGOS Lily Mapp; Jessica Arbuthnot; Skye Vaughan; Charlotte O¹Brien; Tahlia Vella and Matilda Wiggins.
BADILA  Zarlia Beer; Jayda Earl; Tahlia Anderson; Koby Daly; Izaac Noy and Ruby Watt.
MIDAS  Skye Mole; Milly Mayfield; Tayla Cumming; Lacie Clarke; Cooper Anderson and Bella McClarty. ORAYA  Maggie Thorburn; Cynthia Phan; Alice Gunning; Bailey Dewar, Lauren
Gray and Addysen Ruddick. PINDAR  Gabriella Ruggeri; Tayah Poli; Aimee Trims; Piper Euler; Jake Hansen and Mason Mayer. TRITON  Rourke Bagley; Tate Funk; Riley Meigan; Sangwani Chinula; Eva Hooper and Reese Morgan.
 
Mr McCusker presented Aspire to Teach Awards to recipients Evelyn O’Brien and Anthony Sorbello while Damian Carroll presented student Patrick Arbuthnot with the Class of 1974 Bursary for having demonstrated great dedication and commitment throughout Year 11 in overcoming adversity or disability or circumstances to achieve academic success.
 
Other recipients of McGarry bursaries included Jinzhao Zhang (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery); Madeline Rasmussen (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery); Meghan Connolly (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery); Monique Jones (Bachelor of Engineering/Science); James Galea (Bachelor of Engineering (Honours));
Baxter Norsworthy (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery); Phoebe Francis (Bachelor of Medicine); Jada Vassallo (Bachelor of Business); Joshua Williamson (Bachelor of Psychological Science (Honours)); Gracie Watt (Bachelor of Medical Sonography/Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography); Alex Brannan (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery); Nicholas Bowyer (Bachelor of Medical Sonography/Graduate Diploma of Medical Sonography); Olivia Price (Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours)) and Locke Forrest
(Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Diploma of Professional Practice: Co-Op Engineering). The recipient of the Joan McGarry Nursing Bursary is Laanie John. Laanie is studying a Bachelor of Nursing.
 

Contributed by Chris Karas

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Caption: St Patrick’s College Mackay 2024 Captains and Student Representative Council members with Miss Leesa Jeffcoat AM, Diocesan Director Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton, Michael McCusker, Assistant Director: Schools (Northern Region) and College Principal Janelle Agius at the Opening Year Mass

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A recent roadshow through north Queensland invited growers to hear from Rabobank’s experts on what the organisation believes the future holds for the sugarcane industry.

Pia Piggott is an Associate Analyst in the research division of Rabobank, RaboResearch, who presented to growers in Mackay last week.

Based in Sydney, Pia’s role includes public speaking at events, recording RaboResearch podcasts and publishing various reports, generating widespread media coverage that resonates beyond the agriculture industry.

“I cover sugar and horticulture, so I meet with clients, research the industries and provide insights into the commodities,” Pia said.

Pia presented at events in Mackay, Proserpine, Ayr and Ingham, aiming to provide a knowledge update from the bank on what’s happening in the sugar industry while it’s experiencing a down period for growers.

“It’s a good time to meet with growers and find out about what their interested in, what their looking at, as well as providing Rabobank’s view on the sugar price, the opportunities in the industry and global economics,” she said.

Pia spoke to growers about what’s happening in the major markets and major suppliers of sugar worldwide and how this can affect sugar prices.

“We overviewed what’s happening in India with their export ban and what that means for the potential sugar production in India; what’s happening in Thailand and how these prices are affecting area expansion of sugar cane; and most importantly, an update of what’s happening in Brazil, because Brazil is the largest producer and exporter of sugar in the world so we talked about how, last year, they experienced a record sugar crop, and that’s part of what has caused prices to fall to where they fell last year,” she explained.

Pia said the feeling among growers was positive, although Mackay growers shared concerns of standover if there’s no further downgrades in production estimates.

“The rain has been really positive, the humidity has been really positive, so the crop looks good and hopefully there’s no cyclones or extreme weather events in the next few months that could impact that potential,” she said.

As the world’s leading food and agribusiness bank, Rabobank’s supports the innovative farmers and agribusinesses who put food on our tables every day to do so sustainably.

Members are equipped with exclusive reports, monthly overview and other resources to improve the prosperity of farmers and rural communities across the country.

To find out more, contact Rabobank’s Mackay branch on 07 4842 6200.

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Caption: RaboResearch Associate Analyst Pia Piggott

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The excitement is building as the countdown begins for the highly anticipated Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo 2024, set to be hosted by the Western Suburbs Leagues Club (Walkerston). This event promises to be a spectacular celebration of all things agricultural.

Julie Crowley, Coordinator for the event, expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support from the local community.

"We've been thrilled with the response from exhibitors, with bookings pouring in daily. We have an incredible lineup of stallholders already confirmed, ensuring two days packed with action, displays, products, and services catering to all aspects of agriculture and rural lifestyles," she said.

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

"We extend our heartfelt thanks to the businesses that have secured their sites for 2024. For those who haven't yet, there's still time to join us in this exciting endeavour," she added.

The Expo is proud to welcome back its naming rights sponsor, Mackay Sugar, a member of the Nordzucker Group.

"Mackay Sugar brings professionalism and excitement to our event and showcases their commitment to the sugar industry in our region and we eagerly anticipate collaborating with them not only in 2024 but also in the years ahead," Julie remarked.

The 2024 Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo will take place at Wests Leagues Club, Branscombe Rd Walkerston, on Friday, May 19th, from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Saturday, May 20th, from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm.

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

Admission to the event is $5 for adults, with free entry for children under 13 years old.

For more information, please visit www.mackayagtradeexpo.com.au or contact Julie

Crowley at West’s Leagues Club by calling 4959 2480 or emailing

julie@weststigersmackay.com.au.

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

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This season invites a palette of warm hues, rich textures, and natural elements that evoke a sense of comfort and relaxation. Whether you're looking to make subtle changes or embrace a full-fledged transformation, here are some tips to infuse your home with the essence of Autumn.

Warm Up With Earthy Tones Bid farewell to the bright tones of summer and embrace the earthy hues of autumn. Consider incorporating shades of terracotta, mustard, olive green, and burnt orange into your home decor. These warm colours add depth and coziness to any space, whether through accent walls, throw pillows, or decorative accessories.

Layer Textiles For Texture: Texture plays a crucial role in creating a cozy atmosphere during autumn. Use soft textiles like chunky knit throws, faux fur rugs, and plush cushions to add warmth and tactile appeal to your living spaces. Mix and match different textures to create visual interest and enhance the inviting ambiance of your home.

Bring The Outdoors In: Display seasonal foliage like eucalyptus branches, dried flowers, and seed pods in vases or woven baskets to infuse your space with a touch of rustic elegance. You can also accessorise with pine cones, acorns, and branches adorned with fall foliage for a quintessentially Australian autumn look.

Incorporate Natural Materials: Embrace the natural beauty of materials like timber, cane, and stone in your home decor. Incorporate wooden furniture pieces, woven rattan accents, and stone tabletop accessories to add warmth and authenticity to your space.

Add Seasonal Accents: Infuse your home with seasonal accents that capture the spirit of autumn. Display decorative pumpkins, gourds, and native foliage as centrepieces or table decorations. Consider swapping out lightweight summer textiles for heavier fabrics like wool and velvet to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Create a Cozy Nook: Designate a cozy nook in your home where you can unwind and embrace the slower pace of autumn. Arrange comfortable seating, pile on soft cushions and throws, and add a small side table for holding books or hot beverages. This intimate space will become your sanctuary for relaxation.

With these tips, you can effortlessly infuse your home with an autumn style, creating a welcoming retreat that reflects the beauty and warmth of the season.

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Emma Novosel is a familiar face in the Queensland Police Service, serving as Detective Inspector Crime and Support Services for the Mackay Whitsunday District. In this role, she oversees investigative responses to crime and supports various sections including intelligence, tactical crime, prosecutors, crime prevention, and domestic and family violence. Beyond her duties, Emma was actively involved in school communities, sports, and the arts, as her children attended.

As a participant in Dancing with Heart, Emma embraces the challenge with an open mind and determination. Witnessing the diverse routines of fellow competitors, she acknowledges the commitment and uniqueness each one brings to the event. Despite facing challenges in executing choreography and lip-syncing, Emma is driven by the desire to do justice to Dolly's vision.

Reflecting on the work of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, Emma admires its community-driven approach to improving healthcare across the region. Having witnessed firsthand the care provided by local hospitals, she recognises the importance of bridging the gap between essential services and additional support.

“In my role at work, our responses often involve working with people who are in crisis or experience trauma and our local hospitals are a crucial part of the supporting victims and keeping people safe.

“Raising funds to provide medical equipment and projects in hospitals is so crucial for regional communities to ensure that our family and friends can access exceptional healthcare in our home towns.

“Events like Dancing with Heart bring the community together to raise funds, enjoy a night out and ‘give where you live’.”

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Zachary Spencer is most known as a mortgage broker from Gardian in the finance department, assisting locals with all their home lending needs and helping clients achielve their dreams.

In the dynamic world of finance, Zachary stands out not only for his professional acumen but also for his vibrant spirit. His multifaceted dedication to providing the best service fosters a positive impact towards his clients, as well as in the communtiy.

Beyond his finance career, Zachary steps into a different spotlight as he joins the dance floor for the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Despite dancing being completely out of his comfort zone, and at times challenging to remember, Zachary embraces the challenge wholeheartedly, driven by his commitment to supporting a noble cause.

Zachary's participation in Dancing with Heart for The Mackay Hospital Foundation showcases his dedication but also contributes tangibly to the Foundation's mission. Aiming to push his boundaries and tap into untapped potential, his participation holds a deeper significance. Raising essential funds for The Mackay Hospital Foundation allows Zachary to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of the community.

It’s not just about moving to the rhythm but also moving hearts towards supporting vital healthcare services. With a desire to give back, Zachary underlines the importance of donations that remain within the community - for the community.

“I’m participating in Dancing with Heart to do something that is out of my comfort zone and to challenge myself, while raising much needed funds for a great cause!”

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Every boarding school is considered a ‘home away from home’ but what makes Nudgee College Boarding different from the rest?

From the unwavering support of staff who treat the boys in their like family, to the bonds of brotherhood that last a lifetime, there is something truly unique about the Boarding program at Nudgee College.

This year, the Boarding team completed an extensive review of their boarding values which has seen boys, families and staff alike consult on what truly mattered and what would authentically reflect the thriving Nudgee College boarding community.

At the heart of Nudgee College Boarding in 2024 and beyond is faith, family, courage and trust. 2024 College Vice-Captain, Chair of the Boarding Leadership Group and proud Proserpine boarder, Grady Turner sums up what the two new values, ‘family’ and ‘courage’ mean to the community.

“In our imperfect and diverse, yet balanced family, we embrace each other's highs and lows, fostering support, respect and inclusivity.

“To be a boarder, you need a little bit of courage every day. Living away from home has its challenges and will test each boy in different ways. Ultimately, these challenges, and the courage required to overcome them will promote personal growth and development.”

Dean of Boarding Mr Casey Brealy said in reference to the ‘faith’ and ‘trust’ value, “As a Catholic School in the Edmund Rice tradition, we challenge our boys to be Signum Fidei - a ‘Sign of Faith’ - in their words and actions.

“Successful boarding is built on a foundation of trust between boarders, staff and families.”

With one of the most comprehensive pastoral care systems in the Australian boarding community, the team have worked hard to ensure young men are supported in every facet of their Nudgee College journey.

The four Houses within the Boarding Village are led by a Head of House, two Assistant Heads and a House Mother. In addition, the boys are also supported physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually by College counsellors, psychologists, their day school House Dean, academic tutors, recreation staff, kitchen and laundry staff, registered nurses in the Health Centre and many other staff who make the boys’ best interests their priority.

“We are blessed to have a diverse and dedicated team that is committed to the 24-hour care, support and formation of our young men. Ultimately, it is our hope that our boarders will leave the gates as fine young men, with these values at their core and gratitude in their hearts,” Casey said.

Learn more about Boarding at Nudgee College and meet our Dean of Boarding and Assistant Head of House Mr Daniel Tinsey in Cairns, Mackay and Proserpine from 19 - 21 March. RSVP for the community events at nudgee.com/rsvp

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Caption: Bathersby Boarding Village

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The Mackay’s Careers Expo offers expert advice from a range of employers and educational providers making the decisions of school leavers and career-changers a little easier.

Careers Event runs career expos throughout Australia and will be holding the Mackay Careers Expo at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on August 15, 2024.

The event is not just open to school students but parents wanting more information to help advise their children, as well as experienced workers considering upskilling for their current or next job, making a career change or wanting to transition into a new industry.

A record number of exhibitors will be featured at the expo this year, enabling visitors to speak with highly qualified representatives from a wide array of organisations providing relevant, up-to-date knowledge in the education, training and employment sectors.

Exhibiting companies include universities from across Australia, student accommodation providers, Head Space, Youth Justice and Multicultural affairs, Mackay Regional Council, Glencore, Community Solutions, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and Defence Force Recruiting.

Employers and tertiary education institutions from industries such as information technology, biotechnology, aviation, early childhood education, hotel management, healthcare, hairdressing, creative media, performing arts and business education will also be present.

The community-based event will provide attendees with advice on how to apply for courses, the costs involved, financial support options and qualifications required.

Exhibitors will provide details on current career and employment options, trainee and apprenticeship programs or options for adults to upskill and retrain in the work place.

The Mackay Careers Expo is the one event you cannot afford to miss if you’re looking to take control of your future.

Admission to the expo is free.

For more information, visit careersevent.com and click on Mackay Careers Expo.

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