Thirty new Habitat Reef (HR) modules have been installed in Mackay’s coastal waters, marking a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to restore marine biodiversity. As part of the Mackay Whitsunday Turning Rubble into Reef project, led by Reef Catchments, the initiative is set to revitalise fish habitats and boost the health of local ecosystems.
The HR modules have been purpose-built, divided into two clusters to create vertical structure in otherwise bare marine areas. These concrete structures will serve as fish habitats, providing refuge for a variety of marine life. Designed with a roughened exterior surface, the modules are also specifically crafted to encourage the settlement of marine invertebrates such as coral recruits.
Over time, these structures will offer a foundation for vibrant and diverse reef communities.
Reef Catchments Project Officer, Kellie Best, expressed enthusiasm for their expected performance, saying, “The installation of the HR modules is just the beginning.
“I, for one, cannot wait to observe the marine life they will attract.”
With the support of North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), monitoring of the Habitat Reef modules will commence over the next 12 months.  NQBP Senior Manager Sustainability and Environment Kevin Kane said NQBP were pleased to extend their extensive monitoring program to include the new HR modules.
“Over the last few years NQBP has been working with James Cook University to investigate the unique biodiversity value offered by artificial habitats like coastal infrastructure,” Mr Kane said.
“Integrating the principles of working-with-nature in designing future port infrastructure is at the heart of this research and the reef modules project offers a rare opportunity to record the establishment of new marine habitats close to a working port,” he said.
Reef Catchments CEO, Katrina Dent, emphasised Reef Catchment’s ongoing dedication to sustain and improve our region’s marine ecosystems, stating, “This initiative is an important contribution toward improving fish habitats and building reef resilience in our local waters.
“In support, Reef Catchments will uphold a 30-year commitment to monitoring the performance of the HR models.”
In a win for local recreational fishers, the HR modules have the potential to create, over time, an environment that supports fresh opportunities for anglers to enjoy their favourite pastime.
Mackay Councillor Alison Jones said the HR modules would have a positive impact on recreational fishing and local industries.
“These reef modules have so much potential for improving the accessibility and health of our inshore fishery,” Cr Jones said.
“Not only will they help to spread existing fishing pressure out over a greater area, but they will also give visiting anglers an excellent starting point when towing their boats to our region,” she said.
“If visitors have more areas they can easily access and fish – they’ll stay longer, and there will be flow-on benefits to our local marine industries and accommodation providers.”
For more information: www.reefcatchments.com.au

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Installed Habitat Reef Module. Photo credit: Catchment Solutions
Loading of Habitat Reef Module at Port of Mackay with Reef Catchments Project Officer, Kellie Best. Photos supplied

This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
62,079
666,380
Average bin weight
3.96
3.89
CCS
14.80
13.74
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
27.1
15.20
Q253
22.0
14.34
Q240
6.9
14.65
SRA9
11.1
15.17
Q208
17.6
15.18
SRA21
1.4
14.75
KQ228
3.7
14.15
Q138
1.7
14.43
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Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just over 62,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to just over 666,000 tonnes.
Average CCS rose by 0.18 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.80 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 13.74 units.
Standover cane made up eight per cent of the week’s cane supply.
Wilmar commends the efforts of growers and harvesting operators for the pleasing bin weights and cane quality this season.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 plant cane from the Koumala productivity area with a CCS of 17.20 units.
It’s pleasing that no incidents were reported around our rail network during the recent Queensland school holidays and long weekend.
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Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

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Running a successful farming business in the arid regions of Queensland is tough and maximising the productivity of your land is essential. Nobody knows this like rural business owners Nichole James and Jake and Adam Fietz.
Nichole, Jake and Adam are participating in a field trial being delivered by Central Highlands Regional Resources Use Planning Cooperative (CHRRUP) as part of the Future Drought Fund (FDF) Drought Resilient Soils and Landscapes program. The project aims to demonstrate drought resilient grazing practices that can rehydrate grazing landscapes and improve soils and water on farms. This supports building drought resilience by enhancing total biomass, reducing erosion and contributing to increased productivity of grazing enterprises.
Nichole’s property is one of five included in the project. Glenn Landsberg, a Regeneration Consultant, has been working with Nichole to modify her farm landscape for better water retention, particularly focusing on the restoration of gullies.
“Recovery here isn't really going to happen until we intervene and make something happen,” Glenn said.
After working with Glenn and employing earthworks to retain water across her property, Nichole has also implemented smaller fenced paddocks and rotational grazing to allow soil and pasture to rest and recover.
“Now we’ve done earthworks, it'll help make it recover quicker and slow the erosion,” Nichole said.
“Now that I've split the paddock, I can control the grazing pressure even more.
“With these earthworks, which will also help with slowing the water, we should see a much bigger recovery in a much shorter time,” says Nichole.
At ‘Hiddenvale’ in Queensland, Jake and Adam’s property is also part of the project and already is seeing results through effective water management, which reduces soil erosion and surface run-off.
“The drought over the last 10 years has just knocked us about,” Jake said.
“It's just mind blowing how much it has actually knocked us around, just so much destruction. I don't want to ever be in a nasty situation again where we have to destock.
“If we have to destock again, we’d have to sell the place basically.”
Adam added, “Our property was all deeply eroded, lots of dead trees and a lot of water run-off.
“We used the dead trees and wind-rowed them up, slowed the water run-off. That caught some seed.
“I've got them about 80 metres apart all the way up and it's all grass now. It stopped a lot of the erosion which is always a good thing.”

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Nichole James
Glenn Landsberg shows where the soil height used to be on Nichole’s property

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By Sonia Ball
QCAR Central District Manager

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There is change in the air with the establishment and continued growth of Queensland Cane Agriculture and Renewables (QCAR) in all cane growing regions across Queensland and into New South Wales.
It’s an exciting change for sugarcane farmers with regional QCAR district committees operating in the Herbert River Region, but also right here at home in the Central District (Proserpine, Mackay and Plane Creek) and of course the Burdekin.
Last week the Central District Committee underwent some changes indicative of the proactiveness and flexibility of the growers on the regional QCAR teams.
Former chairman of the Central District Committee (CDC) Chris Punzell, on the eve of moving into the role of president of AgForce Cane Limited (ACL), has officially stepped down from his position as chairman of the CDC.
Chris said he is intending to focus on his new role while maintaining his position as Director on the QCAR Board, as well as continuing as a CDC committee member and supporting the new chairman.
Stepping up to fill the role of chairman is committee member Steve McKeering, who also is a Director on the QCAR Board.
Steve said he is looking forward to leading the strategic direction of the Central District while maintaining the good work that Chris Punzell had begun in the Central District’s mill supply areas.
Deputy chairman Steve Fordyce will retain this position on the committee.
The QCAR CDC also welcomed new CDC committee member grower Blair Watt. Blair attended the September meeting as an observer, was nominated and accepted the position.
The CDC is supported by Central District Manager Sonia Ball and growers are encouraged to make contact to find out more about the organisation and the regional QCAR teams.

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Former Central District Committee chairman Chris Punzell is taking on a new direction and focus as president elect of AgForce Cane Limited (ACL)
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Newly nominated and accepted Steve McKeering has taken on the position of chairman of the Central District Committee. Photos supplied

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) has successfully completed maintenance dredging at the Port of Hay Point, including Half Tide Tug Harbour.

NQBP would like to commend all staff and contractors for their work during the project.

Around 163,000m 3 of natural sediment was removed from the Port of Hay Point and the Half Tide Tug Harbour and placed at the approved Dredge Material Placement Area (DMPA).

NQBP would also like to thank the Hay Point community for their patience and understanding during the project.

The TSHD Brisbane undertook 152 trips to and from the DMPA without incident.

This is a testament to all involved including the local Hay Point fishing and boating community.

Throughout the dredging, NQBP engaged with key stakeholders including the Hay Point Technical Advisory and Consultative Committee (TACC). Members of the TACC include conservation groups, Traditional Owners, scientists, community, port users, and Commonwealth and State Governments.

The dredging was undertaken in line with the Queensland Government Maintenance Dredging Strategy for Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area Ports and adhered to all approvals and permits, including a range of strict environmental conditions.

Environmental monitoring and management measures were implemented throughout the campaign to minimise the risk of any potential impacts on the marine environment.

During the project, maintenance work at the Half Tide Tug harbour public boat ramp was also completed on behalf of the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).

NQBP has managed the maintenance dredging program at the Port of Hay Point for more than 20 years.

The Port of Hay Point is one of the largest steel-making coal export facilities in the world and its operations are of tremendous benefit to Queenslanders, supporting thousands of jobs and enabling tens of billions of dollars in export value.

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Dredge vessel TSHD Brisbane has now left the Port of Hay Point. Photo supplied

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Two experienced leaders in mine safety have been appointed to key positions by the state government in an effort to make mining a safer workplace industry.
Heidi Roberts has been appointed as the Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health and Rob Djukic is now CEO of the independent health and safety regulator Resources Safety and Health Queensland.
Resources and Critical Minerals Minister Scott Stewart congratulated Ms Roberts and Mr Djukic in their new appointments.
“Heidi Roberts brings a wide range of experience to the vital position which will work across the resources industry to ensure safety is everyone’s top priority,” Minister Stewart said.
“Ms Roberts also helped lead reform in relation response to Black Lung disease in coal mine workers.
“I would also like to congratulate Mr Djukic who has been with RSHQ since it was established in 2020.
“I know the wealth of experience and knowledge he will bring to this role now and into the future.
“In Mr Djukic’s former role as RSHQ’s Chief Operating Officer, he has overseen key milestones including the regulator’s response to the Coal Mining Board of Inquiry and the development and passage of the Resources Safety and Health Legislation Amendment Act 2024.
“The health and safety of all workers is paramount for the state government.
“Queensland now has the toughest mine safety and health laws in the world - including an offence of industrial manslaughter.
“That’s because we have implemented the most substantial suite of reforms to mine safety and health in 20 years.
Commissioner for Resources Safety and Health Heidi Roberts said she was thrilled to accept the role.
“I look forward to continuing to drive the culture of best practice and productive dialogue between industry, worker representative groups, subject matter experts and the Regulator, so that resource workers in Queensland can enjoy the strongest protections in safety and health.”
Resources Safety and Health Queensland CEO Rob Djukic added, “I strongly believe in RSHQ’s vision and purpose, and know we have an excellent team to deliver our important work. I am excited and honoured to officially accept the CEO role in a substantive capacity”
“I believe that clear communication, fairness and respect for persons are core to protecting safety and health and being an effective regulator – and these will continue being key focus areas of my leadership.”

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The Bowen Basin mining region has seen remarkable progress in promoting gender diversity and empowering women within the industry. Traditionally dominated by men, the mining sector is undergoing a significant shift, with women stepping into leadership roles, operational positions and technical careers. 

An industry-leading approach to diversity and inclusion has resulted in national recognition for Anglo American at the prestigious 2024 Women in Resources National Awards in Canberra.

The Inclusion and Diversity Champion in Resources national award went to Workplace Support Manager Kanae Dyas who has pioneered a program dedicated to supporting our women while committing to zero tolerance of bullying, sexual harassment or discrimination.

“Kanae has won this award for her exceptional commitment to fostering inclusion, diversity, and equity within the resources sector,” Minerals Council of Australia said.

“Kanae’s leadership in developing impactful programs has set a new standard for cultural and gender safety in the industry.”

Anglo American took out both awards at the 2024 QRC/WIMARQ Resources Awards for Women in Queensland on International Women’s Day in March. These wins qualified them for the national awards.

Ms Dyas said the resources industry had made significant progress because it had the maturity to see the value in diversity and inclusion.

“We need safe, inclusive, and equitable spaces for women to thrive; career development and progression opportunities; increased leadership and executive roles for women to inform, drive and sustain change; and to close the gender pay gap,” she said.

Head of People, Capability and Organisation Ben Mansour, also at the Canberra event, said this recognition came off the back of a concerted effort to increase the number of females in leadership positions across the company’s steelmaking coal operations.

He said diverse teams were more productive, innovative and creative.

“We set ourselves a task to create an innovative, inclusive and diverse people strategy that helped us create an equitable organisation for every employee,” he said.

“We created an environment where employees could easily connect with accessible mentors to propel their career goals. This has not only benefitted our female workforce but also a diverse range of employees from differing backgrounds.

“We designed a forward-thinking strategy to bring women into non-traditional technical and
operational roles by building talent pipelines from graduate, apprenticeship and trainee programs.

“This has allowed the organisation to achieve an elevation of merit-based appointment of women into leadership roles, ensuring informed decision-making and equal representation at every stage.

“It’s just the start, but we are committed to driving a values-based culture where talent knows no gender and where every individual is given the opportunity to thrive.”

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Anglo American Workplace Support Manager Kanae Dyas won the Inclusion and Diversity Champion in Resources award at the 2024 Women in Resources National Awards in Canberra. She is pictured with Simon Trott from Rio Tinto, which sponsored the award.

Pictured are Head of People, Capability and Organisation Ben Mansour (right)
with team members Sandra Thomson and Brendan Storer. Photos supplied

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Step into Flavours of Vietnam, where Mackay locals are treated to a true taste of Vietnam. Known for their “All Natural, All Fresh” philosophy, this bustling restaurant serves up vibrant dishes that celebrate the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine and culture. Every bite is a journey into a world of bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and irresistible textures. Whether you're a seasoned fan of Vietnamese food or looking to try something new, Flavours of Vietnam promises a dining experience that's as exciting as it is delicious.

Two must-try dishes that showcase their commitment to freshness and flavour are the Crispy Pancake (Banh Xeo) and Vietnamese Pork Hock.

Crispy Pancake - Banh Xeo
The Banh Xeo offers a delightful sensory experience. Made from rice flour, coconut milk, and a touch of turmeric. This golden, crispy pancake crackles with every bite. Inside, it’s packed with crunchy bean shoots, creating a perfect contrast to the delicate pancake exterior. Pair it with the tangy dipping sauce on the side, and you have a dish that’s light, fresh, and bursting with flavour. The combination of crispiness and freshness makes it a true standout for anyone seeking a taste of Vietnam's vibrant street food scene.

Vietnamese Pork Hock
Looking for something a little more indulgent? The Vietnamese Pork Hock is the answer. This dish is the ultimate combination of tender, fall-apart pork and perfectly crisp skin. Slow-cooked to perfection, the pork hock practically melts in your mouth while delivering that irresistible crunch from the crispy skin. Accompanied by fragrant steamed rice, a fresh salad, and a house-made dipping sauce that’s both savoury and sweet, this dish is comfort food with a Vietnamese twist. It’s hearty, satisfying, and packed with flavour—a true celebration of traditional home cooking.

At Flavours of Vietnam, these dishes offer more than just a meal—they’re an invitation to experience the authentic tastes and vibrant culture of Vietnam, right in the heart of Mackay.

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At just 20 years old, Courtney Fing is living proof of how Richglen Maintenance Services’ career pathways can fast-track progression in the mining and resources industry. Less than a year ago, Courtney was pressure cleaning shovels and draglines, working high up in elevated work platforms and assisting tradesmen with heavy machinery. Today, she’s transitioned from the tools to a key role in workplace health and safety, all thanks to Richglen’s focus on developing talent from within.
Courtney's journey in resources began in November 2022, when she moved from industrial cleaning to a Trade Assistant (TA) role. “I love being on the tools and seeing how things operate and come together,” she says. Her hands-on experience in operations gave her unique insight into the intricacies of the equipment and machinery used on-site, fuelling her desire to learn more and take on new challenges.
Recognising her dedication and potential, Richglen offered Courtney a pathway to further her career, and she soon transitioned to the position of Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality (HSEQ) Administrator. Now, she plays a crucial role in maintaining safety standards for her colleagues by managing safety data sheets, gathering statistics, updating registers, and generating safety reports. “I'm learning about all the things I didn’t realise went on behind the scenes,” she said.
What makes Courtney’s story stand out is the clear and structured career pathway she’s following at Richglen. The company’s commitment to identifying and developing talent has provided her with opportunities for targeted training and skill development. From first aid to risk assessment and investigative processes, she’s acquiring the tools to continue advancing in the company. This tailored progression plan is part of what makes Richglen such a dynamic place to build a career.
Beyond the training, Courtney finds Richglen’s close-knit, supportive environment another key factor in her success. “It’s like a big family. Everyone is always happy to teach you things and help you learn,” she says. This culture of mentorship and collaboration has empowered her to quickly step into her new role while planning for her future growth.
While she loved the camaraderie of working on-site with her mine crew, Courtney values the improved work-life balance she now enjoys in Richglen’s Mackay office. The opportunity to work business hours and be home every night is one of the many benefits she’s gained through the company’s career pathways.
Through structured progression and skill-building opportunities, Richglen is empowering employees like Courtney to achieve meaningful career growth, proving that dedication and the right support can unlock significant potential in the mining and resources sector.

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Courtney Fing (centre) with Richglen colleagues Karl Kupke and Tony Chan at Collinsville
Courtney on the roof of a dragline with colleagues Kiarma Scott (left) and Corrie Hughes

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Research by CQUniversity Psychology graduate Rebecca Brown has found FIFO life is not necessarily lonely, but parenting is tougher.
New CQUniversity research has found FIFO parents and partners are no lonlier than the rest of the parenting population.
But the study highlighted parents with a family member working remotely say parenting teamwork and consistency are tougher to achieve. 
The research was led by CQUniversity Psychology graduate Rebecca Brown and Associate Professor Matthew Thomas, Deputy Director of CQU’s Appleton Institute for health and wellbeing. 
As part of her honours project, Ms Brown studied fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) and drive-in, drive-out (DIDO) workers and their partners to analyse family and wellbeing. 
“We know mental health for this cohort can suffer, and impact workplace productivity, general wellbeing, relationships, and even development of workers children,” the Mackay-based teacher and counsellor said.
 “My study actually found both workers’ and partners’ life satisfaction and loneliness were comparable to parents in the Australian community generally – but remote working life does present specific challenges,” she said.
“Respondents reported above-average difficulty with parenting consistency, parents’ emotional adjustment around roster changes, and how family relationships are maintained.
“Interestingly, there was also no correlation between frequent communication and reduced loneliness – so strong and satisfying relationships can be achieved even if partners aren’t frequently in touch during remote working stint.
“The findings highlight the specific supports that remote workers and families might need to thrive, and I hope they can help destigmatise those challenges, and encourage families to seek that help.”
The research heard from 300 people, with average 2.17 dependents, and most workers on a 7/8 days on, 5/6 days off schedule. 
The cohort had considerable experience in remote working lifestyle, with 69 per cent FIFO/ DIDO for more than five years. 
Ms Brown also found that the cohort reported significantly higher than average life satisfaction when families felt like they’d achieved life adjustments despite the challenges.
Those positive feelings came with better parental teamwork, family relationships and emotional adjustment.
“We know around 70 per cent of Australia’s remote workers have children – so families need to know that strong parenting and relationships are possible, with the right supports.”
If you’re passionate about research to improve health and wellbeing for Australian communities, explore CQUniversity’s research higher degree opportunities. 

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CQU Psychology Honours graduate Rebecca Brown. Photo supplied: CQU

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Mornings at Laffos Bar & Pizzeria are nothing short of egg-cellent… and if you haven’t tried their range of Eggs Benedict yet, you’re in for a real treat!

Despite being known for their handcrafted pizzas and pub classics, it’s the Eggs Benedict that takes the crown as their best-seller. For every 12-inch Supreme pizza that rolls out of the kitchen, three Bennys are served up, making them the go-to breakfast, every day of the week!

Laffos has perfected the art of the Benny, offering an array of creative variations to suit every taste bud. Whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, brunch or even dinner (yes, there’s a Benny available all day!), the options are endless.

Laffos' decision to serve their Bacon Benny all day has been a game changer. No matter what time you’re craving breakfast, you can dive into two poached eggs, smoky bacon and toasted sourdough goodness, smothered in hollandaise… it’s a recipe for perfection and with generous portions, it’s easy to see why this dish is flying off the menu!

Feeling adventurous? Try the Mexican Benny, loaded with pulled pork, jalapeños and tomato salsa, or the Halloween Benny with roasted pumpkin and feta.

Each Benny has its own unique taste…it’s almost hard to pick just one!

The Pesto & Haloumi Benny is a fresh, herby option, while the Reuben Benny with sauerkraut and shaved corned meat gives a delicious twist to the traditional breakfast.

Veggie lovers will fall for the Asparagus & Sun-Dried Tomato Benny or the Avocado & Fetta Smash Benny, perfect for those who want something light but still jam-packed with flavour.

Gather your friends, family or co-workers and start your day off right with the best Bennys in town. Whether you're an early riser or sneaking in a late breakfast, Laffos has you covered.

It’s an egg-cellent deal that’s too good to pass up!

The Ultimate Benny Line-up…Which One Will You Choose?

Big Benny
three poached eggs, bacon, leg ham served on 3 pieces of toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

Bacon Benny - ALL DAY
two poached eggs with smokey bacon served on 2 pieces of toasted sour dough and fresh spinach, topped with hollandaise sauce

Leg Ham Benny
two poached eggs and smoked leg ham served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

Smoked Salmon Benny
two poached eggs and sliced smoked salmon served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

Halloween Benny
two poached eggs, roasted pumpkin & fetta served on toasted sourdough with topped fresh spinach with hollandaise sauce

Pesto & Haloumi Benny
two poached eggs, grilled haloumi with a pesto drizzle served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

Mexican Benny
two poached eggs, pulled pork, jalapeno and tomato salsa served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with spicy hollandaise sauce

Reuben Benny
two poached eggs, shaved cornmeat, sauerkraut served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with Russian sauce

Asparagus & Sun Dried Tomato Benny
two poached eggs, grilled asparagus & sun dried tomatoes served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

Avocado and Fetta Smash Benny
two poached eggs, smashed avocado and fetta served on toasted sourdough and fresh spinach topped with hollandaise sauce

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Each year council offers three exciting bursaries for visual and performing arts students, but this year the amount on offer has hit an all-time high.

In total, $7000 is up for grabs.

The MECC’s Jack Sturgeon Bursary has tripled this year, with the Friends of the MECC sponsoring the bursary.

Performing arts students who have been accepted into tertiary studies in any aspect of the performing arts can now apply for $3000.

Two bursaries are also available for visual and creative arts students – the $1000 Rick Wood Bursary and the $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary.

Mayor Greg Williamson said pursuing an artistic passion as a career was far from easy and tertiary education was becoming more expensive every year.

“You have to take your hat off to a young person who has the courage to back themselves and their creative talents by undertaking a tertiary degree, especially away from home,” Mayor Williamson said.

“These students deserve support, and we are proud to be able to offer some support to offset rising costs,” he said.

“Our region also takes great pride in seeing Mackay residents succeed and achieve great things on the national and international stage.”

Mayor Williamson said the support of the Jack Sturgeon Bursary by Friends of the MECC was a tremendous gesture.

“The Friends of the MECC do so much for our theatre and convention centre and this is just another way in which they are supporting performing arts in our region – this time on a grass roots level,” he said.

“The Jack Sturgeon Bursary for performing arts had been going for 23 years, and with this contribution from the Friends of the MECC it will give a fantastic boost to the career of young performing artists.

“One of the best things about this bursary is it covers the full gamut of entertainment – it’s not just for those wanting to be on stage performing, but also for those backstage, directing and coordinating.”

Acting Artspace Director Lauren Turton said the $3000 Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary was geared towards visual arts students looking to take their tertiary study to the next level.

“In previous years recipients have used this bursary for a range of things like studying abroad with expert tutors or undertaking special projects, like major exhibitions or showcases in their final years of study,” Ms Turton said.

All three bursaries are now open and close Friday, November 9, 2024.

Bursaries will be presented in December this year.

For terms and conditions and to apply for the Rick Wood or Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursaries, head to artspacemackay.com.au/learning/bursary

For terms and conditions and to apply for the Jack Sturgeon Bursary, head to themecc.com.au/education/bursaries

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Last year's bursary recipients: From left, Venue and Events Operations Manager (MECC and Events) Jemma Carey, Jack Sturgeon Bursary recipient Baden Day, Mayor Greg Williamson, Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary recipient Georgia Farlow, Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary Highly Commended Emma Reginato, Leonie Wood (judge) and Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood

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Headaches are a common complaint, affecting millions of people worldwide. From tension headaches to migraines, the causes can vary, and so can the solutions. While diet and dehydration often get the blame, some less obvious culprits might be affecting you, particularly stress and poor posture. In this column, we’ll explore how what you eat—or don’t drink—could be contributing to your headaches and how chiropractic care can help alleviate the symptoms associated with these triggers.

The Role of Diet in Headaches
You’ve probably heard that skipping meals can cause headaches, but even your regular eating habits might be the hidden source of your pain. Certain foods and additives are known to trigger headaches in sensitive individuals. Processed foods, rich in preservatives like nitrates and MSG, can wreak havoc on your head. Similarly, artificial sweeteners, especially aspartame, can cause headaches in some people. Caffeine, while offering temporary relief for some, can also lead to withdrawal headaches if consumed in excess.
On the flip side, deficiencies in key nutrients could also be playing a role. A lack of magnesium, for instance, is linked to more frequent and intense headaches, especially migraines. Ensuring you have a balanced diet rich in whole foods, leafy greens, and nuts can make a significant difference.

Dehydration: The Silent Cause
Dehydration is another sneaky contributor to headaches. Many of us are chronically dehydrated without realising it. Water is essential for maintaining normal body functions, and even slight dehydration can lead to a headache. When you're dehydrated, your body loses electrolytes, which can cause the blood vessels in your brain to tighten, triggering discomfort.
Regular water intake throughout the day can help stave off dehydration-related headaches. If you often feel sluggish or develop headaches in the afternoon, it could be your body’s way of signalling that it needs more hydration.

Chiropractic Care and Headache Relief
While diet and hydration play critical roles, chiropractic care can also help in alleviating the pain associated with headaches. Tension headaches, often caused by muscle tightness in the neck and shoulders, can be eased with targeted spinal adjustments. These adjustments can relieve pressure and improve posture, reducing tension that might lead to headaches.

Chiropractic care can also promote better blood flow and reduce nerve irritation, both of which are factors that contribute to headache symptoms. By realigning the spine, chiropractors can help alleviate some of the discomfort caused by stress, tension, and misalignment—giving your body a better chance to heal naturally.

Combined with good hydration and a balanced diet, it’s possible to keep headaches at bay and improve your overall quality of life.

At Move It Chiropractic, we’re here to help you on that journey—guiding you toward a healthier lifestyle.

Dr Suzanne Kippen (Chiropractor)
Move It Chiropractic

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Ten silkie roosters and hens were recently abandoned in bushland without food or water, leaving them in a life-threatening situation. Local animal rescuer Robin Morgan responded quickly, finding the birds severely dehydrated.

The silkies instantly flocked to the water bowl, where a spokesperson from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc said they just “drank and drank”, marking a clear sign of severe neglect.

A call for help saw a team of four volunteers embark on a mission to recover the abandoned birds. By afternoon, seven were successfully captured, while three remained elusive. Undeterred, Robin returned to the area that evening, armed with a flashlight, and discovered two silkies roosting in a tree within reach. The two were promptly reunited with the rest of the flock, leaving just one rooster left to rescue.

The rescued birds are now under the care of Ros, where they are being kept safe until more suitable accommodations can be arranged. Once the final rooster is secured, all of the birds will be relocated to a permanent home in a rural area.

While the circumstances of their abandonment were distressing, swift rescue efforts have ensured these vulnerable animals are now out of danger and on their way to a secure future.

“It is always a good feeling when you save an animal in need,” commented a Mackay Pet Rescue Inc spokesperson.

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10 silkie roosters and hens were recently rescued after local rescuers found them abandoned in the bush. They are now in safe and sound, in care and will be relocated to a new forever home. Photo source: Mackay Pet Rescue Inc (Facebook)

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By Hannah McNamara

Sworn into the Queensland Police on July 2, 1948, Constable First Class Roy Doyle began his career in Cairns before being transferred to Mackay in 1952. His dedication to the community and commitment to his duties were evident throughout his career, but it was on March 30, 1956, during one of the region’s most devastating floods, that he demonstrated the true weight of the badge he wore.

It was on a gruelling Friday afternoon, where heavy rains had caused the Pioneer River to rise dangerously, flooding the Mackay area. Doyle, along with other officers, worked tirelessly to maintain order and ensure the safety of the community. As the river's waters peaked and began to recede, the situation appeared to be under control. However, the unexpected occurred when a man under the influence of alcohol, emerged into the floodwaters, attempting to swim across the raging river. Despite the dangers, Constable Doyle, alongside his colleagues, jumped in to save him.

In the chaos, Doyle’s decision to assist another officer in rescuing the man tragically cost him his life. Diving into the roaring waters of the Pioneer River, Doyle then struck his head on a submerged block of concrete. The impact left him significantly injured and despite efforts to save him, he passed away on April 1, 1956.

His sacrifice was recognised when he became the first Queensland police officer to be awarded the Queen’s Medal for Gallantry.

Just last week, on the 27th of September, former and current police officers as well as family members gathered at the Mount Basset cemetery to unveil Doyle’s refurbished headstone.

What was once a faded tile of memorabilia, has now been refined into a restored place of remembrance, where work colleagues, friends and family members can pay their respects to a man of bravery and might.

In attendance was Doyle’s two daughters Diane Jeff’s and Judith McGrath, who greatly appreciated the ceremony and unveiling of his new headstone.

“Diane and I are so proud of our father,” Judith said.

“Even though it’s been 68 years, we still have the feelings…we still miss him terribly and we wish he’d been here with us.”

The sisters were the first to unveil the restored plaque, which they then laid a reef in loving memory of their Father.

Secretary for the Mackay and Whitsunday Branch of Retired Police, Andre Wijtenburg said, “I ask each of you to remember all police officers who have given their lives in execution of their duty, and the families that they have left behind.”

He emphasised the importance of honouring the officers who sacrificed their life, not just on Police Remembrance Day, but for years to come, setting Constable First Class Roy Doyle as a remarkable example of the selfless spirit that gave his life to save others.

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Constable Roy Doyle, 1948 Image No. PM1791 Courtesy of the Queensland Police Museum

Former work collegues, friends and family members of Constable Roy Doyle gathered at the Mount Bassett Cemetery to honour the enduring legacy that he left behind, even 68 years later.
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Mr Doyle’s two daughters Diane Jeff’s and Judith McGrath. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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