The 2024 local government elections are officially underway, following the publishing of the Notice of Election last week.

Around 3.7 million Queenslanders will head to the polls on 16 March to have their say about the mayors and councillors they want to represent them in their local community for the next four years.

Residents in the State electorate of Inala will also vote for a new Member of Parliament during the poll, following the resignation of former Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said that the start of the election period means that Queenslanders should act now to enrol to vote or nominate to contest the elections.

“Voting in elections is one of the most important rights and responsibilities we share in our democracy, and if you’re not on the roll you can’t vote and if you don’t vote – you can’t have your say.”

“Now’s the time to head to the AEC website at aec.gov.au to check your details are up-to-date or enrol if you haven’t yet or if you’ll be turning 18 before election day.

“The start of the election period also means that nominations for the mayoral and councillor positions in Queensland’s 77 local government areas are now open.”

“If you’re thinking of putting your hand up to represent your local community, the best place to start is by visiting ecq.qld.gov.au]ecq.qld.gov.au you can find out more about what you need to do.

“There are a number of steps you need to complete to nominate, so I encourage you to get started on that early if you intend to run as a candidate.”

Queenslanders can visit ecq.qld.gov.au  to stay up to date with the elections and to learn more about how local elections work.

“There is a wealth of great resources on our website, including short videos on topics like postal voting and counting the votes which can help you understand more about the process,” Mr Vidgen said.

“I also encourage Queensland electors to like and follow our social media platforms to make sure they are receiving important information and updates as the election period progresses.

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2024 local government elections timetable

   • 29 January – Notice of Election

   • 5 February – Close of Electoral Roll

   • 13 February – Candidate nominations close

   • 14 February – Ballot paper order draw

   • 4 March – Postal vote applications close

   • 4 March – Early voting commences

   • 16 March – Election Day

   • 26 March – Close of returns for postal votes

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Councillor Laurence Bonaventura, who recently declared his candidacy for mayor, faced a pivotal moment in his political journey as the Mackay Regional Council were required to deliberate on the findings of a conduct breach investigation conducted by the Office of the Independent Assessor (OIA). The untimely occurrence of this vote emerged within 24 hours of Bonaventura's mayoral campaign launch, where he declared he would be running for Mayor as a self-funded independent, promising to deliver brutally honest truth and tackle rising debt.

The debate by councillors brought forth a unique challenge for the council, balancing the scrutiny of conduct standards with the complexities of human interactions.

In last week’s ordinary meeting, Councillor Bonaventura pleaded his case, urging his peers to consider the human context behind the alleged misconduct, pointing out that this was the first time he had been given an opportunity to explain the context behind the interaction. The investigation, conducted by the Office of Independent Assessor (OIA), focused on a conversation between the councillor and a council staff member regarding the refurbishment of 8 River St and staff morale.

The findings pointed to a potential breach of Mackay Regional Council's Councillor Acceptable Requests Guidelines, specifically section 6.1.1. This section outlines the responsibilities of councillors when communicating with council employees, emphasising the need for respectful, reasonable, and professional interactions in accordance with council policies and guidelines and conducted in good faith.

Cr Bonaventura spoke against the findings, arguing that the investigation only considered the cold hard facts and overlooked the human nature behind the conversation. He expressed, "It was a spur of the moment thing born out of my humanness and wanting an end to this mess that was affecting staff morale at council. Where is that line?"

He urged the council to deliberate on whether "what was a casual unplanned conversation from someone holding the door open in which I asked a question that was appropriately answered forms grounds for a conduct breach."

Cr Bonaventura presented a series of questions for the council to consider in determining a conduct breach: "Did I deliberately approach the staff member with the intent to gain information? Did I gain any advantage from my discussion? Did I attempt to influence the staff member's future actions?"

He further emphasised, "Councillors, I was only displaying an interest in what the staff member was currently doing. The staff member volunteered information about the team morale, and that was of genuine concern to me.

“The only way to improve morale would be when a decision was made, hence the spur-of-the-moment question that is at the centre of this matter."

Councillors voted on the motion concerning the investigation results, with Cr Bella being the sole dissenting vote. They affirmed the findings of the Office of the Independent Assessor, declaring that Councillor Bonaventura breached the Local Government Act and then voted upon what action should be taken.

The disciplinary actions imposed on Councillor Bonaventura include a public apology, reimbursement of $2700 in costs, informing the OIA of the outcomes, and attaching the investigation report to the council meeting minutes.

At his campaign launch, Cr Bonaventura spoke of the need to lead a council that was compassionate and caring, to consider the human needs of the community.

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Cr Bonaventura during a previous council meeting

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2024 ISAAC REGION CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Amanda Raymond

This award recognises outstanding members of the community for their personal endeavours, achievements and community input.

The 2024 winner, Amanda Raymond, is an absolute community superstar – local nurse and volunteer extraordinaire on the local and regional arts and culture scene.

She’s a major supporter of many events around the region through her ties with Moranbah Arts and works in collaboration with Dysart Arts Inc and Clermont Artslink.

The theatrical champion, who was among a team that brought together Grease in 2023, also volunteers her time to Girl Guides in Moranbah and Dysart.

She is also a long serving member of the Isaac Arts and Cultural Advisory Committee.

2024 ISAAC REGION YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Ciara Storch

This major Australia Day award recognises young citizens for their personal endeavours, achievements and community input.

Ciara, 17, is one of the most highly decorated female youth boxers in Queensland and in Australia for her prowess, determination, and passion in the ring.

The NQ Junior Sportstar of the Year also uses her boxing expertise and shares her knowledge and skills as the head coach of the Little Diggers Program at her homebase – the DIG DEEP competitive Boxing.

Her dedication, hard work, and sheer commitment to the sport she loves, and her community is undeniable, and it is evident in her achievements in and out of the ring.

Ciara shows incredible resilience, strength, and extreme courage to channel her brother’s grief into more determination than ever to chase after her dreams.

2024 COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR

Clermont Wombat Festival

The Clermont Wombat Festival which has been running for two years is proudly run by Clermont Artslink.

This festival brings the community together, educating us on the plight of our Northern Hairy-Nosed Wombats and awakening our creativity.

Make sure you support this event in May! This is the Isaac region’s next biggest tourism drawcard.

This award is presented to the most outstanding community event during the year. The event had to involve and must be a significant contribution to the Isaac Region’s community.

2024 CORPORATE COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION OF THE YEAR

BarraCrab Caravan Park

This Clairview business has single handedly boosted tourism and the local economy not only with its views but the annual Easter Fishing Competition, attracting anglers across Queensland.

This event is growing in popularity in fishing family circles every year with a range of kid's games, Easter hunts, a movie night, prizes, live music and even a barbecue.

BarraCrab Caravan Park is also at the home of the Isaac region’s dugong sanctuary where many learn and appreciate beachfront living and the natural environment in a community-minded spot.

This award recognises both large corporations operating in Isaac region and/or small to medium enterprises for significant events and/or initiatives which better the community.

2024 SPIRIT OF ISAAC

Moranbah Carols by Candlelight

This award recognises individuals or groups who embody the Pure People Power which drive the communities of the Isaac Region. It is awarded at the discretion of Council and may not be presented annually.

Congratulations to the organising committee, the volunteers, and the local talent for putting together arguably the biggest free event in Isaac, attracting more than 4,000 people, the Carols by Candlelight.

Events like these bring the community together to celebrate not only Christmas but the Isaac spirit.

2024 MAYOR’S AWARD WINNERS

The Mayor’s award recognises individuals or groups who embody the Pure People Power which drive the communities of the Isaac Region. The winners are selected at the Mayor’s discretion from among the nominees in each community.

Anne Meehan of Middlemount

Tony Mill of St Lawrence

Patrice Brown of Dysart

Ruth Brown of Clermont

Debbie Bromley of Nebo

Mark Hare of Glenden

Jarrid Kennedy of Moranbah

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

Once again, Mackay has dodged the cyclone bullet, experiencing only the edge effects of the Category 2 Cyclone Kirrily last week. Rainfalls to 90mm in some parts of the Mackay region and gusty wind conditions that did not reach the expected gusts of up to 120km meant that the district dodged the bullet once again.

Our thoughts are with growers in the cane areas across the Burdekin and Herbert and further north, who were more impacted by the system, although fortunately impacts were not massive there, either.

But all in all, we live in North Queensland. Cyclones are part and parcel of that, but we are also grateful when we get the benefit of beneficial rains from the system, rather than flooding and damaging wind.

It was very disappointing to see the Mackay radar down as the impacts of Kirrily started to hit our part of the world, and was still not working at the time of writing, days later. It is furthermore concerning to see that it will be intermittently out until May, “undergoing test and evaluation for six months until early May”. In other words - for the remainder of the current cyclone season.

Farmers do rely a great deal on services like the radar network. Last year was a long wait for the new Mackay radar to be installed, with the local radar down for six months. The bulk of our work is outdoors, obviously. We need to know when rain is coming or not to determine when a good time is to fertilise, what rain humidity and wind conditions are to determine whether it is the right time to spray. For some irrigating farmers, it can influence whether to irrigate or not. The weather is one tool we use to get the timing right on many activities, helping productivity and sustainability.

That said, we are fortunate that we have the Bureau of Meteorology and the technology that has developed to assist in forecasting and tracking these systems.

The Bureau typically cops a flogging on forecasting, but it is interesting to see all the models and variables that go into picking how a complex system will behave. While it would be great to have that black and white, yes or no answer on where a cyclone will impact, what we do get is a reasonable heads up that a system is out in the Coral Sea, and a reasonable estimate on likely impact areas. It’s a waiting game to see how tracking and intensity will resolve as the system moves closer to the coast.

In January 1918, Mackay sweltered in hot humid conditions. If you check out the Daily Mercury’s weather forecast – with readings from the telegraph station - on the day before the Cat 4 cyclone hit on January 20, we see some monsoonal-type weather, and a “tropical disturbance” is noted out near Noumea, and expected to move southwards. People did not know what was coming down upon them, and really, there wasn’t time to get ready.

We really are fortunate these days to have the technology of modelling systems, radars, satellites. Meteorologists are making the best use they can out of many years of weather records and adapting models to changing world weather patterns. It’s not perfect, but it certainly has come a long, long way from 100 years ago.

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Wind rifled cane in the Mackay district as Cyclone Kirrily began to impact the Queensland coast on January 25, but there was no damage here, and quite minimal in northern cane growing districts. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) has opened consultation on the operation of the Dairy Industry Code.

The Dairy Industry Code provides a fairer process for negotiating contractual arrangements between dairy farmers and dairy processors.

The consultation process follows DAFF’s review of the Dairy Industry Code in 2021 with the support of the Dairy Industry Code Review Reference Group.

Acting Deputy Secretary of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Policy Group Dr Jared Greenville said that while a second formal review of the code will happen down the track, this consultation puts DAFF in a better position to address the findings of the first review.

“The first code review identified several topics that warranted further exploration before a second review can commence,” Dr Greenville said.

“This consultation is an opportunity to ensure we can capture more evidence about concerns identified in the first review so that the code can adapt to best represent the needs of our dairy industry.

“The code helps balance bargaining power between dairy farmers and dairy processors.

“It’s important that we ensure that the code remains up-to-date and continues to support our dairy industry now and into the future.

“I encourage those with an interest in fair and open dairy industry negotiations to get involved in the consultation.”

Visit the Dairy Industry Code consultation for more information and have your say by 5pm, 15 March.

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A national commitment to eradicate one of the world’s worst invasive species, the red imported fire ant (RIFA), has been reinforced with further confirmation of funding to the National Fire Ant Eradication Program.

The Australian, Queensland, New South Wales, the Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory and Victoria governments have now all locked in funding to deliver the four-year response plan, with Western Australia confirming funding for two years.

These commitments maintain important momentum of the national eradication effort, endorsed by all jurisdictions through the Agriculture Ministers’ Meeting.

Since the first detection in 2001 in south-east Queensland, the Australian Government along with all states and territories, have been committed to the eradication of RIFA.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said the national commitment to this biosecurity response was a critical step towards eradication of RIFA.

“The Federal Government has locked in a record funding commitment of $296 million over the next four years as its contribution to the eradication program,” said Minister Watt.

“Eradicating fire ants is not an easy task – many countries have tried and failed, but we have been largely successful in containing their spread.

“Without the 20-plus year eradication program, led by the Queensland Government, RIFA would likely have spread from south-east Queensland north to Bowen, west to Longreach and as far south as Canberra.

“The funding will see the 2023-27 Response Plan, worth a total of $592.8 million, deliver stronger containment and more aggressive treatment, demanding a more rapid scale-up of effort across a broader operational area and eventual eradication.

“The plan uses the best available science, technology, and innovative approaches to deliver efficiencies and maximise resource allocation.”

This important confirmation of funding comes days after another RIFA detection in Ballina in northern New South Wales.

The nest was destroyed immediately and a control order was placed within a 5km radius of the site, restricting the movement of soil in the area.

Minister Watt said the Federal Government, in partnership with the Minns and Miles governments, was committed to halting the southward march of the fire ant.

“After a decade of cuts to biosecurity by the National Party, we had been fighting the fire ant with one hand tied behind our back.

“That’s why locking in this funding from all levels of government is so important.

"The Government believes we should use every weapon at our disposal to keep them at bay.”

RIFA is one of the world’s worst invasive ant pests, because of its harmful effects on people, agriculture, flora and fauna, infrastructure and recreational activities.

For more information, visit: https://www.fireants.org.au/

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Mackay Regional Council has taken a proactive step towards securing the future development of the region by recently welcoming five graduates into its workforce through the Graduate Program.

With a strategic focus on addressing skills shortages in crucial areas like urban planning, process engineering, civil engineering, and mechanical engineering, the council aims to lay a robust foundation for the region's growth.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council was excited to welcome the new employees into its workforce.

“We are always looking for ways to attract and retain talented people and our Academic Bursary, Graduate and Apprentice and Trainee programs are essential in achieving this,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Our region offers a great place to live, work and play and working at council provides great work-life balance,” he said.

“Our new graduates will embark on a two-year program where they will be placed in different areas to expose them to relevant work experience that aligns with their area of study.

“We have a mix of both local and interstate graduates this year, so we are excited to be welcoming some new faces into our community.

“This month we will also welcome 14 apprentices and trainees into our workforce, highlighting council’s commitment to developing the next generation of skilled professionals in our region.”

Civil Construction Trainee Luke Pain said he was looking forward to starting work at council to obtain valuable skills and experience.

“I was looking for a career that allowed me to stay in the region and pursue something I’m passionate about,” Mr Pain said.

“Having the safety net of staying in Mackay while starting an exciting new career is important to me and I can’t wait to focus my attention on my studies and gain new skills through on-the-job training,” he said.

Applications are now open for the 2024 Academic Bursary Program. For more information head to mackay.qld.gov.au/academicbursary.

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Five new graduates, Cameron Deguara, Daniel Igie, Anandha Murali, Jigar Dholariya and Joshua Simkins, were welcomed by Mayor Greg Williamson at a special morning tea last month

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Five major Queensland coal producing regions will share in $118.2 million for community projects from the latest round of the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund.

The $118.2 million from the RCIF’s third round builds on $55 million from Round 2 and $47 million from the fund’s first round in 2021.

The fund’s biggest project will be an up to $40 million investment for the Isaac Resources Excellence Precinct at Moranbah that will focus on innovation.

New housing will also be built for workers, medical students and retirees, there will be new and upgraded sports facilities, community and cultural centres and halls, and upgrades to an airport, botanic gardens and the Phillips Creek bridge.

Minister for Resources Scott Stewart said that the resources sector is worth $86.5 billion to the Queensland economy and employs more than 70,000 workers with nearly 60 per cent of those across regional Queensland.

“This RCIF funding round focuses on coal communities and the biggest investment is up to $40 million for a new precinct which will lead resources innovation for all of Queensland,” Minister Stewart said.

“Our communities who play a part in producing, processing and transporting coal continue to be the backbone of our economy.

“It’s only right that the Queensland Government has stepped up to wholly fund Round 3 of the RCIF.”

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said the nearly $40 million in RCIF funding will support the future of resource communities across Queensland by establishing a centre of excellence that will advance new technologies in the resources sector.

“Isaac Resources Excellence Precinct will be built in Moranbah at the heart of the Bowen Basin and include research, education and future partners precincts,” she said.

“We will be leading the way in bringing innovation to the Queensland resources sector, including low-carbon processes, new workforce skills and key initiatives such as mine site rehabilitation and deeper First Nation partnerships.”

The funding has been welcomed by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).

Acting Chief Executive Officer Judy Bertram said coal companies paid more than $15 billion in royalties to the State Government last financial year (2022-23).

“This is an enormous contribution by the coal industry to the State Government budget, and it’s only fair and reasonable that people living in regional areas benefit from the strong performance of the coal sector.”

Isaac RCIF Round 3 Community Project Grants

Dysart Golf Course Clubhouse Refurbishment and Facilities Expansion – $907,954 to Dysart Golf Club for redevelopment of the clubhouse to create a family-friendly community venue.

Dysart Golf Course Irrigation System Replacement – $486,195 to Dysart Golf Club for the installation of a fully integrated watering system, including holding tanks and pump.

Isaac Affordable Housing Bushlark Drive Moranbah – $2 million to Isaac Affordable Housing Fund for the construction of a block of three units for non-mining workers in Moranbah.

Isaac Resources Excellence Precinct – $39.72 million to Isaac Regional Council for a resources-focused centre at Moranbah, including education and future partners precincts.

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Image source: Isaac Regional Council

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Resources Safety and Health Queensland (RSHQ) has developed a new training course that aims to share the lessons from historic disasters, to improve safety and health outcomes in mines and quarries.

Learning from Disasters has been created by Simtars, the testing, training and research division of RSHQ, and focuses on failure patterns and trends in disaster scenarios.

The course is a mandatory requirement under the Board of Examiners* for statutory ticket holders at Queensland mines and quarries, however it can also benefit emerging leaders and those in supervisory positions who want to contribute towards building a safer workplace.

RSHQ's Executive Director of Simtars Kerri Melkersson said the new training course will be part of a broader initiative towards zero harm for the resources industry. 

"In the past, disaster training has focussed heavily on coal mines but not every worker in the resources sector can relate to that," said Mrs Melkersson.

"That's why we've looked not just at coal, but the metalliferous and quarrying sectors and other industries, to examine common failure patterns and trends across a diverse range of disaster scenarios.

"The great thing about Learning from Disasters is that it can be customised to suit a particular type of mining or quarrying.

"Learners will examine common patterns and trends in diverse disaster scenarios, enabling them to proactively assess potential risks within their own organisations.”

Learning from Disasters delivers flexibility to the participant, commencing with an online course to help identify the early warning signs and failures that led to real-life disasters. 

Upon completion of the eLearning modules, participants attend a practical 1-day workshop delivered by an RSHQ-approved provider, to cement learnings.

The course incorporates recommendations and learnings from the 2019 Brady Review, including what it takes to become a high reliability organisation (HRO).

Learning from Disasters is another example of RSHQ constantly working towards the goal of zero serious harm across Queensland's resources industry. 

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RSHQ's Executive Director of Simtars Kerri Melkersson. Photo source: RSHQ (website)

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In today's dynamic workplace, women are breaking barriers and achieving remarkable feats, yet the gender gap persists, particularly in areas like salary negotiations. It's time for women to embrace assertiveness, shatter the glass ceiling, and speak up for the remuneration they truly deserve.

Assertiveness is not about being aggressive; it's about confidently expressing thoughts, needs, and desires while respecting others. In the professional realm, women often face challenges in advocating for themselves, fearing repercussions or societal expectations. However, developing assertiveness is crucial for career growth.

One key area where assertiveness is paramount is salary negotiation. Studies consistently show that women tend to negotiate less frequently than men, contributing to the gender pay gap. Women must recognise their worth, skillfully articulate their accomplishments, and negotiate fair compensation.

To enhance negotiation skills, people can conduct thorough research on industry standards and pay scales for their roles. Armed with this knowledge, they can confidently present their case during negotiations, emphasising their unique contributions and the value they bring to the organisation.

Building assertiveness also involves cultivating effective communication skills. An idea is to practice articulating thoughts clearly and directly, ensuring a strong and confident voice is heard in meetings and discussions. Speaking up not only showcases expertise but also fosters an inclusive and diverse workplace culture.

Networking is another powerful tool for assertiveness. Women in business can actively seek mentors, allies, and professional networks, as these connections can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights into navigating the complexities of the workplace.

Remember, embracing assertiveness is an empowering journey. It involves overcoming the fear of rejection, dispelling self-doubt, and recognising the importance of one's voice. By cultivating these skills, women in the workplace can transform their careers and inspire future generations to follow suit.

Be unapologetically assertive. Not everyone in business needs to be your friend.

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Navigating the landscape of parenthood in Mackay, mothers find themselves grappling with the dual challenge of limited daycare availability and the rising cost of living. As demand for childcare spots increases, mothers are exploring inventive ways to contribute to household finances while maintaining their active roles in their children's lives. Enter the world of side hustles, a flexible and home-based solution that empowers mums in Mackay to strike a harmonious balance between family life and financial responsibilities.

We’ve come up with a few possible side hustles that you can try to help ease the financial stress this year.

   • Mumpreneurs are carving a niche by turning ingenious ideas into successful ventures. One inspiring local example is Tahlia Newey, a visionary mum who founded BF Cape. This innovative business caters to mothers, offering a practical solution to a common challenge—breastfeeding in public spaces.

   • Hand making unique items is a contemporary direct selling opportunity, whether it’s online or at your local markets, uncover your creativity and show the world your exclusive designs and ideas. Popular items to easily make and sell could be candles and soaps, baby clothing or jewellery.

   • Online survey platforms that allow mothers to earn extra income by providing feedback or participating in market research studies are a popular way to make money from home.

   • Virtual assistance and freelancing are popular ways to make money. Explore ways you can connect with your targeted audience to show off your skills in areas like writing, graphic design, or social media management to offer virtual assistance or freelance services.

   • Create your own health and wellbeing program for other mums! Why not get the mums of Mackay together and set out meal plans, wellness consultations and or fitness coaching if that’s something you can offer. Making healthy meals is another popular side business idea but be sure to check on rules surrounding cooking for others from your home as this may require a food business license.

   • Explore the possibility of pamphlet delivery, this is a way you can incorporate your stroll with bub in a pram while you make extra revenue. Another popular option for families is to do meal deliveries with companies like Uber in the evenings if you have another adult at home to look after the kids.

Success in side hustles often involves a combination of identifying personal skills and passions, understanding market demand, and effectively networking and marketing within the community. Whether it’s hand-crafting homemade items or doing things digitally, it’s important to remember to stick to something that you have knowledge in or at the very least something that interests you.

Turn that dream into a reality and act on those business ideas that have been brewing up. Start living for your future self and she’ll thank you later!

Quote by R.S. Grey: “She believed she could, so she did.”

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Are you ready to grow and improve your public speaking skills?

A Toastmaster Speechcraft course is for you. It’s a short intensive speaking course where you will be guided in learning public speaking and presentation skills.

In addition you will learn how to reply to questions “off the cuff” and how to give constructive feedback to colleagues, committee members, family and friends.

When the Toastmasters Speechcraft course concludes you will have enhanced public speaking and presentation skills and increased confidence. You will be ready to apply for a promotion, a new job or to speak at personal functions. You will also be able to effectively answer questions posed to you.

Speechcraft starts at Pioneer Toastmaster Club, Monday 12th February 2024, 6.30pm to 9pm over 6 weeks concluding on Monday 18th March 2024. Cost $140.00

"Challenging, Rewarding, Fulfilling! A wonderful experience that I'm glad I chose to do!" – past participant.

To sign up or gain more information go to Pioneer Toastmasters Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pioneertoastmastersmackay or contact Fiona on 0411390687.

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Stepping into the limelight once more, the local wedding industry is poised for a spectacular revival with the re-energised Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo, scheduled to grace the MECC on Sunday, February 4, from 10am to 1pm.

Originally introduced in 2020 by Ramona Burki, a seasoned local wedding and event specialist at the helm of Element Events by Ramona, the Mackay and Whitsunday Wedding Expo emerged as a triumphant affair. However, the grand plans for the future were momentarily put on hold due to the pandemic, only to resurface with renewed vigour for the upcoming 2024 edition.

With a mission to unite the wedding community and seamlessly connect couples with a plethora of reputable local suppliers, the Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo is poised to inject fresh vitality into the local wedding industry.

Set against the backdrop of the MECC this weekend, the venue is anticipated to transform into a vibrant wedding marketplace, teeming with numerous stallholders, while an influx of eager couples is expected to grace the venue throughout the day.

Event organizer Ramona Burki expressed her excitement, saying, “The Expo gives couples a chance to meet with an extensive collection of wedding professionals under one roof.”

Drawing from her two decades of experience in the local wedding and event industry, eight of which have been dedicated to operating her own event business, Ramona is adept at discerning the needs of couples planning their special day. She eagerly looks forward to assembling a diverse array of industry specialists for the Expo.

“We are creating a vibrant and supportive space for wedding and event professionals to connect with and inspire our community,” explained Ramona.

“The Expo will be a place where you can meet your celebrant, find your photographer, decide on your hair and makeup, look at cake suppliers, check out venues, organise catering, and so much more!

“Anything you want or need for your wedding day can be found at the Expo.”

Promising an engaging and interactive experience, the Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo is designed to offer a range of activities and showcases.

Upon entering the Expo, attendees will be greeted with a gift bag containing contact information from all the suppliers present on the day, inviting them to peruse the expansive exhibition.

Guests can relish a Fashion Parade featuring local bridal boutiques showcasing some of their finest wedding gowns, formal wear, and men’s suits.

In between shows, live entertainment and an emcee engaging with individual exhibitors will add to the festivities.

Proudly endorsed by supporting partners Core Life Magazine and redhotblue Creative Agency, these major local businesses are enthusiastic about championing such a significant regional event.

Your love story deserves a day of grandeur, and the Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo promises nothing short of a spectacular celebration of love and commitment. Mark your calendars and be prepared to embark on a magical odyssey that paves the way for a love-filled future!

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Organiser, Ramona Burki, says that hundreds of couples are expected to attend the Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo. Photo credit: Alyce Holzy

WHAT: Mackay and Whitsunday Annual Wedding Expo

WHERE: The MECC

WHEN: Sunday, 4 February

TIME: 10am – 3pm

ENTRY: Free

Top Expo Tips for Maximising Your Experience

   • Organise Your Thoughts: Grab a bridal expo bag upon arrival, chock-full of valuable information. Bring a "favorites" notebook to jot down notes and store vendor correspondence.

   • Create a Wedding-Only Email: Set up a dedicated "wedding only" email account to keep all your wedding-related correspondence in one place. This simple step will help you filter through information seamlessly during the planning process.

   • Engage with Vendors: Take your time navigating the expo and don't shy away from asking questions.Make the most of this opportunity by seeking advice, clarifications, and insights.

   • Comfort is Key: Wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle. Ensure your feet stay happy, and stay hydrated throughout the event. Comfortable attire will let you focus on the details without any unnecessary distractions.

   • Early Bird Advantage: Arrive early for a relaxed experience. By beating the rush, you'll have the chance to engage in quality conversations, gaining valuable insights without feeling rushed.

   • Embrace the Joy: Have fun exploring the exhibits, envisioning possibilities, and reveling in the myriad of pretty details. This is a special time in your life—embrace the journey and savor every moment of the wedding planning adventure.

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How great is the weather right now around Mackay and the Whitsundays? Love the humidity yet?

A week ago, we weren’t sure what TC Kirrily was going to do, so we had some windy and wet days, and the next thing she was gone again. We are certainly feeling for our mates in and around Townsville after trees came down and powerlines were busted, and some Pilates classes had to be moved to the afternoon session. We’re feeling for you all.

The weather here has been quite humid and just plain awful for so many people around our neighbourhood, especially in South Mackay where I live. Hardly any breeze over Australia Day last week, and the relentless sweaty feeling has not received any gold stars from this bloke I can tell you.

One thing about this weather is that it has given my son and I a chance to get out in the great outdoors and exercise when he comes over to see his dad each week.

He said to me ages ago that he wanted to get into walking and maybe running, so we grabbed him a new pair of shoes, a bloody big hat, and slopped on some SPF50+ gear and away we went to start our weekly beach walks at Far Beach.

They have been going well with just the two of us walking for over an hour and a half on the sand, chewing the fat, solving the world’s issues and connecting like any distant parent can. This time is precious for me, and I don’t take it lightly.

Thing is, last week my son was talking about doing some running as well as walking. I suggested running the 5K Twilight Marina Fun Run on March 1 with me. This is the little jog and shuffle we do each year to raise awareness for the big Marina Run in June and I’ve been doing it for years. After I asked if he would be keen, he said yes.

I’m beyond thrilled. I reckon after we walk and shuffle together on that Friday, he may decide to join me in the Marina Run on that famous Sunday in June. Maybe not a half marathon, but perhaps a 10K would do. My fingers are crossed.

To anyone who is thinking of joining me on this 5K fun along Harbour Road in a few weeks, sign up today. It’s only a few dollars, and you know the donation will save lives, guaranteed.

Have fun and remember, if you’re driving down Bridge Road after 5 on a Monday afternoon, and you see a tall bloke trying to run at the hockey fields, throw him a bottle of water, and a wave. He’ll appreciate it.

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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From injured, lost and in pain, to under the safe and loving care of Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated, Harmony is on the road to recovery after undergoing surgery from a bacterial infection and is now looking for her new fur-ever home.

Mackay Pet Rescue Inc said that Harmony, a female Manx cat, had been found in the pound microchipped, however her previous owners were unable to take her back after she allegedly went missing two years ago.

Despite the team already being short of foster carers and knowing the vet bill would be pricey, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc jumped at the opportunity to save Harmony and give her the paw-fect life that she deserves with no hesitation!

According to the rescue team she had been extremely unwell.

“Harmony spent the weekend in hospital,” a statement from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc read.

“She was given much needed fluids, antibiotics and pain relief.  She had a scan, blood tests and needed surgery on Monday.  

“She was visited morning and night by her foster carer who brought her heat packs, changed her bedding and tried to tempt her with food,” the statement said.

Harmony is now recovering slowly from her surgery and is currently in the helpful hands of her foster carer until she is ready to join a new, loving family.

If you would like to give Harmony a fur-ever home or if you have any other enquiries, please contact Ros on 0403814318. Donations for veterinary expenses are welcome, which provides financial help to the rescue team to keep our lost, injured and stray pets off the streets and into the homes of nurturing foster carers & loving families.

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Harmony recovering from surgery. Photo Credit: Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated (Facebook)

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