The next wave of female leaders will be empowered to chart their own course through a new partnership between North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) and Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsunday (RDA GW).

The NQBP Women in Leadership program, co-ordinated by RDA GW, aims to help address the under-representation of women in leadership roles in regional areas.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the government-owned port authority had sponsored $60,000 towards the program, which is about building a strong pipeline of female leaders.

“Thirty women from across the Mackay and Whitsunday region, including 25 community members and five NQBP employees, will be supported to grow their skills and confidence in leadership roles,” Mr Webb said.

“The ten-month program includes workshops, masterclasses, access to local and regional leadership mentors, and industry networking opportunities.”

NQBP’s General Manager People, Safety, Environment and Sustainability Carissa Mansfield highlighted the program as a key initiative supporting the organisation’s diversity and equity strategy.

“The NQBP Women in Leadership program is designed to empower our female colleagues with the skills, support, and confidence to become the leaders of tomorrow, while also fostering strong local and regional networks,” Ms Mansfield said.

“As a female leader, I know how valuable it is to have the right support and opportunities. It’s inspiring to see a program equipping women with the tools to step into leadership roles and make a lasting impact.”

RDA GW CEO Rob Cocco said the program not only benefits participants but strengthens organisations by fostering leadership succession and enhancing opportunities for women.

“By empowering the women in our workplaces, we are not only investing in their individual growth but also creating a stronger, more diverse leadership in the region,” Mr Cocco said.

“If you are an emerging or developing female leader looking to grow your skills, confidence, and networks, we encourage you to apply for the NQBP Women in Leadership program.”

The subsidised program costs $350 per participant, commences in March 2025 and completes in December 2025. Applications are now open, closing Wednesday 5 March.

To find out more and apply, visit www.rdagw.org.au/news/nqbp-women-in-leadership-program.

Caption: Proudly supporting the NQBP Women in Leadership Program: RDA GW CEO Rob Cocco, NQBP’s General Manager People, Safety, Environment and Sustainability Carissa Mansfield, RDA GW Project Manager Nic Willis and NQBP CEO Brendan Webb. Photo supplied

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Australia’s leading and emerging artists' book makers will once again vie for Artspace Mackay’s prestigious Libris Awards: The Australian Artists' Book Prize.

Held every two years, the Libris Awards bring together works by leading and emerging artists' book makers from across the country.

Entries for the Awards open on Tuesday, February 18, and will close on March 25. The exhibition will run from July 5 to September 14.

The Awards are a chance to celebrate the artform and build on the gallery’s significant artist book collection through the competition’s acquisitive prizes.

Mayor Greg Williamson said, in this ninth iteration of the Libris Awards, Artspace Mackay had made some format changes.

“This year, the Tertiary Artists Book Prize category will be an invitational award, with seven outstanding artists selected to vie for the $3000 prize,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The winning work will be acquired by Artspace for its collection. Acquisitive prizes like this provide a fantastic opportunity for emerging artists to have their works become a part of a regional or state collection.

Mayor Williamson said it was an honour to have renowned artists Marian Macken and Ana Estrada as judges for this year’s Libris Awards.

“Both Marian and Ana are previous Libris winners and it’s wonderful to have them back with their experience as artist book makers to judge,” Mayor Williamson said.

This year entrants will vie for four prizes in three categories:

• The Daly Bay National Artists Book Award (acquisitive) $10,000.

• Tertiary Artists Book Prize (Invitational award – acquisitive) $3000.

• The Daly Bay National Artists Book Award, Highly Commended (acquisitive) $5000.

• The Cathy Knezevic Regional Artists Book Award (acquisitive) $3000.

For more information on the 2025 Libris Awards visit www.artspacemackay.com.au/librisawards

Caption: 2022 Libris Awards winner Jessica Dorizac, left, receives her prize from Sharon Johnston (Daly Bay), for her work ‘Passages 1-5’. Photo supplied

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It has been a challenging time across our growing communities, with every region affected to various degrees by the recent rain event.

The Herbert region obviously bore the brunt of it with extensive flood damage, lengthy power outages, communication issues and prolonged supply issues.

In the Burdekin, we had floodwater through Invicta Mill at Giru twice in the space of one week, and the whole region was impacted by localised flooding, highway closures and access issues. Our Proserpine region had some local flooding and minor track damage while Plane Creek largely dodged a bullet.

As our Grower Marketing consultants live in the regions, they have been reaching out to our growers to check in on their general well-being as well as assessing crop status for this year’s harvest.

It’s too early to say what the impact will be on the 2025 crop. Suffice to say that we need a bit of clear weather to allow growers to get into fields to visually assess crop status – particularly in the Herbert.

A few days of sun will also allow us to do a detailed inspection of our Herbert rail network and get the job under way of assessing bridges and replacing ballast that was washed away by floodwater.

Our Grower Marketing team has also used this period of time to talk growers through the wash-up of pricing for the 2024 season.

Even with final deliveries and CCS being lower than estimates, there were very few hard washouts, which is a good result.

There is still a portion of pricing to be done for the tidy up of the 2024 season with growers hoping for a kick above $700/t to close out their orders. Growers appear to be targeting $650/t as the next level to fix some more 2025 Season GEI sugar exposure.

Interestingly, results from our survey of growers last year indicated that, among the things that keep them awake at night, sugar price volatility ranked number four while the weather came in at number seven.

A quick reminder for growers who may need a cash injection with the disruptions caused by the recent flooding. Our Pre-Season Payment allows for an advance of $5/t cane for all cane nominated to Wilmar.

Caption: Repairing ballast washouts will be a key focus for Wilmar's Herbert cane rail network in the coming months. Photo supplied

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has pledged $20,000 to the Bendigo Bank North Queensland Flood Appeal, providing vital support to communities devastated by recent flooding.

This donation will support residents on their recovery journey, helping them rebuild homes, restore their livelihoods, and regain a sense of stability after the severe impact of floods.

The Bendigo Bank North Queensland Flood Appeal follows a community-led approach, directing all contributions to where they’re needed most, working with local partners in the affected areas.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said our region understands all too well the long-term impact of flooding and the devasting effects on peoples’ lives.

“The recovery process continues for months—sometimes years—after the water recedes. We want to ensure that affected communities have access to the support they need, both now and into the future.”

She emphasised the importance of standing by North Queensland communities in their time of need. “As a community focused bank, we believe in supporting not just our own backyard but our neighbours as well.”

"This donation is a testament to our long-standing commitment to supporting communities—both in Sarina and beyond. We encourage others to give to this important appeal and help our northern neighbours recover and rebuild."

Bendigo Bank customers affected by these weather events can also apply for a Natural Disaster Assistance package, providing relief on loan repayments, discounted interest rates and waived fees, where applicable.

To support flood-affected communities, donations can be made directly to the Bendigo Bank North Queensland Flood Appeal at: www.bendigobank.com.au/community/foundation/disaster-appeals/north-queensland-flood-appeal/

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Proud Mackay brothers Sean and Silvan Aban are preparing for an extra special moment this December as they celebrate their university graduation…together!

With a shared passion for healthcare and a drive to support their regional community, the Aban brothers have been on parallel paths towards their dreams. Silvan, in his sixth year of medicine, has been a guiding mentor to younger students while completing his final years of study back home in Mackay.

Meanwhile, his brother Sean began his journey in pharmacy, initially unaware he could study from Mackay, but has since returned and is currently on placement at Mackay Base Hospital.

Both brothers are determined to contribute to the region’s healthcare workforce, with Sean hoping to secure his internship locally.

In an exciting twist, the pair will graduate side by side at the same ceremony, making for a rare, but rather special family celebration.

A representative from Mackay Hospital Health Service said, “It’s thrilling to see local brothers Silvan and Sean, who have a shared passion for regional healthcare, completing their final year pharmacy and medical students placements at home with the Mackay HHS.

“Sibling rivalry is definitely the rocket fuel of success and Silvan and Sean’s hard work and dedication to their studies at JCU: College of Medicine and Dentistry is paying off.

“Congratulations guys and all the best to you both for a fantastic year ahead!”

Caption: Mackay brothers Sean and Silvan Aban are celebrating their double graduation success this December, both completing their studies in healthcare and graduating together from JCU. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service (Facebook)

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The Project Launch at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club on February 10th drew around 65 passionate supporters for the Pine Islet Lighthouse Preservation Society's (PILPS) restoration project. Former Pine Islet residents reunited, with guest speaker and former lighthouse keeper Darrel Roche sharing his unique experiences.

PILPS President Brian Osborn updated attendees on the progress of the project and its future needs. The social history project by the WDYTSI group is progressing well, with connections being made with families tied to Pine Islet. Books on the lighthouse and life on Pine, authored by Janet Norman and Enid Schmidtke, sold well, with more available for interested buyers.

The Pine Islet Lighthouse, built in 1885, was the last kerosene-powered lighthouse in Australia before being decommissioned in 1986. Saved from destruction, it was relocated to Mackay Marina, where it stands today.

The PILPS is calling for community and corporate support to restore and preserve this unique piece of Mackay's heritage, aiming to make it the last functioning kerosene-powered lighthouse in the world.

Group photo caption: Photo source: Pine Islet Lighthouse

Caption: Guest speaker and Former Lighthouse Keeper Darrel Roche

Caption: The Pine Islet Lighthouse restoration launch on February 10th at Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club drew 65 supporters, with Darrel Roche sharing insights and updates, while seeking community and corporate support. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara.

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“Propulsive and Engaging” are the choice words used to describe the spectacular debut novel, Daughters of the Fatherland, penned by Mackay local Jericho J Johnson. This gripping historical fiction story transports readers to World War II Europe, uncovering the harrowing yet often overlooked experiences of Romani families under Nazi rule.

Set against the brutal backdrop of the Romani Holocaust (porajmos), the novel follows Rosa, a young Gypsy girl, whose life is shattered when her family is arrested by Nazi authorities. Separated from her father and later torn away from her mother, Rosa is one of 60 Gypsy children conscripted to appear in a Nazi propaganda film directed by the infamous Leni Riefenstahl. Through Rosa’s eyes, readers witness the resilience of the human spirit amidst unimaginable suffering.

Mr Johnson's work is not only a powerful fictional narrative but rather a bridge to real historical events and figures. His vivid storytelling captures both the massacres of the time, and the flickers of hope that carried survivors forward.

The release of Daughters of the Fatherland is a proud moment for Mr Johnson, who grew up in Mackay and attended Mackay State High School. After serving 20 years in the Australian Defence Force, including as a Sergeant in the Army Psychology Corps, he pursued his passion for writing. His journey took him to the United States, where he studied novel writing at the New York Film Academy and volunteered at the Holocaust and Human Rights Centre. There, he interviewed Holocaust survivors whose stories inspired elements of his novel.

Returning to Australia, Mr Johnson earned a Bachelor of Creative Arts at the University of Queensland and honed his writing skills through programs like the Faber Academy in Sydney.

Now based in North Queensland, Mr Johnson lives with his golden Labrador, Archie, his loyal companion and assistant dog.

Daughters of the Fatherland is available in print, audio, and e-book formats through Interactive Publications (Glass House Books), Amazon, Audible, and other platforms.

Explore his intriguing debut novel and learn more about Mr Johnson at www.jerichojjohnson.com._

Caption: Mackay local Jericho J Johnson has released his debut novel Daughters of the Fatherland, a gripping historical fiction set in World War II, inspired by real-life survivor stories. Photos supplied

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Big plans for the region arise as tourism operators and stakeholders from Mackay and the Whitsundays come together to shape the region’s future, contributing “dozens” of ideas and feedback towards a bold 20-year master plan.

Destination 2045: Queensland’s Tourism Future, is the Crisafulli Government’s ambitious blueprint aimed at positioning the state as a leading global destination. The plan has been the focus of extensive regional consultation sessions, designed to gather insights from local communities and industry leaders.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell highlighted the significance of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games as a fundamental opportunity for Queensland’s tourism sector.

“We’ve come into government and acknowledged that with 2032 Olympics and Paralympic Games, we have a green and gold runway that we cannot waste from a tourism perspective,” Minister Powell said.

“We’ve got to make sure that our entire state is ready for the world to be focused on it during that Olympic period.

“When that time is over, we want people that have come for the sport to keep coming back for the rest of the state.”

The consultation process has involved online surveys, regional roadshows, and targeted industry discussions to develop a comprehensive vision for Queensland’s visitor economy.

“We are on the threshold of an unprecedented opportunity, with the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games spotlighting Queensland to the world,” Minister Powell said.

“This is our moment to capitalise, to innovate, and to lay down the tracks for a legacy that will benefit not just today's Queenslanders but generations to follow.

Key themes of the consultation paper include ecotourism, investment attraction, tourism experience development, events, improved access and connectivity, and maximising the 2032 Games’ legacy.

Minister Powell stressed the importance of local insight in crafting a robust and inclusive tourism strategy.

“Queenslanders know their own communities better than anyone, and I encourage everyone to contribute to the consultation process so we can chart a path forward.

“Together, we can craft a vision for Queensland that reflects the aspirations and spirit of future generations.”

Local Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton, reinforced the region’s critical role in Queensland’s tourism sector.

“We know people use our area as a jumping off point to see the Great Barrier Reef. But Mackay has so much more to offer,” Mr Dalton said.

“These consultation sessions are a great opportunity for our voices to be heard.”

With six regional workshops and four deep-dive sessions still to be held, feedback will continue to be gathered until the end of February.

Tourism supports one in every 12 jobs across the state, and the Crisafulli Government remains committed to growing the sector and establishing Queensland as Australia’s premier visitor destination.

For more information, visit www.qld.gov.au/dest2045.

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Caption: Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell

Caption: Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Andrew Powell, and Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton, met at the Bluewater Quay in Mackay last Tuesday to discuss the region’s vital role in shaping Queensland’s 20-year tourism master plan. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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St Patrick’s College Mackay celebrated some of Mackay's highest achievers last Thursday with their Investiture Mass, resulting in a wonderful presentation at the MECC, that welcomed the College’s newest student leaders and recognised the remarkable achievements of the 2024 bursary recipients.

The ceremony showcased the outstanding contributions of students across academics, sport, and culture, while also highlighting the College’s best-ever ATAR results. Impressively, 31 students achieved scores above 90, with the highest ATAR of 99.75 earned by Melisa Li, who was awarded the prestigious St Patrick’s Medal – the Bishop Bernard Wallace Award for Dux of the College. She was presented with the honour by The Most Reverend Bishop Michael McCarthy, who presided over the celebration. Melisa will now pursue a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Bachelor of Science.

The ceremony also acknowledged the exceptional students awarded bursaries in recognition of their dedication and success:

• William Radke - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Master of Engineering

• Gabrielle Ipson - Bachelor of Biomedical Science (provisional acceptance into postgraduate Doctor of Medicine)

• Abbey Morris - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Science

• Xavier Grogan - Bachelor of Science & Bachelor of Mathematics

• Harrison Ziekenheiner - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Bachelor of Business Management

• Bryn Henson - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Science

• Evelyn O’Brien - Bachelor of Humanities/Bachelor of Law (Honours)

• Ishka Shepherd - Bachelor of Medical Imaging (Honours)

• Mackensie Brown - Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery

• Molly McKendry - Bachelor of Law (Honours)

• Arabella Calkin - Bachelor of Medical Imaging (Honours)

• Ebony Norris - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Bachelor of Arts

• Lilly Uhr - Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours)

• Alleixa Pascual - Bachelor of Law (Honours)

• Mikayla Heaney - Bachelor of Vision Science/Master of Optometry

• Erin Murphy - Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours)

• Matthew Gakowski - Bachelor of Physiotherapy

• Isaak Mezzen - Bachelor of Biomedical Science

• Bellanca Hawkins - Bachelor of Games and Interactive Environments

• Sophie Westcott - Bachelor of Creative Arts (Visual Art)

• Anthony Sorbello - Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Law

• Gian Lim - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)/Bachelor of Design

• Lily Wardrop - Bachelor of Biomedical Science

• Olivia Smyth - Bachelor of Secondary Education

• Ashlie Mae Cruzat Macatangay - Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) / Bachelor of Laws (Honours)

Additionally, Tahlia Grima achieved the highest ATAR among students enrolling in Nursing and will also study a Bachelor of Paramedicine.

Students who have chosen to defer their studies until 2026 are Jamison Mifsud and Jake Rickards.

Mr Dean Andric, Assistant Principal Curriculum (acting) said, “In 2024, students subscribed to the philosophy of excellence that our school strives to extol.

“They have been a tremendous credit to themselves and the greater community.”

St Patrick’s College Mackay celebrated student leadership, bursary recipients, and record-breaking ATAR results at the MECC last Thursday. Photos supplied

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Fresh starts and friendly smiles are what Drug ARM aims to offer in their all-new office on Victoria Street. The move into a larger space at 45 Victoria Street means that the support service can now host regular free alcohol and other drug information sessions for families on site.

Last Thursday, Drug ARM Executive Director/CEO Brad Strong joined with team members, supporters and local representatives to celebrate the official opening of their relocated service, as well as a one-year anniversary of their local Street Outreach Service.

“We're very proud of Drug ARM to be opening this new office here in Mackay,” said Mr Strong.

“This new facility gives us a great space for our staff to meet with those who come to us for help.

“The mainstay of the work that happens here is counselling for those who want some help to reduce the harm they might be experiencing through the use of alcohol or drugs, and we’re very excited and very grateful to Queensland Health for the funding that enables us to continue these programs.”

He also noted that staff often travel to Moranbah, across the Pioneer Valley, Airlie Beach, Bowen, Collinsville, “and all places in between,” to ensure those effected in the greater Mackay and Whitsunday regions are supported.

In relation to the Street Outreach Services, Mr Strong stressed that substance abuse knows no barriers, and can affect people of all ages, further noting that no matter the circumstance, everybody deserves a helping hand.

“We have noticed over the last little while that there is an increase in the numbers of people who are homeless… there are even families, so we see mums and dads with their children, and that’s very sad.”

**“We see people of all ages in all situations that find themselves on the street… Some have alcohol or other drug issues, some don’t. **

“They are all just Australians in need.”

At the celebratory event, Mr Strong said, “We thank everyone for helping us celebrate our move into a space where we can comfortably host family and parent education groups, while remaining central and easy to access.

“We will also continue to provide free alcohol and other drug counselling and family support

in Mackay in keeping with our long, proud and enduring history with the community, extending over two decades.”

Since the early 2000’s, Drug ARM has provided vital alcohol and other drug services to those effected in the Mackay region, and in 2019, Drug ARM began delivering services for loved ones and family members affected by another person’s substance use in the region.

Mr Strong said, “We thank every person who has worked, volunteered, or donated with us over the long time we’ve been active in the region.

“Your support has often made a world of difference to our help-seeking clients, who after participating in our programs have been able to transform their lives.”

To access these groups or individual alcohol and other drug counselling, resources or family support, phone Drug ARM on 3620 8880.

Caption: Drug ARM celebrated the opening of their new Victoria Street office in Mackay, marking over two decades of support for those affected by alcohol and drug issues, while continuing outreach across the region and providing free counselling, family support, and education sessions.

Caption: Drug ARM Executive Director/CEO Brad Strong. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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“Everyone in Mackay deserves access to quality legal services,” said Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton last Wednesday, after recently welcoming the Attorney General’s $6.1 million announcement in State and Commonwealth funding for Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre Inc.

The funding will renew the Legal Assistance Services Program contract from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2030, providing critical stability to legal services for the Mackay community and the greater North Queensland region.

The renewed contract will enable Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre Inc. to continue offering legal assistance to individuals and families facing barriers to accessing justice, particularly those from low-income, marginalised, or disadvantaged backgrounds.

Mr Dalton emphasised the importance of quality legal services in the region, noting that the funding will ensure vital support remains available for those most vulnerable in the community.

“There are plenty of legal help lines, and I think those are great, but when you're actually talking face to face with somebody, you can actually feel the problems that they have and actually deal with them in a really personal way as opposed to just being on the phone.

“When you've got something local in Mackay able to be used by vulnerable people, from tenancy to elder abuse and domestic violence, then you can actually know that you're getting quality of service…and that's why we're supporting the Mackay Community Legal Service.

“This funding not only secures essential legal support for our community but also reinforces our commitment to ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to access justice, regardless of their circumstances.”

Mr Dalton further noted that the funding would not only benefit Mackay locals, but also those situated as far as Bowen, south of Mackay, and even those in the coalfields.

Recently, he paid Mackay Regional Community Legal Centre Inc. a visit and said that the lead solicitor was “overjoyed” by the fact that their services will continue to benefit those in the Mackay and surrounding areas.

Caption: Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton welcomed $6.1 million in State and Commonwealth funding to secure vital legal services for the region until 2030. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The first Resource Industry Network Industry Briefing of 2025 was nothing short of exceptional, despite a few rainy hiccups and ongoing Harrup Park renovations. The energy was palpable, with a buzzing turnout that made for a vibrant and engaging atmosphere among like-minded mining professionals across Central Queensland.

Attendees shared their key takeaways at the business lunch, with highlights ranging from critical industry discussions to meaningful connections. Several noted the ongoing challenges in securing finance for projects, especially with banks' concerns about coal. Others appreciated the opportunity to meet new faces, network with fellow RIN members, and learn more about the Mackay Hospital Foundation, a cause that clearly resonates with many in the region.

Speakers were also a standout, with one attendee commenting on the exceptional detail provided in Vitrinite’s address about new ventures in high-quality metallurgical coal mining. The consensus was clear: another fantastic networking event by RIN that set a high bar for the year ahead.

A huge thank you to the February Industry Briefing sponsor, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, for their continued support. Stay up-to-date with RIN’s events calendar for regional business conferences and industry networking in 2025.

_Contributed by Resource Industry Network _

Caption: Resource Industry Network’s first industry briefing of 2025 set a positive tone for the year, bringing mining professionals together to discuss key challenges, new ventures, and regional connections. Photos supplied.

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Reef Catchments is working together with local partners to assist in the vegetation management of the southern end of Harbour Beach in a joint effort to stabilise the sand dunes and restore vital coastal ecosystems. This initiative, is proudly funded through the Queensland Government’s Threatened Species Recovery Action Grants program, focusing on habitat restoration and protection for endangered flora and fauna in the region, which includes our endangered migratory shorebirds and sea turtles.

The revegetation project will complement the post and rail fence installed at the southern end of East Point foredunes. Together these activities will support and improve the ecological resilience of more than 30 hectares of fish nursery habitat, including salt marshes, mangroves, turtle nesting areas, and wader bird roosting sites.

Native vegetation planting and protective measures will strengthen the resilience of the natural landscape, providing critical support for biodiversity, reducing impacts from extreme events (heatwaves and erosion) and contributing to the long-term sustainability of the degraded area.

“Commencing vegetation management at East Point is a milestone moment to improve the health and resilience of our coastal environment,” said Carlos Bueno, Senior Project Officer - Biodiversity.

“This project reflects our commitment to fostering sustainable ecosystems and protecting threatened species while collaborating closely with local partners and the broader community.”

The initiative builds upon recent efforts to protect the area, including weed management and fencing to restrict vehicle access aiming at reducing the environmental damage caused by 4x4 vehicles and motorbikes driving on the fragile foredunes. The combination of measures together aim to restore natural habitats, improve water quality, and bolster fish habitat in adjacent waterways.

Revegetation activities involve Yuwi land and sea rangers of the traditional custodians of the Mackay region, Pioneer Catchment Landcare, and conservation organisations, emphasising the power of collective action in environmental stewardship.

_Contributed By Reef Catchments _

Revegetation efforts have begun at East Point, Harbour Beach to restore coastal ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and strengthen dune resilience through native planting and habitat restoration. Photos supplied

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CANEGROWERS welcomes the State and Federal Governments’ joint decision to allow disaster recovery grants to cover replanting costs – calling it a major win for growers.

This announcement follows strong advocacy by the peak grower body, working in conjunction with the Queensland Farmers’ Federation and their commodity members.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett announced the initiative on the floor of the Queensland Parliament, saying: “North Queensland farmers can look forward with confidence, knowing the Crisafulli Government had their back”.

CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan called the decision “a critical step forward for growers hit hard by recent flooding.”

“Early estimates are putting crop losses in the worst-affected areas at anywhere up to one million tonnes. Recovery isn’t just about cleaning up – it’s about getting those crops back in the ground so farmers can rebuild.”

Crop losses don’t just affect this season, they impact future harvests, farm viability, the wider sugar industry, and regional communities, Mr Galligan said.

“CANEGROWERS has been pushing for this change, and we’re grateful the State and Federal Governments have come out strong in support of growers. We now urge them to roll this out quickly, with minimal red tape.

CANEGROWERS is engaged in proactive discussions around updating the definition of a primary producer and identifying further on-ground assistance needed to support recovery efforts, Mr Galligan said.

“CANEGROWERS stands ready to work with the State and Federal Governments to ensure this support delivers real benefits on the ground.”

Caption: Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett announced the initiative on the floor of the Queensland Parliament this week. Photo supplied

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At just 14 years old, Alexis Versaci is already making a significant impact in her community while pursuing her dreams. This year, she’s set to compete for two beauty pageant titles on the Gold Coast in October, and she’s not just walking the runway—she’s walking the talk when it comes to giving back. Alexis’s dedication to both her personal growth and the community around her is a shining example of how to balance ambition with altruism.

In February, Alexis is taking her commitment to others a step further by participating in the Super Swim challenge to raise funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. This inspiring initiative helps sick kids in hospitals across Australia, providing them with the happiness, joy, and laughter they so desperately need while facing the fear and pain of illness. Alexis is swimming 10 laps every day throughout February to raise much-needed funds for these brave kids.

"I want to make a real difference for sick kids," says Alexis.

"Every minute of every day, a child is admitted to hospital in Australia. By participating in the Super Swim, I’m hoping to raise enough funds to bring joy to these kids, and I’m grateful for every person who supports this cause."

When she’s not preparing for her pageant appearances, Alexis is volunteering her time and energy to support causes close to her heart. From working with Orange Sky, which helps the homeless, to supporting the Mackay Hospital Foundation and Chances Café, Alexis is truly committed to making a difference. Her volunteer work reflects her belief that it's not enough to simply shine in the spotlight—she’s using her platform to shine a light on those who need it most.

But Alexis doesn’t stop there. She’s also helping to shape her future as an online influencer. Through her growing presence on social media, Alexis is supporting her mother’s business, Harper Bee—the go-to shop for tweens and teens that recently moved to the heart of Mackay on the corner of Wood and Victoria streets.

To help Alexis reach her fundraising goal of $1,000 for the Starlight Foundation, you can donate at Harper Bee or Cheeky Little Monkeys, or directly through her Super Swim page at superswim.org.au/a-versaci.

Alexis's determination doesn’t just stop at fundraising—she’s on a mission to make a tangible impact in her community and beyond.

Support Alexis in her Super Swim challenge and help make a difference in the lives of sick children. Donate today and brighten a child’s tomorrow!

Caption: At just 14 years old, Alexis Versaci is already making a significant impact in her community

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