During the bustling Christmas season, one act of kindness turned a near disaster into a heart-warming story of gratitude. A local shopper at Mt Pleasant Shopping Centre was plunged into panic after losing his iPhone, which contained all his cards and holiday cash. With Christmas just days away, the thought of cancelling everything and losing precious family moments was overwhelming.

Thanks to Jade, a security guard at the centre, his compassion and quick thinking turned things around for the local shopper. When the distressed shopper approached him, he didn’t hesitate to help. Walking alongside him, they retraced his steps, searching high and low for the missing phone.

When their efforts seemed fruitless, Jade then had a brilliant idea.

He offered his own iPhone, allowing him to log in to iCloud and use the “Find My iPhone” feature. Together, they followed the map, navigating the busy shopping centre. Despite juggling work calls and handling mischievous scooter riders, Jade was committed to assist and help the shopper find his phone.

At one point, he even left the shopper with his phone while assisting another woman with her wheelchair, and when he returned, they continued the search.

Soon after, the missing phone was found, intact with all its contents.

Thanks to Jade’s kindness and trust, the shopper and his family woke up to a “beautiful Christmas morning”. In a display of his gratitude, he plans to return to the centre to thank him personally, perhaps with a small gift.

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Police are investigating after a Mackay man lost his life in a tragic road accident on the Bruce Highway near Kuttabul on the 28th of December.
Emergency services were called to the scene around 2:35 pm following a three-vehicle collision involving a northbound Toyota Hilux, a southbound Chevrolet Silverado towing a caravan, and a southbound Toyota Kluger.
Initial investigations suggest the Hilux came into contact with the Silverado before colliding with the Kluger. The driver of the Kluger, a 76-year-old man from East Mackay, suffered critical injuries and was declared deceased at the scene.
A 68-year-old East Mackay woman, who was a passenger in the Kluger, was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital in critical condition.
The driver of the Hilux, a 65-year-old Bloomsbury man, was also taken to Mackay Base Hospital but was reported to be in a stable condition.
The occupants of the Silverado escaped without physical injuries.
The Forensic Crash Unit is conducting investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Police have urged witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area at the time to come forward.

Man Faces Multiple Charges Following Mackay Harbour Incident
Police have charged a 40-year-old Slade Point man with multiple offences after an alleged trespass at a business on Ken White Avenue, Mackay Harbour, on the morning of December 19.
Authorities were called to the scene at approximately 9:45 am following reports of a disturbance. Upon arrival, officers located the man in a Holden Commodore utility.
Following a brief interaction, the man was taken into custody and transported to the Mackay Watch House. He has since been charged with several offences, including trespass, unlawful possession of a dangerous drug, drug driving, unlawful possession of a knife in a public place, and two counts of shop-stealing.
The accused is set to appear in Mackay Magistrates Court on February 5, 2025.

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The Mackay region celebrated a heartwarming Christmas with the arrival of two beautiful babies at Mackay Base Hospital on December 25, spreading festive joy to their proud families.
Little Harrison ("Harry") Timms was the first to make his debut, arriving at 4:52 am. Weighing a healthy 8lb 8oz (4.01kg), Harry is the first child for Moranbah couple Jaime and Ben Timms. The delighted parents are overjoyed with their Christmas miracle, who was warmly welcomed by the hospital’s midwifery team, including Jasmine, Sarah, Jess, Kaylah, Megan, Sharni, and Emily.
Later in the day, at 2:03 pm, Airlie Beach couple Shakaya and Age became parents to their first child, a son born via caesarean section. The early arrival, born three weeks ahead of schedule, was a joyful surprise after Shakaya was transferred from Proserpine Hospital to Mackay for the delivery. The couple is keeping their little one’s name under wraps for a special announcement in the coming days.
These two precious arrivals have brought extra cheer to the region this Christmas, making it an unforgettable holiday for their families. Huge congratulations to Jaime, Ben, Shakaya, and Age on their very special Christmas gifts!

Harry is pictured with Mackay Base Hospital midwifery staff, back row from left, Jasmine, Sarah, Jess, Kaylah and front row from left, Megan, Sharni and Emily. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
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Airlie Beach couple Shakaya and Age welcomed their first son at 2.03pm on Christmas Day

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OPINION PIECE
As 2024 draws to an end the Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox reflects on the year that was, somewhat pleased with what he has achieved over the past 12 months, and knowing more needs to be done, is looking forward to 2025, where he says he will be working to be rid of Labor when the election takes place.
Despite being in opposition, Mr Willcox has been focused on improving the lives of residents, community organisations and businesses for generations to come in his large electorate.
“Why do I do this?
“To grow a stronger future for generations to come, to make the electorate a better place for my people to live. My goal is to be in government, have access to the treasury and get more things done,” Mr. Willcox said.
Mr. Willcox says he is a member for the entire electorate. He doesn’t take his role for granted with his strong presence both across the region from Mackay to Townsville. When the Member is not down in Canberra at Parliament he spends his time on the road clocking up over 60,000 km a year meeting with constituents and holding pop-up mobile office stalls and can be regularly found in shopping centres like Canelands Central Mackay or Fairfield Central Shopping Centre in Townsville.
“There’s nothing more powerful than speaking directly with the people, then taking those wishes and comments to Parliament. When questioned, I know exactly what I am saying is correct, as it has come straight from my constituents, you can’t argue with that.”
The community has shown great support for the work the member for Dawon does each day raising concerns about the current state of the Bruce Highway, the cost-of-living crisis and the plagued telecommunication network, just to name a few. Each year Mr Willcox’s team in the Mackay office helps take calls about NDIS, Aged Care, Immigration and other issues as well as processing applications for grants.
Mr Willcox said sometimes it was the little wins like when the 2023/24 Volunteers Grant was awarded to a local Meals On Wheels.
“These are the things that make my job worthwhile. Meals on Wheels is an amazing organisation and for them to receive even just a small amount of funding goes a long way.”
It’s been no surprise that the current state of the Bruce Highway has been high on the Federal Member’s mind, he describes it as a “congo line of potholes” and thanks to Labor's callous decision to pull funding from 80:20 split with the State Government to 50:50, no improvement will be forthcoming anytime soon.
Recently in Canberra during the final sitting week Mr Willcox met with the Honourable Peter Dutton and Nationals Leader David Littleproud who confirmed if elected into government, they will restore the funding back to the 80:20 arrangement. Mr Willcox was instrumental in starting the “Back Our Bruce” petition which has received more than a thousand signatures so far and will be tabled to the Federal Transport Minister Catherine King.
During his time in the nation’s capital, he spoke against the Misinformation Bill which was rejected by the Coalition. Each year several rallies happen, and Mr Willcox spoke at the fight against the banning of gillnet fishing and attended a rally to support farmers.
Moving forward to 2025 Mr Willcox will continue to fight for an improved Bruce Highway where he hopes common sense prevails to bring the highway up to a safe standard like other states have.
The Federal Election will be called sometime in early 2025 and the Federal Member for Dawson is looking forward to serving the region of Dawson from the north to south in the new year.

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In one of the final acts for Mackay Regional Council in 2024, Keswick Island off Mackay was officially gazetted as a locality on 20th December, 2024.
That means the island is now effectively a suburb of Mackay Regional Council.
This follows lobbying by the island’s residents and a collaborative effort between the State Government and council.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said Keswick Island residents had been lobbying for this to happen.
“They wanted this to occur so they effectively have their own suburb, and it is clear where they live,’’ Cr May said.
“In the past, not being a locality has impacted residents trying to obtain insurance,’’ she said.

“It also made it difficult to establish their address for the purposes of verifying their identity based on place of residence.

“Ultimately, this will make it clear the exact location of the properties located on the island, so they can be easily located and verified by government and corporate agencies.”
The decision was made under the Place Names Act 1994 by Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, and Regional and Rural Development, Dale Last.
It followed work undertaken by the State Government and council’s GIS (Geographic Information System) staff.
The process also involved public consultation by the State Government with relevant stakeholders in July and August.
The decision was published in the Queensland Government Gazette on December 20th, 2024.

Photo source via Instagram: @b.l.a.i.r._.h.i.l.l
Map showing the new locality of Keswick Island

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Dudley Denny City Library is currently closed due to water damage sustained during last month’s extended rain event.
Areas of flooring and ceiling material will need to be replaced.
Mackay Regional Council is currently assessing the damage and will undertake remediation works as soon as possible.
Council hopes to have the facility reopened by the end of January, 2025.
All other libraries will reopen on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Mackay residents looking to return borrowed items and access library services during the Dudley Denny City Library closure are encouraged to use Gordon White Library (54 Phillip Street, Mt Pleasant).
While Dudley Denny City Library is closed, Gordon White Library will open on Sundays from 10am to 2pm.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by this unplanned closure.
For updates, please follow Mackay Regional Council Libraries on Facebook.

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In Mackay Regional Council’s new Arts and Culture Strategy 2025 to 2030 there is a focus on providing artists and community groups with more affordable access to facilities and infrastructure.
The strategy, which is now adopted and live on council’s website, sets out a clear vision for arts and culture in the Mackay region, which underpins our region's liveability and prosperity.
A key action of the strategy is to partner with local stakeholders to develop an “Arts Hub” that considers community needs and provides a multi-arts facility.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said such a facility would ideally have low-rent studios, rehearsal spaces, workshop spaces and potential exhibition and retail spaces.
“Ideally we want to explore ways for creative practices to activate underutilised regional places and spaces, like many of our beautiful City Centre buildings,” Cr May said.
“Not only would the activation of a City Centre Arts Hub fill a shortage in affordable multi-arts infrastructure, but it would also help to further enhance foot traffic in the City Centre and the liveability of our region,” she said.
“Such a hub would also provide a base for future placemaking activities and initiatives that further activate the area.”
Cr May said investigations were already underway into potential City Centre buildings that could accommodate an Arts Hub.
She said that council was also committed to ensuring the Northern Beaches Community Hub was reflective of the community’s creative needs.
“The facility will include spaces that will facilitate a range of community activities, programs, services and events.”
Other goals in the strategy include:
   • Amplifying First Nations voices and talents while building inclusive and diverse audience engagement pathways.
   • Growing local creative ecologies by increasing capability, growing opportunities, raising profiles and deepening audience engagement and community participation.
   • Building and promoting a distinctive creative identity for Mackay, showcasing the richness of our cultural landscape.
The Arts and Culture Strategy 2025 to 2030 was developed with extensive consultation with local artists, performers, creatives, venue hosts and industry stakeholders.
Residents can view the strategy at mackay.qld.gov.au/arts

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Local Member for Whitsunday and Minister for Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm has announced a comprehensive plan to strengthen DVConnect, marking a significant milestone in Queensland’s domestic violence support services.
DVConnect, which fields an average of 450 calls daily, connects thousands of Queenslanders to vital on-the-ground services. Over the past year, demand for help has risen by one-third, with even greater pressures anticipated during the new year—a time often marked by increased family tensions.
If you are in imminent danger, contact the police by calling 000.
As part of the State Government’s 100 Day Plan, the initiative will also establish a working group dedicated to addressing the needs of victims of domestic, family, and sexual violence.
The scope of the DVConnect analysis will focus on three key areas:
   • Accountability and transparency
   • Demand across the system
   • Future service delivery models
This includes a review of demand and data as well as exploring options to enhance 24/7 crisis support.
Ms. Camm noted that the last major assessment of DVConnect was conducted in 2017, underscoring the urgency of revisiting and improving the system.
“Under the former Labor Government, the number of victims of family and domestic violence continued to rise while funding allocations failed to create meaningful impact,” Ms. Camm said.
“As the local MP for Whitsunday, I am deeply committed to ensuring our community and all Queenslanders have access to services that meet their needs. There’s a vital opportunity to better understand demand and ensure that the systems we design are truly fit for purpose.”
Highlighting the immediate need for support during the festive season, Ms. Camm emphasised the importance of DVConnect’s 24/7 availability.
“The holiday season often adds extra pressures to families already at risk, leading to an increase in violence during this period,” she said.
“Help is always just one phone call away through DVConnect. Our aim is to ensure Queenslanders experiencing domestic or family violence feel supported not just during the holidays, but every day of the year.”
The initiative forms part of the Crisafulli Government’s $31.25 million expansion of DVConnect, which includes a new North Queensland hub.
“This expansion will double the capacity of both the Womensline and Mensline helplines and enhance regionalised support throughout Queensland,” Ms. Camm said.
“As the Member for Whitsunday, I am proud to champion a review that will elevate services and ensure that specialised organisations, including police and community services, can work together to keep families safe.”
The tender process for these initiatives will commence early next year, with completion expected by June 2025.
IN BRIEF
New analysis of DVConnect to better support critical service
Coincides with 100 Day Plan to establish working group with victims of domestic, family, and sexual violence
Enhances $31.25 million expansion of DVConnect with new North Queensland hub

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MP Amanda Camm at Government House

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The rescue, recovery, and release of Isla, a juvenile green sea turtle, has been hailed as a triumph of teamwork and dedication. Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. has shared this heartwarming story, made possible through the swift actions of Mackay District Turtle Watch (MDTW) and the steadfast support of Cruise Whitsundays.
Isla was discovered stranded in the scorching sun, overheated and weak. The quick intervention of MDTW ensured her safe transport to the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, where the Eco Barge team began her intensive care.
Upon arrival, Isla was severely malnourished and suffering from float syndrome, a condition that prevents turtles from diving to feed. Months of meticulous care followed, with the team working tirelessly to nurse her back to health. Gradually, Isla regained her strength, showing a particular fondness for cuttlefish, and began thriving under the watchful eyes of her caregivers.
Isla’s release marked the culmination of her journey to recovery. Returned to the waters near Seaforth, close to Rabbit Island, she swam powerfully back to her natural feeding grounds—a triumphant moment for all involved.
Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge, reflected on Isla’s journey saying that Isla’s recovery highlights the incredible teamwork and dedication of the organisation’s partners.
“A huge thank you to Mackay District Turtle Watch for their swift response and to Cruise Whitsundays for their continued support.
“Every turtle we save is a testament to what we can achieve together to protect our marine life.”
Ali Yates from MDTW also expressed gratitude, saying, “Thanks to my friend Owen Pershouse for being there that day. If we hadn’t been on the water, Isla would have perished in the heat.
“Owen’s quick action in bringing Isla back to safety was crucial.”
This success story underscores the commitment of the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, its volunteers, and supporters. Since 2013, the centre has cared for over 272 turtles. To continue this critical work, the centre is seeking support for a 2025 upgrade to its facilities.
How You Can Help
Community members can contribute by donating at Eco Barge Clean Seas. Businesses interested in supporting the centre’s mission are encouraged to get involved.
If you encounter a sea turtle in distress, call 1300 130 372 for assistance. Together, we can ensure that more turtles like Isla have a second chance at life.
For further information or to support ongoing rescue efforts, visit ecobargecleanseas.org.au or email info@ecobargecleanseas.org.au.

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Isla, the rescued green sea turtle, is taken back to the water, ready to return to her ocean home after months of recovery. Photos supplied

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A surgical team at Mackay Base Hospital (MBH) has been reaping the benefits of a professional connection forged in Edinburgh almost 15 years ago.
Dr Graeme Walker, formerly of Edinburgh and now the Director of Gynaecology at Gold Coast University Hospital, had a major influence on the career path of Obstetrics & Gynaecology specialist Dr Wojciech Szubert who joined the MBH Women’s Health Unit twelve months ago.
Last month, the former colleagues were scrubbed up and in theatre together again in Mackay as Dr Walker provided training in endoscopic surgery techniques.
“This is a journey for our department,” Dr Szubert said.
“Here in Mackay, 12 to 18 months ago, most of the hysterectomies were done by open surgery.
“Two of my colleagues started upskilling about a year ago, guided by a consultant visiting from the Sunshine Coast.
“And then I joined the team in Mackay in December last year; laparoscopic surgery is what I am trained to do.”
Dr Szubert explained that most hysterectomies and other gynaecological operations can be performed through keyhole surgery.
“Within one year we have shifted from open surgery to having the majority of the hysterectomies performed through keyhole surgery,” he said.
“The next step is improving the efficiency of the entire team, so we work quicker, more efficiently, and from the patient’s perspective, they can safely get discharged home quicker.
“We have reduced down from a three-day hospital stay for open surgery to, at the moment, having the patients go home the next morning.”
Dr Szubert is hoping for further improvements so that selected patients may be able to go home the same day, and the training provided by Dr Walker supports increasing efficiency and patient safety.
Dr Walker runs clinical immersion courses for theatre teams at the Gold Coast four times a year.
“This is always for the team, specifically the anaesthetist, surgeon, scrub scout and recovery nurse,” Dr Walker said.
“And what we’ve done here in Mackay is in reverse.
“It’s basically just me helping Wojciech to allow the department here to see what is the norm at the Gold Coast University Hospital in endoscopic surgery.”
Dr Walker explained that the specialist medical equipment company Medtronic support him to conduct the clinical immersion courses, and they also sponsored the collaboration in Mackay.
The two-day training experience has been a great success.
“I think the entire team – anaesthetics, gynaecology and nursing – has been absolutely excited to see that we can improve efficiency without any cost,” Dr Szubert said.
“Everyone is very keen to collaborate, very keen to make further changes, to advance the quality of the care we provide, and make surgical treatments less invasive and safer.”

An MBH theatre team participating in a training course with Gold Coast University Hospital Director of Gynaecology Dr Graeme Walker, back left, are Doctors Szubert, Savant and Anand, and front from left, anaesthetist Dr Anderson, clinical nurse Jaimee and registered nurse Ruby. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Move It Chiropractic has embraced the spirit of giving this holiday season by adopting a family through the “Adopt a Family for Christmas” program. This initiative, designed to provide gifts, food, and other essentials to families in need, highlights the power of community in spreading joy and hope during the festive season.

A simple, yet impactful gesture allows participants to select a family from a list provided by a participating charity, buy a gift for each family member, and deliver the items to a designated drop-off point.

For Move It Chiropractic, the initiative became a heartfelt team effort.

“Over the past two months, it’s been all hands-on deck,” said Deb Wilkinson from Move It Chiropractic.

“We’d like to thank all the participants, patients, and staff who have contributed to such a wonderful cause for our community.”

With a team of six staff members, including two chiropractors, three chiropractic assistants, and a massage therapist, the business rallied together to ensure the holiday season is special for families facing hardship. Even patients joined in, donating items and spreading festive cheer. Together, they created hampers filled with non-perishable food, tinned goods, chips, and treats for Christmas.

One hamper was delivered to the Neighbourhood Hub to support a family through the “Adopt a Family” program, while another went to Chances House, which assists those experiencing homelessness.

A representative from the Neighbourhood Hub expressed their appreciation, and said, “This year’s Adopt a Family Christmas Program has been a heart-warming success, and it’s all thanks to the generosity of local community members and businesses who stepped up to spread joy in our community.

“To everyone who donated, volunteered, or helped spread the word - thank you for making the holiday season brighter for those in need.

“You are the heart of our community!”

Chances House also thanked participants, stating that they were blown away by the generosity and Christmas spirit of their incredible community.

“A massive thank you to all the amazing people who dropped off donations over the past week to support those experiencing homelessness in Mackay,” a spokesperson said.

“Your kindness is making a real difference to the people in our community experiencing homelessness.

“Together, we’re spreading hope and joy to those who need it most.”

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Move It Chiropractic embraced the spirit of giving this holiday season by rallying their team and patients to support families in need through the “Adopt a Family for Christmas” program, delivering hampers of food and gifts to spread hope and joy. Photos supplied

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Stan Camm Park, located on Bundesen Avenue in Midge Point, is set to undergo a makeover in early-January 2025.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said the upgrades were part of Mackay Regional Council’s ongoing commitment to enhance the liveability of the region.
“These works will transform the park into a vibrant and functional space for the community,” Deputy Mayor May said.
“Investing in projects like this is about providing spaces where residents can connect, stay active and enjoy quality time outdoors,” she said.

“We’ve taken the community’s feedback on board and tailored the upgrades to meet their needs, ensuring Stan Camm Park remains a valued local asset into the future.”
The upgrades include:
   • A half basketball court and hitting wall.
   • A new picnic shelter with additional barbecue and picnic settings.
   • A modern amenities block, including a unisex disability cubicle and two ambulant cubicles. This will replace the old Windyloo toilet.
   • Additional footpaths.
   • A formalised car park with a DDA-compliant parking bay and a refurbished bus shelter.
   • Upgraded fencing with a contemporary post-and-rail design.
The existing picnic shelter, complete with an electric barbecue, will remain as part of the improved park layout. However, the old woodfire barbeques will be removed.

Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said this project was proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.
"I’m delighted our government has been able to assist Mackay Regional Council to secure this critical green space for local residents,” Minister Leahy said.
"When finished, the park will have something for everybody – a new picnic area, electric barbeques, a half basketball court, plenty of car parking and access to public transport,” she said.
To complete these upgrades, the park will be temporarily closed during the works.

The works are expected to be completed by early May 2025, weather permitting. Residents may notice some dust and noise in the area during this time.
Council thanks the community for their patience and understanding as we work to deliver these exciting enhancements.

For more information visit connectingmackay.com.au/stan-camm-park-upgrade.

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A group of 18 second-year Bachelor of Nursing students from CQUniversity recently returned from a transformative study program in Fiji, where they gained valuable insight into community-based primary healthcare. The program was held in the remote village of Naseovou, offering the students an opportunity to learn about healthcare practices grounded in community, family, and faith.
Co-led by CQUniversity Lecturer Ellie Cutmore and Associate Lecturer Megan Kelso, the program was described as 'life-changing' by both staff and students. According to Mrs. Cutmore, the program challenged students to think critically about providing healthcare in the context of Fijian culture.
“Kindness and compassion are just as important as the resources available for care,” she said. The program also encouraged students to contribute their knowledge, which, by the end of the trip, had led to meaningful personal growth and reflection.
During the 15-day trip, the students spent a week on homestay with local families, engaging in daily routines and customs while also providing health education. This immersive experience allowed the students to deepen their cultural understanding while sharing their healthcare knowledge. Health clinics in the village focused on physical assessments, cervical screening, mental health and substance use education, and men’s and women’s health. In addition, students conducted health camps for local youths.
One of the most impactful outcomes was the successful treatment of two patients facing serious health issues, including high blood pressure and immobility. Students’ assessments led to physiotherapy referrals and medication compliance, which improved lifestyle and diet choices, and access to mobility equipment.
“The community of Naseovou was incredibly receptive to the lessons we taught,” said Mrs. Kelso. In addition to health education, the village began implementing recommendations, such as creating smoke-free zones and reducing sugar intake.
CQUniversity students raised over $3,000 for the Gift of Life charity, supporting free cardiac screening and life-saving surgeries for children in Fiji and nearby islands. They also donated first aid supplies to support the village healthcare worker and provided feminine hygiene packs to Homes of Hope, an organisation helping women and girls at risk of sexual violence.
Rachael McLean described the experience as reinforcing her career choice.
“Fijian nurses have a deep connection to their communities, which is very inspiring,” she said. For Mrs. McLean, who had recently changed careers at age 48 after experiencing personal loss, the Fijian nurses' resilience and compassion strengthened her desire to work in the healthcare field. The program also highlighted the vital role of family and community in health, leaving a lasting impact on the students’ professional development.
This cultural exchange, showcasing CQUniversity’s commitment to educating compassionate, globally-minded healthcare professionals, has left a profound mark on all who participated.

CQUniversity nursing students alongside Fijian nurses and community members, sharing knowledge and experiences during their cultural exchange in Naseovou. Photo source: CQUniversity
Rachael McLean with two Fijian registered nurses

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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We regard membership levies as “growers’ investment in their future", so it is important that we offer a good return on that investment. Whether that is advocacy on industry-wide issues from farm gate through to our markets and our industry representation on the world scene, training and labour needs, or giving members access to professional help and many other services that give members the ability to operate a successful business.
We are successful in creating a strong voice for growers, and creating a forum for that enables unity and common voice among growers is one of the most important aspects of CANEGROWERS. Unity among growers has always been the success of our industry and any move to destabilise representation gives our rivals an advantage over us.
Members are always our core, the driving voice that propels policy. CANEGROWERS is a not-for-profit organisation that operates a democratic, grass roots federation model, that spreads up from local branch membership across districts to milling areas, regions, and state boards.
Across Mackay and Plane Creek Milling areas, there are five branches, at Calen, Marian, Racecourse, Finch Hatton and Plane Creek. Each meets regularly, with a mix of social shed meeting and presentations from industry support organisations and businesses, and an opportunity for growers to discuss the matters affecting them with their representatives, and with each other.
CANEGROWERS is one of only a handful of agricultural member-based organisations in Australia whose representatives are selected from the same grassroots the organisation represents – the farmers. Beyond offering a voice with some clout, CANEGROWERS Mackay aims to give members rock solid support through their membership benefits, including representation on Cane Supply Agreements, legal matters relating to farming operations, support in dealing with millers and government. Further to that we are closely in touch with Local, State and Federal Government representatives. The keen awareness of make-or-break issues which gives CANEGROWERS members the strong backing they require.
We have a very busy district office that enables members to talk to professional people based here in Mackay who, along with our network of 13 district offices and the whole of the value chain, are able to identify and deal with issues before they grow to an irreversible situation that would take away from growers’ rights and ultimately their financial returns.
It's in that way, we have growers’ backs covered. It is members’ continued faith that gives your organisation a powerful voice to government, industry stakeholders and the wider community, and helps us to punch above our weight. We work towards building an industry that is both sustainable and profitable for growers.
We offer training services from basic chemical accreditation up to business management; sugar marketing information services; assistance with leasing and share farming industry advocacy in the community and in the labour market; industry information through magazines and social media; payroll services; insurance services; cane auditor services in mills; support with electricity, irrigation, and transport. And more. And moreover, the organisation employs staff with specialised backgrounds equipped to provide expert service.
Also, in recent years the CANEGROWERS organisation has introduced free crop insurance to $35/tonne for members, who can then negotiate to top up beyond that.
Without unity, we would never make headway. Membership of an organisation with a long history of delivering good outcomes is a worthwhile investment for cane growers.

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CANEGROWERS Mackay has a strong commitment to members.  Pictures: Kirili Lamb

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Sugar cane growers in North Queensland are grappling with the dual challenges of rising electricity costs and restricted access to peak-time energy. According to irrigation specialist Chris Doblo of Farmacist Pty Ltd, the solution lies in smarter, more efficient practices. Drawing on his extensive experience, Mr Doblo shares practical strategies for growers to future-proof their operations and adapt to these mounting pressures.
Rethinking Irrigation Efficiency
One of the most critical steps for growers, Mr Doblo advises, is to evaluate their current irrigation systems. With potential restrictions cutting irrigation time by 20 per cent, it is essential to optimise systems to deliver more water in less time.
Enhancing pumping infrastructure and performing regular maintenance can ensure consistent performance. Trials conducted in North Queensland have shown that higher inflow rates not only save time but also improve water distribution, leading to additional irrigation benefits and reduced wastage.
Automating for Success
Automation offers significant opportunities for growers to optimise their irrigation processes. With limited irrigation hours and ongoing labour shortages, automated systems can provide precise control over water application, ensuring efficiency and consistency.
“Automation has become more accessible and affordable,” Mr Doblo explains, “and it’s an effective option for growers to overcome resource and time constraints.” Features like automated scheduling and real-time monitoring allow water to be applied during off-peak energy periods, maximising cost savings.
Harnessing Solar Power
Solar energy continues to be one of the most practical investments for sugar cane growers. For pumps of 18.5 kW or larger, installing a solar array can significantly reduce reliance on grid electricity, particularly during daylight hours when energy demand is highest.
Mr Doblo highlights that solar offers more than just cost reductions. “As the industry moves towards energy storage solutions like batteries, growers who have already adopted solar power will be better prepared for future changes,” he says.
Planning for Off-Peak Energy
Aligning irrigation schedules with off-peak energy tariffs, such as Tariff 34, offers growers immediate savings of up to 30 per cent. While these tariffs may face additional restrictions in the future, Mr Doblo emphasises their current value in reducing operational costs.
However, he warns growers to prepare for potential interruptions, as off-peak energy may eventually become a “switchable load” during peak demand periods. Diversifying energy sources and improving irrigation efficiency are essential to navigating these changes.
The Road Ahead
Adapting to rising electricity prices and shifting energy regulations is no easy task, but the solutions are within reach for North Queensland’s sugar cane growers. As Mr Doblo explains, “Investments in infrastructure, automation, and solar energy are not just beneficial—they are essential for the future of our industry.”
By adopting these strategies and embracing innovation, growers can overcome energy constraints and maintain sustainability.

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