In a bid to enhance water-based tourism along the Pioneer River, the Mackay Regional Council is gearing up for the completion of the Pioneer River Pontoon by the end of February, weather permitting. This exciting development opens doors for ambitious businesses keen on operating commercial ventures from the pontoon.

Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to submit their applications promptly, as the deadline for tenders is set for Friday, February 8. To access the tender documents and initiate the application process, registration on QTenders is a prerequisite, and aspiring applicants can join for free. For more details and to submit applications, visit https://bit.ly/48rQ1dH.

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Construction of the Pioneer River Pontoon is expected to be complete by the end of February. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Temporary Closure of Brisbane Street Fishing Platform

Simultaneously, the Mackay Regional Council has announced the temporary closure of the Brisbane Street Fishing Platform, effective from January 16, until mid-February. The brief hiatus is necessary to facilitate preparation work for the delivery and installation of the new pontoon gangway.

During this temporary closure, land-based anglers are urged to explore alternative options, with the Carlyle Street Fishing Platform remaining accessible for those eager to cast their lines. This strategic closure aligns with the ongoing efforts of the Mackay Regional Council to improve waterfront infrastructure, ensuring a seamless transition for both local anglers and future water-based tourism endeavours.

As the Pioneer River evolves to accommodate diverse recreational activities, these developments mark a significant step forward in shaping the region's aquatic landscape. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to seize this opportunity, and anglers are advised to adjust their plans accordingly during the temporary closure period.

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The Brisbane Street Fishing Platform will be temporarily closed until mid-February

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In a bid to foster connection and support within the rapidly expanding Northern Beaches community in Mackay, a new initiative is set to launch – the Northern Beaches Community Playgroup. This free playgroup opportunity aims to provide a welcoming and relaxed space for parents and children to come together, play, and strengthen their sense of community.

Rebecca Cooper, one of the organisers, expressed her excitement for the upcoming launch.

"We are thrilled to bring this opportunity to the area, further complementing the existing playgroups and providing a new option for parents and children to connect and play in nature,” she said.

The official launch is scheduled for Tuesday, January 30th, from 9:15 am to 11:15 am at the Northern Beaches Community Hall, located at 24 Wallace Street, Bucasia. Ms Cooper encourages everyone to attend: "Our launch is a free event, and we invite everyone to join us for a delightful morning filled with activities and the chance to learn more about what our playgroup has to offer."

The playgroup is made possible through the generous support of grants, including the Mackay Regional Council Community Grant and the BHP/BMA Benefiting My Community Program.

"The grants have allowed us to bring in various activity providers and offer a mix of indoor and outdoor play, creating a dynamic experience for both parents and children,” Ms Cooper said.

Sessions will alternate between the Community Hall in Bucasia and the Eimeo Esplanade, with a variety of activities planned, including sessions with providers such as Active Squirtz, Kids Yoga, Wild Puppets, Toddler Time Soft Play Hire, and the First Five Forever program.

"We aim to provide not just a playgroup but a holistic experience, where families can connect, children can play, and everyone can strengthen their sense of community,” Ms Cooper added.

What sets this playgroup apart is its commitment to creating a sense of belonging and providing outreach services to the community. Ms Cooper highlights the collaboration with organisations like The Neighbourhood Hub and Mackay Connected Beginnings, as well as the monthly visit from the Qld Health Child Health Nurse, as key components of their support system.

As a Northern Beaches resident, she understands the unique challenges faced by the community and said that the playgroup will become like a 'village' for a diverse range of families.

"We are consciously aware of how it can be an isolating time with a new baby or a young family. Our playgroup is here to bridge that gap and provide a supportive space for everyone.

“We are extremely thankful to Mackay Regional Council, Play Matters Qld, BMA and Greater Whitsunday Communities for their support and involvement so far.”

Follow ‘'Northern Beaches Community Playgroup (Mackay)’ on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with the playgroups development and for a timetable of activities.

What: Northern Beaches Community Playgroup launch

When: Tuesday, January 30, 9:15am

Where: Northern Beaches Community Hall, 24 Wallace Street, Bucasia

Cost: Free event

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As the Northern Beaches Community Playgroup gears up for its launch at the Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia, families anticipate a vibrant and supportive addition to their community life. Photo supplied

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Mackaybids farewell to a beloved figure as Charlie "Chook"Deguara, former owner of Deguara Supermarket, peacefully passed awaysurrounded by his family on Saturday, December 30, 2023. His legacyas a respected businessman and the warm-hearted proprietor of a localinstitution profoundly impacted the community.

DaughterAndrea Hale shared the news, inviting friends and acquaintances tojoin the family in farewelling their beloved Chooky at St Bernard'sCatholic Church on Klumpp Road, Upper Mount Gravatt. The service willtake place on Friday, January 19, at 10:30 am. Afterward, acelebration of Chook's life will be held at the Mount Gravatt BowlsClub.

Chookcelebrated his 80th birthday in June, surrounded by an abundance offamily, creating cherished memories that now serve as a testament toa life well-lived. Andrea shared that pneumonia, compounded by theloss of his wife Cheryl, eventually took him. The DeguaraSupermarket, under Chook's stewardship, was more than just a store—itwas a cornerstone of the community, where locals gathered for morethan just groceries. Many locals remember him as a kind man and arespected businessman, creating a lasting bond between the Deguarafamily and the Mackay community.

Forthose unable to attend the service in person, the family inviteseveryone to join via live stream on Friday, January 19, at 10:30 am.The live stream link can be accessed athttps://www.tastefultransitions.com.au/charlie-deguara/.

Chookleaves behind a legacy that extends beyond the shelves of asupermarket, touching the lives of those who had the privilege ofknowing him. Mackay mourns the loss of a local icon and extendsheartfelt condolences to the Deguara family during this time ofgrief.

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The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred on Pleystowe Connection Road in Mackay on January 10.

Initial investigations indicate the rider, a 27-year-old Beaconsfield man, was riding as part of a group when he collided with a trailer attached to a vehicle travelling north just after 1.40pm on the John Cook Bridge.

Police confirmed that the rider was a learner rider, travelling with a group of learner riders who were under instruction at the time of the incident.

“The other riders and members of the public came to his aid, however he succumbed to his injuries at the scene,” a police spokesperson said.

The rider was travelling south at the time of the accident on the dual-purpose bridge which also has railway lines on the southbound lane. There was heavy rain which police said may have been a factor.

Pleystowe Connection Road was closed for several hours as investigators carried out their work and traffic was diverted.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have relevant dash-camera footage, or CCTV from the area, to contact them.

Investigations are ongoing.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24 hours per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

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Pleystowe Bridge. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Infusing Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) with a shot of vitality, 31 emerging medical talents arrived last week. As the first-year doctors undergo their orientation, they stand at the threshold of a captivating journey through diverse rotations, commencing their healing odyssey on Monday, January 22. The prognosis? An injection of fresh perspectives and limitless potential in the heart of healthcare.

They have been welcomed to the health service by Chief Executive Susan Gannon and Chief Medical Officer Dr Charles Pain.

“It’s exciting to welcome first-year doctors to our team and support them as they begin their career with Mackay HHS,” Ms Gannon said.

“They’re not only bolstering our workforce and making a real difference to our patients, but they’re building the foundations of medical careers which will serve our community and Queensland for decades to come."

Dr Pain said interns would benefit from exposure to a wide range of clinical cases with support from highly skilled medical professionals.

"We have a very supportive medical workforce to support our interns as they undertake rotations in a range of areas including emergency, cardiology, orthopaedics, anaesthetics, obstetrics and gynaecology, intensive care, general surgical and mental health," he said.

"We aim to provide excellent training experiences and we hope many of our 2024 interns will also choose to build their future careers in the Mackay region."

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Meet Mackay’s Future Healers: A dynamic cohort of 31 interns injecting fresh passion and expertise into the heart of Mackay Hospital and Health Service. Ready to revolutionise healthcare one rotation at a time! @Mackay Hospital and Health Service

A dynamic cohort of 31 interns injecting fresh passion and expertise into the heart of the Mackay Hospital and Health Service. Photo supplied

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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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