From 1888 – 1904, John and Jeannie Withnall braved deprivation and loneliness as sawmillers on Whitsunday Island.  They stand as a monument of pioneering enterprise and determination.

John Withnall arrived in Bowen from England in 1884 just after a tropical cyclone had devastated Bowen. Carpenter by trade, he had no trouble immediately finding work. One of his first jobs was building a homestead for the Emmersons at Amelia Vale west of Proserpine, walking there from Bowen. While then building a home at Eton Vale, he met his wife, Jeannie, a native of Edinburgh.

Their foray into sawmilling began when they acquired a sawmill in the town of Bowen, eventually relocating to the banks of the Proserpine River as the town was developing at the time. John paid many visits to Whitsunday Island and realised its opportunity to provide him with a living as well as repaying the £300 loan given to him to purchase the Bowen venture.

In 1888, he and Jeannie and their son, Jack moved to Whitsunday Island and chose Cid Harbour as the site for their home and sawmill.

It was no mean feat transporting all the heavy mill equipment, including a steam plant, by small craft and landing it on the beach. While the mill was being erected, the family was safely installed under canvas. John set about the task of providing the necessary water to work the mill. He and two men he brought with him to the island constructed a dam with an estimated capacity of 60000 gallons and water was then piped to the mill site; a distance of 400 yards.

There was much timber on the island, mostly top-quality hoop pine. Cedar was also brought over from the mainland and Long Island and milled for export. There were four timber cutters and two teams of bullocks which were used for snigging the timber from where it was cut on the plateau to where the logs were then slid down a roughly cleared track into the sea; joined together and rafted around the island to the mill site. Once sawn and loaded onto boats, the timber was taken to Bowen, Proserpine, Mackay, Townsville and Rockhampton.

While John constructed the mill and built up a trade to maintain its operation, life for his wife, Jeannie, must have been much more difficult. She raised her six children in isolation and often hostile surroundings where she was the lone white women. On one occasion, when unable to go to Bowen because of bad weather for the birth of her baby, the child was stillborn. On another occasion, during a tribal fight, daughter Beatrice was struck by a tomahawk thrown by one of the aborigines. There was the time that they nursed a number of French convicts who had escaped from New Caledonia until they could be taken to Bowen. Supplies brought in only every three months from Bowen and rarely was there any fresh meat. The cattle that had been taken to the island went bush and died after eating wild peach.

In 1904, after sixteen years, the mill and home were dismantled, transported and re-erected in Bowen. John Withnall returned to his trade and he also took up farming. He died in 1950, aged 88 years; Jeannie having predeceased him several years earlier.  

Timber from Whitsunday Island played an important role in the building of early North Queensland. Most of the original commercial buildings in Bowen and other towns, contained this timber; so too did many homes. We are indeed indebted to the adventurous spirit, self-reliance and courage of the Withnalls.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Information also sourced from “Proserpine Guardian” January 5 &12 1989.

Caption: Withnall's Sawmill Clearly showing pine trees in background

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Cane toads can be found everywhere across Queensland and persistent action needs to be taken to remove them. The Watergum Cane Toad Challenge came back again this year for their annual Great Cane Toad Bust event. With over 50,000 toads removed last year, they hoped to match that number and surpass it this season with state-wide help.

Being prolific breeders, Cane Toads are notorious pests producing up to 30,000 eggs at a time, and can live up to 10 years. They are toxic at all stages of their life cycle and when ingested, the toads’ skin and poison glands can kill many animals. They easily destroy ecosystems, devouring everything they can fit in their mouths as they are very resourceful omnivores.

The Great Toad Bust aims to put a stop to their spread, and one day remove them from Australia.

Thousands of participants across Queensland registered their efforts over the week-long Cane Toad Challenge event showing just how many toads they could remove to protect their own communities from this invasion. Studies show control efforts like specialised traps, can remove up to 47% of cane toads from localised populations and the Watergum website has many helpful tips on how to trap and humanly euthanise the toads.

If you want to help your local wildlife thrive again or just keep your own farm’s dam clear from pests, then get toad hunting! Though the event may be over, there are still plenty of toads about. Congratulations to everyone who went busting and set the new record at over 115,000 cane toads removed from all stages of live. Check out the results and see how you can help out: watergum.org/greatcanetoadbust/ Happy busting!

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Huge toad busted weighing at 420g. Photo Credit: Mt Barney Lodge Facebook

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Cent sales are always billed as ‘mega’ but Sarina Arts and Craft Centre’s latest next month will be exactly that.

Centre manager Jenny Costello and a core group of helpers are putting together an amazing collection of prizes for the sale, at the Sarina Sporting and Services Club on Sunday, March 9.

“We’ve had a marvellous response from businesses, organisations and people within the Sarina and wider Mackay area as we’ve been collecting for the sale,” Jenny said.

“We have lots of high-quality prizes, and our major prizes are terrific.

“As well as the prizes there will be multi-draws, raffles, money boards and a lucky door prize.”

Doors open at 10.30 for a noon start.

Bookings can be made (not essential) by phoning Jenny Costello on 0414735787.

Cent sale organiser Jenny Costello and helpers Di Proctor, Jenny Price and Marg Hinrichs with some of the prizes for next month’s mega cent sale. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Small grants have delivered big things for the Mackay and Isaac region, with 22 organisations sharing in more than $150,000 thanks to BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Benefitting My Community Program (BMCP).  

The grants of up to $10,000 delivered projects and programs for community organisations, ranging from school gardening projects to road safety educational programs.

BMA Asset President Adam Lancey said there was more to come, with applications now open for round two of the BMCP.

“All local community groups and organisations are encouraged to apply,” Mr Lancey said.

“Providing community grants for local events and initiatives is something we are immensely proud of and is one of the many ways BMA is making a positive contribution to the community where we operate.”

Mr Lancey said the projects, programs and events awarded from the first round were chosen for the benefits they offered their local communities.

“These organisations, not-for-profits and community groups are all truly making a difference where our people live and work,” he said.

For more information about the BMCP and to apply for Round 2, email benefitingmycommunity@bhp.com

BMCP Round 1 FY2025 awarded recipients included:  

• Alligator Creek State School Parent and Citizen Association - Alligator Creek State School Flag poles  
• Brothers Bulldogs Junior Rugby League - Purchase & installation of a security system  
• Community Accommodation & Support Agency (CASA) - Dry Bags and essential items for Rough Sleepers  
• Dysart Golf Club Inc - Dysart Christmas Party 2024  
• Dysart Kindy - Dysart Kindy Resource Upgrade  
• Emergency & Long term accommodation in Moranbah Inc (ELAM) - ELAM 2025 Debutante Ball  
• Glenella State School P&C Association - Anzac Graden  
• Greater Whitsunday Communities (GWC) - Northern Beaches Community Playgroup (NBCP) support their program activities  
• IDEAL Placements - Virtual Ready for employment pathways for people with disabilities  
• Just Saying Project - JSP Women’s Awards 2025  
• Mackay Woodturners Association Inc - Replacement of Ageing Equipment  
• Moranbah Bulls Rugby Union Club - Moranbah Bulls Rugby Union Club supporter grandstand  
• Moranbah Catholic Church St. Joseph The Worker Parish - Moranbah Community Christmas Fair  
• Moranbah Horse and Pony Club - Moranbah Horse and Pony Club lighting  
• Moranbah Race Club Inc. - Revitalisation of Volunteer Workspace for Enhanced Community Engagement  
• Nebo community sports and recreation club - Nebo community Christmas fair  
• Pioneer State High School P&C - Accessible Learning Solutions for Students in Wheelchairs  
• Pioneer Valley Sporting Association (PVSA) Inc – Rail Trail Group Pioneer Valley Rail Trail Stage One  
• RMHC North Australia - Mackay Ronald McDonald Family Room Sponsorship  
• Road Accident Action Group (RAAG) - Fatigue Road Safety Campaign  
• Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club - Sarina Beach Christmas Carols  
• The Friends of the MECC - 2025 Pathways to Performance

BMA’s Benefitting My Community Program has awarded over $150,000 in grants to 22 organisations across Mackay and Isaac, funding projects from school gardens to road safety programs, with applications now open for the next round. Photos supplied

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Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena are proud to announce that the recent ‘Two Worlds Collide’ fundraising event has successfully raised $25,000 in support of the Mackay Sports Foundation (MSF). The event, held in partnership with Bulls Masters, brought together Queensland sporting legends, including Carl Rackemann, Allan Langer, Jimmy Maher, and Michael Kasprowicz, for an unforgettable evening in Mackay.

The funds raised will directly support young athletes, coaches and officials from the Mackay, Whitsunday, and Isaac regions through MSF’s travel grant program. These grants provide financial assistance to rising sports stars, helping them compete at national and international levels.

Former Australian cricketer Michael Kasprowicz praised the community’s generosity and the Foundation’s impact, and said, “It’s incredible to see a region so invested in its sporting future.

“The Mackay Sports Foundation is giving young athletes the chance to pursue their dreams without financial barriers, and events like this make all the difference.”

With the success of this fundraiser, MSF is excited to remind the community that applications for the second round of travel grants close on March 1, 2025.

Eligible athletes, coaches and officials are encouraged to apply for funding that could support their next big opportunity.

Adrian Young, CEO of Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena, emphasised the importance of community-driven initiatives,

“This event was a fantastic example of how sport brings people together,” he said.

“Every dollar raised will go directly to young athletes chasing their goals, and we look forward to seeing the impact these grants will have on the next generation.”

For more information on MSF and how to apply, visit reefarena.com.au.

The ‘Two Worlds Collide’ fundraiser at Harrup Park raised $25,000 to support young athletes through the Mackay Sports Foundation’s travel grant program. Photos supplied.

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The iconic ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge is shifting gears in 2025, finding a new home in the breathtaking landscapes of Finch Hatton MTB, one of Australia’s newest mountain bike destinations and nestled within one of the world’s oldest rainforests.

Scheduled for 26 and 27 April 2025, the event promises to deliver an even more exhilarating experience across 90km of countryside, combining rugged mountain bike trails, dynamic trail runs, a thrilling paddle stage, and fast-paced road cycling - all set against the spectacular backdrop of Mackay’s Pioneer Valley.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson shared his excitement about the move.

"Relocating Mackay’s only adventure race to Australia’s newest mountain bike destination is an incredibly exciting step.

“The ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge is a cornerstone event for our region, showcasing our stunning natural landscapes and drawing adventure enthusiasts from across the country.

“It’s events like this that help strengthen our community spirit and support local businesses."

ZACH MACH Event Manager and Director Nikki Giles highlighted the significance of this milestone, saying "Now in its 13th year, it makes perfect sense to elevate our ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge by aligning it with some of the best MTB trails in Australia.

“The new course in Finch Hatton will push competitors to their limits, offering more heart-pumping action and an unforgettable adventure racing experience.

“We can’t wait to see athletes tackle this new challenge."

With the move to Finch Hatton MTB, event organisers hope to attract even more athletes to compete in the 40km MTB stage of the race.

Nikki said that "The new course will appeal to riders looking for a fresh and thrilling challenge.

"It traverses parts of Mackay's Pioneer Valley that are closed to the public, offering exclusive access to rugged terrains and scenic landscapes, all culminating in an epic finish inside the famous Finch Hatton MTB."

The 2025 ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge will feature varied terrains, including cane paddocks, rainforest trails, river crossings, and undulating roads, providing something for every adventurer. With prize money up for grabs and registrations now open, it’s time for thrill-seekers to lock in their spot.

_For more information about ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge and MINI MACH Adventure Challenge visit https://www.tri-activ8.com.au/zach-mach-adventure-challenge_

The ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge moves to Finch Hatton MTB in 2025, promising an exhilarating race through Mackay’s Pioneer Valley with rugged trails, river crossings, and thrilling competition.

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Mackay Women’s Services is stepping into 2025 under new leadership and a significantly expanded team to address the ongoing domestic and family violence crisis in the Mackay, Whitsunday, and Isaac regions.  

The not-for-profit organisation provides vital support to individuals impacted by domestic violence. It has delivered just under 3,000 episodes of care in 2024 alone, totalling over 18,000 hours of counselling and case management services. Additionally, 224 children and adolescents under 17 have also received support.

To enhance its impact, Mackay Women’s Services has doubled its practice team since 2024. It now accommodates 21 qualified counsellors and case managers, including a specialised high-risk team to focus on urgent and complex cases. The increase in personnel comes in response to the growing demand for services amid a national domestic violence crisis.

A key part of this transformation is the appointment of Belinda Berg as the new Chief Executive Officer.  

"I’m excited to lead Mackay Women’s Services into this new chapter," Ms Berg shared.  

"As an HDAA-Certified and registered charity, we offer a comprehensive range of services, including Domestic and Family Violence Counselling, Case Management, Sexual Assault Support, Child and Adolescent Counselling, and Court Support.  

“We are dedicated to making a real difference to those impacted by domestic and family violence in our region."

Ms Berg, who has lived in Mackay for over 12 years, brings an impressive variety of experience from her previous work in government, healthcare, and law enforcement. She is passionate about serving her community and believes her diverse career background has uniquely prepared her for this role.  

“I am drawn to roles connected to the community and services that give back.  

“You can't get closer to community than a role like this and an organisation like this,” Ms Berg said.

Under her leadership, the organisation has implemented changes that enhance flexibility and responsiveness. The newly expanded intake and coordination team plays a crucial role in managing real-time intake for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.  

“We've got lots of agility and flexibility regarding who can provide support, when, and how,” Ms Berg explained.

Mackay Women’s Services also emphasises the importance of clear communication about the scope of services available to clients.  

“What we try to do from intake onwards is set a plan in motion for the victim-survivors and their families and ensure they understand which services they can access, as well as what we cannot provide,” she said.

Looking ahead, Ms Berg is focused on making a broader impact.  

“There’s an opportunity to create something amazing here.  

“Why wouldn’t you want to take that kind of opportunity?”

The organisation plans to revitalise its centre both inside and out, upgrading the space and improving management to meet the growing needs of the community.

Ms Berg also acknowledged the critical role of community partnerships and donations.  

“We’re still reliant on donations…in fact, donations are how we can continue to provide above and beyond, especially in emergency relief,” she noted.

As Mackay Women’s Services continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to providing crucial support to the over 180,000 people in the Greater Whitsunday region, offering a line of support to those affected by domestic and family violence.  

Marketing and Community Engagement Coordinator Zoe Barrow with newly appointed CEO Belinda Berg. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mackay Women's Services is stepping into 2025 with new leadership and an expanded team to provide critical support to individuals impacted by domestic and family violence across the Mackay, Whitsunday, and Isaac regions. Photo supplied

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Mackay Hospital Foundation is known for its fundraising events with a difference and we can guarantee, Dancing With Heart is certainly one of those.  

On Friday 21st March, ten Mackay identities will take to the stage to perform a dance routine which has been choreographed by Dolly Louw of Fame Talent School.  

As part of the fundraising event, each contestant is asked to raise $5,000 in support of our local hospitals, but they are also stepping way outside their comfort zones to perform in front of a crowd.  

This year, the contestants vying for the coveted mirror ball trophy are Dave Peters (Triple M), Jason Barrett (Get Turfed), Jean-Claude Arruo (Daly Bay), Keava Brennan (Gardian Property Management), Kerry Maley (Mackay Hospital and Health Service Board), Nicole Batzloff (Laffos Bar & Pizzeria), Nikita and Dan Kinnane (ReMax Select), Stacey Brownsey (Helloworld) and Usadee Phiraphak (Revolution Electrical).  

A judging panel will select a champion who will be awarded the mirror ball trophy, an award will also be presented to the highest fundraiser and guests will have the opportunity to select the “People’s Choice” award.  

Mackay Hospital Foundation is the dedicated fundraising organisation for public hospitals in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Regions. While Queensland Health covers the cost of patient care, there’s a substantial amount of funding still required to purchase medical equipment and implement projects which do not fall within the Queensland Health budget parameters.  

To support one of the participants in Dancing With Heart, go to https://mhfdwh2025.raiselysite.com and click on your chosen participant to make a donation.  

Dancing With Heart is a unique event but it’s also a fabulous night of entertainment.  

Supporting your favourite dancer in person is also possible by purchasing a ticket to the event. Ticket price is $180 which includes a drink on arrival and two courses at the MECC. They are available to purchase through trybooking.com https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1348482.  

To find out more information about Mackay Hospital Foundation, visit https://www.mackayhospitalfoundation.com.au/

What: Dancing With Heart
When: Friday 21st March, 6pm to 11pm
Where: Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC)
Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1348482.

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When the shelves at the supermarket run bare after a big storm or supply chain hiccup, there’s one place that never lets you down—your own backyard. Growing your own vegetables isn’t just about saving a few dollars or enjoying fresher produce; it’s about resilience, self-sufficiency, and knowing that when the world throws a curveball, you’ve still got food on the table.

If you’ve ever felt the urge to swap grocery store dependency for a greener, more reliable alternative, it might be time to dig in—literally. Home gardening, even in the smallest of spaces, provides not only a food source but also a sense of security and connection to nature. There’s something deeply satisfying about plucking a sun-ripened tomato from the vine or pulling crisp carrots straight from the soil, knowing they’ve come from your own hard work.

One of the best ways to get started is by tapping into local Seed Libraries, an initiative that collects seeds from community gardens and shares them through council libraries. These programs offer hardy, heirloom varieties suited to Queensland’s climate, giving backyard growers a strong start. Seed libraries exist in Mackay, Noosa, Sunshine Coast, Western Downs, and Fraser Coast, helping people cultivate everything from leafy greens to juicy tomatoes.

Beyond the practical benefits, gardening is an act of sustainability. It reduces reliance on imported goods, ensures access to natural, untreated produce, and strengthens local food networks. Plus, there’s no better way to soak up sunshine and fresh air than tending to your own edible oasis.

So, whether it’s a balcony herb garden or a full-blown veggie patch, now is the perfect time to plant the seeds of resilience—because when life throws challenges your way, at least your backyard won’t let you down.

Photo credit: Queensland Environment (Facebook)

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The State Government has unveiled a 25-year blueprint to future-proof Queensland’s primary industries, reinforcing agriculture as the backbone of the state’s economy.

With a strong vision for growth, the plan aims to increase Queensland’s agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030.  

By working in close partnership with farmers, industry leaders, and regional communities, the government aims to set a strategic direction complemented by five-year operational plans tailored to regional and sector-specific needs.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the initiative aims to ensure Queensland’s producers remain competitive, productive, and resilient in a rapidly evolving industry.

“The landscape of Queensland’s primary industries is changing rapidly, and we must act to ensure our industries and communities remain competitive, productive, and resilient into the future,” Minister Perrett said.

“By working together, we can co-design solutions that reflect local priorities and help Queensland meet its ambitious economic goals to ultimately grow the sector.

“This is a 25-year blueprint for a stronger future, and it’s all about unleashing new and exciting opportunities for Queensland producers in the years to come.”

The blueprint will address critical areas such as global megatrends, advancements in agricultural technology, diversification, advanced manufacturing, and expanding international trade opportunities. It will also integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations to ensure long-term sustainability.

A four-month consultation process will commence with a full-day forum on 26th February in Brisbane, bringing together key stakeholders to shape the blueprint's direction. The final strategy is set to be released in the next financial year.

For updates on the 25-year blueprint, visit the Department of Primary Industries website or call 13 25 23.

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Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, has welcomed last Friday’s announcement from Deputy Premier Bleijie that all new wind farm approvals will be impact assessable and required to consult with local councils, communities and other stakeholders for new projects.

Under the previous Labor Government Wind Farms had been code assessable and didn’t require full impact assessments or consultation with impacted communities as part of the development process.

The previous code assessable rules had bounded timeframes where if a decision had not been met within the timeframe projects were then deemed approved without the assessor making the final decision, with no public consultation and no third-party appeal rights.

“This is great news for Queensland’s regional communities, especially those within my electorate of Mirani,” Mr Kelly said.

“This is something that I’ve been fighting for since before I was even a candidate to make sure communities actually get a say in these developments instead of being told it was going to happen and they just had to live with it.

“This announcement shows that the Crisafulli Government has listened to the calls from the communities that have had undue stress placed on them as a result of Labor’s rushed and reckless renewables rollout.

“This an important step forward in making sure communities get a say in whether they want these projects.

“For too long our communities have felt voiceless, with ‘Community Consultation’ sessions often feeling more like community lectures.

“Social Licence is a key part of any development proposal and under the last Labor Government these developers have not needed to make sure that they have it prior to moving forward with their projects.”

From Monday 3 February Wind Farms will have to comply with an impact assessment meaning mandatory community consultation and third-party appeal rights being guaranteed.

Other requirements include:

• Making sure wind new farm applications result in no significant loss of high quality agricultural land;
• Workers’ accommodation associated with the construction of the wind farm does not adversely impact on surrounding communities;
• Construction impacts on local infrastructure are mitigated, or if unable to be mitigated, remediated;
• Social impacts are identified and addressed to avoid negative impacts on host communities (community benefit);
• Decommissioning of wind farms becomes the sole responsibility of the wind farm operator and guaranteed through bonds or financial guarantees, no longer leaving private landowners at risk.
• Any disturbance to environmental footprints are rehabilitated

Wind Farms currently being built or with development applications in the Mirani Electorate include:

1. Lotus Creek Wind Farm
2. Clarke Creek Wind Farm
3. Boomer Green Energy Hub
4. Moonlight Range Wind Farm
5. Moah Creek Wind Farm
6. Boulder Creek Wind Farm
7. Mount Hopeful Wind Farm

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, welcomes new wind farm approval rules requiring full impact assessments and community consultation to ensure local voices are heard. Photo supplied.

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The talents of six CQUniversity TAFE-trained apprentices will be put to the test when they compete at the 2025 WorldSkills National competition in Brisbane in June.

Five apprentices from the Gladstone region and one from the Mackay suburb of Habana were recently confirmed as the Central Queensland representatives as part of the Queensland team.

Gladstone Ports Corporation Limited (GPCL) apprentices Ashley Cassar, Saxon Smith and Corey Burfield will compete in their respective categories of Electrical Control, Electrical Installation and Heavy Vehicle Mechanics.

Gladstone-based firm Xtreme Engineering will also have two of its apprentices competing – Sean Keetch in Construction Steel Work and Billy Vale in Welding.

Layth McGee from Reed Plumbing Industries in Mackay will compete in the Plumbing and Heating category.

CQU’s Deputy Vice-President (VET and Business Development) Mr Peter Heilbuth congratulated the apprentices on making the WorldSkills Nationals competition.

“It’s fantastic to see these apprentices be given the chance to show off their skills and knowledge at such an important event as WorldSkills,” he said.

“It also speaks to the quality of CQU’s TAFE training and strength of industry in the Central Queensland region.

“We wish all the apprentices the very best of luck at WorldSkills.”

The 2025 WorldSkills Australia National Championships and Skills Show will run between 12 -14 June 2025 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

For more information visit www.worldskills.org.au

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Corey Burfield is one of six CQU-trained apprentices who will compete at the upcoming WorldSkills Nationals competition in Brisbane in June. Photo supplied.

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By Hannah McNamara

Since 2017, Orange Sky has provided free laundry services and a safe space to connect for those experiencing homelessness and hardship in Mackay and Sarina. Over 80 dedicated volunteers run 10 shifts weekly, and demand continues to grow.

"We've seen a 10 per cent increase in our services, and Orange Sky services have never been busier," said Co-founder Nic Marchesi OAM.

The service not only addresses practical needs but also creates opportunities for community connection.  

Mayor Greg Williamson emphasised its broader impact.

"To have Orange Sky, not just as somewhere to come and get your clothes washed, but as somewhere to sit down and talk to some volunteers about anything, is so important."

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson met with Orange Sky Co-Founder Nic Marchesi OAM, Orange Sky Mackay Service Leader Lisa Jamieson, Aurizon representatives and the amazing bunch of volunteers at the first-ever pod built in Sarina. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Laundry With Compassion

Orange Sky’s Growing Impact

Since its inception in Mackay in 2017, Orange Sky has become an essential support service for those experiencing homelessness and financial hardship. Through a dedicated team of over 80 volunteers, Orange Sky runs 10 shifts weekly across Mackay and Sarina, offering free laundry services and, most importantly, a safe space to connect.

Co-founder Nic Marchesi OAM highlighted the growing demand for Orange Sky's services, stating, "We've seen a 10 per cent increase in our services, and Orange Sky services have never been busier."  

He acknowledged the complexity of homelessness and emphasises the importance of collaborative efforts within the community.

"What we know is that homelessness is very complex, but those really simple things of community services working together to support people in the community that are doing it tough are so incredibly important."

The significance of these services extends beyond just clean clothes.  

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, who recently visited the Orange Sky laundry pod in Sarina, emphasised the charity's important community impact.

"To have Orange Sky, not just as somewhere to come and get your clothes washed, but as somewhere to sit down and talk to some volunteers about anything, is so important,” Mayor Williamson said.

"We know that from those discussions, our community is enriched because people's lives can be changed just by sitting down with the volunteers here and saying, 'I need help.'"

Mayor Williamson also recognised the efforts of Orange Sky's volunteers and their contributions to the community.  

"This is a really, really important community effort, and to the 80-odd volunteers from Sarina through to Mackay, I take my hat off to them," he said.  

He highlighted the increasing pressures driving people into homelessness, noting that, "Everybody realises that the cost-of-living impacts today are forcing a lot more people to look at their lifestyles and how much they spend on things.  

“There are a lot of people who are driven into homelessness by what's happening in the economy."

Orange Sky Mackay Service Leader Lisa Jamieson has also observed a rise in demand over the last few months.

"We’re seeing an increase in the numbers and we’re seeing new people coming in, and that's really heartbreaking," she said.  

Ms Jamieson explains that the organisation is not only assisting those sleeping rough but also families with back-to-school children, the elderly, and employed individuals who are struggling to make ends meet.

Orange Sky’s mission extends beyond providing a practical service, and that’s why Jamieson believes that their strength lies in connectivity and compassion.  

"We all like to have a chat, and if anyone would like to come down and have a chat with us and find out what our services are like, whether they'd like to volunteer with us or whether they'd like to work alongside us, we’re certainly looking for that support in the community," she said.

Aurizon has been a key supporter of Orange Sky, frequently hosting BBQs for the organisation and, most recently, donating multiple long-sleeve sun-safe shirts for the entire volunteer team, ensuring they stay protected while helping others.

To learn more about their services or to get involved as a volunteer, visit www.orangesky.org.au

Since 2017, Orange Sky has provided free laundry services and a safe space to connect in Mackay and Sarina, with growing demand highlighting its vital role in supporting individuals and encouraging community connections. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Comedian Anh Do will bring his best-selling memoir, The Happiest Refugee, to life in a ground-breaking stand-up show at the MECC on 13 March.

This moving, inspirational and unforgettable theatre experience combines humour, real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell Do’s amazing story.

Anh Do travelled to Australia in 1980 on an eight-metre fishing boat with 47 other Vietnamese refugees. Sick with dehydration and one person already dead, the journey was the first of many struggles for a young Do, who overcame all manner of difficulties throughout his life to become a lawyer and, in 2008, Australia’s Comedian of the Year.

Today he is one of Australia’s most sought-after stand-ups, as well as a talented writer, actor, producer and Star of the ABC1 TV’s ‘Anh’s Brush With Fame”.

The Happiest Refugee: A Memoir, charts his journey from starving refugee to one of Australia’s best-loved entertainers, and was described by Russell Crowe as “the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years,”.

It was recently awarded Book of the Year with sales more than 450,000.

Do’s struggles as a young refugee – his difficulties with English, divorcing parents, being bullied and broke, are brought to life in this hilarious but moving stage show, garnering this happy refugee standing ovations across the country.

What: Anh Do – The Happiest Refugee LIVE
When: Thursday 13 March, 7.30pm
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

By popular demand, Anh Do returns to the MECC on 13 March with his smash-hit stage show, bringing The Happiest Refugee to life in a moving and hilarious theatre experience. Photo supplied.

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Looking to build confidence, improve public speaking, or develop leadership skills? Join a local Toastmasters Club and take the next step toward achieving your personal and professional goals.

Toastmasters is a friendly, vibrant, and supportive group of individuals dedicated to helping each other grow in communication, leadership, and organisation - while having fun along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced speaker, Toastmasters provides practical tools, constructive feedback, and a welcoming environment to help you succeed.

Those interested are invited to attend a free showcase meeting to learn more. Arriving 10 to 15 minutes early is recommended to allow time to settle in before the meeting begins.

Fiona Koutlis, member of Toastmakers said “We'd love to meet you so please stop by to discover how a Toastmasters Club can benefit you.

“It costs nothing so come along and experience the power of Toastmasters for yourself.”

Save The Date

FEBRUARY:
Monday, 17 February - 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Wednesday, 19 February - 12 noon to 1 pm
Tuesday, 25 February - 7 pm to 8:30 pm
Where: Jubilee Community Centre, Alfred Street

MARCH:
Friday, 14 March - 6:45 am to 8 am
Where: St Paul's Uniting Church, Macalister Street

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