A powerful candle lighting ceremony will take place in Sarina this month, honouring the lives lost to domestic and family violence and uniting the community in a moment of remembrance and resolve.

Hosted by the Sarina Neighbourhood Centre, the event will be held on Wednesday, 21 May, from 5.30pm at the Sarina Sporting Services Club, on the corner of Broad Street and Brewers Road. The formal ceremony will begin at 6pm.

Open to all, the gathering aims to shine a light—literally and symbolically—on an issue that continues to impact thousands across the country. It forms part of Queensland’s Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, held each May to raise awareness and reinforce the message that violence in any form will not be tolerated.

A highlight of the evening will be a special video-audio installation by local artist Donna Maree Robinson. Titled Wilt, the work draws on the decaying beauty of flowers and the quiet captivity of caged birds as haunting metaphors for abuse.

Through layered visuals and fragmented sound, the work captures the quiet erosion of identity and the silencing of voice that occurs in abusive environments. The immersive audiovisual experience invites viewers to confront the emotional and psychological landscapes of domestic abuse, bearing witness to what often remains hidden in plain sight.

The ceremony comes at a time when statistics continue to paint a grim picture. Since 2024, 577 Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs) have been initiated in the Mackay region. Nationally, one in six women and one in 16 men have experienced some form of domestic violence, while the rate of women killed by their partners has risen by 28 per cent since 2021.

An estimated 41 per cent, or eight million Australians, have experienced physical or sexual violence since the age of 15.

For more information on the ceremony, contact the Sarina Neighbourhood Centre on 4961 9290.

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Respected barrister Wayne Pennell will become Queensland’s Mining and Resources Coroner, a major step towards giving families closure and answers.

The new role delivers on the State Government’s key election commitment to restore a vital justice service for Queensland’s resources sector, ensuring inquests are completed in a timely manner.

Mr Pennell will be based in Mackay after spending the first 12 months of his tenure in Brisbane. He served two decades as an officer in the Queensland Police Service before being admitted to the Bar of the Supreme Court in 2003.

In recent years he has gained significant experience as a member of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal, a senior member of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and as a general member of the Administrative Review Tribunal.

Amendments to the Coroners Act 2003 are being prepared to establish the Mining and Resources Coroner role.

The Coroner will conduct all coronial investigations into fatalities on the State’s mine, quarry, petroleum and gas sites.

Mr Pennell will conduct general coronial duties prior to legislation being introduced.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Deb Frecklington said the Mining and Resources Coroner would not only investigate fatalities but also conduct inquests and make recommendations with the full authority and power of a Coroners Court.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering on its promise to put victims first and the Mining Coroner will ensure, if there is a tragic accident, that families can get the answers they deserve about what went wrong,” the Attorney-General said.

“Labor might say they stand up for workers, but their actions towards the hard-working men and women in the mining resources sector shows us the disregard they had for preventing incidents on site.

“This will be an expansive role and Mr Pennell, who has experience in policing, law and as a member of various tribunals, is very well qualified to assume this important position.

“It is also another vital boost to our courts as we deliver on our promise of faster access to justice for victims.

“When not acting in the capacity of Mining Coroner, Mr Pennell will be available to undertake other coronial duties, which will help to ease pressure on the justice system.”

Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said establishing the Mining and Resources Coroner position sent a clear message about accountability for safety.

“This is about restoring a vital layer of accountability that Labor walked away from. The reintroduction of the Mining and Resources Coroner sends a clear message that worker safety comes first in Queensland,” Minister Last said.

“Queenslanders rely on a strong and safe resource sector, but safety continues to be one of the top issues raised with me as I travel around the State.

“The Coroner will be empowered to conduct full and fair investigations with the goal of delivering genuine findings and recommendations that boost safety for every resource worker in Queensland.

“Queensland’s resources sector has no future without its workforce, and we owe it to mining families that the system doesn’t look away when things go wrong.”

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, Attorney-General Deb Frecklington, Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last, and Member for Mirani Glen Kelly stand united in Mackay as the Queensland Government announces the reinstatement of a dedicated Mining and Resources Coroner. Photo supplied

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From early ocean dips to ice-cold polar plunges, cold-water immersion is increasingly popular among athletes and wellness warriors. But how much of the hype is backed by science?

In the most comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of its kind, University of South Australia researchers have taken a deep dive into the effects of cold-water immersion on health and wellbeing.

Analysing data from 11 studies with 3177 participants, researchers found that cold-water immersion may lower stress, improve sleep quality, and boost quality of life.

UniSA researcher Tara Cain says the study reveals time-dependant and nuanced effects on health and wellbeing measures.

“Cold-water immersion has been extensively researched and used in sporting contexts to help athletes recover, but despite its growing popularity among health and wellbeing circles, little is known about its effects on the general population,” Cain says.

“In this study, we noted a range of time-dependant results. Firstly, we found that cold-water immersion could reduce stress levels, but for only about 12 hours post exposure.

“We also noted that participants who took 20, 60, or 90 second cold showers reported slightly higher quality of life scores. But again, after three months these effects had faded.

“Benefits may be gained from cold showers as well, with one study reporting that participants who took regular cold showers experiencing a 29% reduction in sickness absence.

“We also found some links to cold-water immersion and better sleep outcomes, but the data was restricted to males, so its broader application is limited.

“And while there have been many claims that cold-water immersion experiences can boost your immunity and mood, we found very little evidence to support these claims.”

Cold-water immersion involves immersing the body partially or fully in cold water, in temperatures typically ranging from 10-15 degrees Celsius, and in this study, data was only included if exposure was at or above chest level, and for a minimum time of 30 seconds. It included cold showers, ice baths and cold plunges.

Co-researcher, UniSA’s Dr Ben Singh says the study also showed that cold-water immersion caused a temporary increase in inflammation.

“At first glance this seems contradictory, as we know that ice baths are regularly used by elite athletes to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness after exercise,” Dr Singh says.

“The immediate spike in inflammation is the body’s reaction to the cold as a stressor. It helps the body adapt and recover and is similar to how exercise causes muscle damage before making muscles stronger, which is why athletes use it despite the short-term increase.

“Knowing this, people with pre-existing health conditions should take extra care if participating in cold-water immersion experiences as the initial inflammation could have detrimental health impacts.”

Researchers say that while the findings highlight the potential benefits of cold-water immersion, they also underscore the highly time-dependent and contextual nature of its effects.

“Whether you are an elite athlete or everyday wellness seeker – it’s important to understand the effects of what you put your body through,” Cain says.

“Right now, there isn’t enough high-quality research to say exactly who benefits most or what the ideal approach is to cold-water immersion. More long-term studies, among more diverse populations, are needed to understand its lasting effects and practical applications.”

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In a major boost for skills development in Central Queensland, leading registered training organisation Civil Safety has unveiled a cutting-edge training facility in Moranbah—signalling a bold investment in the region’s future workforce.

Simultaneously, the company has announced a landmark partnership with the Barada Barna Aboriginal Corporation (BBAC), designed to deliver exclusive training and employment pathways for Barada Barna people in a move that merges education with empowerment.

Recognising the need to create a modern indigenous workforce, while still true to their cultural history, the traditional landowner group will utilise the ‘Online Anytime’ software platform and Civil Safety for all safety and training, offering a combination of online, classroom and on-the-job training to equip participants with the knowledge and skills required for employment within the local mining sector.

Robert Kerridge started Civil Safety 15 years ago in a rented building in Bacon Street, with one trainer and a trailer. Today the company employs more than 100 people and operates one of the largest networks of training facilities in Queensland and Australia.

“We have never forgotten our roots: our new digs are more than just a new building, but a gateway to the very best in training,” Mr Kerridge said.

“It’s Civil Safety’s commitment to central Queensland along with proudly celebrating our historic relationship with the town. Companies like BMA, Thiess, and Anglo American have entrusted us, and continue to trust us, with the training of their employees.”

BBAC chairperson Luarna Dynevor said training and employment pathways were critical to increasing Barada Barna people’s likelihood of greater economic and social participation along with creating a modern indigenous workforce.

“It creates a cycle of employment and stability in tune with today’s modern workforce,” Ms Dynevor said.

“Being so remote, it can be hard to find job opportunities in the Moranbah and surrounding areas, but this training will create direct pathways to employment, ensuring there are always opportunities for the next generation to start a career particularly in mining.”

The Civil Safety training centre also supports the Moranbah High School’s vocational education programs.

With 43 mining sites across the region, Deputy Principal Ashley Spain said many students followed parents into mining careers.

“We’ve been working with Civil Safety for the last three years to assist us with providing training pathways and the skills students need to go into those mining futures,” Mr Spain said.

“The blocks of training are perfect for our students so they can then continue with the rest of their training at school.”

Isaac Regional Councillor Melissa Westcott credited training facilities with “keeping our people in our town and bringing people to our town."

“It’s just great for our school kids because it's access, access on-site in our towns,” Ms Westcott said.

“It allows them to trial and have a taste of what the mining industry has to offer without going fully into it before they know what they don't know.

“Accessing training and development, doing the workshops and doing some courses to find out ‘is this what's right for me?’ or ‘is this the career I'm looking for to take?’ and then they can make those further career decisions as they're going through schooling.”

Moranbah High School student Cody Metcalfe, 16, agrees.

“Dad works in the mine, we live close to a mine and pretty much everywhere you go here there are mines,” he said.

“By doing various courses, you become switched on about what the mining industry is all about: it really put it in my mind that I wanted to work in the mine.”

The new centre combines classroom training with in-the-field practical plant and machinery training at Civil Safety’s nearby yard facility.

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Civil Safety has opened a new Moranbah training hub and partnered with Barada Barna to boost Indigenous employment in mining. Photos supplied

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There were plenty of smiles, hugs, and happy tears at the MECC last Thursday as more than 150 local students graduated from CQUniversity.

The 2025 graduation ceremony brought together proud families, friends, and supporters, all eager to cheer on their loved ones as they crossed the stage – marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

This year's graduates came from a wide range of fields, including medical sonography, education, psychology, music, nursing, accounting and digital media, showcasing the diverse talents being nurtured right here in the region.

Among the highlights of the day were the achievements of three Indigenous graduates, who received their testamurs, and two students who earned their PhDs.

CQU Deputy Chancellor Sheila Houston challenged graduates to continue to learn, aspire to more, find joy and give generously to others.

“My career has given me more than I could have imagined on the day I crossed my own graduation stage in Kansas,” she said.

“Whether your path takes you exactly where you want to go, or somewhere different entirely, please pause today to reflect on the journey to here, and the challenges and triumphs you’ve already experienced.”

St Patrick’s College teacher Harry O’Connell recently graduated with a Bachelor of Education (Secondary), majoring in maths and science, after four years of study with CQU while based in Mackay.

“I’ve always just been very interested in maths, and within science, specifically chemistry,” he said.

“They were the two subjects when I was at school that I really enjoyed and really understood and resonated with.”

For Harry, crossing the stage marked the end of a long and meaningful chapter.

“It was pretty surreal at times, like that’s something I’d been working towards for so long,” he reflected.

“So many different people helped me along the way here and there, and just finally standing there and knowing, ‘I’m done. I’ve made it. I’ve ticked that off my list,’ definitely felt pretty surreal at times.”

He added, “I think it was very beautiful seeing how much of that actual community spirit they brought into the graduation ceremony.”

As these graduates step into their next chapter, they carry not only their qualifications, but also the potential to shape industries, strengthen communities, and drive innovation and opportunity across the Mackay region.

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More than 150 proud CQUniversity students graduated at the MECC last Thursday, celebrating achievements across diverse fields and marking a bright new chapter for the Mackay region. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara/Photos supplied

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The soft glow of candles inside the Mackay Women’s Service Centre last Wednesday night illuminated more than a room – it cast light on heartache, remembrance, and a community’s unyielding call for change.

Held as part of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, the annual Candlelight Vigil brought together local residents, survivors, advocates, and community leaders to remember lives lost to domestic and family violence and to reaffirm their commitment to breaking the cycle.

“It’s really important that we gather as a community – on this occasion, in this month – to reflect on the position Australia is in right now,” said Mayor Greg Williamson, addressing the crowd with solemnity.

“Last year was the worst year on record for women losing their lives to domestic and family violence in Australia. Thirty percent of all homicides in our country last year were women – mothers, wives and daughters.

“That doesn’t even account for the children, men, and gender-diverse people also affected.”

The mayor highlighted the work of the Mackay Domestic Violence Taskforce, formed in 2017, as a key step in building local awareness and response.

“When we formed the Mackay Domestic Violence Taskforce, we didn’t have the solutions, but we knew that if we didn’t talk about it as a community, we’d never find them.”

This year, the focus is on one fundamental value – respect.

“Respect starts in families, in junior schools, and through to high schools. If we can teach respect to the young people in our community, that’s where generational change begins,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We’ve come a long way – but we’re still embedded in a societal scourge that sees women as victims.

“We won’t solve this overnight. But if we teach respect, we can shape a safer future.”

Mackay Women’s Services CEO Belinda Berg also spoke about the importance of visibility and community presence.

“It’s really important that we use this night and this time to bring the community together in the same space,” she said.

“Tonight shows that we do really have a great community solidarity.”

The service has supported more than 2,000 women in the region, providing emergency accommodation, counselling, and wraparound services.

“We’ve been able to bring 25 counsellors into our footprint locally, so we can provide real-time and tailored support for women and children. The best measure anyone can take is to reach out for help,” Ms Berg said.

“It’s about taking a person from immediate need to recovery and into programs that help break the cycle.”
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Deputy Mayor and Mackay Women’s Services Board Chair Karen May acknowledged both the pain and the progress.

“It’s important that we remember all of those victims who have suffered, particularly the ones who have lost their lives,” she said.

“We should also celebrate all the men, women and children that are safe tonight.

“We are very proud of the work that our team are able to do here – year in, year out.”

She praised the service’s ongoing collaboration with Queensland Police, other not-for-profits, and government agencies in delivering the holistic support that’s needed for those suffering from domestic or family violence.

The evening served as both a tribute and a challenge, to remember, to act, and to carry the light forward.

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Mackay Women’s Services CEO Belinda Berg

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton

Candles were lit in solemn remembrance and voices united in resolve, as the Mackay community gathered to honour lives lost to domestic violence and reaffirm their commitment to change. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Step by step, stride by stride – Aussie kids are walking their way toward a healthier future today.

Across the country this morning (Friday, 16 May), thousands of primary school children will lace up their sneakers and hit the pavement for National Walk Safely to School Day – a simple act with powerful potential.

Celebrating its 26th year, the national initiative led by the Pedestrian Council of Australia highlights the physical, mental, and environmental benefits of walking, not just on this day, but every day.

Apart from the physical benefits, regular walking also has a favourable impact on children's cognitive and academic performance.

Walk Safely to School Day also encourages positive environmental action, better use of public transport with reduced car-dependency and encourages parents and carers to walk more, reducing dangerous traffic congestion around schools.

Harold Scruby, CEO of the Pedestrian Council of Australia said that "until they are 10, children must always hold the hand of an adult when crossing the road."

The national initiative also promotes healthy eating and encourages schools and P&Cs to Host a Healthy Breakfast on the day.

“The best exercise for all Australians is walking regularly.

"Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. We should encourage them to take a walk before school, during and at the end of their day,” Mr Scruby said.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or carer - everyone has a role to play in helping children and young people to lead active healthy lives.

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Some would describe Dion Loader as a local legend for his recent good deeds — and his latest act of kindness has only added to that reputation.

In a recent social media post that resonated across the Mackay community, Dion expressed heartfelt thanks to those who rallied with him to help someone in need.

“Huge thankyou to the Mackay Regional Council Libraries for assisting today. But massive thankyou to Renée Fallini for chipping in to collect and purchase this amazing gift for someone special in our community,” Dion wrote.

The gift, a mobility aid, was thoughtfully presented to Pelayo — a familiar face whose daily travels just became easier thanks to this generous gesture.

“Pelayo, hope this helps you on your travels to make your life alittle easier to get around it. Was a pleasure to meet you and help you out.

“This is what our community should be about.”

The ripple effect of Dion’s goodwill reached the Mackay Regional Council, who also praised his efforts publicly.

“A huge shoutout to Dion for spreading kindness and making a difference in our community! Thanks to your efforts, Pelayo will now enjoy greater mobility both inside and outside the library,” a Council spokesperson said.

“We're thrilled to support our customers with mobility aides during their visits, and it's heart-warming to see this support extend beyond the library doors with your kindness.”

Dion also acknowledged a cause close to his heart.

“Chances House do this too…but need your support more than ever.”

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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As the pricing nomination date for the 2025 season passes there are a couple of notable trends emerging
in the ways growers are approaching their GEI sugar price management.

Firstly, we are seeing a drift away from growers managing the price risk themselves and going back to
the pools.

Interestingly we have seen our first drop-off in growers choosing to manage their GEI pricing exposure
with the popular GMPRS product. In the same vein, we have a significant increase in the tonnage
committed to our Production Risk Pool.

A contributing factor to this trend is the continuing volatility in prices. This is creating pricing fatigue
amongst growers whereby the challenge of setting price levels creates doubt in their minds. No doubt the
consistent outperformance of our Production Risk Pool would also be influencing growers, but this may
not always be the case.

The other notable and linked observation is the level of forward coverage growers have for this season
and beyond. Broadly speaking, for growers who chose to use the Target pricing mechanism, around 30
per cent is locked in for the 2025 season. This is well down on previous seasons.

One factor influencing this outcome would be the late finish to the 2024 crush and extreme wet season,
leading growers to be cautious about expected production this year. Our recently released crop estimate
validates grower caution on production expectations.

The other factor is the absolute price level which has been under pressure most of the year. Coming out
of a period of relatively high sugar prices, growers may have to adjust down their expectations for the
balance of their price exposure.

Given this drift away from independently managing price risk, we have opened our Managed Pool Plus
early for 2026 season nominations. We will be accepting commitments from now through to 30 June
2025. This allows us to manage the price exposure over a longer time frame to take advantage of price
opportunities.

We recently completed a detailed review of the 2025 Season Managed Pool Plus and so far, the pool is
performing well above benchmark pricing, which is a good outcome for our growers.

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The performance of the Production Risk Pool over the past three years is a significant factor when
growers choose how to price their GEI Sugar exposure

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In a time when healthcare can often feel rushed and impersonal, Concierge Nursing Services is redefining the experience by providing expert, personalized care right at your doorstep. Founder Justina Giles saw a gap in community care and created a service that goes beyond just meeting clients where they are—it partners with them at every stage of their healthcare journey. Whether it’s post-surgery recovery, managing chronic conditions, or offering extra support, clients receive tailored care that surpasses traditional community services.

Concierge Nursing strives to transform healthcare with a more connected approach. Justina has developed a service where a trusted health companion guides clients through the complexities of managing conditions, medications, and appointments. This includes attending medical visits and simplifying medical information to reduce confusion. The aim is to help clients and their families feel confident, heard, and fully equipped to make informed decisions about their health.

A key priority of Concierge Nursing Services is helping clients maintain their independence. Justina explains, “We motivate and advocate for our clients, giving them the confidence to take charge of their health. When people truly understand their health and feel supported, they naturally become more engaged and committed to their journey.” While promoting independence, Concierge Nursing Services also advocates when necessary. “We guide our clients every step of the way, offering support and asking the important medical questions that might not occur to them. Our goal is to ensure our clients are fully informed and remain in control of their healthcare.”

What’s the most rewarding part of being a health expert today?

“To me, it’s about bringing quality of life, brightening someone’s day, sharing a smile, having fun, and truly making a difference in their world.”

Can you share a health myth you’d like to debunk?

“Drugs and medications don’t target specific areas—they affect the whole body and interact with each other. That’s why having a health expert or nurse is crucial to managing your care.

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FAST 5 FACTS
 

• Your favourite place to relax: Ball Bay
• Top tool for rejuvenation: Any quality time with my family
• Helpful health hack: Spit out toothpaste but don’t rinse
• Must-have beauty or health product: Electric toothbrushes – they do a very good job at keeping teeth clean
• Best inspirational show or podcast for health and wellbeing: The Imperfects Podcast

Imagine growing up surrounded by chocolate... then dedicating your life to saving teeth! That’s the quirky journey of Dr Tim Hanly, Principal Dentist at Hanly Dental Studio in Mackay.

After a childhood in his dad’s confectionery business, Tim now spends his days reversing sugary mischief.

Knowing dental visits can cause anxiety, Hanly Dental Studio offers a warm, supportive space where patients feel genuinely cared for. Tim takes pride in building strong relationships with each patient.

A standout service is composite bonding. Tim said it’s a cost-effective, conservative treatment. Using a tooth-coloured resin sculpted by hand and hardened with a special light, Tim crafts natural smiles that blend seamlessly with the real thing.

Tim’s advice? Don’t wait for a toothache! See your dentist every 6 to 12 months to catch sneaky cavities and keep your gums healthy.

Can you share a health myth or something in your field that you love to debunk?
Myth - The harder you brush the cleaner the teeth are – by brushing too hard we can actually wear away enamel and gums and this doesn’t grow back. Correct brushing technique with an extra soft toothbrush can protect against this.

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Fast 5 Facts

• Favourite place to relax: Shoal Point Beach – we recently just moved to Bucasia and it’s just beautiful there.
• Top tool for rejuvenation: My hand cream – always within reach.
• Go-to snack: Cheese. Possibly not the healthiest habit… but it’s cheese!
• Health myth to debunk: Hearing loss doesn’t mean silence – it’s not all or nothing.
• Best health advice: Don’t wait. Early intervention is key to hearing health and quality of life.

When it comes to hearing health, Alison is all ears – literally and professionally!

With a background in psychology and a fascination for how the ear works, Alison Collins’ path into audiology was destined to be.

“I did a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and wanted a role where I could really help others.

“I then attended a hearing science class and was just so fascinated with how the ear worked… from that point I knew that’s where I wanted to be.”

She went on to complete a Master of Audiology, and later earned a PhD in Audiology, specialising in paediatric middle ear disease.

Soon after starting her career, she welcomed her daughter and then her son, who would go on to face hearing challenges of his own.

“As a mum and audiologist, I saw the impact firsthand, and that fuels my work every day.”

Now the founder of Peak Hearing Services, Alison provides hearing tests for all ages, auditory processing assessments, hearing aids, workplace checks, and wax removal. Pensioners can access free services, and thanks to BHP, local children receive free hearing screenings.

“Hearing loss isn’t all or nothing…Just like glasses, you might still hear, but support makes all the difference.”

Take the first step – because life’s better when you hear it all!

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Fast 5 Facts

• Most rewarding part of your job?
  “Seeing clients lose 8–10kg in eight weeks after years of struggling.”
• What sets you apart?
  “I’ve lived it – I do the programs with them, not just prescribe.”
• Must-have travel item?
  “My Chelsea Jean lymphatic gloves.”
• Health myth to bust?
  “Colonics and enemas are actually beneficial.”
• Rejuvenation tip?
  “Do your lymphatics – it makes a big difference.”

Josie Giles has walked the walk, and now she talks the talk, guiding others through a holistic transformation with empathy and lived experience.

“I’ve been stuck and overwhelmed. I’ve been through grief and loss... I went from being very overweight, to now living healthier than ever and I’m ready to help others do the same.”

Out of hardship, she’s created a wellness practice that transforms lives through everyday methods such as lymphatic massaging, fermented foods, juicing, fasting, food plans, and gut-cleansing techniques.

“Once you improve your gut health, through lymphatics and detoxing – your whole mindset improves and you become a doer,” Josie enthused.

And she’s even got the results to prove it.

“People that have struggled with their weight for years have dropped 8 to 10 kilos… just in an 8-week period.”

“Not only that but they’re more energised, less fatigued and overall happier than ever.

“The difference is, they don’t do it on their own. I do it with them and I walk them through it.”

Now, she’s expanding her reach with an all-new space, plus a Kick Start Your Health app – offering digital access to detox plans, menus, juices and more.

Sick and tired of being sick and tired?
Call 0409 540 308 to kickstart your health today!

progutcare@gmail.com
www.progutcaredetoxcentre.com.au

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If determination were a stroke, Ruby Boxall would be winning gold in that too.

At just 16 years old, this Mackay-born backstroke sensation has surged into the national spotlight, making serious waves at the 2025 Australian Age and MC Age Swimming Championships in Brisbane, held on April 12–18, where she swam her way to two national titles and a place among Australia’s most promising young athletes.

Representing Somerville House and coached by Olympic-level mentors Timothy Lane and Sarah Caithness, Ruby conquered the 50m Backstroke (29.32) and 100m Backstroke (1:03.26) to take home gold in the 16 Years Girls division. She backed that up with a fourth-place finish in the 200m Backstroke (2:20.35) and podiumed twice more—silver in the 4x50m Medley Relay (16/17 Years QLD State Team) and bronze in the 4x50m Medley Open Relay.

Now, her stellar efforts have landed her a coveted spot at Swimming Australia’s Next Wave Invitational Competition Camp in Canberra this July, a high-performance development pathway eyeing the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. It’s a clear sign that Ruby is no longer just one to watch – she’s one to follow.

Ruby’s story begins not in a capital city, but in the heart of Mackay, where she started training at age eight with Leighanne Pokarier at the Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club. Her breakout came at 13, placing top 10 nationally across all her backstroke events…but it was her next move that revealed the depth of her ambition.

"We’re incredibly proud of Ruby—not just for her success in swimming, but for the way she’s taken full ownership of her journey,” said her mum, Amanda Boxell.

"At just 13, she applied for a scholarship to Somerville House, one of Brisbane’s top schools and elite swimming programs—without telling us!

"It wasn’t until the coach called to arrange a parent meeting that we found out."

Amanda added, "That’s the kind of courage, discipline, and belief she brings to the pool every day. As a teacher, I share Ruby’s story to remind our regional kids that with courage, planning, and belief in yourself, no dream is too far from reach."

Ruby has since claimed Queensland titles in the 50m and 200m Backstroke, represented the state at the New Zealand Short Course Championships (medalling in all backstroke events, including gold in the 100m), and qualified for the 2024 Australian Olympic Trials.

Fuelled by determination and a region rallying behind her, Ruby Boxall is not merely chasing podium finishes – she’s charting a course toward greatness, one stroke at a time.

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Mackay’s Ruby Boxall has turned heads nationwide, claiming double gold and a place in Australia’s Olympic pathway. Photos supplied

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When most people think about marketing, they immediately think of the public stuff — advertising, socials, billboards, events etc etc. All the ways we “put ourselves out there”. But there’s one audience that often gets overlooked in the marketing conversation: your internal one. Aka, your team.

During my degree, one of my FAVE topics was internal communications – which I kind of think of as marketing to your employees. Not like in a brainwashing way, but in an open/transparent comms kind of way.

Let me explain 😉

Your employees are often your brand’s first (and loudest!!) mouthpieces. They talk to your customers, they talk to their friends, they’re in your socials, they are your brand when they show up in uniform or answer the phone. If you want your team to represent your brand with clarity + confidence, they’ve got to know what’s going on. Seems simple, but it’s something that I see businesses fall down on all the time.

Internal marketing is about keeping your team in the loop, building belief in the direction of the business + helping them connect to the brand in a meaningful way. That could be as simple as asking your crew for input on a new campaign or getting them involved in a launch. It could be creating internal posters or cheat sheets with customer messaging. It could even be celebrating wins publicly so your team knows what’s working – and that their work contributed to it.

And there’s a sneaky little bonus to all this: staff retention.

When people are informed, included + know that their contribution is mega valued, they’re more likely to stick around. They’re not just clocking in and out – they’re connected to the purpose of the business, they know where it’s headed + they feel like they’re along for the ride (not just hanging off the side trying to guess what’s going on).

So yes, marketing matters for growth. But don’t forget it also matters for culture.

Make sure your team knows what’s going on behind the scenes, why you’re doing what you’re doing, and how they’re part of it.

Because a team that’s across the message?

That’s the kind of marketing money can’t buy.

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