In the world of daredevils and snake enthusiasts, one name stands out—Edward Royce Ramsamy, or as many knew him, Ram Chandra. A fearless showman, Ram's journey was a captivating tale of courage, passion, and a profound connection with some of the world's most dangerous snakes.

Born in Lawrence, near Grafton, New South Wales, on May 24, 1921, Ram Chandra embarked on a path that would make him a legend in the world of snakes and venomous creatures. His journey began on the show circuit in Sydney during the early 1940s, where he fearlessly handled both venomous and non-venomous snakes as part of The Carnival of Eastern Wonders.

Ram Chandra's daring act, "The Pit of Death," showcased his skills with 20 tiger snakes, performing tricks that captivated audiences. His passion for snakes led him to Mackay, where he married Nolear Barba in 1944. The couple raised eight children and adopted three more. It was in Mackay that he adopted the name Ram Chandra and continued his show circuit endeavours.

The turning point in Ram Chandra's life came with his encounters with the taipan, one of the world's most feared snakes. This natural fascination spurred him to become The Taipan Man, as he embarked on the perilous journey of milking venom from these deadly creatures. His dedication earned recognition from the Commonwealth Serum Laboratory (CSL).

In mid-1955, just three weeks after distributing the serum produced from taipan venom, a Cairns schoolboy's life was saved from a taipan bite. Ram Chandra himself experienced the life-saving impact of the serum when bitten by a taipan during a demonstration to ambulance officers in 1956.

Ram Chandra's annual visits to schools across the region were eagerly awaited events. His captivating talks and snake demonstrations were a source of excitement and curiosity for students, leaving a lasting impression on the young minds he engaged with.

For over 50 years, he shared his extensive knowledge of snakes, delivering lectures to medical professionals, school children, and adults about venomous and non-venomous snakes. Beyond his educational pursuits, he raised substantial funds for charitable causes, contributing over $80,000 to the Queensland Ambulance Service, $9,000 to the Queensland Cancer Fund, and supporting various local Lions clubs, Rotary clubs, Apex, and charities.

Ram Chandra's contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including the British Empire Medal in 1975, Pioneer Shire Citizen of the Year in 1982, the Order of the Outback in 1985, and the Order of Australia Medal in 1995. A flamboyant showman and a dedicated researcher, Ram Chandra passed away in Mackay on July 31, 1998, leaving behind a legacy of education, courage, and a deep respect for the often-misunderstood world of snakes.

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Ram Chandra handling a Black Headed Python. Photo supplied by Les Batros

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Queensland's regulator for the resources sector, Resources Safety and Health Investigation (RSHQ), has launched an investigation into an incident at BHP Mitsubishi Alliance's (BMA) Saraji mine on Monday 15 January 2024.

Two men were working in the fuel-bay area of the open-cut mine around midday when an interaction between two vehicles left a 27-year-old coal mine worker with significant crush injuries. 

Luke O’Brien has been identified as the victim of a tragic incident that occurred. He was taken to Dysart Hospital but later died from his injuries.  

Mr O’Brien’s mother, Yvette, shared her heartbreak on social media.

“A piece of my heart has been shattered,” she wrote.

“My baby boy is gone.”

RSHQ CEO Rob Djukic said the death will impact the entire Queensland mining community. 

"We'd like to offer our sincere condolences to the family of the victim, his friends and his co-workers," said Mr Djukic. 

"As soon as we were notified of the incident, we launched an investigation sending multiple investigators and inspectors from our Serious Incident Investigation Unit and Coal Inspectorate to the site.

"We're also working closely with BMA to find out what went wrong and prevent this from happening again."

The Mining and Energy Union released a statement saying the whole mining community is shocked and saddened at news of a fatality.

“We are devastated that a coal miner is not returning home at the end of their shift,” the statement read.

“Our hearts go out to friends and family. We offer our deepest thanks to first responders and support to workmates who may be traumatised.”

The union said safety inspectors were also on site to conduct a thorough investigation.

“We will ensure no stone is left unturned in understanding what has occurred and preventing future fatalities and injuries.”

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Saraji Coal Mine. Photo source: Wikipedia

Luke O’Brien died due to injuries from an incident at Saraji mine near Dysart. Photo source: Yvette O'Brien

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Ever felt that yoga might not be your 'thing'?

Perhaps, it's precisely what your body and mind have been silently yearning for.

Why not indulge your curiosity, take a step onto the mat, and discover the transformative power that yoga can bring to your life? Join us at Tranquil Yoga Mackay, where we believe in the inclusive embrace of everyBODY, offering a space for exploration, self-discovery, and well-being.

More than just a studio, we are a family-run establishment with a commitment to community values, embracing every individual who walks through our doors.

Meet Ashley, our principal yoga teacher and passionate owner, with years of experience, particularly in the realms of Yin and Restorative practices. Hence, the name Tranquil Yoga Mackay. Our studio focuses on offering a diverse range of classes that cater to slowing down and moving inward, allowing you to find the zen within.

Joining Ashley is fellow yoga teacher Shannon Clare, who shares a love for rest and digest practices. While we use movement and breath to heal and empower, our timetable also features dynamic forms of yoga and movement, including the newly introduced Barre and Ashtanga classes, balancing the serene ambiance of our studio.

Discover a variety of classes tailored to suit everyone's preferences, with affordable membership options, including compatibility with FITNESS PASSPORT and WHEREFIT, Tranquil makes yoga accessible to all.

Tranquil offers a mixture of classes such as:

YinYang (movement and stretch)

Restorative Yin (slow, gentle and relaxing)

Yin (stretch and meditative)

lunch time Nidra (30 mins to reset your nervous system)

Hatha Nidra (movement and meditation)  

Ashtanga Vibes (dynamic movement)

Monthly Men’s Yoga (taught by a man for men)

Barre classes (fun, fun and more fun)  

AND a sneaky weekly Pilates matwork class (35 min workout)

Ashley and Shannon are here to support you on your yoga journey, whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner. We believe that yoga, with its myriad benefits, may be just what your body and mind need.

Some of the commonly known benefits of practicing yoga:

• Improves flexibility and balance

• Enhance range of motion in various joints in the body

• Reduces stress and anxiety

• Improves overall health

• Enhances mental clarity and concentration

• Promotes better sleepy

• Increases strength and muscle tone

• Boosts self-awareness and self-esteem

Our studio not only offers a space for yoga but also shares its warmth with other local small businesses, including Warisa Thai Massage, where Tranquil members enjoy exclusive discounts. We envision a kind, caring community within our walls, where people feel safe and welcome to explore their yoga journey.

Tranquil Yoga Mackay awaits, ready to embrace you on the mat and nurture your well-being.

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The economic development bodies of North Queensland – Advance Cairns, Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and Townsville Enterprise - have joined forces to seek a better outcome for the region amid questions around the effectiveness of the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool.

This follows the recent devastating flooding which impacted the Far North in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper last month. The collective call from these three organisations is for a review into the terms of the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, specifically the claims period for cyclone and related flood damage arising during a cyclone event, from the time a cyclone begins until 48-hours after the declared end of a cyclone.

Ex-TC Jasper was the first event to test this framework and the pool has been left wanting, as extensive flooding occurred outside of the 48-hour claims period. It is imperative that the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool is fit-for-purpose and meets the challenges it set out to address, which is to provide more affordable and commercially viable insurance for North Queenslanders.

Insurance availability and affordability remains a critical concern across North Queensland.

A significant number of households and businesses are underinsured or worse, are without insurance, given the spiralling costs of insurance premiums.

Advance Cairns, Greater Whitsunday Alliance and Townsville Enterprise are calling on the Government to conduct a review with a specific focus on the following:

1. Extension of the 48-hour period: Propose an extension of the post-cyclone period of coverage from 48-hours to 168-hours (seven days) in line with global reinsurance standards.

2. Inclusion of Flooding in Reinsurance Pool: Advocate for the expansion of the reinsurance pool to cover flooding, a crucial component in comprehensive coverage.

3. Insurance Incentives: Propose targeted insurance incentives to alleviate the cost-of-living pressures for residents and businesses which would reward policyholders for risk mitigation measures.

4. Enhanced Data Transparency: Reinforce the transparency of data requests to the ACCC for consumers to foster trust and understanding.

5. Long-Term Resilience Mitigation Action Plans: Develop and implement long-term resilience mitigation action plans, including: a. Investment in mitigation infrastructure in collaboration with local councils. b. Grants for property owners to enhance the safety of their dwellings. c. Strengthening building codes and improving disaster management planning. d. Removal of unfair taxes and charges from insurance policies by governments.

6. Build greater understanding of the role of the reinsurance pool.

The economic development bodies welcomed recent comments by the Federal Government opening the door to bringing forward the review of the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool from 2025 to this year. They strongly support any interventions aimed at resolving the issues highlighted with the Pool in its current form.

Advance Cairns Chief Executive Officer Jacinta Reddan said, "There is a lot of confusion about the impact of the reinsurance pool, particularly in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper. It is so important we can allay fears for those who have suffered damage and are making claims against their insurance policy.

“Ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper was the first test of the reinsurance pool which has certainly highlighted shortcomings around timing. However, it is important that we also give the pool time to function – and it is important we work together to develop a framework that can ultimately be applied nationwide as we face increasing extreme weather events across Australia.”

Greater Whitsunday Alliance Chief Executive Officer Kylie Porter said that the future of North Queensland’s economy is bright and prosperous, whether it be tourism, biomanufacturing, green energy or critical minerals. However, she pointed out that the sky-rocketing costs of insurance premiums for both businesses and residents has the potential to hold back our regions and significantly limit ongoing investment and workforce attraction.

“Now is the time to review the effectiveness of the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool design and implement changes that can support the future direction and prosperity of North Queensland.”

Townsville Enterprise Chief Executive Officer Claudia Brumme-Smith said their concern from the beginning has always been that a 48-hour rule would not be sensible to address the unpredictability of weather events, including impacts from flooding.

“We have continued to urge the Government and subsequent insurers to consider the effects of a cyclone past the 48-hour window and having now seen the impacts of this firsthand on our North Queensland community, we urgently need action to address this market failure.

“The reinsurance pool needs to be fit for purpose for North Queensland, and right now – it is not.

“The minimal impact on insurance premiums, and failure to deliver the intended reduction in overall insurance costs means North Queensland are again left wanting, and now is the time for Government to enact positive change.”

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GW3 CEO Kylie Porter. Photo credit: Coffee and Hops Photography

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As the Australian summer unfolds, garden enthusiasts are presented with the perfect opportunity to transform their outdoor spaces into a vibrant and flourishing oasis. With warmer temperatures and abundant rain in the wet season, adapting your gardening practices becomes paramount.

Mulching Magic:

Mulching is a game-changer when it comes to preserving soil moisture and regulating soil temperature. Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or bark, around your plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate the soil against temperature extremes. Be sure to replenish mulch periodically to maintain its effectiveness.

Choose Heat-Tolerant Plants:

Opt for plants that are well-adapted to Australia's hot climate. Native plants, succulents, and heat-tolerant varieties such as agapanthus, kangaroo paw, and bougainvillea are excellent choices. These plants are better equipped to withstand the harsh summer conditions, requiring less maintenance and water.

Prudent Pruning:

Regular pruning is crucial during the summer to promote air circulation, reduce shading, and encourage new growth. Remove dead or damaged branches, spent flowers, and any excessive foliage to ensure optimal energy allocation. Pruning also helps control the size of plants and prevents them from becoming overly dense, allowing sunlight to penetrate effectively.

Fertilise with Care:

During summer, plants require an extra boost of nutrients to support their growth. Choose a slow-release fertiliser with a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply fertilisers early in the season and follow the recommended dosage to avoid overfeeding, which can be detrimental in hot weather.

Container Gardening:

Container gardening is an excellent option for those with limited space or looking for more control over their plants' environment. Use large pots with adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging. Grouping containers together helps create microclimates, providing mutual shade and reducing water evaporation.

Pest Control:

Summer is prime time for garden pests, but chemical pesticides are not always the best solution. Adopt integrated pest management strategies, such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, using neem oil, or practicing companion planting. Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests and take swift action to prevent infestations.

Achieving a flourishing summer garden in Australia requires a combination of strategic planning, diligent care, and a touch of creativity. By implementing these tips, you can create a resilient and stunning outdoor haven that not only survives the summer heat but thrives in its unique challenges.

So, gear up, embrace the warmth, and watch your summer garden come to life!

NORTH QUEENSLAND VEGGIE TIPS

Use the summer months to prepare your soil while it’s warm and wet. Spend January and February enriching your soil and mulching. Leave the planting until the winter, April at the earliest.

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As we step into the new year, having delved into the realms of movement and nutrition, it's time to turn our attention to another essential aspect of self-care—our skincare routine. Achieving radiant and healthy skin isn't just about the products you use; it's about cultivating habits that promote long-term well-being. So, bid farewell to last year's skincare sins and embrace 2024 with these eight transformative skincare resolutions that will have you glowing from within.

1. Clean out your skincare stash: Begin the year by decluttering your skincare arsenal. Discard expired products and bid farewell to those that didn't quite make the cut.

2. Moisturise both morning and night: Hydration is key to plump, youthful skin. Make a commitment to moisturise in the morning and before bed to keep your skin nourished and resilient.

3. Mask at least once a week: Treat your skin to some extra love with a weekly masking session. Whether it's a hydrating mask for a moisture boost or a detoxifying mask to purify, this ritual can make a significant difference in your skin's texture and appearance.

4. Exfoliate regularly: Bid farewell to dull, lacklustre skin by incorporating regular exfoliation into your routine.

5. Wear sunscreen every single day: Sunscreen isn't just for beach days; it's a daily essential. Shield your skin from harmful UV rays by making sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your morning routine. This simple step not only prevents premature aging but also protects against skin cancer.

6. Remove makeup every single night: Never hit the hay with a full face of makeup. Taking a few minutes each night to remove your makeup ensures your pores remain clear, reducing the risk of breakouts and allowing your skin to breathe and rejuvenate as you sleep.

7. Wash your makeup brushes: It's easy to overlook, but regularly cleaning your makeup brushes is crucial for maintaining skin health. Dirty brushes harbor bacteria that can lead to skin irritations and breakouts.

8. Wear skin-healthy makeup: Upgrade your makeup routine by opting for products that not only enhance your beauty but also nourish your skin. Look for formulas enriched with minerals, ensuring that every application contributes to your skin's well-being.

With these eight skincare resolutions, you're not just caring for your skin; you're investing in a radiant, healthy future.

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This is the question frustrated locals have been asking on community chat boards on Facebook this week.

From bugging people at the beach to swarming doors while dinner is cooking, the problem has noticeably ramped up over the past week.

It seems as though the issue isn’t selective when it comes to suburbs either, with people right across the region voicing their disgust in dealing with up to one hundred flies daily.

You may think a fly is a fly, but according to the CSIRO, there are more than 30,000 different species.

Evolutionary ecologist at the University of Sydney Thomas White has been quoted previously as saying that higher temperatures can speed up the life cycle of flies, so they can mature up to twice as fast as normal. They are attracted to heat and humidity too, so this time of year is the ideal time for fly numbers to increase.

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Here are some practical tips to deter flies from lingering in your home:

   1. Maintain Kitchen Cleanliness: Take extra care to keep your kitchen spotless by promptly cleaning up food scraps and crumbs. Consider using a small indoor bin that you empty regularly. For outdoor waste disposal, opt for a larger, tightly sealed rubbish and compost bin placed at a distance from your home.

   2. Enhance Ventilation: Ensure good airflow throughout your house by keeping it well-ventilated, and strategically use fans to redirect flies out when necessary.

   3. Invest in Fly Screens: While not the most budget-friendly option, fly screens for doors and windows provide a permanent solution for fly control. They prove especially effective if flies are a persistent issue and have the added benefit of keeping mosquitoes at bay.

Try Natural Alternatives: Traditional fly sprays may fall short during summer, and environmentally-friendly versions might not be significantly better. Instead, opt for natural solutions like having a pot of basil or lavender in your kitchen (if it receives sufficient sunlight) or plant them outdoors. Alternatively, place dishes of crushed mint leaves, as flies strongly dislike the aroma of these plants.

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The wet season is upon us and residents are being urged to tidy up the areas around their homes.

The regional councils of Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday have once again collaborated to raise awareness about dengue fever through the Environmental Health Whitsunday Isaac and Mackay (EHWIM) initiative.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said dengue mosquitoes, such as the Aedes aegypti species, bred in stagnant water around the home.

“To prevent a dengue outbreak, it’s important to empty water from pot plant bases, store items that can hold water in dry or covered spaces, dispose of rubbish around the home and clean out your gutters,” Mayor Williamson said.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Julie Hall emphasised the importance of residents being familiar with the warning signs of dengue fever.

“Symptoms of dengue fever include headaches, fevers, aches and pains, nausea, vomiting, and in rare cases, fatality,” Mayor Hall said.

“If you suspect you may have dengue fever, please seek immediate medical attention,” she said.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker urged residents in mosquito-prone areas to take precautions against mosquito bites.

“There are a number of ways to reduce your risk of being bitten, including wearing protective clothing, using effective insect repellent, checking window and door screens for holes and applying surface spray at entry points to deter insects,” Mayor Baker said.

As part of the initiative, residents have the chance to win one of five $100 Porters Mitre 10 vouchers by participating in the dengue quiz at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/dengue.

The quiz is open to residents in Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regional council areas, with entries closing at 5pm on Sunday, March 10.

For additional dengue prevention tips, residents are encouraged to visit www.health.qld.gov.au/dengue.

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

We have headed into 2024 seeing many growers from Northern growing districts around Cairns, Innisfail and Mossman hit hard by flooding caused by ex- Tropical Cyclone Jasper. Our thoughts are with those growers who will have suffered significant damage to the 2024 crop.

For the Mackay and Plane Creek Growing districts, the harvest ended within the festive season, with mills in both districts the last to finish in Queensland as a result of challenging mill performances throughout 2023. It’s to be hoped the mills make good use of the remaining time before the next harvest to bring mills up to a standard so that we won’t again suffer long delays due to breakdowns, affording a desirable November cut-out. A reasonable finishing date is important for maximising the next crop as well as the sugar content for the crop being harvested.

It is promising to see Mackay Sugar continuing to work on Marian Mill, taking on a full replacement of the high-grade fugals at the mill. Fugals are the centrifuge that separate liquid (molasses) from the sugar crystal. Molasses is a useful biproduct of sugarcane processing that has applications for stockfeed, ethanol distilling and fertiliser.

Mackay Sugar had a staggered finish, with Racecourse and Farleigh Mills tipping their last bins on the morning of 22 December, and Marian running its last through the rollers early on Christmas morning. 5.15Mt of cane was harvested over the 30-week crush, which the miller estimates to be 99% of the crop. Original season estimate for Mackay’s 2023 crop was 5.34 Mt.

Wilmar Plane Creek processed the last cane in the early hours of 29 December, following a 29-week crush, and with some 1117 ha of crop unharvested. 1.3Mt was harvested across 2023, short of an original estimate of 1.54Mt. A very disappointing outcome.

With such a late end-of-harvest, well beyond the optimal mid-November finish, cane CCS (sugar content) had started to decline, which erodes profits for both growers and millers and challenges industry viability. Harvesting so late, and having standover cane again, will also have its effects on the 2024 crop: once again, it will be a case of the good, the bad and the ugly. Ratoon cane harvested and new cane planted earlier in the season is looking promising with conditions of spells of rain and ample sunshine creating good growing conditions. Late cut cane from 2023 will most likely underperform, with waterlogging challenging ratoon growth, and standover cane is typically below par and hard to harvest and process. Unfortunately, these issues impact the viability of our mills taking away profits from both millers and growers.

Storm weather across the district over Christmas and into January created some quite wet conditions in paddocks, with higher rainfall areas around the district experiencing waterlogging. The wet weather certainly creates some challenges for farm management: like weed control and fertilising emerging crops.

With growers taking a well-earned rest in January, CANEGROWERS Mackay is ramping up its training offerings before the 2024 harvest starts, with courses in Business Essentials, chemical accreditation, haulout and pilot/escort driving all to be available over the coming months. Training for members in skills useful to their farming enterprise, and of workers new to the cane industry remains an important membership benefit and industry service.

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With the harvest behind growers, paddocks are now on the grow, and fallow crops (at top) being established as part of farm and soil management.  Picture: Kirili Lamb

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More than $2 million in funding is up for grabs for Queenslanders to help fight feral pigs. In 2021, it was estimated that Queensland had up to 2.3 million feral pigs. They are among Queensland's most widespread and damaging pest animals. Feral pigs spread invasive plants, degrade soil and water, prey on native species, damage crops and livestock, and carry diseases.

Round 8(a) of the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative (QFPI) is now open, with $2.16 million available to build local capacity for biosecurity preparedness through feral pig population suppression.

Applications for the Queensland Government funding, which is overseen by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), are open to regional organisations of councils (ROCs), natural resource management (NRM) groups, land and sea ranger groups or Indigenous land councils, state farming organisations, and incorporated industry organisations across Queensland.

Queensland Chief Biosecurity Officer Rachel Chay said feral pigs cause a huge amount of damage to agriculture and the Queensland environment.

“Funding of more than $2 million will be available to employ up to four feral pig management coordinators to support the initiation and delivery of effective feral pig management across the state,” Dr Chay said.

“As with previous rounds, these grants help reduce the impact of feral pests and support more jobs in the regions.

“This is an important investment in a biosecure future for all Queenslanders.”

Applications can be submitted via qldferalpestinit@daf.qld.gov.au until 29 February 2024.

Successful pitches will incorporate lessons from past projects and be at a regional scale with the potential to achieve an enduring legacy.

This latest round of funding through QFPI takes the Queensland Government’s commitment to control invasive plants and animals to more than $27 million over eight years.

This is complemented by a $14 million investment from the Federal Government.

Applicants should outline any in-kind and cash contributions from partners and councils.

For more details, visit Queensland Feral Pest Initiative | Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland (daf.qld.gov.au)

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One million doses of lumpy skin disease (LSD) vaccines have now been provided to Indonesia by the Federal Government, as the fight to protect our cattle industry from disease ramps up again in 2024.

The final shipment of the Lumpyvax vaccines arrived in Indonesia late last month.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt said aiding control of LSD in the region was a priority.

“LSD and foot-and-mouth disease remain significant threats to the biosecurity of Australia and our neighbours,” Minister Watt said.

“As a result, it is imperative that we do everything we can to support Indonesia as they work to get this outbreak under control.

“Over the course of this year, we have supplied 1 million vaccines to our neighbours in Indonesia – vaccines that are now finding their way into Indonesia’s cattle population and protecting farmers’ livelihoods.

“Previous shipments have already been supplied to the Indonesian Ministry of Agriculture.”

Minister Watt said LSD is spread by mosquitos, biting flies and ticks, and severely affects cattle and water buffalo.

“It affects milk production and produces sores all over the bodies of infected animals. It can also seriously hamper trade.

“Given that Australia’s beef exports are forecast to be worth over $10 billion and live cattle exports over $1 billion this financial year, it’s vital that we protect our livestock industries.

“I must stress that Australia has never experienced an outbreak of LSD and remains free from this disease.

“It’s important that we work together with our neighbours to get this disease under control, while also taking steps to make sure we keep Australia safe and LSD-free.”

For more information, visit Lumpy skin disease - DAFF (agriculture.gov.au).

What are the signs of LSD?

Affected cattle can develop a fever of up to 41.5oC and may also have watery eyes, nasal discharge and excess salivation (drooling).

Within 1–2 days, raised nodules up to 50mm in diameter commonly appear around the head, neck, limbs and genitals and may cover the entire body. Scabs form on these nodules and may fall off, leaving large holes in the hide that can become infected.

The brisket and legs may appear swollen and cattle may look lame or be very reluctant to move.

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Celebrating a remarkable milestone, Wayne Carvolth stands at the helm of 25 years of unwavering dedication to Mackay Sugar. Throughout nearly his entire career, he has witnessed the company's rich history, observed its impactful community contributions, and marvelled at the steadfast commitment of its people to both the local sugar industry and each other. As we delve into his journey, Wayne shares the sweet story of his quarter-century-long connection with Mackay Sugar.

“Sugar is in my blood,” said Wayne. “My father worked at Farleigh Mill for 46 years, I grew up in a Mill House, and I even did some gardening work for the Mill Manager’s private residence (on a hill overlooking Farleigh) during the school holidays.”

“It was a real little community back in those days – everything we needed was on the Farleigh Mill grounds. We had a butcher shop, a mechanic, a general store (typical of the time), the post office, and of course the police station and every house nearby for miles was a Mill House being lived in by Mill workers and their families.

“I started work at Farleigh when I was 16 years old as a pin-puller [de-linking sugar cane bins by hand]. When I was 18, I got a job working on the locos – in my first year I worked with Theo Pace on “Carlisle” loco doing the Pioneer River run, two years with Tommy Coogan on the Pindi run, and one year with Jimmy Caslin on the Wagoora run. I was fortunate enough to work beside some great people during those years,” Wayne remembers.

“When I was around 22 years old, I was working in town during the non-crush (or slack season as it was referred to in those days) and I was contacted by one of my dad’s friends from the Mill to tell me there was a store persons job available and that I should apply, so I did. I had the interview right there in that office behind us now. I knew the people who interviewed me well because I went to school with their kids, so I wasn’t afraid to negotiate a little when they offered me the job on the spot,” said Wayne.

“I was about to be married, so I asked for a mill house for my wife and I as part of my package. The hiring manager said they could only spare one for us for three months, but we ended up living in a Farleigh mill house for 28 years!” Wayne laughed.

“A few years later when the co-op became Mackay Sugar, I secured a job in the central Supply [Procurement] Department where I was either working from the corporate office at Racecourse or relieving for people in a Mill warehouse when they took leave.

“One time, I was filling in for a colleague in central supply and he unfortunately passed away whilst he was on leave! Long story short, I ended up getting his job in the central Supply department,” said Wayne.

“Eventually an opportunity arose for me to work in a Supply consultancy firm, but my first gig was consulting for Mackay Sugar for two years, so I guess I never really left! After that, I was re-employed in a permanent role as Contracts Coordinator, which is when this 25-year tenure began, and that’s what I’ve been doing ever since.

“The whole time I’ve been at Mackay Sugar, I’ve been extremely fortunate to have great managers, and that’s been a really positive thing for me because I’ve had job security and I feel like I’ve been part of the family,” shares Wayne.

“I also really enjoy the work, and I enjoy the people – the comradery and the community. The sugar industry seems to create people who become entrenched in the industry and how important it is for the community,” he explains.

When asked about his views for the future of Mackay Sugar, Wayne explained, “I’ve seen a lot of changes in my time, we’ve ebbed and flowed for years, but Nordzucker assured us a future.”

When it comes to giving advice to new employees or those thinking of joining the Mackay Sugar team, Wayne suggests, “We need new ideas and people who think ahead, but it’s so important for newcomers to realise the world we live in [in Mackay Sugar] before rushing to change it.

“Our industry has so much history and is unique in so many ways that it needs to be fully understood and appreciated before drawing conclusions – we need to build on what we have to move forward.”

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Wayne Carvolth celebrates 25 years with Mackay Sugar this month. Story and photo supplied by Mackay Sugar

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The Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce held its first B2B Brews of 2024 at Moss on Wood last week. Photo credit: Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce

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Embarking on an emotionally charged farewell, Rob Bauman and Deb McLucas cast their final gaze upon Freckle Farm, a sanctuary of regenerative agriculture that has been their beloved haven for the past 14 years.

On December 18, 2023, the torch was passed to a young farming family, who now calls the fertile land home, using it not just for cattle but also as a base for their helicopter mustering business.

Reflecting on their journey, Rob and Deb shared, "It's bittersweet. The time is right for us to move on, but the memories we've cultivated over the years make it hard to say goodbye." During their tenure, the couple transformed an old cane farm into a thriving, chemical-free pasture-based grazing enterprise, cultivating biodiverse and productive pastures.

The couple's dedication to regenerative agriculture was evident in their use of unique tools—chickens, pigs, and beef cattle—all contributing to the creation of nutritious and flavourful food. Freckle Farm's pork and eggs earned national food awards, while their Nguni grass-fed beef achieved local fame through farmers' markets and a bustling butcher shop.

Their story reached far and wide, touching the lives of thousands through farm tours, media features, and even a spotlight on "Better Homes and Gardens." Fast Ed himself cooked up a Freckle Farm special in the front paddock, broadcasting the couple's commitment to sustainable and delicious food.

Proud of their accomplishments in the regenerative agriculture and local food space, Deb and Rod said, "It was hard work, but connecting with our community and producing some of the best food on earth was reward enough." However, their proudest achievement remains raising three remarkable young women, all passionate about agriculture and ready to forge their paths in the industry.

With their daughters now settled in exciting ag/equine roles for 2024, the timing was right for the family to embark on a new challenge. Returning to their Dysart property, where their farming journey began in 2005, they aim to work towards a regenerative cropping system in a broadacre environment.

As they close the Freckle Farm chapter, the family extends heartfelt thanks to friends, colleagues, supporters, and followers. "Our success was a collective effort, fuelled by the shared passion of fellow farmers, consultants, employees, and countless others we were fortunate to cross paths with over the years," they expressed. "We have loved every moment and will cherish our precious memories forever."

In parting, the family encourages continued support for local farming families by attending the Mackay Farmers' Market.

As the sun sets on Freckle Farm, the legacy of regeneration, community, and delicious food lives on in the hearts and fields they've touched. Rob, Deb, Hannah, Laura and Megan bid farewell, leaving behind a landscape richer in memories and a community nourished by their dedication.

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The Freckle Farm family, Rob, Deb, Hannah, Laura and Megan. Photos supplied

Rob with Freckle Farm’s free range chickens

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THE MECC’s auditorium, North Foyer and Lynette Denny Space will remain closed for an extended period.

The rest of the MECC, including the Convention Centre, will re-open from next week.

Community Services Director Janine McKay said sections of the MECC experienced significant water damage over the Christmas period during heavy storms.

She said work to assess the damage and remediation works required had been undertaken since then and that process was still ongoing.

“We are still awaiting a final report on the remediation works required, but it is apparent that the auditorium, North Foyer, and Lynette Denny Space, will need to remain closed for an extended period for remediation works.

“Our staff are contacting clients with upcoming bookings in affected areas to work with them on what arrangements can be made.”

Ms McKay said she was unable to determine how long the closure would be at this stage.

“We’re still awaiting that advice in the final assessment, but wanted to contact clients affected as soon as possible,’’ she said.

Council is in discussions with insurers about the damage. There is no estimate of costs of the remediation works at this stage.

The Convention Centre, which will re-open from next week, includes the plenary hall, meeting rooms and adjacent foyer.

Foodspace Mackay, which had temporarily relocated to the MECC North Foyer while works are being undertaken at Artspace Mackay, remains closed.

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The MECC Auditorium will remain closed for a period of time due to storm damage. Photo credit: Liz Andrews Photography

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