Neighbour Day began in Melbourne in 2003 after the remains of an elderly woman were found inside her suburban home, more than two years after her death.

Council is committed to ensuring sad incidents like that will never occur in our community.

Every March, residents in our region are encouraged to be “Legendary Neighbours”.

Community Services Director Janine McKay said council’s Legendary Neighbour campaign had two parts.

“We are aiming to bring regional areas together with our free Cuppa with your Neighbour events at Homebush, Finch Hatton, Shoal Point, Sarina Beach, Calen and The Leap,” Ms McKay said.

“These are really informal events where we use a local coffee vendor to provide some free cuppas in an area and invite residents to come along and meet each other and chat with a council Community Development Officer,” she said.

“The other part of the Legendary Neighbour campaign encourages residents to host their own neighbourhood gathering with one of our Legendary Neighbour Party Packs.

“Each pack includes a $100 MeatCo barbecue voucher and all the odds and ends you need to host a fun get-together with people in your street who you might not know yet.

“There are 10 packs up-for-grabs and all you need to do to apply for one is head to the council website and tell us why you want to get to know your neighbours..

“The whole campaign is about building a more connected community, because connected communities look out for each other and are more resilient.”

Cuppa with your neighbour events will be held on:

   • Thursday, March 21, 7.30am to 9.30am - Homebush State School.

   • Friday, March 22, 8am to 10am - The Gift Shed (Finch Hatton).

   • Monday, March 25, 9.30am to 11.30am - Shoal Point Park, Shoal Point.

   • Tuesday, March 26, 9am to 11am - Sarina Beach Foreshore (Owen Jenkins Drive).

   • Wednesday, March 27, 8.30am to 10.30am - Vic Bridger Park, 3 McIntyre Street, Calen.

   • Thursday, March 28, 9am to 11am - The Leap Tea Room, The Leap.

For more information or to apply for a Legendary Neighbour box, head to  mackay.qld.gov.au/legendaryneighbour

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Showtime presents this spectacular music tribute and full-scale stage production honouring the one and only King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

Celebrate Jackson’s creative genius and unsurpassed talent with riveting live performances evoking his early days as a member of the Jackson 5, his groundbreaking theatrics in the 80s and his continued domination of pop culture into the 21st century.

Songs include Thriller, Billie Jean, Smooth Criminal, Bad, Beat It, ABC, Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough, Human Nature, PYT, They Don’t Really Care About Us and many more.

Get the full Michael Jackson concert experience with triple-threat performer Garth Field – electrifying in his role as Jackson – plus a live band, choreographed dancers, authentic costumes, state-of-the-art sound and theatrical lighting, vision and effects.

Truly a mind-blowing stage production – not to be missed!

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In 1886 The Kungurri turntable was built by Cowans Sheldon in England.  It is a 40ft turntable and its job number was 1492.  There were two turntables shipped to Australia back in the day. The sister turntable now resides down south and there are now only a handful of these still working in Australia.

Councillor Alison Jones shared how this piece of history found its way to the Finch Hatton mountain bike trails.

“I remember in my previous term of council former Cr Dave Perkins mentioning that he and the Pioneer Valley Rotary Club were taking a look at it and thinking about how it could be repurposed,” Cr Jones shared.

“Years later here I am in a briefing about the Mountain Bike Trails and design of the Finch Hatton Trailhead and the Director Jim Carless says, ‘We really need a piece of large equipment that is representative of the valley from years gone by’ and so I had a quiet chat with Cr Bonaventura and contacted Dave Perkins to see where I needed to find out more information about the turn table.”

Mackay Sugar had the turntable stored in a yard after it was removed to allow for a road widening.

“With all the people we had called to get the information, we had created a following which we called the KTTG and this small group were on-site checking it out and were keen to help Mackay Sugar restore her,” Cr Jones said.

Councillors Bonaventura and Jones approached Mr Carless, who agreed that using the KTT as a feature in the trailhead would be a fitting tribute to its heritage.

KTTG are now trying to gather the stories to be documented on-site.  

“Last year, one of my Facebook posts on the KTTG attracted a comment from Albert Ramsamy, who at the age of 14 said he used to turn the rail motor on the turntable back in the day. These were exactly the stories we needed,” Cr Jones said.

While the turntable is locked, the KTTG are hoping that once a year they may be able to run a challenge to see who can turn the table the fastest.

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Caption: Members of the Kungurri Turntable Group on-site at the Mountain Bike Trailhead in Finch Hatton during the installation of the historic turntable. Photo supplied: Alison Jones

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Amidst the anticipation, the winners of the 2024 JSP Women's Awards were revealed at a gala dinner earlier this month, each embodying extraordinary resilience, courage, and innovation. These individuals, recognised across various categories, stand as shining examples of the diverse talents within our community:

WINNERS

Mother of All Mothers: Marnie Louise

Woman Who Breaks the Mould: Adrienne Bradshaw

Health and Wellbeing Warrior: Lauren Neill

Magic Muse: Samantha Munt

Resilient Rebel: Haley Crofts

The Equaliser: Rob Coco

Rising Star: Codie Ebner

From challenging societal norms to advocating for vital causes, each winner has left a mark on our collective consciousness.

This year's event marked a significant milestone in the awards' history, with organiser, Fallon Drewett, proud to witness its evolution to new heights. It's a testament to the power of storytelling, with every nominee, finalist, and winner embodying the grit and determination that inspires us all.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, the JSP Women's Awards serve as a rallying cry for empowerment and progress. It's a space where dreams are nurtured, barriers are shattered, and aspirations are kindled. These awards remind us that greatness resides within each of us, waiting to be unleashed.

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1: Resilient Rebel winner, Haley Crofts

2: Health and Wellbeing Warrior winner, Lauren Neill

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Two women at the helm of the Mackay Hospital Health Service are inspiring an entire workforce to new heights and demonstrating what can be achieved with hard work and perseverance.

MHHS chair and board member Helen Darch OAM and chief executive Susan Gannon are among the 83% female workforce at the Mackay Hospital Health Service.

Both agree International Women’s Day today is an ideal time to reflect on and highlight the important role of women in the workforce and within the community.

“It’s amazing to see the number of women in our service and the many and varied contributions they are making towards a better future,” Ms Gannon said.

“Women have so much to contribute and the way they look at things really matters.”

It was considered somewhat rare to have women in chief executive and chairperson roles and helping to set the strategic direction and oversee the management of Mackay HHS.

“Board members of hospital and health services were primarily male in the past, but the gender balance is now really shifting,” Helen said.

Awareness campaigns like International Women’s Day, with the theme of ‘Count her in’, served as the ideal opportunity to acknowledge how times and perspectives had changed. 

“It’s a day when we note just how far we’ve come from having to seek permission to work, to actually reversing the roles in lots of ways,” Helen said.

“Today is really about celebrating how far we’ve come in recent times, but to also acknowledge there’s still a way to go in terms of ingrained attitudes and equality,” she said.

With more women drawn to the medical profession today, the workforce was seeing a “changing of the guard”. 

“More females are training as doctors than ever before, This will lead to a change in culture in a previously male-dominated profession,” Susan said.

“In the metropolitan areas, the ratio of female doctors now coming through the ranks is at about 50%.”

Both women are proud to acknowledge and celebrate the predominantly female workforce at Mackay HHS.

“I think it’s fabulous to have Susan as the chief executive of the health service because, as they say, you can’t be what can’t see,” Helen said.

“Our workforce has the incredible opportunity to see women in these senior roles and to say, one day I too can be a chief executive or have a senior role here. It’s all possible,” she said.

To mark International Women’s Day, Mackay HHS staff wore purple on the day.

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By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Caption: MHHS chair and board member Helen Darch OAM and chief executive Susan Gannon.

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Three engineers, a dragline operator and a workplace support manager have taken out this year’s Resources Awards for Women.

The event was hosted on International Women’s Day by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) and Women in Mining and Resources Queensland (WIMARQ) to celebrate the contribution of women to the state’s number one export industry. 

The QRC was pleased to welcome Queensland Premier Steven Miles to the event, who presented this year’s Exceptional Woman in Queensland Resources award to Head of BHP’s Global Resource Engineering Excellence, Sonia Winter. Sonia’s outstanding career in resources began 20 years ago when she was one of the first women employed through BHP’s graduate mining engineer program. She spent many years working in Central Queensland as a mining engineer, including as General Manager of Poitrel coal mine.

The event featured an array of high-achieving women led by global business leader and keynote speaker BHP President Australia Geraldine Slattery, and new QRC Chief Executive Officer Janette Hewson.

Ms Hewson said the number of women working in Queensland’s resources sector had almost doubled over the past 20 years to reach a record 22.1 per cent (8,552 FTE) of the industry’s total workforce. 

“The resources sector is making good progress towards reaching our target of 30 per cent female participation by 2026, but our members are working hard to employ more women at a faster rate to meet this milestone,” Ms Hewson said. 

“26.1 per cent of Executive Management positions in Queensland’s resources sector are now held by women, which is almost double the level of representation in 2015-16, with the proportion of women working in operational and production roles growing by 58 per cent over the same period. 

“Significantly, the number of women in trade roles has increased by almost 40 per cent over the past year, in a clear sign our industry is becoming more diverse and inclusive in its attraction, recruitment and retention programs." 

This year’s Exceptional Young Woman in Queensland Resources Ashara Moore is a FIFO engineer who works at BHP’s Saraji coal mine in Dysart. After starting her career as the sole engineer on construction projects in remote areas, Ashara is now a portfolio lead where she heads a team of engineers and is responsible for over $45 million in capital projects. 

Moranbah State High School Year 12 student and school captain Lexi Croce is this year’s Exceptional Female QMEA Student. The QMEA is the education arm of the QRC which delivers STEM and trade workshops and camps to students at 100 Queensland schools. Lexi has been actively involved with QMEA programs and is a member of her school’s STEM Innovation Experience Team which won last year’s state competition. She is driven by the idea of finding electrical solutions to make mining operations more efficient and environmentally friendly.   

Caption: Moranbah State High School Year 12 student Lexi Croce is this year’s Exceptional Female QMEA Student

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Last week, as the world geared up to celebrate International Women's Day, the Resource Industry Network (RIN) hosted its annual business luncheon at the MECC in Mackay. With the global theme of "Inspire Inclusion," the event aimed to recognise and empower women while fostering a more inclusive workplace environment.

Dean Kirkwood, the General Manager at RIN, emphasised the importance of creating an inclusive workforce.

"We believe that creating an inclusive workforce is not only the right thing to do but is essential for driving innovation in today's business environment. It has also been proven that having women in the workplace increases safety and productivity,” he said.

The highlight of the luncheon was the keynote address by Dr. Catherine Ball, an Associate Professor renowned for her multifaceted contributions at the nexus of technology, innovation, and sustainability. Holding a BSc Honours in Environmental Protection and a PhD in Spatial Ecology, she brings a wealth of expertise to her endeavors. Dr. Ball's work extends beyond academia, as she serves as a company director on global projects that leverage emerging technologies to address humanitarian, educational, and environmental challenges. With a passion for creating businesses and championing movements, she collaborates with peers and advises game-changers across various industries. Dr. Ball's influence extends far beyond traditional boundaries, as she is a sought-after voice in the startup, futurist, and tech spheres, where she connects individuals from diverse backgrounds around common themes and shared visions for a brighter, more sustainable future.

Attendees were particularly impressed by the diverse panel discussion led by MC Kylie Porter, featuring esteemed figures like Larnie Mackay, Dr. Elissa Hatherly, Kathy Searle, and Dr. Bell. Their discussions touched upon breaking barriers for women in the workplace and the importance of fostering meaningful participation and decision-making opportunities for women.

The event also served as a platform to champion the UN Women theme of "Count Her In. Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress." It was a rallying call to empower women to have a voice and agency in driving positive change in workplaces and communities.

Reflecting on the event, participants left feeling motivated and empowered, recognising the crucial role women play in shaping the future. The vibrant atmosphere, insightful discussions, and inspiring presentations reaffirmed the commitment of the Resource Industry Network to advancing gender equality and inclusion in the region's workforce.

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Photos supplied: Resource Industry Network

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By Amanda Wright

Last weekend, the Zonta Club of Mackay Inc. hosted its annual International Women’s Day luncheon to celebrate and recognise girls and women worldwide.

Club President Fiona Koutlis said the lunch celebrates the strides that have already been made towards equality and a life where women can live free from discrimination and violence.

“Where women can live life to its fullest,” she added.

The UN Women International Women’s Day theme for 2024 is ‘Count her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress’. Count her In will examine the pathways to greater economic inclusion for women and girls everywhere.

“Our work towards equality will continue until every girl and woman knows how it feels to be equal,” Fiona added.

The luncheon’s MC was Miki-Ponting-Boyd who delivered a thoughtfully balanced speech on women’s rights here in Australia and across the world, injecting intelligent humour while keeping the audience enthralled with poignant information about equality.

Guest speaker, Judy Porter brought pivotal understanding of why the gender gap exists, examining a range of traits, both learned and biological, examining why men are more likely to strive for promotions while women tend to step aside. Her business experience coupled with her passion for ‘what drives behaviour’ enabled her to deliver a thought-provoking presentation to empower women to strive for better.

In addition to silent auctions, a raffle and entertaining trivia, the Zonta International Young Women in Public Affairs Award was announced, which encourages young women from 16-19 to participate in public affairs. The award recognises those who take exceptional strides in the community to volunteer, lead and empower women through service and advocacy.

Evelyn O’Brien from St Patrick’s College was announced the 2024 winner. In accepting her prize, Evelyn told the audience the prize money will go towards her educational endeavour this year of studying law in the UK. Runner up was Bridget Wright from Sarina State High School.

Meet The Zonta International Young Women in Public Affairs Award Finalists

Eleena Joe

Holy Spirit College

Eleena Joe is a grade 12 student with a passion and dedication for women’s advancement in the field of public service.

“My personal aspirations include staying committed to successfully achieve my goal of becoming a student at James Cook University Townsville.

“I am also dedicated to continuing my active involvement in volunteer work at aged care homes and rehabilitation hospitals.

“My overarching goal is to align my passion for healthcare, women empowerment and community well-being with meaningful and hands-on contributions.”

Kira Hurrell

Mirani State High School

Kira is a year 11 student who has been an active member of the school Z Club for several years and has held the executive position of Treasurer in 2023 and 2024.

She enjoys the idea of activism and politics.

“An ideal career in the future would include something that involves helping people, whether through scientific discoveries or creating my own organisation towards human rights,” she said.

She also has a passion for dance and drama and participates in a wide range of cultural activities within the school.

Bridget Wright

Sarina State High School

Bridget is a year 12 student and this year was elected by her peers to represent her school as School Captain. She has been an active member of the school’s student council since year 7 and has been a member of the Sarina Zonta Club throughout her schooling.

Alongside her school captaincy, Bridget was also voted as the Mayor of the Mackay Youth Council, the first democratically elected youth council of its kind. She was elected by the eleven fellow councillors and as such works closely with the Mackay Regional Council to ensure the youth of Mackay are supported.

She is passionate about increasing women’s representation in leadership roles in the business sector and politics, through access to programs and initiatives to create strong and driven women.

Bridget’s goals include completing a Business degree where she aims to work in the economics field, working internationally to strengthen Australia’s international relationships.

Chloe Nielsen

Sarina State High School

Chloe is a year 12 student and in 2024 was elected by her peers to represent her school as part of the Student Executive. She is actively striving to initiate a mentorship and mental health program where junior students can reach out for assistance from senior students.

She is also an active member of the woder community. She volunteers time to the Sarina Library, assisting staff and has been asked to contribute to community outreach programs and increasing youth involvement in the library. She also volunteers at the Sarina Hospital where she offers companionship and support to senior citizens during their stays alongside assisting staff.

Her goal is to complete a Bachelor of Biomedical Science/Sciences as a dual degree at the University of Queensland with honours and then complete a PhD majoring in Microbiology and minoring in Neuroscience.

Evelyn O’Brien

St Patrick’s College

Evelyn is a school captain, a member of the Mackay Youth Council, an Ambassador for the Puch-up Challenge and an Ambassador for UN Youth Qld.

“I have competed in the Senior Mackay debating competition and am a current member of Reef Guardians,” she said.

She is an active member in the community, participating in a multitude of sports and performing arts endeavours whilst achieving high marks across all academic subjects.

She intends to study a dual degree in Law and Humanities at the University of Queensland to lead to a career in law.

“As an international postgrad study, I hope to become a Rhode Scholar at the University of Oxford and study a master’s degree in Diplomacy. This level of education will support my transition from law into politics.”

Lilly Uhr

St Patrick’s College

Lilly is a year 12 student and this year is a YMCA Youth Parliament Ambassador following being the Youth Parliament Member for Mackay last year. She is President of St Patrick’s Zonta Club and is a DSARM Charity member and volunteer.

As well as volunteer and academic roles, Lilly is a player, umpire and coach for North’s Netball and a player in the Mackay Machines, a local wheelchair basketball team. She’s also a regional member of the Make It 16 program.

She aspires to study medicine or occupational therapy while continuing to advocate for disability equality. She hopes to work rurally to bridge the gap in rural health services. She also hopes to coach disability sports in a rural community while advocating for women’s rights and helping to fight homelessness. She also intends to run for local government.

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Captions:

Student finalists: The six student finalists L-R: Chloe Nielsen, Lilly Uhr, Eleena Joe, Bridget Wright, Evelyn O’Brien, Kira Hurrell. Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes Social Media & Photography

Winner Evelyn O’Brien being congratulated by Zonta Club of Mackay Inc. members, with runner-up Bridget Wright (right)

MC Miki Ponting-Boyd entertained the tables of attendees at the luncheon

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One of my hockey mates Gareth is having his 40th birthday party tomorrow night. For anyone living near Milton Street High School, get ready. There could be some music and noise, but I’m sure the events will be very low-key. Honest. Trust me, I work in radio.

One of the other events this weekend is on tonight at the Mackay Turf Club. Their big Sugar Awards are on, and I’ll jump on the mic to help it all flow along in my own way.

This weekend we’ve got markets at the showgrounds, beach markets around Bowen and Seaforth over the next few weeks, and with Easter just around the corner, stacks of events are being planned to get the most out of the weather, especially if you’re camping at Eungella or Seaforth. Get your gear ready now.

One thing I’d like to mention in this article today, and it brings a tear to my eye as I write this down.

On Monday we got to say ‘until next time’ for a lovely young man, taken way too early in life. His name is Jai Patrick Degue, and he was just 14 years old. In 5 day’s time, he would have turned 15.

Jai had a smile that would light up a room, a personality to match, and the cheekiness that we can all say, we loved. A couple of weeks ago Jai had a cardiac episode that he never recovered from, and on Monday his family Sarah, Nev, Bruce, Jesse, Yvette and their entire extended family said their goodbyes.

What made it even more special for me, was that last week Sarah and Bruce, after speaking with Nev asked me to officiate Jai’s service. I took it as an absolute honour, and whilst it was emotional to do, I hope I showed respect to Jai and his loved ones, whilst also bringing out some of his wonderful, colourful life that everyone loved.

From seeing the Newhaven Chapel full of people, and then seeing double that outside during the service makes you feel OK that this young man was truly loved in our community.

There were plenty of tears, and there will be more to come, but after hearing the stories about Jai, what he got up to, how he loved Nutella, coffee and that daily banana, it makes you look at life in a different way. Let’s live our lives today. Not tomorrow. Today.

Tell those around you how much they mean to you, laugh a lot, cry more, ruffle someone’s hair up, because you’re tall, treat people with the utmost respect, and please if you’re playing D&D with anyone, keep a thought for Jai. He was a master at it.

Rest in peace young man.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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It’s that time in the election cycle when citizens can metaphorically pick up their baseball bats and head to the polls.

It can be a lot of fun for the populace to get together like a gang of marauding bullies and head to the Showgrounds or local schools and give the elected representatives a good going over.

Sometimes the electoral flogging is well-deserved and a local member, councillor or mayor is punished for their ineptitude or for simply failing to get the results that had been expected. Thwak!

This weekend it’s council elections and I reckon there will be a few bruises when we see the aftermath next week. It will be interesting to see who’s left standing but I reckon there are going to be some new faces.

I won’t comment on the mayoral race for one very good and sound reason; I know and like all three candidates and I’m a wimpy little chicken who hasn’t got the guts to state publicly what he thinks.

Having said that, I would suggest that whoever is preparing the council name tags can safely order one that says, Cr G Christensen. That should make it interesting.

Other elections are coming up; the Federal Election will be early next year and the State Election will be held in October this year.

Whether it is local, state or federal governments, we all have our opinions and biases and things we look for in our representatives. And, as long as you don’t vote Greens or Teal, I respect your views. (Come on that’s a joke … kinda.)

But whoever we vote for, I think one of the main things we all want is for the interests of our city and region to be represented properly, for Mackay to be given the opportunity to be the best it can be.

Former US president Bill Clinton had a succinct and powerful way of describing what, in the end, was truly important politically: “It’s the economy, stupid.”

The economy is really a matter for state and federal governments and the electorate will express its view on their performance when it’s time to vote.

As a Mackay person and real estate agent, I expect both levels of government to do everything they can to boost our economy, create the opportunities that will support families, generate apprenticeships and sustain our city in the years ahead.

Diversification of our economy is vital to sustain us by applying our skills to new areas as the world changes, but it is also important that governments support and promote the coal industry and the local businesses that are inextricably linked to it.

A healthy coal sector creates work opportunities for miners and their families who move to - or decide to remain in -  Mackay but those people need services and that also generates work for hairdressers and plumbers and carpenters and mechanics and accountants and teachers and … the list goes on in a perfect storm of capitalist energy.

The real estate sector and those who own property in this town benefit from this dynamic but governments have let us down in a couple of areas.

The state government has been absolutely hopeless at explaining to the nation that 70 or 80 per cent of the coal we produce in our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. Not thermal coal for power plants. Steel-making coal, you know, the good stuff.

There are other things that need to be addressed that are a matter for the State Government because they are elected to support our economy, help facilitate the business and employment opportunities and address related problems such as housing.

Yes, I am pushing for a strong real estate sector but that also means an energetic, growing economy that provides opportunities for tomorrow’s Mackay school-leavers.

The great thing about elections is that we get to make a judgement and, if necessary, a change.

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Mackay Regional Council staff will begin scheduled maintenance of palm trees in the Mackay City Centre next week.

The maintenance will start on Tuesday, March 19, in Wood Street and will include pruning dead fronds/leaves, shaving the trunk, cutting away visible fruit stalks and removing seed pods.

Arborists will be on site between the hours of 5am and 9am on weekdays and they will be carrying out maintenance on trees located on Wood, Victoria, Sydney, Macalister and Nelson streets, and Matsuura Drive and Mangrove Road.

Work on Sydney Street has been scheduled for Saturday, March 23, to minimise disruption to the public and to avoid the heavy traffic on this road during the week.

The maintenance is expected to be completed by Thursday, March 29, weather permitting.

Full traffic control will be in place and some road/lane closures will be required during the work.

Residents are asked to obey all instructions from council staff and traffic control officers.

The work is part of council’s annual maintenance program.

For further information call 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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McDonald’s Mackay U16 Junior Rep Teams were back in action for their third Basketball Queensland tournament held earlier this month at Townsville Basketball.

The U16 Meteors and Meteorettes both took out the top honours in their division to claim gold.

The U16 Comettes and Comets both finished second overall in their grades.

The U16 Stars finished in second place while the U16 Starettes took out the bronze medal.

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Captions

U16 Meteors

U16 Meteorettes

U16 Comets

U16 Comettes

U16 Stars

U16 Starettes

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In a groundbreaking moment for adventure enthusiasts and tourism alike, Finch Hatton's Stage 1 Mountain Bike trails have officially opened, drawing scores of mountain bikers to experience the thrilling twists and turns of these newly unveiled pathways.

With the inaugural trails now accessible, the stage is set for a monumental transformation in the tourism landscape of the Pioneer Valley. This milestone isn't just about launching trails; it's about igniting a tourism revolution that promises to redefine the region's allure and economic potential.

The project of ambitious proportions is poised not just to redefine recreation but to catalyse economic revitalisation on a scale unseen before in the Mackay Region.

One of its most passionate advocates, Cr Justin Englert says the vision is resoundingly clear – to position the valley as a global hub for mountain biking enthusiasts paving the way for national and international investment. With meticulous master planning underway to bolster regional tourism through this venture, the trails stand as a linchpin for increased visitation, business expansion, and community development.

Seeking re-election as a councillor in the local elections on March 16, Cr Englert successfully lobbied for the investigation, business case and funding for the Finch Hatton/Eungella mountain bike facility which he says will increase visitation to the valley by a minimum of 30,000 people per annum, kick-starting an economic prosperity not seen in Finch Hatton and Eungella since gold was discovered in the 1800s.

“This will be the anchor tenant for a rebirth of tourism industries from accommodation, food, farm stay, fishing, tours and more for the entire region,” he added.

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Caption: Councillor Justin Englert, a passionate advocate for economic growth through tourism development, leads the charge at the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike trails, paving the way for Mackay's tourism resurgence

Championing Tourism

Justin Englert's Vision For Mackay

The Finch Hatton Mountain Bike trails aren't merely about creating a recreational facility for the community; they're about carving a new future for the region – one where tourism flourishes, businesses thrive, and communities prosper.

As the Mackay Regional Council embarks on the monumental task of constructing more than 80 kilometers of single-direction mountain bike trails across the Pioneer Valley, Finch Hatton, and Eungella, Cr Englert emphasises, "We are on the precipice of a tourism boom, and if re-elected, I will fight for the completion of this project to make the Pioneer Valley THE premium destination for mountain biking in the world."

Planning and investigation works for Stage 2 are underway and will continue until 2025 with construction forecasted to commence in 2026, however funding is not yet locked in for this project and the newly elected council will determine the future of development.

"This is the economic driver for the Pioneer Valley becoming one of the most desirable rainforest destinations in the world to attract global attention and help the businesses here thrive," he said.

“There has been interest shown from a range of tourism investors, including consideration for a gondola to transport visitors up to the top of the Eungella Range.”

Cr Englert's commitment to tourism development isn't confined solely to the mountain bike trails. As a councillor, he has been a tireless advocate for initiatives aimed at elevating Mackay's tourism profile and fostering economic prosperity across the region. From lobbying for consistent funding for Mackay Isaac Tourism to throwing his support behind Pioneer River activation projects, Justin has been at the forefront of driving initiatives that promote tourism, business growth, and community well-being.

He was chairperson for Mackay Isaac Tourism during the amalgamation of Mackay Tourism and Isaac Tourism and is sitting or has sat as chair of the Mountain Bike Alliance, Visual Arts Advisory Committee and Economic Recovery Subgroup. He is or has been a member of the Character and Heritage Advisory Committee, Invest Mackay Event and Conference Attraction Program Advisory Committee and the Local Disaster Recovery Group, strengthening his understanding of the economic needs of the region.

Cr Englert's dedication to public service extends far beyond his advocacy for tourism and economic development. A man of multifaceted talents and unwavering commitment, his professional journey spans military service, small business ownership, and extensive involvement in community organisations. From his tenure as a professional State Emergency Services Local Controller and spending more than 20 years volunteering in the SES, he has consistently demonstrated a steadfast commitment to serving his community.

As he seeks re-election for a third term, Cr Englert’s platform is anchored on completing ongoing projects, ensuring affordable living for residents, fostering community growth, and advancing the development of the Pioneer River.

Authorised by Justin Englert, 8 Marlborough Street, Ooralea

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Captions:

SES: Justin Englert was the Mackay region’s first professional State Emergency Services Local Controller responding to the region’s emergencies and natural disasters

Plane: Justin (left) joined the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) as an avionics mechanic at the age of 19. He was posted to 501 Wing Amberly and commenced work on the F111 C fighter jet aircraft. Photos supplied

Bike: As a councillor, Justin lobbied for the investigation, business case and funding for the Finch Hatton mountain bike trails

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A new agreement has Mackay Airport firmly on the path to becoming carbon-neutral by next year, a status which would make it among the first in Australasia.

Mackay Airport, through operator the North Queensland Airports Group, recently entered a six-year partnership with state-owned CleanCo Queensland. Commencing in January 2025, the agreement means 100 per cent of the airport’s electricity, and that of tenants, will be powered by renewable energy.

Mackay Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said investing in good environmental practice was the right thing to do.

“Mackay Airport is a key economic driver for the Mackay Isaac region, and we see it as our responsibility to balance our core aviation business with the protection of our natural surroundings,” he said.

“Our region is home to Australia’s longest stretch of subtropical rainforest and many pristine national parks and beaches, as well as being the heart of the Central Queensland resource centres.

“Mackay Airport is committed to achieving Net Zero emissions (for Scope 1 and 2) by 2025, a significant target which would make us among the first carbon-neutral airports in Australasia. Implementation of climate-positive practices will help to futureproof our operations for the benefit of our community and economy.”

The collaboration with CleanCo encompasses Cairns Airport, also owned by the North Queensland Airports Group. The majority of the renewable energy will be supplied by the Kaban Green Energy Hub near Ravenshoe, on the Atherton Tablelands.

Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said, “we know that tourists come from around the world to visit the pristine sites of the Far North, and with the tourism industry the biggest employer in the region, initiatives that take action on climate are critical.”

CleanCo Chief Executive Officer Tom Metcalfe added, “this collaboration is one of great importance to CleanCo and allows Queenslanders to make a direct connection between the renewables we are investing in, the journeys they travel and the airports they visit in beautiful North Queensland.”

Mackay Airport is implementing a progressive Environment Strategy to guide operations through to 2025. Other targets and measures within the plan include halving waste to landfill, halving potable water use and protection of biodiversity.

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Caption: CleanCo Queensland CEO Tom Metcalf, North Queensland Airports CEO Richard Barker, Tourism Minister Michael Healy, Advance Cairns CEO Jacinta Reddan and Energy Minister Mick de Brenni at the announcement of the landmark renewable energy agreement

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As we approach the upcoming local elections in Mackay, it's imperative that we, as a community, take the time to reflect on the issues that resonate most deeply with us. With a diverse array of candidates vying for council positions, each with their own unique platforms and priorities, it's crucial that voters engage with the specific concerns and aspirations outlined by these contenders.

Candidates have articulated a range of issues and proposals that they believe are vital for the future well-being of our region. From economic development and job creation to housing affordability, environmental sustainability, and community engagement, there is a wealth of topics to consider as we evaluate the suitability of each candidate for office.

On the cover this edition we caught up with Justin Englert to find out about the exciting economic driver in the Finch Hatton mountain bike trails, while on page 8 we find out how Jacko’s Team promises to reduce our rates.

Then on pages 10-15 we have an in-depth look at all of our councillor candidates.

For instance, Melissa Fowler emphasises the need to restore pride in our region and enhance support for local businesses and families. Namarca Corowa underscores the importance of community engagement, transparency, and sustainable initiatives to enhance Mackay's livability.

Heath Paton highlights the significance of community-spirited events and opportunities for youth, while Belinda Hassan's commitment to fiscal responsibility and community service resonates with many. Les Scott's focus on housing and employment, along with Stephen Cutting's emphasis on infrastructure and community collaboration, offer further insights into the diverse perspectives shaping this election.

These are just a few examples of the myriad issues and priorities brought forth by the candidates. As residents of Mackay, your input and feedback are invaluable in shaping the direction of our community. What issues matter most to you? What qualities are you looking for in your elected representatives?

As we prepare to cast our votes, let's take the time to engage with the candidates and critically evaluate their platforms. Together, we can ensure that our voices are heard and that our elected officials are equipped to address the pressing needs and aspirations of our vibrant and dynamic community.

Make sure you grab next week’s edition where I sit down with our three mayoral candidates.

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Amanda

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