Last week, 22 of the 29 candidates running for the position of councillor with the Mackay Regional Council, attended a Q&A forum at the Northern Beaches Bowls Club. Hosted by the Northern Beaches Community Group, the forum aimed to introduce candidates to the public and invite each candidate to answer two questions on relevant local issues.

Below is a short summary of their introduction from every candidate who attended.

Alison Jones

Alison Jones prioritises advocacy and transparency in local governance, she emphasises returning to basics and securing financial stability for the community's future. With a focus on transparency and fiscal responsibility, Alison believes in reinstating divisions to Mackay Regional Council. She said that divisions are successful in making councillors more responsible for the area they look after and therefore providing better representation for the community.

Ash-Lee Johnson

Ash-Lee Johnson understands the community's values and aspirations intimately as she raises her own young family in the area. She is a vocal advocate for local businesses and believes strongly in empowering younger generations to become active contributors to their community, bringing a fresh perspective to enhance liveability, business opportunities, and new pathways for youth, education, and sport.

Belinda Hassan

Belinda Hassan’s passion for social welfare is evident through her nine years of service at a domestic violence shelter and her longstanding involvement with the Mackay Women's Service board for over 15 years. She actively participates in service clubs and is a strong advocate for well-being in the community. Giving back to the community is her passion.

Peter Freeleagus

With a background in underground mining in Ipswich, Peter transitioned to the mining industry in Mackay after moving to the region with his family. Peter's dedication to the community extended to local governance, He was first elected to the former Belyando Shire Council in 1997, appointed Deputy Mayor in 2000 and served as Mayor from 2003 to 2008, when the Belyando, Nebo and Broadsound shires were amalgamated to form Isaac Regional Council.

George Christensen

A fifth-generation local, George has dedicated over a decade to public service. His understanding of the needs of young families, coupled with his hands-on involvement in pivotal projects like the Mackay Ring Road, Mackay Headspace, and Mackay Northern Beaches Community Hub during his time as the Federal Member for Dawson, underscores his passion for creating a vibrant and sustainable future for the region.

Greg Fisher

Born in Proserpine, Greg Fisher has a natural curiosity and love for engaging in conversations in the early days that propelled him to observe and appreciate the progression of his town through various mayoral administrations. With a genuine passion for his community, Greg aspires to contribute positively to its growth and development through his involvement in local council affairs.

Ian Rowan

Ian Rowan was a former CEO of RACQ CQ Rescue for over five years and is involved with various community organisations, underlining his dedication to community engagement. Ian's key values of integrity, business insight, and effective communication are the foundations of his approach to addressing key issues such as rates, roads, rubbish, and public safety.

Joshua Thornton

Joshua Thornton, a relative newcomer to Mackay, brings a diverse background in law, politics, and advocacy to the table. Originally hailing from the Gold Coast, Joshua graduated from university in 2014 with a degree in law and politics. He then relocated to Mackay, where he is now advocating for initiatives aimed at making the community safer for families.

Karen May

Karen May has been a local for the past 40 years, with more than 20 of those years serving in local government. She was a councillor, deputy mayor and mayor of the former Sarina Shire Council and in her most recent role as councillor for Mackay Regional Council was also deputy mayor. Learning the ins and outs of becoming a long-term business owner with a background in management of hospitality and tourism, she advocates to see more positive changes in the Mackay region.

Kimberly Doyle

October last year, Kimberly Doyle decided she wanted better for the Mackay region. She stands firm on providing care and immediate action to every community member, declaring that every individual matters and she will be the change. Kimberley has held leadership and coaching roles in Special Olympics over the last 10 years as well as the 30-plus years in the finance and disability industry.

Kylee Stanton

In 2014, Kylee Stanton moved from Brisbane to Mackay with 4 children, where she was self-employed in a small business for the majority of her life. She emphasises not having a career in politics, but is just an ordinary citizen, wanting change for the community.

Lindsay Temple

Over the years, Lindsay Temple has been involved in programs advocating for young drivers to stay safe on the roads. Lindsay is passionate about finding more activities to keep children engaged in the community and his background experience in construction work over the years has urged his passion for fixing Mackay local roads.

Martin Bella

Martin Bella is a strong advocate for those in need, urging to combat issues regarding homelessness, disability, neurology and aged care. His down-to-earth, selfless nature provides a compassionate touch to what Martin could potentially bring to the Mackay regional community. Martin is seeking re-election.

Michelle Green

Born in the Mackay region, Michelle Green obtained a degree in exercise physiology, with a passion for active living and wellbeing in the community. Michelle has a

unique voice advocating for young families as she provides intergenerational depth and compassion for the region. She is seeking her second term as a councillor.

Neil Wallace

Neil Wallace was previously an insurance broker for 40 years, and is socially part of the Mackay North Rotary Club where he assists organisations and fundraisers in the community. He has a passion for training young people to get their learners license, getting disengaged students back into school and providing safety and activities for younger generations.

Pauline Townsend

Running for a second term as councillor, Pauline Townsend has learnt areas of recruitment, human resources and industrial relations. Working within the community in various non-for-profit charity groups such as the Trudy Crowdy Foundation, a member of Rotary, a volunteer for Shed Happens, and Special Olympics Queensland, Pauline is dedicated to providing compassion to those within the Mackay region.

Peter Sheedy

A fourth generational local, Peter Sheedy has extensive experience in accounting and is now in the grandparent stages of life. He has witnessed the crucial challenges that young families are currently facing and advocates for changes in particular to quality day-care services and safer roads, underlining that young families are our future.

Steve Cutting

Steve Cutting provides visionary care by giving back to the community through street chaplaincy, where he gained the role of president for the organisation. After forty years in professional engineering and having a heavy industrial background, he has learned that teamwork is key and he hopes he can create a team-based workplace to provide the best for the community.

Les Scott

Born and raised on a sugar cane farm up the valley, Les Scott learned a strong work ethic. He discovered his own business, providing a service that reduced landfill waste by up to 80 per cent. Over the years Les gained an interest in council and now has 2 years’ experience at the local shire council in Clermont, Moranbah and rural areas.

Justin Englert

Justin Englert has a passion for tourism and the regional economy. He is a member of the Mackay Event and Conference Attraction Program where he advocates to expand tourism opportunities in the region and is involved in the community through various services such as the SES. He believes in utilising tourism as an economic driver to forge progress in the region.

Keith Hicks

Keith Hicks is an active contributor, finding fulfillment in volunteering with the Scouts and dedicating time to the veteran community. He has a passion for innovation and a dedication to community service, aiming to give back to the community and deliver a brighter future in the Mackay region.

Fran Mann

Frann Mann is a second term councillor with a passion for the region’s heritage and history. She is a key representative for the Regional Arts Development Fund. Fran attended primary and secondary schools in the Pioneer Valley and is a passionate advocate for all parts of the Mackay region.

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A single varroa mite has been found in a sentinel beehive at the Port of Brisbane after a routine inspection by Biosecurity Queensland.

Diagnostic testing has confirmed the mite is Varroa jacobsoni – not Varroa destructor.

Secondary testing is now being conducted to determine if the mite is carrying any exotic viruses of honeybees or if any other exotic bee pests are present.

Biosecurity Queensland is undertaking tracing activities to identify the potential source and likelihood of spread.

Surveillance is being conducted in conjunction with the Queensland bee industry and the Australian Government to determine if there are any more varroa mites in the surrounding area.

As a precautionary measure, a movement control order (MCO) is now in place to prevent any potential spread.

Movement restrictions apply to all beekeepers who have hives in or have had hives in the surrounding localities to the Port of Brisbane within the past 90 days.

Restrictions apply to the movement of bees, bee hives, bee products and used bee keeping equipment.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said, “Any new incursion of varroa mites is concerning, even if this particular detection is Varroa jacobsoni rather than Varroa destructor.

“Incidents like this one are why these surveillance hives are in key sites like the Port of Brisbane. This shows that our biosecurity systems are working, and the importance of early surveillance so we can respond swiftly,” Mr Furner said.

“Queensland is no stranger to a Varroa jacobosni incursion and has successfully eradicated this pest in Townsville in 2016, 2019, and 2020.”

“It is vital that beekeepers abide by the control order restrictions and follow the advice of Biosecurity Queensland.”

Queensland Beekeepers Association president Jacob Stevens said, “The Queensland Beekeepers’ Association Inc is in position and ready to provide meaningful support to our impacted beekeepers in the movement control zones.

“In recent years we’ve provided our expertise and technical knowledge to Biosecurity Queensland to deliver successful eradications of mites detected in Queensland,” Mr Stevens said.

“Queensland has a history of exotic incursions and the QBA is confident our beekeepers will rise to the challenge acting on our call to action to undertake varroa mite surveillance immediately, reporting all results to Bee 123.”

Both Varroa jacobsoni and Varroa destructor are classified as prohibited matter under the Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014. If found or suspected, they must be reported immediately to Biosecurity Queensland.

Beekeepers must also notify Biosecurity Queensland of any hive movements in or out of the movement control area or any bees bought or sold in the last 90 days.

Report varroa mite to Biosecurity Queensland online or by calling 13 25 23.

Biosecurity Queensland is contacting registered beekeepers inside that zone, but anyone unsure of what the control order requires of them is urged to contact the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on 13 25 23 before moving any items.

What Beekeepers Can Do:

All Queensland beekeepers are urged to:

   • continue monitoring hives for varroa mite using the alcohol wash method (at least every 16 weeks)

   • report your hive check using the quick and easy Bee 123 form, even if you do not find any suspect mites

   • immediately report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland

   • keep your contact details and apiary sites up to date and renew your biosecurity entity registration when due

   • keep accurate and up to date records of hive movements, hive checks, and any bees bought or sold

   • keep up to date with the relevant state authority for movement requirements before entering or leaving the state

   • report sightings of Asian honey bees, feral nests/swarms or hives showing symptoms of exotic pests to Biosecurity Queensland

   • find out more about varroa mite.

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Sugarcane’s potential as a renewable source of bioenergy, biofuel and bioproducts continues to grow through the concept of the circular bioeconomy.

Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) Director Russell Hall believes the sugarcane to be the only 100% renewable energy source.

“We cut it and from the day it starts growing again, it’s creating oxygen and natural capital on your farm and its producing natural energy,” he said.

“Once harvested, it joins the process of fuel, power, plastic, milk, oil, burning modules, it just becomes a whole array of green energy.”

Through the circular bioeconomy, sugarcane can fuel and power the future by utilising existing sugarcane land for sugar production while converting sugarcane waste into bioenergy, biofuel and bioproduct.

QCAR’s commitment to renewables and sustainable agriculture is also seen as a vital opportunity for the industry to capitalise on sugarcane’s unique composition as the globe makes strides in its mission to decarbonise.

Mr Hall recognised the potential for the Mackay region and beyond to participate in this shift by establishing itself as a bioeconomy hub through expansion of land and infrastructure.

“We can be part of the process and get ourselves into the grid by whole crop harvesting, then buy the power, fuel and fertiliser back,” he said.

“There’s the first part which is the sugar and molasses process, but if it’s got organic nitrogen, green power and biodiesel or bioethanol, then all of a sudden, that sugar becomes 100% net zero sugar.

“We’re good for the reef, good for the economy and good for the environment, we tick all the boxes.”

This opportunity for the sugarcane industry is seen as a positive for not only farmers and growers, but also for the communities that thrive on the industry.

“The jobs in other renewables are non-existent, whereas sugar mills employ up to 200 people,” Mr Hall said.

“It will expand the industry because, all of a sudden, you’re not sending in 8 million tonne of cane, you’re sending in 12-14 million tonnes of biomass.

“You’re going to building more factories.

“Instead of losing our families, I think there’s enough money in this sort of system to keep young people in the towns.

“The whole community can prosper, whether as a part of it or as a shareholder or even just the supply of cheaper energy and cheaper fuel.

“There’s huge potential for the economy, we’ve just got to have a proactive government on board.”

Mr Hall believes this increased demand will require sugarcane to be cut year-round, seeing a return to Monday to Friday crushing which will again benefit communities and the families who call them home.

“We all know cane is like grass, we don’t have to wait until it gets to 60-70 tonnes to the acre, you can cut it every six months,” he said.

“We want it to be ongoing, Monday to Friday, so when the sun is shining, we can be harvesting cane as a biomass.”

“QCAR is willing to work with incumbent sugar millers to push the concept of a circular bioeconomy.”

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Caption: QCAR Director Russell Hall believes the sugarcane to be the only 100% renewable energy source

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Local pet rescue carers got a snappy surprise visit from a young crocodile lovingly named "Fluffy" by a witty foster carer. Robin and Ros were stunned to encounter the crocodile casually sitting on Golf Links Road late last week.

The young croc was said to be approximately two metres in length and was reportedly healthy looking.

Despite the initial shock, they managed to snap a quick photo before the croc slipped back into the water and vanished. This unexpected sighting occurred as they were returning home after a day of rescue and vet visits. Given the proximity to a popular fishing spot, residents are urged to remain vigilant, especially with children or pets such as cats and dogs.

Ainslie Langdon from Northern Wildlife Operations shares her advice on how to remain croc safe, stating, “We just ask the public to maintain croc wise behaviour and try and stay five meters back from the edge of water-bodies.”

Appropriate authorities were notified, but it's essential for residents to exercise extra caution, particularly near local fishing spots as well as mangrove areas and take appropriate safety measures when near waterways.

Warning signs have now been put up in the Golf Links area and wildlife professionals urge the community to contact authorities to report a future sighting.

This incident serves as a reminder that crocodiles can appear anywhere in our croc country, including suburban areas like Mackay. By remaining vigilant and taking appropriate precautions, residents can minimise the risk of encounters with these reptiles and ensure the safety of the community.

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Caption: Young Crocodile named fluffy, said to be approximately two meters in length, spotted near the Mackay Golf Course on Golf Links Road. Photo credit: Mackay Pet Rescue

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Sandra Hubner is the co-owner and administration manager at Get It Done Training PTY LTD. She plays a vital role in empowering individuals to unlock their full potential, with a focus on positivity and encouragement.

Sandra is well-known in the community for her support and dedication to helping others thrive. In her position, Sandra works tirelessly to guide individuals towards realising their capabilities and achieving their goals. Whether it's through sales strategies or administrative duties, she approaches her work with a passion for making a difference in people's lives.

When it comes to her experience with dancing, Sandra's favourite moments revolve around her interactions with her dance instructor, Dolly. She cherishes the opportunity to learn from Dolly and appreciates the supportive environment she fosters. As for the most difficult aspect of her dance journey, Sandra humorously admits that, it's all challenging.

“I am probably one of her challenging students,” she said.

Despite struggles on the dancefloor at times, Sandra embraces the journey with enthusiasm.

“It's an opportunity to step into the spotlight, not just as a business leader, but as a mother, to demonstrate the importance of community engagement, lifelong learning, and supporting causes that touch our hearts.”

Beyond her professional and dance endeavours, Sandra holds a deep appreciation for the work of the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Recognising the foundation's significant contributions to the community. Sandra highly values their efforts in supporting individuals and families during times of need.

“The Mackay Hospital Foundation do a lot of amazing things for our community and the team have always been great to engage with.”

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Most would know Jay Shipston in the Mackay and Whitsundays community for his cultivating, enthusiastic voice as one half of the dynamic Triple M Breakfast Show.

Beginning his career over a decade ago in 2007, Jay has cemented himself as a familiar voice in the community, providing a lively start to each day with his witty banter and infectious energy, brightening up mornings, making people laugh and keeping listeners entertained.

When it comes to dance moves, Jay's favourites are the ones that come naturally to him. He admits that the easier moves tend to be his preference, with a laugh indicating that he may not be the most skilled dancer when it comes to more complex routines.

“The harder ones, are not my favourite ones,” he says.

Despite the ‘full on’ routine, Jay is embracing the opportunity to learn new dance routines, finding enjoyment in the process even when it proves to be more intense than expected.

Beyond his on-air persona, Jay's admiration for the Mackay Hospital Foundation reflects his deep-rooted commitment to giving back to the community. He recognises the invaluable support the foundation provides to local families in need and wholeheartedly supports their endeavours.

Through his radio show, community involvement, and charitable efforts, Jay uses his platform to entertain, inspire, and make a positive impact on the lives of those around him.

“I love how much the Mackay Hospital Foundation do for the community, and it fits in with my love of the community. They work so hard for families in our region,” he said.

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In a significant development for the tourism sector in the Mackay Isaac region, Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) has announced the appointment of Jeff Stewart-Harris PSM as its interim CEO. The move follows the resignation of outgoing CEO, Al Grundy, who has played a pivotal role in facilitating the transition.

Effective March 4th, Mr Stewart-Harris steps into the role of interim CEO with a wealth of experience garnered from his extensive tenure in various organisations across the Greater Whitsunday region since 1999. Notably, Stewart-Harris served as the Chief Executive Officer of Isaac Regional Council, and from former positions brings with him a profound understanding of infrastructure, planning, regional and economic development, community engagement, as well as port, airport, and transport sectors.

Described as a strategic thinker and courageous leader, Stewart-Harris is deeply committed to the prosperity of regional areas, viewing them as the driving force behind the nation's success. His leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that sustainable futures for regions and communities are forged through robust social and economic performance, emphasising the importance of challenging conventional wisdom to achieve these goals.

"I am honoured to step into this role and build upon the strong foundation laid by Mr. Grundy," Stewart-Harris remarked.

"My focus will be on maintaining the momentum and continuing the excellent work done by MIT in promoting our region as a premier tourism destination."

In addition to Stewart-Harris's appointment, MIT has enlisted the expertise of Tonia Wilson from Wilson's Consulting Services as a project coordinator. Wilson will play a crucial role in spearheading key initiatives, including the development and implementation of a comprehensive cruise ship strategy aimed at enhancing tourism opportunities in the region.

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Caption: Jeff Stewart-Harris PSM. Photo credit: Isaac Regional Council

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Nothing beats being able to say: ‘I am fully qualified’ - and that’s what Courtney and Lauren can now do, after completing their Hairdressing Apprenticeships, with the support of scholarships from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.

After successfully applying for and receiving Apprenticeship Scholarships in 2019 and 2020 respectively, Courtney Kennedy and Lauren Head both went on to find their footing in the hairdressing industry and have flourished, attributing their success to supportive workplaces and the extra professional growth and networking opportunities they received as part of their scholarships.

If you are first year apprentice in 2024 and undertaking your training with CQUniversity, you could apply for one of two (2) Apprenticeship scholarships, applications closing on 31 March. If you are starting your studies in one of the following fields, you are encouraged to apply: Engineering & Technology, Building & Construction, Electrical, Manufacturing Engineering & Technology, Hairdressing, Horticulture or Mechanical.

There are also two (2) $9000 Higher Education Scholarships for those starting a Bachelor degree in 2024, in selected fields.

Courtney Kennedy said she would “most definitely encourage those starting a degree or apprenticeship to apply”, and that the Community Bank Sarina scholarship provided her with “multiple opportunities in the hairdressing community”.

“Hairdressing is a forever changing industry, and this scholarship allowed me to stay educated on the latest trends and have all the correct tools needed to excel in my career.

“Since completing my apprenticeship, I have now stepped up to be the 2IC of our beautiful salon and have an amazing full clientele,” Ms Kennedy said.

Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said she encouraged this year’s new students to invest in themselves and not to underestimate their potential.

“We encourage all eligible students and apprentices throughout the Mackay region to apply, as scholarships not only open doors regardless of background or circumstance, they also enable students to study and work close to home.

“The achievements of Courtney and Lauren are a great example of the potential for success when students are given the right mentoring and opportunities to pursue their goals, and the vital role that scholarships play in fostering local talent in our region, across many different industries.”

Community Bank Sarina has partnered with CQUniversity since 2012 to offer scholarships, reducing the need for students to travel for secondary education, providing a chance to stay local and actively contribute to our economy and communities.

CQUniversity Scholarships – applications close 31 March

There are two (2) $6000 Apprenticeship scholarships and two (2) $9000 Higher Education scholarships available to apply for now. These scholarships can assist with costs associated with studying and provide invaluable connections within local industries.

To find out more and apply, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au or call 0435 537 012.

Caption (L-R) Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May, Courtney Kennedy, Lauren Head and Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich

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Join the Sarina Sugar Shed for a special St Patrick's Day cocktail masterclass on Saturday 16th March from 4.30pm, 'cos even leprechauns love rum! 

Experience all the shenanigans of the sweet masterclasses with a touch of Irish charm, including a unique green cocktail that the team is concocting! 

It will be loads of fun...to be sure, to be sure!  

Bookings are essential! Visit the website at www.sarinasugarshed.com.au and click on the Book Now button.

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A group of intelligent young men are the graduates of the RAGE program from last term.

They now meet fortnightly with Youth Support Coordinators (YSC) Heidi & Chaplain Ben to connect with one another and discuss daily life, the grind and all things in between as they uplift each other in support.

This group aims to break the stigma of talking about mental health and throughout the program, the boys have had the opportunity to hear from local positive male mentors and be trained up to become co-facilitators of the RAGE program.

This week the boys had the pleasure of connecting with Marmin Barba who shared his story and provided some encouraging words of wisdom to motivate the boys to continue showing up, not only for each other but for themselves, prompting healthy mindsets and habits.

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Caption: The resilient faces representing the Male Youth Connect Group

Sarina High’s Karate Champion

Straun is a year 7 ambitious student who has been given a once in a lifetime opportunity to take his passion and skills to a competition in Melbourne to compete for the National team for Karate! With Tokyo World Championships coming up in October, Sarina State High School along with the region wishes Straun all the very best for selection.

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Caption: year 7 student, Straun ready to compete for the National team for karate in Melbourne this weekend. Photos supplied: Sarina State High School

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Just weeks after news of a sharp national spike in asthma deaths – with South Australia recording the highest increase in a single year (88%) – scientists have revealed a promising new treatment for the chronic lung disease.

Australian researchers have found that a family of proinflammatory molecules called beta common cytokines control inflammation and scarring of the airways (fibrosis) in severe and steroid-resistant asthma.
 
They believe that a human therapeutic antibody called trabikihart could be the key to effectively blocking the inflammation and scarring. 
 
The findings, published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, are a result of a joint study led by researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), in collaboration with researchers from CSL and SA Pathology.
 
Joint study leader Dr Damon Tumes, Head of the Allergy and Cancer Immunology Laboratory in the Centre for Cancer Biology*, says the findings are significant.
 
“Inflammation and tissue damage in severe asthma is caused by several types of immune cells that enter the lungs due to allergens, viruses and other microbes that interact with the airways,” Dr Tumes says.
 
“In some people, the inflammation is resistant to steroids – the first treatment option for controlling severe asthma.
 
“Currently, limited treatment options are available for severe asthma. New and existing drugs often only target single molecules when multiple overlapping cells and inflammatory pathways are responsible for asthma.
 
“Targeting multiple inflammatory cytokines with a single drug may be the key to treat and control complex and severe chronic airway disease.”
 
The most recent statistics show a 30% rise in asthma-related deaths (467 people) nationally in 2022, with South Australia recording the most drastic increase at 88%.
 
According to experts, most of the deaths were preventable and were linked to people not having treatment on hand, or using it as prescribed, especially inhaled corticosteroids.
 
2022 marked the highest asthma deaths since 2017, partly driven by the post-Covid return of viral respiratory infections which are associated with increases in asthma hospitalisations.
 
Widespread rainfall, triggering an increase in fungal spores and pollen, is also a factor.
 

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Lots of people ask me and want to be the best they can be and it always seems that healthy people often want to cut out things like sugar, (and that is just one type of carb that causes weight gain for example) and those who might be unhealthy or have a medical illness want to add things in like vitamins.

Health is an individual issue to us all and The World Health Organisation states the definition of Health is "a state of complete, physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity".

So many people see themselves as healthy, yet have a chronic disease or even cancer. Then others are in tip-top shape physically and on their blood work, and other investigations, but still feel unwell within themselves and can be suffering from Health Anxiety.

With so many social media pages, influencers and search engines having information on medical conditions, whether the condition is rare or not, there can be a lot of mis-information and anxiety.

Just hit the news recently, 60 Day Prescriptions - WHAT IS THIS ABOUT?

From this week, there are even more Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) medicines available for 60-day prescriptions. This includes medicines for what we call "Chronic" stable ongoing health conditions such as endometriosis, breast cancer, heart failure, epilepsy and more.

Ask your GP if a 60-day prescription is appropriate for your medical care and this will help your hip pocket too in these days of rising costs across the board.

To see the list of medicines now available, visit health.gov.au/cheapermedicines

Lastly, it's Epilepsy and Melanoma Month - so be aware of what to do if someone has a seizure and get a skin check for any suspicious-looking moles and be SUNSMART.

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Yours in Good Health

Dr Mags

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After receiving a call late last Thursday, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc jumped at the opportunity to save a bunch of abandoned baby puppies.

Zakary Meiert, a real estate agent, put an urgent call out on social media seeking assistance, when he found the newborn puppies abandoned at a vacant property in Sarina.

In an attempt to welcome the newborn pups to a temporary refuge, member Robyn prepped a heated incubator and warm milk while others quickly fetched new bottles, supplies and treats from the vet, ensuring everything was ready for when the newborn pups were set to arrive.

Upon arrival, the team made a required stop at the vet to check on the smitten pups, specifically providing extra care to one who had a suspected low body temperature, requiring subcutaneous fluids.

Since the check in at the vet, the puppies were consistently fed and toileted and are now safe and nestled inside the confined security of a foster home.

Cheryl, a seasoned neonate puppy carer, went above and beyond, driving from Kuttabul to take the puppies under her wing. Cheryl and her partner have committed their time to monitor the pups and feed them around the clock in the upcoming weeks as they grow into little mischief makers.

“We are so grateful to Cheryl and her partner for stepping up to help.

“Thank you also to Zak and Glenda for saving the puppies and for bringing them from Sarina to Eimeo so that they could be surrendered into foster care,” commented a member from Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated.

For updates in upcoming weeks, visit their Facebook for donations or any other inquiries.

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Caption 1,2,3: Three abandoned newborn puppies rescued by the team at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc

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Pop in and see the incredible work of Mackay Woodturners on Saturday, March 16th and Sunday, March 17th, for an exciting showcase of woodworking crafts! Entry is FREE and commences from 9am to 3pm, so don't miss out on an opportunity to witness captivating demonstrations and browse a wide array of wood crafted items.

Located off Beaconsfield Road in Andergrove, Mackay Woodturners will feature demonstrations and sales of various woodworking techniques including woodturning, scroll sawing, intarsia, carving, and pyrography.

Watch as skilled craftsmen showcase their talents, providing insights into the intricate process of transforming raw wood into stunning pieces of art.

Of particular interest, there will be a live demonstration of slabbing a large log into thinner pieces, followed by the transformation of wood into unique items such as bowls or exquisite fountain pens. This captivating process will be shown from start to finish, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship involved.

As Easter approaches, talented member, Kevin Hutchison, will be using the scroll saw to create charming Easter Bunny characters. These delightful creations will be available for purchase, offering children the opportunity to personalize and colour to their own design.

Don't miss this exciting event where creativity meets craftsmanship, and where you can find the perfect handcrafted treasures to adorn your home or to give as unique gifts.

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Caption: An example of the amazing crafts that members of the Mackay Woodturners have created

Caption: Kevin Hutchison crafting easter bunny characters for the upcoming Easter Expo

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