First impressions matter, and when it comes to selling your home, presentation can make all the difference, especially in today’s hot property market, where many homes are sold to buyers from out of state who rely on photos and videos to make their decisions.

With competition high, the way your home is presented can make all the difference in attracting serious interest, securing stronger offers, and achieving top dollar. A well-styled home not only stands out in listings but also helps buyers envision themselves living there, increasing the chances of a quicker and more successful sale.

Declutter and Depersonalise
Less is more when it comes to styling for sale. Clearing out unnecessary items, excess furniture, and personal belongings creates a neutral space where buyers can easily picture themselves living. A clutter-free home also looks bigger, brighter, and more inviting.

Boost Curb Appeal
The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see, so make sure it’s looking its best. Trim the lawn, tidy the garden, and add a fresh coat of paint to the front door for a welcoming touch. Even small improvements like updating the mailbox or adding a few potted plants can create a great first impression.

Light and Bright
Maximising natural light makes your home feel warm and spacious. Open curtains and blinds during inspections, and consider adding mirrors to reflect light and enhance the sense of space. Soft, warm lighting in the evening can also create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

Small Updates, Big Impact
Refreshing key areas of your home doesn’t have to be expensive. Simple updates like replacing outdated light fixtures, door handles, and tapware can instantly modernise the space. A fresh coat of paint in neutral tones can also work wonders in making a home feel fresh and contemporary.

Consider Professional Styling
While DIY styling is a great option, hiring a professional can take your home’s presentation to the next level. Styled homes tend to photograph better and attract more buyers, leading to stronger competition and potentially higher sale prices.

The Final Touch: The Right Scent
An often-overlooked tip is to ensure your home smells inviting. Fresh flowers, brewed coffee, or subtle essential oils like vanilla or citrus can create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Avoid overpowering air fresheners—natural scents work best.

By focusing on these simple yet effective strategies, you can present your home in the best possible light and maximise its appeal to buyers.

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An Australian-first initiative to improve fatigue management on farms has heard directly from busy primary producers about how they prioritise rest, safety and productivity.

CQUniversity researchers are compiling the practical advice for farmers, with farmers – with input from across dairy, cotton, eggs and grains sectors.

Now the project is creating useful guides to highlight causes, impacts and management strategies for fatigue on farms – and launching a new survey to grow understanding of farmers’ experiences.

In collaboration with the Rural Safety & Health Alliance (RSHA), the Farming and Fatigue: Growing Sensible Solutions project aims to help industry measure and manage fatigue on-farm.

Amy Cosby is part of the project team from CQUniversity’s Agri-tech Education and Extension team as well as a dairy farmer and busy mum.

She says the research is a first for the Australian agriculture sector, and importantly works with farmers to highlight effective habits for rest and wellbeing.

“What farmers have told us so far is that managing fatigue on farms is about more than hours in bed – it’s impacted by stress, and seasons, and weather, and of course the huge workloads involved with life on the land,” she said.

“But what we’ve also found, and what is certainly my personal experience, is that farmers also consider what they eat, how they exercise, how they schedule employee shifts, and even how they socialise, to try to get better rest, balance their life and avoid fatigue.

“We want producers to have a clear understanding of how their current working patterns can be tweaked to better manage the real risks of fatigue on farms,” Amy said.

The new survey will inform a Farming and Fatigue management guide, with tools to help farmers identify ‘hot spots’ – where and why fatigue might be an issue in their operation, and controls to reduce potential harm of fatigue without impacting production.

“We have people in the research team who run farms and have lived experience doing these jobs – we’re all excited to be contributing to this potentially life-saving project,” Amy said.

Cotton grower and Walgett Cotton Growers Association member Bernie Bierhoff said sector-wide input could boost fatigue management.

“We know there’s a real team aspect to managing fatigue in our workplace, and it’s not as simple as just telling people what to do or a tick and flick checklist,” he said.

“That’s why we’re keen to do the survey, and contribute to the research. By coming to us farmers, the project will help us with how to manage fatigue for our farm environments and give us an idea of what others are doing that could be useful for us.”

By merging frontline agricultural insights with cutting-edge research, this project aims to deliver comprehensive, user-friendly guidance on fatigue management tailored to the unique demands of farming.

Farmers can learn more about the Farming and Fatigue project and complete the anonymous survey here: https://bit.ly/FarmingFatigueSurvey

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Amy Cosby (centre) is part of farming and fatigue research. Photo supplied

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Biosecurity Queensland is advising of the preliminary identification of varroa mite (Varroa destructor) for the first time in Queensland.

Initial samples from a recreational apiary in the Lockyer Valley have returned a positive diagnostic result for Varroa destructor.

Further samples from recreational and commercial apiaries have been collected and are currently undergoing testing to confirm the presence of Varroa destructor and also check for other exotic pests and diseases.

Department of Primary Industries Deputy Director-General and Chief Biosecurity Officer Dr Rachel Chay said increased detections into Queensland’s border regions were expected in the coming months due to natural spread from New South Wales.

“Biosecurity Queensland has been preparing for this event and is working closely with the affected beekeepers to slow the spread of varroa mite and help guide management practices,” Dr Chay said.

“We’ve joined all other states and territories in shifting our focus from eradication to management to safeguard Queensland’s valuable honeybee industry and recreational beekeeping.

“Queensland's Varroa Mite Biosecurity Zone remains in place, which restricts the movement of bees, beehives and beekeeping equipment from states and territories with varroa mite.

“We remain committed to supporting the beekeeping industry by working alongside individual beekeepers, peak industry bodies and a dedicated biosecurity champion network.”

Queensland Beekeepers’ Association President Jacob Stevens said the first detection of Varroa destructor in Queensland had been expected “for some time now”.

“Thank you to the Queensland beekeepers who have reported varroa mite. Unfortunately, these reports come as no surprise,” Mr Stevens said.

All beekeepers are urged to remain vigilant and undertake monthly hive health checks to determine varroa mite presence.

All results should be reported to the Bee 123 online form, even if no mites are found.
Immediately report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23.

Varroa development officers (VDOs) are available to provide advice to all Queensland beekeepers in early detection and integrated pest management principles. VDOs can be contacted at varroa@daf.qld.gov.au.

All beekeepers should:
• monitor for mites monthly using the alcohol wash method
• report all hive checks using the quick and easy Bee 123 form, even if no mites are found
• immediately report any suspect mites, unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23
• stay up to date with the latest information by subscribing to the bee e-alert
• attend a training workshop to learn how to best manage varroa mite in your hives
• register as a biosecurity entity, whether you have one hive or 100
• use decontamination practices between apiaries and always come clean and leave clean
• keep up to date on movement restrictions for your intended destination before moving bees or equipment.

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The Queensland Government is inspiring young minds with science programs to promote agricultural science as a rewarding, long-term career choice.

Thousands of students will explore the role of ‘insects in agriculture’ as they take part in a national school plant science competition.

Registrations are now open for the Department of Primary Industries’ 29th annual Hermitage Research Facility Schools Plant Science Competition.

This year, students will focus on the world of insects, gaining insights into biology, ecology and the environment while contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Interest is soaring so far this year with almost 3,000 students from 93 schools across the country already registered to take part.

Students can enter all three award categories: Plant Science Project Awards, Art in AgRiculTure Awards, or the Guardians of Earth Global BioQuest.

Registrations for school students to enter this year’s competition are open until 30 May 2025, with entries closing on Friday 27 June 2025. All entrants will be in the running for a selection of fantastic awards and prizes.

Winners will be announced on 21 August 2025 at the Hermitage Research Facility's annual Awards Day and Agricultural Science Expo in Warwick.

Client Services Officer, Kerrie Rubie said this year's competition will give students the opportunity to learn all about insects and the role they play in Australian agriculture and global food security.

“It is incredibly important that our younger generation are educated about the different types of insects, animals, and fungi, as well as the weeds and diseases that pose a threat to our environment and agricultural industries,” she said.

Students can get their creativity flowing in the Art in AgRiculTure Awards competition and get outdoors into nature with Guardians of Earth April Global BioQuest.

“Exciting competitions like this one are critical for sparking passion for our industry. I encourage students to get involved and have some fun while also learning about the importance of insects and their impact on agriculture and food security,” Ms Rubie said.

For more information and to enter, visit Hermitage Schools Plant Science Competition online or call 13 25 23.

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You’d think that two years would be sufficient time to make a business case available.

It’s a little over two years ago that Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) announced the bold move to so-called “insource” sugar terminal operations across Queensland. In other words: remove the not-for-profit terminal operator Queensland Sugar Ltd (QSL) and place itself as the sole terminal operator.

Time is ticking to the mooted handover in June 2026, and STL has remained inflexible despite clear and extensive lobbying and pushback against the move from across the sugar industry, STL has not yet made a business case available to clearly demonstrate the mooted savings. Just a repeated “trust us” line.

The move remains antagonistic to the structure that the industry put in place to deliver transparency and democracy.

The terminals were built by the sugar industry. Growers invested their own funds into the construction of the terminals to ensure strong, fluid and cost-effective storage and handling capacity to deliver our product to market.

The terminals are not there to make large returns to shareholders.

The terminals are there to be utilised by industry at a cost-recovery only basis.

In the de-regulation of Queensland’s Bulk Sugar Terminals over 20 years ago, the installation of QSL as terminal operator recognised that significant vested interest of sugar cane growers and millers in their product. We retain transparency by having a not-for-profit terminal operator, and that model has remained fit-for-purpose. The intent was that the terminals remained the property of the industry, managed by the industry, to service the industry.

By intent, that acknowledgement of ownership was extended by the intent that the shareholding of the new terminals’ “owner” STL be comprised solely of ACTIVE growers and millers. Over time, an increasing number of “dry” shareholders have taken a place in the register. While I acknowledge that STL is taking steps to remedy this departure from its constitution, the list of non-grower shareholders remains. They are there for the dividend. And it is concerning that our terminals operation could be beholden to that group.

Further, this group of dry shareholders prevents other working growers – including our next generation of young farmers from taking up a shareholding. From being able to vote in AGMs, from being able to offset their terminal costs. I encourage growers to take up shares where they can.

We have a structure that works for the majority of the industry, and it is challenging to witness this attempt to erode this consensual, democratic structure.

The effective operation of our Bulk Sugar Terminal at Mackay and other locations along the coast underpins a key commodity servicing our regional economies by giving us fluid access to overseas markets. One dollar in the sugar industry multiplies out to $6 in the community. Sugar’s success matters. It is one of the top commodities supporting the Port of Mackay.

As far as a business case goes, the industry not only awaits it, but expects it. It’s one thing to say it will reduce costs, it is another to prove it. What assurances do we have that the “insourcing” model will be more cost effective? And what if STL find they can’t do it more cost-efficiently. What then? Once the present structure is dismantled it will never be returned. This issue will be escalated as we move to June 2026.

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The Mackay Bulk Sugar Terminal was constructed with grower investment. Opening in 1957, this industry-owned asset was Australia’s first BST, helping sugar from then 2000 farms flow to markets. Photo source: CANEGROWERS Mackay archive

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Mackay locals will get the free urgent care they need, fully bulk billed, without waiting hours in a busy hospital emergency department, if the Albanese Labor Government is re-elected.

Labor has said it will open a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Mackay as part of a $644 million commitment to open another 50 Urgent Care Clinics, with more clinics in every state and territory.

This announcement from the Labor party has been made alongside Queensland Labor announcing that Neil Wallace will contest the seat of Dawson in the upcoming Federal Election.

Neil and his wife have called the Mackay region home for nearly two decades, raising their three children in the local community.

Neil’s strong record of community service, including as a three-time President of the North Mackay Rotary Club make him the perfect person to take up the fight and "stop Dawson being taken for granted by the LNP".

If Labor is re-elected, the party has pledged that the Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Mackay will begin operating in the 2025-26 financial year, providing bulk billed care for urgent but non-life-threatening conditions, seven days a week, for extended hours, and with no appointment needed.

The Urgent Care Clinic will take pressure off the Mackay Base Hospital, which saw 15,121 non-urgent and semi-urgent presentations in 2023-24.

All you will need is your Medicare card, not your credit card.

Labor says it went to the last election promising to open 50 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics

"And we have delivered 87 clinics," a Labor statement said.

"More than 1.2 million Australians have already been treated at one of Labor’s existing 87 Urgent Care Clinics.

"Doctors have embraced the clinics, with a survey finding 7 in 10 GPs support Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, and 8 in 10 GPs say they have a positive impact on hospital emergency departments."

Labor Candidate for Dawson, Neil Wallace, said he is proud to be Labor’s new candidate in Dawson and to continue the Albanese Labor Government’s fight to strengthen Medicare, take action on cost of living and keep building Australia’s future.

“At this election Australia faces a choice: a stronger Medicare with more bulk billing for all Australians under Labor, or more cuts to Medicare under Peter Dutton's LNP," he said.

“Only Labor will deliver a Medicare Urgent Care Clinic in Mackay so you can get the free urgent care you need, fully bulk billed, without waiting hours in a busy hospital emergency department."

Around 2 million Australians are expected to make use of an Urgent Care Clinic each year, getting the free urgent care they need, fully bulk billed, without waiting hours in a busy hospital emergency department.

This extends Labor’s election commitment to strengthening Medicare, with the single largest investment in Medicare since its creation over 40 years ago.

“The Medicare Urgent Care Clinic will be open seven days, for extended hours, and take pressure off the Mackay Base Hospital," Mr Wallace added.

“Under Labor, inflation is down, wages are up, unemployment is low and now interest rates have started to come down too – but we know there’s more work to do."

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Neil Wallace: Labor’s candidate for Dawson, committed to strengthening Medicare and supporting the local community. Photo supplied

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Looking for top-notch pool care you can rely on? Look no further than Jim's Pool Care, led by Mackay’s very own Paul Durnsford. Born and raised in the region, Paul has a deep understanding of the local climate, and with the North Queensland heat, there’s no better time to dive into a refreshing, clean pool.

Whether you need regular maintenance, a one-time clean-up, or expert repairs, Paul’s got you covered. His services include pool cleaning, water balancing, pump and filter repairs, and even equipment sales. And the best part? He offers free quotes to get you started.

Paul’s passion for pool care is matched only by his dedication to providing quality service. As a local, he takes pride in offering personalised and trustworthy care that ensures your pool is sparkling clean and safe all year round.

His services extend beyond the basics, guaranteeing a healthy, welcoming environment for you and your family to enjoy, especially during those long, hot summer days.

Differentiating from others in the field, his flexible approach allows him to travel to Seaforth, Sarina, Mackay, and the Pioneer Valley to make sure your pool stays in top condition at no additional travel cost! With Jim’s Pool Care, you’re getting professional service at affordable prices, without sacrificing quality. His solo business model means you’ll always receive personal advice and attention for every job, no matter how big or small.

You can rest easy knowing that Paul is a police-checked professional, and he’ll treat your home and pool with the utmost care, even when you're not around. His commitment to safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction ensures that your pool is in good hands, no matter the season.

With Jim’s Pool Care, you’re getting honest, dependable service at prices that won’t break the bank. Get in touch with Paul today and experience the difference of working with a local business that truly cares about keeping your pool in perfect shape.

Book now with Jim’s Pool Care and get your pool looking its best!

“I take pride in ensuring every job is done right,” Paul says, “Because I believe every family deserves a safe, clean pool to enjoy."

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I take pride in ensuring every job is done right,” Paul says, “Because I believe every family deserves a safe, clean pool to enjoy.

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Mackay’s proud aviation cadet history will be celebrated as part of the Diamond Jubilee of No.1 Wing Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC), marking 75 years since its formation. Generations of cadets who trained in Mackay and across North Queensland have gone on to serve in the Air Force, aviation, and other industries, with the milestone set to be honoured at a special event in May.

The Diamond Jubilee will be celebrated with a Cocktail Party on Saturday 17th May, 2025, at the Townsville RAAF Base.

Current and former staff of the AAFC, previously known as the Air Training Corps (ATC) and later abbreviated to AIRTC (to save confusion with Air Traffic Control) are encouraged to attend and share in the celebration.

No1 Wing began with the formation of No1 Flight in Townsville, which held its first parade on May 4th 1950. This was soon followed by the formation of No.2 Flight at the Townsville Technical College. In the following years, Flights (now termed Squadrons) were formed at Ingham, Mackay, Cairns, Mareeba, Innisfail, Ayr, Charters Towers, Bowen and Mt. Isa.

A recent snapshot of the Wing indicated a cadet enrolment of over 440 and an adult staff of more than 60 across the 10 Squadrons, and the Wing’s Headquarters.

Current and former staff can obtain further details and purchase tickets for the Cocktail Party by contacting aafc1wg@cadetnet.gov.au.

Commemorative ‘patches’ and coins have been approved and produced to mark the anniversary and will be available for purchase as a memento of the event.

A Wing activity is in the planning phase. In September this year, all currently enrolled cadets and staff will have the opportunity to participate.

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Air Force Cadets gather in front of a C-130 Hercules, showcasing their dedication to aviation and leadership. Photo supplied

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St Patrick's College Mackay, a Catholic Coeducational College in the Diocese of Rockhampton, is gearing up to showcase its extensive subject offerings for students entering Year 7 in 2026 at their Open Night on Wednesday 19 March. The Open Night will be held at the Mercy Campus in Penn Street, South Mackay with prospective parents and students able to attend anytime between 4:00pm to 7:00pm.

The Open Night will feature displays from all subject areas, allowing prospective families to interact with teachers and tour the College's facilities. In addition to the academic focus, there will be performances from the College Cultural ensembles. Sports enthusiasts will have access to information about cocurricular teams and for those interested in Rugby League, you can find information on our Rugby League Excellence Program.

There will be a free sausage sizzle for anyone attending and students are encouraged to participate in the Treasure Map competition, with a prize draw featuring three great prizes.

St Patrick's College Mackay prides itself on its holistic approach to education, fostering personal and faith growth with the motto 'Seek and Serve Christ'. Offering a dual campus concept, the College caters for students in Years 7 to 10 on the Mercy Campus in Penn Street and Years 11 and 12 on the Senior Campus in Gregory Street, Mackay.

In 2024, the Senior Campus of the College showcased its commitment to providing strong vocational pathways that led to impressive employment outcomes for Vocational Pathway students. Additionally, on the academic pathway, exceptional ATAR results were achieved, positioning the College as one of the top performing senior colleges in the Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton. The success of both vocational and academic pathways demonstrates the College's dedication to preparing students for successful futures in their chosen fields.

Parents and prospective students are encouraged to attend the Open Night to learn more about what St Patrick's College Mackay has to offer and experience firsthand, the vibrant community and diverse opportunities available at the College.

If you would like more information regarding enrolment at St Patrick’s College Mackay, please visit our website www.stpats.qld.edu.au or call the College on 4994 8700.

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Accomplished young electrician and business owner, Georgia Beveridge, has been recognised at Zonta Mackay's 2025 esteemed International Women's Day High Tea in Mackay. The Sarina local was invited to share her career journey as a panellist, highlighting her career success thus far.

Georgia’s career began with her receiving the First Year Apprentice of the Year award while completing her apprenticeship with Aurizon. She has recently started her own small business and credits hard work and perseverance to her success.

From her early years at Sarina State High School, Georgia’s dedication led to her becoming a year-level leader from years seven to twelve. Her ongoing involvement in the community earned her the prestigious Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Senior Schooling Scholarship, opening doors to new opportunities.

Graduating high school in 2020, during a global pandemic, Georgia navigated the challenges of finding electrical and mechanical apprenticeship opportunities. Despite the overwhelming task, Georgia was determined to succeed and by the end of the year had secured eight job offers.

Although several offers required her to relocate, Georgia chose an electrical apprenticeship with Aurizon, allowing her to stay local. Being awarded both the Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Apprenticeship Scholarship and the Aurizon First Year Apprentice of the Year in 2021, Georgia had positively cemented her name in the Sarina community.

By 2024, Georgia received Electrical Apprentice of the Year, before becoming a fully qualified electrician seven months early, a testament to her dedication and hard work. Continuing to focus on her development, Georgia has enrolled in Electrical Engineering at CQUniversity in Mackay to further enhance her skills and advance her career.

When she is not attending community events, studying, or honing her electrical skills at work, Georgia crafts handmade jewellery and accessories as part of her business, Beyond The Dust. Each collection has been named after the women who have inspired her throughout her journey.

Georgia believes the support from the women in her life, along with opportunities from Community Bank Sarina and her apprenticeship, were integral to her success.

"Those opportunities were key to my success," she said.

"Without that support, I wouldn't be where I am today."

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Georgia Beveridge (left) and Maree Franettovich (Sarina Community Bank) at the Zonta Mackay International Women's Day High Tea at the MECC. Photo supplied

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One of Mackay’s best has joined up with riders from Sydney and New Zealand and pedalled their way into history, reclaiming the Guinness World Record for the Longest Static Cycle Class in an awe-inspiring 33-hour endurance challenge.

Fuelled by determination and a powerful cause, these dedicated riders pushed their limits to support Chronic Pain Australia, helping fund structured physical activity and nutrition programs for children and teenagers facing physical, mental, and emotional challenges.

Among the dedicated riders was Aram Drake, who endured the full 33-hour cycle alongside his teammates.

“We had a great support base and going into those final hours, we were pumped,” Aram said.

“It was tough, but the support in the room kept us going.”

The team had previously held the record before losing it to a Dubai-based group, which extended the time to 31.5 hours. Determined to bring the title back to Australia, they trained rigorously for up to eight months, building endurance through high-intensity sessions and long-distance rides.

Michelle Bruce from Tune Up Performance Nutrition, a sports dietitian, played a crucial role in the team’s success, managing hydration and meal plans.

“We had a really good team, including Michelle, who looked after the meal and hydration plan, ensuring we had two drink bottles – one with electrolytes, magnesium, and salts, and the other with water to keep us properly hydrated.”

Event organiser and lead instructor Mark Brinker was also praised for his commitment, especially given his own battle with chronic pain.

“For him to push through 33 hours as an instructor is an incredible effort,” Aram said.

The emotional moment of reclaiming the record at the 31.5-hour mark was short-lived, as the team had to keep pedalling until the full 33-hour goal was achieved.

“The relief hit us all at once, but at the same time, we knew we had to keep going,” Aram recalled.

“It was an incredible achievement for all of us.”

Despite the exhaustion, Aussie riders have already hinted that if the record is ever challenged again, they’d be ready to defend it.

“The moment we hopped off, we all swore we'd never do it again…But if the record slips away, there's no doubt – we’d be back to bring it home again.”

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Mackay cyclists reclaimed the Guinness World Record for the Longest Static Cycle Class, powering through 33 hours of endurance to raise funds for Chronic Pain Australia. Photos supplied

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With the rising demand for healthcare professionals, many New Zealand nurses are setting their sights on Australia as an exciting career destination. For cities like Mackay, this is a win, as they continue to thrive as healthcare hubs, offering new graduates the chance to grow professionally in a supportive, dynamic environment.

In fact, 32 fresh-faced graduate nurses, including Stef Wickes from Greymouth, have recently started their careers at Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), eager to dive into their new roles. Stef’s move across the Tasman is part of a larger trend of Kiwi nurses attracted by the opportunities Australia offers, and Mackay is proving to be the perfect place to embark on this next chapter.

Stef moved to Australia with a zest for adventure and desire to learn. She does admit she was surprised by the heat, arriving in Mackay at 10pm in January.

“The muggy conditions hit me as soon as I got off the plane– it’s still hitting me every day since,” she said.

“I didn’t really know where Mackay was – being from a small town in New Zealand, I didn’t realise how big Queensland actually is. My friend got a job on the Sunshine Coast and I thought ‘cool, we’ll be close’. Turns out it’s only a 10-hour drive!”

Stef is one of 32 graduate nurses who started their careers at Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) last month.

Originally from Greymouth on the west coast of the South Island in New Zealand, Stef did her three-year nursing degree at Ara Institute of Canterbury.

“At the start of my third year there was a lot of publicity about the lack of nursing jobs in New Zealand as the government had put a freeze on hiring staff,” she said.

“I was on my last placement in the Greymouth Hospital and my friend had gotten a job in Melbourne and thought I’ve always loved Queensland as I’d been to the Gold Coast on holidays.

“So I decided to apply for a post graduate program here in Queensland.”

The Mackay HHS recruitment team helped cement her decision to bravely ‘cross the ditch and work in Australia’.

“We're very lucky as a New Zealander that we're treated as Australian citizens essentially because of the Trans Tasman agreement, which is amazing,” she said.

“The Mackay nursing recruitment team were just so lovely and really supportive,” she said.

“Yes, I wanted adventure and to expand my skills in a different community, but it was really their encouragement to come over and how very easy it was to communicate with them and how responsive they were to emails and phone calls which really sealed it for me,” she said.

Stef has now completed her orientation and is looking forward to the challenge and ‘adrenalin’ of working in the emergency department at Mackay Base Hospital.

“So Mackay is quite a big hospital for me but I really liked that the health service here also offers rural hospitals as part of the graduate program,” she said.

“I’m from a rural town and that's the aspect I like. My last placement was in the ED in Greymouth and I loved it – but there was only four nurses there and seven beds, so it’s going to be very different experience here in Mackay.”

Stef is also hoping to spend some time in the health service’s rural hospitals.

“I love that in nursing you are building a rapport with your patients and you also get to see a lot of different stuff in the ED, so it’s all going to be a great experience for me,” she said.

“People really aren’t aware of the new grad program here in Australia and how it offers us the opportunity to get so much experience on the job, but also experience a different country.”

For now, Stef is focused on finding her feet in nursing, gaining more skills and acclimatising to a new country.

“I really like it here so far and everyone has been really lovely.

“Although on my first day of orientation I walked in not knowing a soul here which was a bit overwhelming,” she said.

“I introduced myself to the group and said my name is Stef. Some of them said ‘what?’ I said ‘Stef’. They said Stiff? I said ‘No Stef’.

“Guess I can’t escape my Kiwi accent here.”

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Kiwi nurse Stef Wickes embraces new challenges and adventures as she begins her career at Mackay Base Hospital, bringing her passion for rural healthcare to the heart of Queensland. Photo credit: MHHS

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Are you feeling overwhelmed by clutter? Taking small steps to declutter your space has proved to have a significant impact on your mental and physical wellbeing. As one of Queensland’s largest NDIS providers of mental health and suicide prevention support, Selectability is here to help you explore the transformative effects decluttering can have on your mental health

A tidy space can create a calmer environment, reducing stress and making you feel more in control. It can also provide relief from mental health challenges like grief, depression, or anxiety. When you declutter, you create room to think clearly and make decisions more easily, boosting your focus and productivity. Letting go of things that no longer serve you can free up space not only in your home but also in your heart, bringing a sense of freedom and happiness.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with hoarding or decluttering, asking simple, reflective questions like, "What does this item mean to you?" or "Could you live without it?" can mean all the difference, and open up important conversations.

Hoarding can be a complex challenge, but with patience, empathy, and the right support, healing is certainly possible.

If you're ready to take the first step towards better mental health, pop into Selectability’s safe and welcoming space at Sarina’s Mental Health Hub on Broad St. Since opening late last year, it has been vital in supporting the mental wellbeing of the local community. Whether you’re looking to connect, learn new skills, or make new friends, the team is here to guide and support you.

Visit selectability.com.au/sarina to learn more.

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Can you help give this pet a second chance of a loving home?

If interested in adopting, please contact the Animal Management Centre on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or visit during opening hours 11.30am -1.30pm or by appointment.

For more information on Mackay Regional Council's pound pets, visit the website: www.mackay.qld.gov.au/poundpet

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By Hannah McNamara

Tropical Cyclone Alfred caused significant damage across southeast Queensland, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and triggering severe flooding. Amid the destruction, the state’s first responders, including SES volunteers from Mackay, worked tirelessly to clear debris, deliver aid, and rescue residents. Queensland Police and other emergency services collaborated closely, with more than 2,200 SES volunteers responding to thousands of requests for help. Their coordinated efforts, supported by volunteers from northern Queensland, showcased unmatched resilience and teamwork, for which locals will forever be grateful. As recovery begins, this disaster will serve as a stepping stone, with the community uniting to rebuild and emerge stronger together.

Queensland’s First Responders’ Heroic Response To Cyclone Alfred

In the face of destruction, Tropical Cyclone Alfred has wreaked havoc across southeast Queensland, but if there’s one thing that remains unshakeable, it’s the dedication and commitment of our local SES crews and First Responders who have dropped everything to serve those in need.

As 450,000 properties were left without power and floodwaters continued to affect many areas, the support of emergency responders and volunteers has persisted, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

As Cyclone Alfred made landfall, it unleashed severe rainfall and flash flooding, affecting both Queensland and New South Wales. The damage was widespread, resulting in the largest power outage Queensland has ever experienced due to a natural disaster. But even amid the chaos, the response from communities across the state has been astounding.

Mackay's SES volunteers quickly deployed to assist in the hardest-hit areas, leaving behind their families and responsibilities to join forces with Queensland Police, Marine Rescue Queensland, and other emergency services. Together, they cleared debris, delivered supplies, and conducted rescues in flood-stricken zones.

Queensland Police Service (QPS) officers, including 176 deployed to the Gold Coast, worked side-by-side with SES teams to ensure residents were as prepared as possible. Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy expressed deep appreciation for the collaborative effort.

“This response reflects the strength of our partnerships across the service and the community, with police, staff, SES, Marine Rescue Queensland and others all working together to ensure our communities are as prepared and supported as possible.

“I want to particularly thank our colleagues from Far North Queensland, who are no strangers to these types of events,” Acting Commissioner Chelepy added.

“Their willingness to step up and assist is a reminder of the incredible teamwork and resilience our service demonstrates time and again.”

SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong said, “We’re so appreciative of our northern members who’ve just gone through their own disaster event and have now come down to help out the southeast.”

A representative from the Queensland Police Service also thanked Central Queensland officers who had travelled to Brisbane to assist communities in the South-East that the severe weather had impacted.

“More than 100 extra police from Cairns, Townsville, Mackay and Rockhampton have arrived in Brisbane, to support South-East communities impacted by the severe weather event.

“Thank you to our amazing Central Queensland SES volunteers who are being deployed to South East Queensland to assist communities prepare for Cyclone Alfred.”

While the road to recovery is long, the strength and unity shown by Queenslanders in the face of this disaster will surely carry them through to brighter days ahead.

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