Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

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As the pricing nomination date for the 2025 season passes there are a couple of notable trends emerging
in the ways growers are approaching their GEI sugar price management.

Firstly, we are seeing a drift away from growers managing the price risk themselves and going back to
the pools.

Interestingly we have seen our first drop-off in growers choosing to manage their GEI pricing exposure
with the popular GMPRS product. In the same vein, we have a significant increase in the tonnage
committed to our Production Risk Pool.

A contributing factor to this trend is the continuing volatility in prices. This is creating pricing fatigue
amongst growers whereby the challenge of setting price levels creates doubt in their minds. No doubt the
consistent outperformance of our Production Risk Pool would also be influencing growers, but this may
not always be the case.

The other notable and linked observation is the level of forward coverage growers have for this season
and beyond. Broadly speaking, for growers who chose to use the Target pricing mechanism, around 30
per cent is locked in for the 2025 season. This is well down on previous seasons.

One factor influencing this outcome would be the late finish to the 2024 crush and extreme wet season,
leading growers to be cautious about expected production this year. Our recently released crop estimate
validates grower caution on production expectations.

The other factor is the absolute price level which has been under pressure most of the year. Coming out
of a period of relatively high sugar prices, growers may have to adjust down their expectations for the
balance of their price exposure.

Given this drift away from independently managing price risk, we have opened our Managed Pool Plus
early for 2026 season nominations. We will be accepting commitments from now through to 30 June
2025. This allows us to manage the price exposure over a longer time frame to take advantage of price
opportunities.

We recently completed a detailed review of the 2025 Season Managed Pool Plus and so far, the pool is
performing well above benchmark pricing, which is a good outcome for our growers.

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The performance of the Production Risk Pool over the past three years is a significant factor when
growers choose how to price their GEI Sugar exposure

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In a time when healthcare can often feel rushed and impersonal, Concierge Nursing Services is redefining the experience by providing expert, personalized care right at your doorstep. Founder Justina Giles saw a gap in community care and created a service that goes beyond just meeting clients where they are—it partners with them at every stage of their healthcare journey. Whether it’s post-surgery recovery, managing chronic conditions, or offering extra support, clients receive tailored care that surpasses traditional community services.

Concierge Nursing strives to transform healthcare with a more connected approach. Justina has developed a service where a trusted health companion guides clients through the complexities of managing conditions, medications, and appointments. This includes attending medical visits and simplifying medical information to reduce confusion. The aim is to help clients and their families feel confident, heard, and fully equipped to make informed decisions about their health.

A key priority of Concierge Nursing Services is helping clients maintain their independence. Justina explains, “We motivate and advocate for our clients, giving them the confidence to take charge of their health. When people truly understand their health and feel supported, they naturally become more engaged and committed to their journey.” While promoting independence, Concierge Nursing Services also advocates when necessary. “We guide our clients every step of the way, offering support and asking the important medical questions that might not occur to them. Our goal is to ensure our clients are fully informed and remain in control of their healthcare.”

What’s the most rewarding part of being a health expert today?

“To me, it’s about bringing quality of life, brightening someone’s day, sharing a smile, having fun, and truly making a difference in their world.”

Can you share a health myth you’d like to debunk?

“Drugs and medications don’t target specific areas—they affect the whole body and interact with each other. That’s why having a health expert or nurse is crucial to managing your care.

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FAST 5 FACTS
 

• Your favourite place to relax: Ball Bay
• Top tool for rejuvenation: Any quality time with my family
• Helpful health hack: Spit out toothpaste but don’t rinse
• Must-have beauty or health product: Electric toothbrushes – they do a very good job at keeping teeth clean
• Best inspirational show or podcast for health and wellbeing: The Imperfects Podcast

Imagine growing up surrounded by chocolate... then dedicating your life to saving teeth! That’s the quirky journey of Dr Tim Hanly, Principal Dentist at Hanly Dental Studio in Mackay.

After a childhood in his dad’s confectionery business, Tim now spends his days reversing sugary mischief.

Knowing dental visits can cause anxiety, Hanly Dental Studio offers a warm, supportive space where patients feel genuinely cared for. Tim takes pride in building strong relationships with each patient.

A standout service is composite bonding. Tim said it’s a cost-effective, conservative treatment. Using a tooth-coloured resin sculpted by hand and hardened with a special light, Tim crafts natural smiles that blend seamlessly with the real thing.

Tim’s advice? Don’t wait for a toothache! See your dentist every 6 to 12 months to catch sneaky cavities and keep your gums healthy.

Can you share a health myth or something in your field that you love to debunk?
Myth - The harder you brush the cleaner the teeth are – by brushing too hard we can actually wear away enamel and gums and this doesn’t grow back. Correct brushing technique with an extra soft toothbrush can protect against this.

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Fast 5 Facts

• Favourite place to relax: Shoal Point Beach – we recently just moved to Bucasia and it’s just beautiful there.
• Top tool for rejuvenation: My hand cream – always within reach.
• Go-to snack: Cheese. Possibly not the healthiest habit… but it’s cheese!
• Health myth to debunk: Hearing loss doesn’t mean silence – it’s not all or nothing.
• Best health advice: Don’t wait. Early intervention is key to hearing health and quality of life.

When it comes to hearing health, Alison is all ears – literally and professionally!

With a background in psychology and a fascination for how the ear works, Alison Collins’ path into audiology was destined to be.

“I did a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and wanted a role where I could really help others.

“I then attended a hearing science class and was just so fascinated with how the ear worked… from that point I knew that’s where I wanted to be.”

She went on to complete a Master of Audiology, and later earned a PhD in Audiology, specialising in paediatric middle ear disease.

Soon after starting her career, she welcomed her daughter and then her son, who would go on to face hearing challenges of his own.

“As a mum and audiologist, I saw the impact firsthand, and that fuels my work every day.”

Now the founder of Peak Hearing Services, Alison provides hearing tests for all ages, auditory processing assessments, hearing aids, workplace checks, and wax removal. Pensioners can access free services, and thanks to BHP, local children receive free hearing screenings.

“Hearing loss isn’t all or nothing…Just like glasses, you might still hear, but support makes all the difference.”

Take the first step – because life’s better when you hear it all!

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Fast 5 Facts

• Most rewarding part of your job?
  “Seeing clients lose 8–10kg in eight weeks after years of struggling.”
• What sets you apart?
  “I’ve lived it – I do the programs with them, not just prescribe.”
• Must-have travel item?
  “My Chelsea Jean lymphatic gloves.”
• Health myth to bust?
  “Colonics and enemas are actually beneficial.”
• Rejuvenation tip?
  “Do your lymphatics – it makes a big difference.”

Josie Giles has walked the walk, and now she talks the talk, guiding others through a holistic transformation with empathy and lived experience.

“I’ve been stuck and overwhelmed. I’ve been through grief and loss... I went from being very overweight, to now living healthier than ever and I’m ready to help others do the same.”

Out of hardship, she’s created a wellness practice that transforms lives through everyday methods such as lymphatic massaging, fermented foods, juicing, fasting, food plans, and gut-cleansing techniques.

“Once you improve your gut health, through lymphatics and detoxing – your whole mindset improves and you become a doer,” Josie enthused.

And she’s even got the results to prove it.

“People that have struggled with their weight for years have dropped 8 to 10 kilos… just in an 8-week period.”

“Not only that but they’re more energised, less fatigued and overall happier than ever.

“The difference is, they don’t do it on their own. I do it with them and I walk them through it.”

Now, she’s expanding her reach with an all-new space, plus a Kick Start Your Health app – offering digital access to detox plans, menus, juices and more.

Sick and tired of being sick and tired?
Call 0409 540 308 to kickstart your health today!

progutcare@gmail.com
www.progutcaredetoxcentre.com.au

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If determination were a stroke, Ruby Boxall would be winning gold in that too.

At just 16 years old, this Mackay-born backstroke sensation has surged into the national spotlight, making serious waves at the 2025 Australian Age and MC Age Swimming Championships in Brisbane, held on April 12–18, where she swam her way to two national titles and a place among Australia’s most promising young athletes.

Representing Somerville House and coached by Olympic-level mentors Timothy Lane and Sarah Caithness, Ruby conquered the 50m Backstroke (29.32) and 100m Backstroke (1:03.26) to take home gold in the 16 Years Girls division. She backed that up with a fourth-place finish in the 200m Backstroke (2:20.35) and podiumed twice more—silver in the 4x50m Medley Relay (16/17 Years QLD State Team) and bronze in the 4x50m Medley Open Relay.

Now, her stellar efforts have landed her a coveted spot at Swimming Australia’s Next Wave Invitational Competition Camp in Canberra this July, a high-performance development pathway eyeing the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. It’s a clear sign that Ruby is no longer just one to watch – she’s one to follow.

Ruby’s story begins not in a capital city, but in the heart of Mackay, where she started training at age eight with Leighanne Pokarier at the Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club. Her breakout came at 13, placing top 10 nationally across all her backstroke events…but it was her next move that revealed the depth of her ambition.

"We’re incredibly proud of Ruby—not just for her success in swimming, but for the way she’s taken full ownership of her journey,” said her mum, Amanda Boxell.

"At just 13, she applied for a scholarship to Somerville House, one of Brisbane’s top schools and elite swimming programs—without telling us!

"It wasn’t until the coach called to arrange a parent meeting that we found out."

Amanda added, "That’s the kind of courage, discipline, and belief she brings to the pool every day. As a teacher, I share Ruby’s story to remind our regional kids that with courage, planning, and belief in yourself, no dream is too far from reach."

Ruby has since claimed Queensland titles in the 50m and 200m Backstroke, represented the state at the New Zealand Short Course Championships (medalling in all backstroke events, including gold in the 100m), and qualified for the 2024 Australian Olympic Trials.

Fuelled by determination and a region rallying behind her, Ruby Boxall is not merely chasing podium finishes – she’s charting a course toward greatness, one stroke at a time.

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Mackay’s Ruby Boxall has turned heads nationwide, claiming double gold and a place in Australia’s Olympic pathway. Photos supplied

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When most people think about marketing, they immediately think of the public stuff — advertising, socials, billboards, events etc etc. All the ways we “put ourselves out there”. But there’s one audience that often gets overlooked in the marketing conversation: your internal one. Aka, your team.

During my degree, one of my FAVE topics was internal communications – which I kind of think of as marketing to your employees. Not like in a brainwashing way, but in an open/transparent comms kind of way.

Let me explain 😉

Your employees are often your brand’s first (and loudest!!) mouthpieces. They talk to your customers, they talk to their friends, they’re in your socials, they are your brand when they show up in uniform or answer the phone. If you want your team to represent your brand with clarity + confidence, they’ve got to know what’s going on. Seems simple, but it’s something that I see businesses fall down on all the time.

Internal marketing is about keeping your team in the loop, building belief in the direction of the business + helping them connect to the brand in a meaningful way. That could be as simple as asking your crew for input on a new campaign or getting them involved in a launch. It could be creating internal posters or cheat sheets with customer messaging. It could even be celebrating wins publicly so your team knows what’s working – and that their work contributed to it.

And there’s a sneaky little bonus to all this: staff retention.

When people are informed, included + know that their contribution is mega valued, they’re more likely to stick around. They’re not just clocking in and out – they’re connected to the purpose of the business, they know where it’s headed + they feel like they’re along for the ride (not just hanging off the side trying to guess what’s going on).

So yes, marketing matters for growth. But don’t forget it also matters for culture.

Make sure your team knows what’s going on behind the scenes, why you’re doing what you’re doing, and how they’re part of it.

Because a team that’s across the message?

That’s the kind of marketing money can’t buy.

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Whether you are aiming to progress your career or grow a small business, one of the most important elements contributing to your success is to invest in yourself.

Warren Buffett, a super successful investor (CEO Berkshire Hathaway) and in the top ten of the world’s richest, provided this ‘investment’ advice recently...

Generally speaking, investing in yourself is the best thing you can do. Anything that improves your own talents, nobody can tax it or take it away from you. … You can have all kinds of things happen, but if you’ve got talent yourself and you’ve maximised your talent, you’ve got a tremendous asset that can return ten-fold.

You, your health, skills and mindset are the foundation of everything you do, so ensuring you have a solid foundation is key to building your long-term success. Here’s some other significant benefits to investing in you.

1. Increases your potential (career or business)
Gaining new skills through professional development and/or formal study positions you for success and it opens doors to better opportunities, e.g. higher paying roles, or for a small business owner, reaching new customers.

2. Futureproofs your career or business
The marketplace is constantly evolving and to stay relevant it’s important to be continually learning and adapting. When you invest in your knowledge, mindset and health you are better equipped to tackle challenges – whether keeping up with new technologies or innovating to meet customer demands.

3. Confidence is contagious
Investing in you builds your confidence. Confident people have the courage to extend beyond their comfort zone and try new things; all essential for growth and success. Confidence also inspires trust and respect.

4. Enhances productivity and efficiency
Taking the time to learn and practice new skills will pay off and leads to being more effective in the work you do, freeing you to focus on the bigger picture.

5. Boosts your mental and emotional strength
Taking purposeful action to build your career or small business is not for the faint hearted. Investing in your mental health, emotional intelligence and mindset is vital to developing your emotional strength, which helps you respond to challenges, stay motivated and focussed on the long-term.

Not sure about the next step to Invest in YOU? Let’s talk it through and map out your next move together - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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From Collinsville to Sarina and across the Whitsundays, young people are diving into an unforgettable presentation that could help change their lives.

World record-holding swimmer and Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) survivor Chloe McCardel is back in the region with her acclaimed Tumble Turns presentation.

Already delivered to thousands of students since 2022, this powerful 60-minute session blends elite sport, lived experience, and essential education around DFV awareness and prevention.

Recently, students at Collinsville High School were captivated by McCardel’s mix of triumph and vulnerability.
As someone who has swum the English Channel a record-breaking 44 times, her story starts with international glory—but quickly reveals a darker “double life.”

She courageously shares her personal journey through relationships marked by violence and coercive control, shining a light on the warning signs of DFV that often go unnoticed.

This isn’t just a talk—it's a turning point.

“The messages within the talk are crucial for this age group,” said one teacher. Another remarked on how the interactive format and use of personal stories helped students truly engage with difficult topics.

Upcoming School and Community visits May 23 - 26:
• Sarina Youth Group
• Whitsunday Anglican School
• Whitsunday Christian College
• Proserpine State High School

And for community members looking to meet Chloe, she’ll be appearing at the Goodlife Event on May 24.
The impact is real. One 15-year-old girl from the Isaac region shared with a counsellor afterward,
“...things that I’ve just thought were normal in a relationship… it’s scary to think about how much just gets hidden.”

With each school visited, Chloe’s messages are shared even further that DFV can happen to anyone and that even when life throws you under, you can always take a “tumble turn” and change direction.

Chloe is thankful to the Office of MP Nigel Dalton for their support.

Contact tumble.turns.presentation@gmail.com for more information.

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From world records to raw reality, Chloe McCardel’s powerful Tumble Turns presentation is making waves across the Whitsundays, Collinsville and Sarina—giving young people the tools to recognise DFV and the courage to change direction. Images supplied

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Last Monday, the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) gathered to celebrate International Nurses Day, recognising the dedication and skill of the region’s 1,400 nurses who form the backbone of local healthcare. The event, held at Mackay Base Hospital, shined a light on the invaluable contributions of nurses who deliver patient care with exceptional compassion and integrity.

James William Jenkins, Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery, opened the ceremony by expressing profound gratitude for the nursing staff, who often provide care during some of life’s most difficult moments.

“International Nurses Day is a time to formally honour and acknowledge the incredible work nurses do on the frontline of care,” Mr Jenkins said.

“We thank them for their care, compassion, healing touch, and for always putting their patients first.”

He also reflected on the community spirit that defines the nursing profession, noting, “It’s not a weight, it’s just a knowing, that we are part of this community, and we serve this community, and that’s a beautiful thing...It’s an honour above anything else.”

Mr Jenkins shared a touching story of a patient who, years after treatment, approached him and said, “You saved my life,” though he initially didn’t recall her. The patient had lost her leg, but she and her family would never forget him. In that moment, he was reminded that nursing isn’t just a job, but a life-altering experience that leaves a legacy, and is often remembered for generations.

Tania Mattinson, Clinical Nurse Consultant in Theatre and Anaesthetics at Mackay Base Hospital, highlighted the rewarding and ever-changing nature of nursing.

“Every day is different in nursing...Some days are more challenging than others, but it’s very rewarding,” she said.

She also noted the importance of patient education as part of the nursing role.

“We realise there’s a patient at the end of all that happens, and it’s that patient we need to think about for the final result… because we care.

“Part of our role is to educate patients on our health, what’s best for them, and how they can improve their health, and patients are very appreciative of that.”

Ms Mattinson expressed her gratitude for the recognition, saying, “I’m very honoured to receive this award. It’s a privilege to work with such a great team and to be honoured for the work we do here.”

Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton, also took a moment to thank the healthcare workers for their continued dedication.

“Thank you to the nurses from the Mackay Hospital and Health Service for providing optimal medical and healthcare for those in their charge in our community,” he said.

The following nurses were recognised for their exceptional work:

McFadzen Perpetual Award
Sponsored by the Hospital Auxiliary, this award honours a Mackay Base Hospital nurse who demonstrates exceptional knowledge, competence, and patient care.
2025 Winner: Tania Mattinson, Clinical Nurse Consultant – Theatre and Anaesthetics, Mackay Base Hospital

Clinical Nurse Specialty Award
Sponsored by former nurse Robyn Nikolsky, this award recognises clinical nurses across Mackay HHS.
2025 Joint Winners:
• Margaret Bazley, Clinical Nurse Consultant – Nursing Medical and Critical Care Services
• Cheryl Dean, Clinical Nurse – Proserpine Hospital

Clinical Excellence Award – Rural
Recognises a rural nurse whose advanced clinical skills enhance patient care and community health.
2025 Winner: Susanne Willmott, Clinical Nurse – Greater Whitsunday Mental Health, Proserpine

Clinical Excellence Award – Nurse Unit Manager
This new category celebrates nurse unit managers who lead with integrity, foster wellness, and mentor future leaders.
2025 Winner: Andrea Wilkinson, Director of Nursing – Dysart

Excellence in Patient Care Award
Acknowledges outstanding clinical skills and compassionate care, as recognised by patients and peers.
2025 Winner: Lisa Byrne, Clinical Nurse Consultant – Nursing Medical and Critical Care, Mackay Base Hospital

CQUniversity 2023 Graduate of the Year Award
Recognises the contributions of a 2024 graduate nurse, supported by a $500 prize for professional development.
2025 Winner: Nikita Van Wyk, Registered Nurse – Emergency Department, Mackay Base Hospital

JCU Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning – Individual
Celebrates an individual nurse’s role in mentoring and educating students.
2025/2026 Winner: Madison Scriha, Clinical Nurse – Mackay Base Hospital

JCU Outstanding Contribution to Student Learning – Unit
Honours a unit for its supportive learning environment and student engagement.
2025 Winner: Mackay Base Hospital Day Surgery Unit

The awards reflect the diverse excellence across Mackay HHS, where every nurse’s impact is felt not just in clinics and wards, but in the hearts of the community.

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As part of Small Business Month, Mackay Regional Council is holding a Small Business Procurement drop-in session at Greater Whitsundays Innovation (Split Spaces).

The free session will be from 9am to 10am, Tuesday, May 20.  No bookings are required.

This is an open opportunity for small businesses to drop in and have a chat to the council Procurement team to learn more about their processes, programs and systems.

Council’s Procurement Policy has recently been updated, with a renewed commitment to supporting the Small Business Friendly Charter.

Council is also rolling out of use of the VendorPanel system, so now is the perfect time to chat with the team if you are an existing supplier or would like to explore opportunities to do business with council.

As a bonus, the Queensland State Government Business Concierge representative will also be at Greater Whitsundays Innovation (Split Spaces) at the same time.

The Business Concierge connects small and family business owners with a range of information, programs and services – including small business grants, free business mentoring, free wellness coaching, free financial counselling and more.

Following these two opportunities, there is a Get Grant and Tender Ready Workshop.  Numbers are limited and interested businesses are encouraged to email office@grantandtenderservices.com.au for more information and to book.

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By Amanda Wright

Roll up, roll up, the Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball dazzled more than 400 guests on Saturday night with a vintage carnival theme that brought glamour, games, and generosity under one big top.

Held at the MECC, the night featured crowd favourites like graceful aerial performances, carnival stalls, a lively auction, and unforgettable performances from Sydney’s sparkling show The Diamonds and local legends Mango Junction.

Guests raved about the atmosphere, praising the event’s vibrant energy and meaningful cause. Funds raised will be shared equally between Grapevine Group and The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service.

The total will be revealed, and cheques presented, at a special sponsor morning tea on Wednesday, 28 May.

This was one night where fun met fundraising in true style.

Vintage Vibes, Vital Causes
Mackay Mayor's Charity Ball, 2025

Guests soaked up the vintage carnival vibes with big smiles, great music, and even better company at the Mayor’s Charity Ball. Photo credit: Marty Strecker

Photo credit: Marty Strecker

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A new support group in Mackay is bringing warmth, connection and crucial conversation to those navigating life with bowel cancer.

The “Gut-Togethers” are informal bi-monthly catch-ups for colorectal cancer patients and their families, offering a safe space to talk, listen and lean on each other. The first gathering will be held Friday, May 23 at Deli Nook, Macalister Street, from 9.15am.

Facilitated by Alexis Coutts and Lorraine Taylor, with clinical guidance from bowel cancer nurse Sue Allsopp of the ICON Centre, the sessions aim to provide emotional support, peer insight, and a sense of solidarity when appointments and pending scans can feel overwhelming.

Each meeting will include a casual check-in, a discussion topic or guest speaker, and time for open sharing. The group is welcoming and informal—no pressure, just people who understand.

Meetings will be held every third Friday of the month in May, July, September and November 2025.

For more information, visit bowelcanceraustralia.org or contact Sue Allsopp at the ICON Centre on 4961 3200.

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By Amanda Wright

He’s called Mackay home for the past 20 years, but David Ferguson’s legacy runs much deeper out west, cutting through the rapids and memory banks of the iconic Gregory River.

Fifty years ago, David was one of four young blokes from Mount Isa who, armed with little more than enthusiasm and a borrowed TAFE course, decided to make a race of it.

“We weren’t even canoeists,” he said.

“We’d done a beginner course at TAFE and then a fibreglassing course, made our own canoes, and started paddling on Lake Moondara. One day, we thought—why not race 43 kilometres down the Gregory?”

What began as a wild idea became one of Australia’s most remote and revered paddle marathons. The Gregory River Canoe Marathon celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, drawing more than 140 competitors—including a handful of proud Mackay paddlers—through the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf.

“There was no way we could’ve imagined this back then,” David said.

“Seeing it grow into such a major event, with champions and interstate competitors… I’m in awe of it.”

Event organisers described the 2025 edition as a test of endurance and spirit: “There was fibreglass flying, rocks penetrating—and more swims than a school carnival. Even the Cobras didn’t slither through without damage.”

Yet amid the chaos, a special moment paid tribute to one of the race’s original founders. Fellow paddler Ronald Snow’s ashes were scattered on the river, with his son joining the journey down the waterway as a moving act of remembrance.

“Ron was one of us from the beginning. To have his son there, paddling in his honour, was emotional. The river has carried so many of our memories.”

David, who won six or seven of the early races in a variety of canoes and even helped organise one of the events, said he’s especially proud of how far the Mount Isa club has come.

“We’ve had kids who were knee-high to a grasshopper go on to represent Australia. The van Ryt family alone has racked up something like 150 Gregory River races between them!”

David’s paddling pedigree stretches well beyond the Gregory. He and fellow paddler Phil Geeke claimed second place in the Mission Beach to Dunk Island Ocean Race—despite it being their first ever ocean event in a TK2. He also raced in a K4 kayak in the Katherine Canoe Marathon before it was cancelled due to an influx of crocodiles, and teamed up with his mate Ronald Snow for a second-place finish in the Brisbane River Marathon.

“Ron and I shared a lot of miles together,” David said.

One of the most moving moments from this year's event came when an elder Indigenous woman addressed the crowd. She recalled being a young child and racing back to her family in disbelief after seeing “white men in long boats” coming down the river. No one believed her at the time.

“To stand there 50 years later, hugging her and sharing that memory, made me very happy,” David said.

“The river keeps all our stories.”

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David Ferguson at the finish line of the 50th Gregory River Canoe Marathon—reflecting on the event he helped pioneer half a century ago. Photos supplied

A younger David Ferguson pictured during his competitive paddling days, when he raced everything from TK2s to K4s in some of Australia’s most iconic canoe marathons

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A small kitchen fire prompted the evacuation of the Eimeo Pacific Hotel last Monday afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the popular hilltop venue on Mango Avenue in Mackay’s north at around 1:30pm, following reports of a fryer catching alight in the kitchen.

The blaze, which started behind the fryer, was quickly contained and extinguished by staff using a fire blanket before firefighters arrived on the scene.

Co-owner of the hotel described the incident as “nothing serious,” and confirmed that the venue resumed normal operations shortly afterward.

The Eimeo Pacific Hotel remains open for business – serving cold drinks and delicious meals with uninterrupted ocean views.

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A small kitchen fire at the Eimeo Pacific Hotel on Monday prompted a brief evacuation but was quickly contained by staff. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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