At the beginning of the year, Frankie O'Brien reached out to the Bowen community for support after being hospitalized due to a severe flare-up of her terminal autoimmune disease, Mastocytosis.
In her Facebook post, she explained that she had developed five diabetic ulcers on her foot, requiring daily wound care at the hospital. Although the hospital was only 609 meters away, Frankie shared that she is highly allergic to UV exposure, making even short walks dangerous for her.
With limited financial resources and no personal transport, Frankie asked if anyone in the community could help by offering her a lift to her appointments.
The response from the Bowen community was overwhelming. Many generous individuals stepped forward, offering to drive her to the hospital, ensuring she could receive the care she needed, and guaranteeing she got to her appointments without fail.
The kindness and compassion shown by the community were truly heartwarming and provided Frankie with much-needed relief during a challenging time.

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By Hannah McNamara

After two decades of dedicated service in the medical field, Dr. Ben Shepherd, clinical lead at CQ Rescue in Mackay, has recently been selected for an exclusive secondment with the London Air Ambulance, one of the world’s most advanced helicopter emergency medical services. This prestigious opportunity places him among a select group of helicopter rescue doctors - fewer than 1 per cent globally - who have achieved this milestone.

The selection process for this role is fiercely competitive, often filled years in advance. For Dr. Shepherd, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not only sharpens his trauma care expertise but also brings cutting-edge medical insights back to the Mackay region.

Dr. Ben Shepherd, clinical lead at CQ Rescue in Mackay, has been selected for an exclusive secondment with the London Air Ambulance, joining the elite ranks of fewer than 1 per cent of helicopter rescue doctors globally. Photo supplied

Despite the significance of this honour, Dr. Shepherd remains characteristically humble, emphasising the collaborative nature of his work and the broader team effort at CQ Rescue.

“I think I’ve been a bit lucky with the selection process,” Dr. Shepherd said.

“I’m very grateful, and this is a great opportunity for me to improve my own knowledge and skills and work alongside world leaders in trauma care.

“Hopefully, I can bring some of that back to our team here to help with training and education locally.”

The London Air Ambulance operates in one of the busiest cities in the world, using cutting-edge technology and advanced trauma care procedures. Dr. Shepherd is eager to learn from their innovations, which he says are at the forefront of pre-hospital trauma care.

“London is the place where some of the most advanced trauma care techniques are developed and applied,” he explained.

“I’m looking forward to learning from them and seeing how we can adapt some of their practices to benefit our local community.”

Dr. Shepherd’s career in helicopter EMS spans six years, with nearly five of those dedicated to CQ Rescue in Mackay. In addition to flying missions as a specialist on the rescue helicopter, he plays a key role in training the team’s doctors and paramedics.

While he is passionate about saving lives in the field, Dr. Shepherd finds equal fulfillment in mentoring new medical professionals.

“What I enjoy most is helping people who are coming into the medical industry for the first time and seeing them gain confidence in this challenging role.” he said.

“To see them develop and enjoy themselves is probably what I enjoy the most about this role.

“I love my job and it’s incredibly rewarding to work within a motivated, high-performing team.”

This secondment marks the first time a CQ Rescue doctor - and possibly anyone from the Mackay region - has been selected to work with the London Air Ambulance. However, Dr. Shepherd is quick to deflect attention from his personal achievements.

“There are so many talented people in this industry who are just as deserving of an opportunity like this,” he said.

“It’s not really about me…I’m just lucky to have the chance to learn from the best and bring that knowledge back to our team.

“I’m just happy to go about my work.”

As part of CQ Rescue, Dr. Shepherd has witnessed firsthand the importance of helicopter EMS in regional communities like Mackay. The service often intervenes during the most critical moments of people’s lives, responding to emergencies that would otherwise be difficult to reach.

“Our team, full of doctors, paramedics, aircrew, engineers, and support staff, works tirelessly to provide the best care possible during someone’s worst day,” Dr. Shepherd shared.

His upcoming experience in London will undoubtedly enhance CQ Rescue’s ability to serve the Mackay community. Beyond his personal development though, Dr. Shepherd sees this opportunity as a chance to strengthen the entire team.

As he prepares for this career-defining secondment, Dr. Shepherd remains grounded, focused, and committed to his cherished work colleagues and community.

“I’m proud to be part of a team that’s so dedicated to helping others,” he said.

“This isn’t about me…Ultimately, it’s about delivering better outcomes for the people we serve.”

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It has been an incredibly tragic start to 2025 for many local families, and my heart goes out to all those affected. The devastating house fire in Sarina is unimaginable—such a loss is beyond words. A 25-year-old man tried desperately to save his mother from the flames, but tragically, she passed away. The loss of a loved one in such a way is heartbreaking, and I can only imagine the profound grief this family is experiencing.
Sadly, the beginning of the year has seen further accidents on our roads. There have been multiple serious crashes, including on the Peak Downs and Bruce Highways, with another life lost this week on Hay Point Road. While some accidents are the result of driver error, the condition of our roads certainly plays a role in these tragedies.
When Prime Minister Albanese announced a $7B package for the Bruce Highway aimed at regional areas earlier this week, I initially felt hopeful. However, after reviewing the details, I was disappointed to see that stretches of road in our region—particularly from St Lawrence to Sarina—remain in dire condition. This area, one of the most dangerous stretches of highway in the country, continues to be neglected despite being a vital part of the arterial route connecting the north and south of the region.
This highway network is meant to support the beating heart of our economy, the Bowen Basin coal industry, which drives so much of our prosperity, at local, state and national levels. It’s baffling that such an essential route, which keeps our communities and industries connected, hasn’t been given the priority it so desperately needs.
The state of this stretch of the Bruce Highway isn’t just a local concern; it’s a national issue that demands immediate attention. If we’re serious about improving the safety and economic stability of our region, the condition of this critical highway needs to be addressed—sooner rather than later. I encourage you to read more about the funding and our local politicians' responses on pages 6-7.
To all those affected by recent tragic events, my thoughts are with you. For anyone in need of support, the GriefLine helpline is available seven days a week from 8am-8pm on 1300 845 745.
Amanda

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A humble trolley pusher at Sydney Street Coles has become the unexpected hero of Mackay, earning heartfelt praise from shoppers for his selfless acts of kindness and unrelenting work ethic.

Local shoppers have taken to social media to express their admiration for Linden, a young man appearing to be in his late 20s with a signature Afro hairstyle and tattoos on his lower arms.

One shopper posted, “Every time I go to Coles, I see him helping elderly people with their groceries, taking trolleys so we don’t have to walk them back, and even walking staff to their cars late at night. He’s such a genuine guy.”

Another shared how Linden’s cheerful demeanour and helpful nature left a lasting impression. 

“In the short time I was there, I saw him help an elderly lady to her car, guide people out of their parks, and collect trolleys from cars - always with a smile!”

Rain or shine, Linden’s dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. Shoppers have remarked on the way he keeps trolley bays tidy, ensuring the area runs smoothly, regardless of Mackay’s often unpredictable weather.

One admirer summed it up best: “He works his butt off and makes the whole shopping experience better. I’ll be bringing chocolates and flowers for him next week - he deserves it.”

Linden’s efforts remind us that kindness and hard work can truly brighten a community. In a world that often feels rushed, it’s these small yet powerful gestures that leave a lasting impact.

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A quiet Sunday in Sarina took a tragic turn when a devastating house fire claimed the life of a 71-year-old woman and left her 25-year-old son with severe burns. The harrowing incident unfolded at a high-set home on Kathleen Street on January 5, leaving the community reeling in shock and grief.

Emergency services were alerted just after 4.25pm, and when firefighters arrived, they found the home completely engulfed in flames. The inferno raged as crews fought tirelessly to bring it under control, but the intensity of the fire left little chance for escape. Inside the charred remains of the home, firefighters discovered the woman’s body in her bedroom.

Paramedics on the scene worked desperately to revive her, however they were unsuccessful in their attempt.

Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed that four individuals were assessed at the scene.

The woman was tragically declared deceased, while her 25-year-old son, who suffered severe burns to his arms, was transported to Mackay Base Hospital for urgent treatment.

Two others - believed to be firefighters - were treated for heat exhaustion and taken to the hospital in stable conditions.

Initial investigations suggest the blaze started in the kitchen, with Detective Inspector Emma Novosel revealing that an unattended stove may have been the cause. Early investigations allege that a person within the home had been cooking earlier that afternoon and accidentally left the stove on, sparking a fire that quickly spread through the Sarina home.

It is alleged that in the chaos, the young man desperately tried to save his mother. Battling through thick smoke and searing flames, he attempted to extinguish the fire and evacuate her. But as the blaze intensified, the oppressive heat and smoke overwhelmed him, forcing him to escape alone, badly injured.

Firefighters managed to extinguish the fire, but the home was left in ruins. Authorities established a crime scene as fire investigators worked to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Authorities are now urging residents to take extra precautions, particularly in the kitchen.

As the woman’s son recovers from his injuries, he now faces the unimaginable challenge of rebuilding his life while mourning the loss of his mother.

Mackay Life extends our deepest condolences to the family involved in this harrowing tragedy.  

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A devastating house fire in Sarina on January 5 claimed the life of a 71-year-old woman and left her 25-year-old son with severe burns

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Meet baby Telicia, who chose the first moments of the year for her arrival into the world on 1 January, making her the first baby born in the Mackay region for 2025.
Mum Heather Comer said she was not expecting bub to arrive on her due date, but she did just that at 12.16am weighing 3760g (8lb 2oz).
“I had a calm and natural birth at the birth centre with the help of three wonderful midwives; Lisa, Julie and Danielle,” Heather said.
“And then also a team of doctors and nurses at the hospital, too many to name, but they have also helped heaps after the birth.”
Telicia is a little sister for Selah, another Mackay Birth Centre baby.
Welcome to the world baby Telicia, and congratulations Heather and Selah!

Welcome to the world, baby Telicia! Proud mum Heather Comer and bigsister Selah share a special moment with Mackay’s first baby of2025, born at 12:16am on New Year’s Day. Photo supplied

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A quick photograph was all it took for Annie Tomkinson to notice something that would change her family’s life forever.

She was at home in Mackay, enjoying a quiet afternoon with her newborn son, Lijah, when what appeared to be a golden reflection in his eye caught her attention.

“He just looked the right way and at the right angle, and I managed to get a photo of it,” Annie recalled.

Annie’s maternal instincts kicked in, and she wasted no time. Soon after, she showed the photo to her husband, Jay, and decided to consult a specialist…Within days, their lives were turned upside down.

At just six weeks old, scans revealed a tumour at the back of Lijah’s eye, and baby Lijah was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer affecting the eye.

On a Friday, they received the initial findings. By Monday, the diagnosis was confirmed, and by Wednesday, the family was aboard a plane, on their way to the Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane to begin treatment.

“It happened all quite quickly,” Jay shared.

“From the Friday, then diagnosis on the Monday…and then we were on our way to Brisbane on the Wednesday.”

Lijah has since started chemotherapy, and despite the odds, his parents say that he is a “little fighter,” and “is responding very well to treatment.”

The family now makes regular trips to Brisbane for Lijah’s treatment, however, the expenses and time away from work have added immense strain. Yet, through it all, Annie and Jay remain focused on spreading awareness about retinoblastoma.

“I can’t imagine what life would look like if we hadn’t seen it,” Annie said, emphasising the importance of acting quickly and seeking medical advice if something seems unusual.

Relating to the Tomkinson family, one local shared, “My daughter was diagnosed with same cancer 15 years ago, but hers had spread to optic nerve luckily it was only one eye…She is now 15 years cancer free.”

Their story has touched hearts across the community after a GoFundMe page was set up to help with travel expenses, medical costs, and lost income. The family has already raised nearly $17,000, along with receiving multiple words of hope and encouragement on their Facebook page called “Lijah’s Journey.”

The funds raised will allow Jay to take time off work to be with Annie and Lijah during this critical period. It will also help cover the costs of accommodation, meals, and the many other expenses that come with being away from home for their baby boy’s treatment.

The Tomkinson family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support.

“We are truly grateful for the support the community has shown in this difficult time.”

For those who wish to support baby Lijah’s journey, donations can be made through their GoFundMe page: “Help Lijah Beat Retinoblastoma.”

Annie Tomkinson’s quick photo and sharp instincts led to a life-saving diagnosis for her six-week-old son, Lijah, who is now bravely battling retinoblastoma - a rare eye cancer.  Photo source: Lijah’s Journey

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The Federal Government’s $7.2 billion funding announcement for the Bruce Highway was celebrated by many as a significant step towards safer roads in Queensland. But for those in Mackay and its surrounding areas, the announcement feels like a slap in the face, with critical stretches of the highway once again excluded from priority upgrades.
Despite the Bruce Highway's appalling safety record—including two fatalities already in 2025 and 43 in 2024—sections notorious for their danger, such as St Lawrence to Sarina, Sarina to Mackay, and Mackay to Proserpine, are conspicuously missing from the federal government's plan.
The Australian Road Assessment Program (AusRAP) has rated 45.2 per cent of the Bruce Highway as two stars out of five for safety, with only 10 per cent meeting the "extremely safe" standard. The highway’s fatal and serious injury crash rate is three to five times higher than major highways in New South Wales and Victoria. Among the most perilous stretches are those connecting Mackay to its neighbours, yet these areas remain neglected.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged the safety concerns, describing the fatality figures as “quite horrific.” Yet the Prime Minister and Treasurer glossed over the final details when it came to making the funding announcement.
“I’ve driven the Bruce Highway many times, and I know the critical role it plays for Queenslanders, tourists and freight,” Mr Albanese said.

“This announcement takes the total investment in the Bruce Highway to more than $17 billion. Queensland deserves a long-term plan, and that is what my Government is delivering.

“We’re getting on with building a better future for all Australians.”
The Bruce Highway’s central role in supporting Queensland’s economy, particularly through mining and agriculture in the Bowen Basin, highlights the importance of addressing these safety concerns.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers emphasised the economic importance of the highway, yet made no mention of supporting the stretches of highway directly linked with the state's economic powerhouse.
“We backed the Bruce with billions in the Budget and now we are investing billions more in the Highway that means so much to our regional and national economies,” he said.

“This is all about transporting people, goods and opportunities and linking and strengthening local communities and economies right around regional Queensland.

"As Treasurer and as a Queenslander, I’m especially proud of the billions we’ve found to back the Bruce.”
The Federal Government claims its new safety package will focus on priority sections identified through consultation with stakeholders. These include Maryborough to Benaraby, Rockhampton to St Lawrence, Bowen to Townsville, and Ingham to Innisfail.

The state government also touted the announcement as a “win”, focusing on the reinstation of the 80:20 funding model rather than the areas highlighted as a priority.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg welcomed the return of the long-standing 80:20 funding for the state’s most critical transport infrastructure.
“In two months, we’ve achieved what the former State Government couldn’t in two years,” Minister Mickelberg said.
“Since forming Government, we have been calling for Queensland’s fair share of funding from the Federal Government at every opportunity.
“The return to an 80:20 funding split is a welcomed commitment from the Federal Government to enable our delivery of a safer Bruce.
“This is a win for Queensland.”

However, the exclusion of Mackay’s highway stretches from the funding priorities has drawn sharp criticism from those closer to home. Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry, a staunch advocate for Bruce Highway upgrades, expressed disappointment at the decision.
“While I welcome this funding, it is deeply disappointing that some of the most perilous areas continue to be overlooked,” Ms Landry said.

“It’s clear the Prime Minister still doesn’t grasp the full scale of the problem. Koumala and Carmila are among the 15 most dangerous sections of the Bruce Highway, yet they’ve been ignored again.
“I’ve worked tirelessly to ensure this government can no longer ignore the dangerous state of this vital road. Labor has turned its back on regional Australians for too long.

“This sudden cash injection reeks of an election stunt rather than a genuine commitment to road safety.”
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, also raised concerns about the exclusion of key sections in his electorate.
“Tragically, it has taken the loss of too many lives and the worst highway safety rating between Mackay and Townsville to get this commitment on the table,” Mr Willcox said.

“Let’s be clear, this 80:20 is only for this $7 billion commitment. A Coalition Government will fully reinstate the historical 80:20 funding for all highway funding.
“Some of the most dangerous stretches of highway ranked for safety in a Bruce Highway survey showed that the absolutely worst stretches identified are in my electorate of Dawson. In particular, Proserpine to Home Hill is the worst.

“We need to ensure the decisions being made for funding are based on need and not on political interest.

“The fact that the worst bits of the Bruce have been overlooked would indicate the decisions have not been based on safety, which is just not acceptable.”
Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Senator Susan McDonald questioned the sincerity of the announcement, labelling it “political point-scoring.”
“Peter Dutton said in September that a new Coalition Government would reinstate the 80/20 road funding model that Labor scrapped as part of its decision to cut $488 million for the highway,” Senator McDonald said.

“Labor at all levels has shown scant regard for Queensland’s regional roads, and it’s sad that the only time Anthony Albanese cares about it is when there’s an election looming.”

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Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, stands by a crumbling section of the Bruce Highway, highlighting the urgent need for funding to address the region’s safety concerns. Photo supplied

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Council contractors, Fressinet Australia, will begin maintenance works on Cattle Creek Bridge (Owens Creek Loop Road), Finch Hatton, this month. The works are expected to take around six months to complete and will result in a road closure in May, adding around 15 minutes additional travel time to Finch Hatton Gorge via a detour.
The essential works will extend the life of the bridge and will be delivered in four stages, beginning on Monday, January 6, weather permitting.
Each stage will involve traffic disruptions with traffic control in place. There will be some noise and dust disturbances with various plant and equipment on site.
Works will be undertaken from 6.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, with no works on public holidays.
The following disruptions to traffic will occur:
   • Stage 1 – Intermittent traffic control will be in place from Monday, January 6, 2025, to Friday, February 14, 2025, weather permitting. On occasion, delays up to five minutes are expected.
   • Stage 2 – Intermittent traffic control will be in place from Monday, February 24, 2025, to Monday, May 6, 2025 weather permitting. On occasion, delays up to five minutes are expected.
   • Stage 3 – A full road closure, with detours, will be in place from Tuesday, May 6, 2025 to Monday, May 19, 2025, weather permitting. The additional travel time to and from Finch Hatton Gorge via the detour is about 15 minutes, while going to and from Owen Creek Loop Road is about 20 minutes. Please refer to bridge closure detour map overleaf.
   • Stage 4 – Intermittent traffic control will be in place from Tuesday, May 20, 2025 to Friday, June 13, weather permitting. On occasion, delays up to five minutes are expected.
The project is expected to be completed by mid-June, 2025.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience during these essential works.
For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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Local artist Donna Robinson’s breathtaking work Flourish has been selected as the winner of the 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts Design Competition. Her vibrant design will take pride of place on the cover of the festival’s program, embodying the dynamic spirit of this beloved annual event.
Flourish is a stunning reflection of life in a tropical city celebrating art. As Donna describes, “The Festival of Arts is not just an event but a living, breathing manifestation of Mackay's spirit—where colour, sound, and movement converge to create a unique, ephemeral experience.”
The artwork captures the rich textures and vibrant energy of Mackay’s natural beauty and creative culture. Its interplay between lush tropical landscapes, vivid blooms, ocean rhythms, and local music showcases Mackay’s identity and its deep connection to art as cultural expression.
Donna expressed her gratitude for the win, saying: “Wow, I’m a bit blown away by all of the kindness.
“A huge thank you to everyone who voted—your support means the world to me. So very grateful to be acknowledged for doing what I love.
“Thank you again, Mackay Festivals, for shortlisting my work.”
This year’s theme, ‘Uniquely Yours, Distinctively Ours’, celebrates Mackay’s individuality and shared community spirit, with Donna’s artwork chosen as the winner after two shortlisted entries were put to a public vote.
The 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts program, featuring Donna’s Flourish, is set to launch in May. Stay tuned for updates on the Mackay Festivals page on Facebook and join the community in celebrating the creative brilliance of this year’s festival.

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Donna Robinson's Flourish—a vibrant celebration of Mackay’s tropical beauty and artistic spirit—will grace the cover of the 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts program

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As drones topped Christmas wish lists this past holiday season, Ergon Energy Network is urging people to ensure they never fly them near the power network.
 
With more people having given drones as gifts recently, particularly to children, Ergon crews have increasingly been called out to remove drones that have become stuck in powerlines, sometimes causing significant power disruptions.
 
Area Manager Renee Kath stated, “We’ve steadily seen a rise in the number of drones being flown into powerlines, and unfortunately, it’s not just a nuisance; it can be dangerous.
 
“In some cases, a drone stuck in powerlines has caused extended power outages, affecting thousands of homes and businesses.
 
“It’s important that people understand the risks involved and take care to avoid flying near any of our electricity assets.”
 
While drones can offer hours of fun, Ms Kath warns that flying them near powerlines poses serious safety concerns.
 
“The last thing anyone wants is for their Christmas present to end up tangled in a live powerline, bringing down powerlines and causing a risk to anyone nearby,” Ms Kath said.
 
“We recommend parents supervise children who are using drones to ensure they don’t fly anywhere near these hazards.
 
“And if the worst occurs and a drone gets caught in powerlines, substations, or transformers, it is vital that you don’t try and remove it because there’s a real risk of a life-threatening electric shock or worse.
 
“The best measure, should the drone become stuck in powerlines or similar electrical assets, is to call Ergon on 13 22 96.”
 

An Ergon crew member carefully removes a drone tangled in powerlines, highlighting the risks and disruptions caused by flying drones near electrical assets. Photo supplied

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The JSP Women's Awards is excited to announce nominations are now open for the JSP Women’s Awards for 2025.
Now in its fourth year the awards shine a spotlight on the magic making women across the Greater Whitsunday region.
The awards honour women who quietly lead, inspire, and make a lasting impact on their communities.
The JSP Women’s Awards are part of The Just Saying Project (JSP), which is celebrating 10 years in 2025, with a celebration planned as part of the awards ceremony on Saturday March 29, at the MECC.
For a decade JSP has been amplifying women’s stories and voices through more than 20 events and 10 community projects reaching thousands of women across the platform.
JSP Founder Fallon Drewett said every woman has a story worth telling and for the past 10 years, JSP’s strategic values have been to bring joy, strength and purpose to women in our region.
“Every woman has a story worth telling, and the awards are dedicated to amplifying stories whether well-known or untold. “By sharing the journeys of women who have flown under the radar, we inspire others and honour their resilience and dedication."
Mrs Drewett said there is strength in connection and in regional areas like the Greater Whitsunday region, connection is key.
“Our awards bring together women and men from diverse backgrounds to build stronger networks, foster collaboration, and celebrate the power of community.
“In the past four years of the awards we have seen so many extraordinary women nominated. Each nomination is a testament to the incredible contribution they make proving that great things can happen beyond the big cities.”
Mr Drewett also said it was about inspiring the next generation.
“By celebrating the achievements of women in our community we inspire the next generation of changemakers.”
Last year, JSP received more than 135 nominations across our seven categories.
Ms Drewett said this year, they we are introducing an overall winner category, "The Woman Who Breaks the Mould," chosen by JSP’s judging panel from the six other categories.
“Over the past four years, we've consistently found one woman who embodies multiple categories, leading us to create this special award,’ she said.
Mrs Drewett extended her heartfelt thanks to all this year’s award sponsors including. Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, the Name in Lights Sponsor for the fourth year, and BMA, the Glitterati sponsor for the second year.
Nominations close Friday January 24 at midnight, you can nominate online.
Award Categories
Resilient Rebel: A woman who has been through adversity and has spun her pain into something beautiful. This is a woman who is a rebel at heart and has decided to live her life differently, and march to the beat of her own drum. This award is for the woman in your life who has stood her ground and inspired others around her to be resilient; to learn from life’s challenges and keep moving forward.

Mother of All Mothers: This category is to recognise a Mum in the Greater Whitsunday region, who is a formidable role model as a mother and a woman. A woman who volunteers her time and gives back to her community. A woman who leads by example, who shows what it means to be a modern Mum. Maybe she is a mother who has worked hard despite adversity or hardship. A woman who might be a single mother, a foster or adoptive mother, a woman who is a female figure we can all learn from.

Health and Wellbeing Warrior: A woman who has a purpose and a passion for health and wellbeing. A woman inspires through her work in health, medical or fitness. Perhaps they are a woman who leads by example through sport or advocacy work with mental health and/or charity.

Magic Muse: In the era of social media, this is a woman who is a muse for other women. This woman inspires other women through her passion for the arts, while building the self-esteem of others around her. Whether it is through performing, visual arts, fashion, photography, broadcasting or writing, the Magic Muse uses their talent and voice to make an impact in the lives of others through their creativity. This woman has the ability to create magic and inspire others to be the best version of themselves through the power of art rather than filters and reel highlights. She is a truth teller who creates a space for the greater good for all women. Her magic is helping create lasting change.

The Equaliser (Men's Award): A man, partner or family member who is a champion for the women in their life. This is a person who empowers and encourages women in their life to follow their dreams, shares the load of family and/or domestic duties, supports women in their career and choices in life. This is a man who is an ally, whose actions speak volumes about addressing bias in the community, speaks out against sexism and leads by example to make the woman/women in their life empowered, to be heard and seen for who they are. They celebrate women, is a believer in gender equality and an advocate for women and their success and struggles. The Equaliser stands up for women and leads in their everyday life how to be a strengthening force for the women in their lives and others.

Rising Star: This is for a young woman who is the face of #thefutureisfemale. A young woman who is making an impact in their community inspiring other young women and girls to follow their dreams, take action and stand up for what they believe in. This award is for a disrupter, performer, athlete, volunteer or trailblazer. This award is for young women aged 15 to 25 years old.

Some of the nominees from the 2024 JSP Women's Awards

JSP Founder Fallon Drewett

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In years gone by, Mackay’s beaches were bustling hubs of activity, with families gathering for picnics, church outings, and carefree swims in the shallows. Black-and-white photographs from the early 1900’s capture locals in old-fashioned swimming costumes, wading knee-deep in the waters of Eimeo Beach or enjoying the laughter of a Sunday School picnic by the shore.
In the thirties, the beaches were packed, the place to be for reprieve from the summer heat and humidity before air conditioning became common.
Today, one of the hidden gems of Mackay’s coastline is the serenity of often having a beach entirely to yourself—a peaceful escape from the rush of modern life. However, this shift away from a thriving beach culture reflects growing awareness of marine dangers like stingers and crocodiles, which have tempered the carefree seaside spirit of the past.

Ca. 1935 – 1940 - Locals gather at the popular holiday spot, Eimeo Beach, Mackay. Image #01912. Photo credit: Mackay Heritage Collection
Ca. 1900 – 1910 - Ladies and gentlemen wade in water up to their knees, at a local beach, during a Presbyterian Sunday School church picnic. Image #01511

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A long and diverse career in nursing has gone by in “the blink of an eye” according to renal clinical nurse Jennifer Dale.
She was recently presented with her 45-year Length of Service (LOS) gift by Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) chief executive Susan Gannon.
Jennifer began her nursing training at Mackay Base Hospital in 1978 as a cadet before starting in renal nursing in 1983 at the Royal Brisbane Hospital. She worked in the UK for five years in transplant and paediatric units and earned an international certificate in renal nursing.
Jennifer returned to Mackay and work in the renal unit in 2009.
“I’ve been nursing my whole life. I started my training here at the Base as a 16-year-old because my mum worked for a doctor in town and he considered I was ‘of good stock’.” she said.
“I wanted adventure and with nursing you can work anywhere around the world. I also did country nursing interstate.
“I actually fell into renal nursing initially because of the hours, but then developed a real passion for it.
“Because you are nursing chronic patients you get to know them and their stories really well.”
Congratulations Jennifer on your 45 years of service and thank you for your incredible dedication and commitment to our community and health service.

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Jennifer Dale celebrates 45 years of nursing excellence, pictured with Mackay HHS chief executive Susan Gannon (left) and her colleagues from the renal team. Photo supplied MHHS

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Centre of Movement, a leading paediatric allied health clinic from the Gold Coast, is bringing its expertise to Mackay with a two-week intensive therapy pop-up clinic. Running from 13th to 24th January at the Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, this initiative offers families access to specialised neurological rehabilitation tailored for children with disabilities.
With 10 families participating, both local and from surrounding areas, the clinic aims to empower the community by providing innovative therapy solutions close to home. The dedicated team of therapists ensures children have access to the care they need to thrive, regardless of their location.
The Centre of Movement team emphasises the importance of early intervention. Director Stephen Pennisi explained that intensive therapy can create significant change in a shorter time frame.
“There’s that saying, ‘use it or lose it,’ and that goes for kids with brain damage and neurological conditions too,” he said.
“Three weeks of intensive therapy equals about 52 weeks of regular therapy, so you get more change in three weeks than you do over a whole year.”
Research supports this approach, showing that intensive therapy helps tap into neuroplasticity through repetition, leading to transformative outcomes. Each child’s therapy plan is tailored to their unique needs, with milestones such as sitting independently, head control, rolling, crawling, standing, and stepping often achieved during these sessions.
For Senior Exercise Physiologist Toby Doevendans, this pop-up clinic is especially meaningful. A proud Mackay local, Toby has been part of the Centre of Movement team since its beginnings six years ago. His return to his hometown is driven by a desire to bring life-changing care to regional families.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to bring this level of care to my hometown,” Toby shared.
“Every child deserves the chance to thrive, no matter where they live.”
One success story from the Centre of Movement is Baylee Runnels from Moranbah, who has completed five intensive therapy blocks with the team on the Gold Coast. Initially focusing on helping Baylee learn to walk, the therapy now centres on refining her gait, learning to run, jump, and navigate uneven terrain.
Baylee’s mum, Elise, expressed her gratitude, saying, “We are incredibly grateful to have found such an amazing team to work with Baylee on her journey towards reaching her goals.
“They treat us like family and provide ongoing support between intensives that is truly outstanding. We highly recommend them for their level of knowledge, support, and commitment.”
Centre of Movement’s visit represents a powerful step toward improving healthcare access in regional areas. Through this initiative, families in North Queensland are being given the tools, care, and opportunities their children need to thrive.

“At Centre of Movement, our mission is to revolutionise children’s lives by unlocking their potential through the power of movement.”

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Senior Exercise Physiologist, Toby Doevendans, will be bringing his expertise to his hometown of Mackay at Centre of Movement’s pop-up clinic. Photos supplied

Baylee Runnels from Moranbah with Toby Doevendans

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