The Young Widows Support Group are hosting their next catch up and widows of the region are welcome to attend and bond with individuals who understand.

Organised by Ashlea Langston and Lisa Cherie, the pair have established the Youth Widowed Catch Up in order to promote healing and help each other.

The term ‘widow’ covers a broad understanding, and everyone is warmly welcome to attend the catch ups, no matter gender, relationship status.

“Age is no barrier either,” Ashlea explains.

“Your age or background doesn't define your journey, and we're here to support you every step of the way.”

First Light Widowed Association was established in 2016, with three young widows coming together over social media and connecting through common grief and sharing their experiences. Since then, the association has grown, travelled across Australia, and supports thousands of widows through shared connection.

“Let's come together, share stories, and build a supportive community. We can't wait to meet you all and embark on this journey of healing and connection,” Ashlea said.

The upcoming Catch Up is informal, non-structured events where every guests is welcome, safe and supported.

WHAT: Young Widowed Catch Up

WHERE: Airlie Beach

WHEN: Sunday December 17, 12pm to 4pm

Young Widowed Catch Up is a supportive environment to connect with people with similar experiences. Image: Shutterstock

The draw of the year is finally here!

Airlie Beach Hotel are gearing up to draw one of the two 2023 Toyota Corollas next week in a competition more exciting than anything else.

TO ENTER Just spend $25 in The Pub, The Bar, or any ABH Liquor & Tobacco merchants bottle shop and be in our gaming room Wednesday & Thursday between 3pm & 7pm and Friday & Saturday between 4pm & 8pm with your members card inserted correctly for your chance to WIN. Prize draws every 20 minutes.

Entries have been tallied and with massive prizes on offer, it is no wonder that the Airlie Beach Hotel is cheering with the first of two Toyota Corolla Ascent Sports Hatch in Glacier White going to a lucky local winner.

What a prize to call yours just in time for Christmas!

How to claim your prize?

Winner must be at the draw on the night to claim the prize.

Once announced, the winner has two minutes to meet with Airlie Beach Hotel staff and claim their winning, or the car will be redrawn for a new winner.

The fun doesn’t stop there, with the second car being drawn on June 29 2024, with the chance to win doubling.

WHAT: Airlie Beach Hotel Car and Prize Draw

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday, December 23 at 9pm

The Proserpine Community Markets are done and dusted for 2023, with all attendees stocking up for their Christmas celebrations and for the summer break.

With Santa making a special pitstop during the event, the entire family was well entertained, and everyone came home with a special treat or two.

“It was such a wonderful event,” said Tarnia Patton, Proserpine Community Market Coordinator.

“Our Christmas market is always a great market, but I say that this one was our best market yet.”

With close to 90 different stall holders on offer for shoppers, it was safe to say that Christmas shopping was sorted.

“I had quite a few people come up to me and say that they’d saved all their Christmas shopping for the markets, which is what we hoped for.

“The point of the markets is to keep money local, and for small business, and not to those big companies where the money does not stay in our communities.”

Activities on offer included plenty of children’s entertainment, including Wildlife Whitsundays, face painting, and balloon animals.

“And we are excited to announce that our next markets, in April, we will be trialling a new location, which will be completely indoors. I’m excited to offer better security from the weather for our stall holders,” Tarnia explained.

Fun and merriment had at Proserpine Christmas Markets. Photos supplied

A Celebration At Mackay Birth Centre

Birthed from a legacy of nurturing care, families, midwives, and supporters gathered at Mackay Base Hospital for an afternoon soirée celebrating the stork's long-time landing pad, the Mackay Birth Centre.

Amidst memories and baby giggles, they embraced the past while eagerly anticipating the swag of changes ahead in the centre's evolution.

Chief executive Susan Gannon, leading the celebrations, praised the midwives and families for making the centre a cherished part of the community. But with change gestating for next year, plans are underway to ensure its legacy continues beyond its 'due date'!

Marking Memories Before Swaddling Into A New Era

About 50 people enjoyed a relaxing afternoon in the grounds of Mackay Base Hospital on Saturday to celebrate the legacy of the Mackay Birth Centre and prepare for the next chapter in its development.

The event was hosted by the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) in conjunction with the Friends of the Mackay Birth Centre, and attendees enjoyed afternoon tea and the sharing of memories, as well as face-painting and lawn games.

Mackay HHS chief executive Susan Gannon thanked birth centre midwives and families for their attendance.

“More than 3500 babies have been ushered into the world by our Mackay Birth Centre midwives over the past 29 years and this legacy of providing the women of our region with a safe and nurturing birthing option will continue,” Ms Gannon said.

“I want to congratulate the Friends of the Mackay Birth Centre for their passion and resilience as we work through the process together.”

The current Mackay Birth Centre facility, which has been through three earlier stages of development, will be removed to make way for the development of an additional wing of the hospital. Birth Centre clients will continue to receive care with their midwives in a dedicated space within the Women’s Health Unit, until a new birth centre is constructed off site from the Mackay Base Hospital.

Work on the $250 million expansion will commence early next year.

The Friends of the Mackay Birth Centre will create a book of birth centre experiences and memories ahead of the 30th anniversary of the service next year. Anyone interested in participating is asked to contact The Friends via email to friendsmackaybirthcentre@gmail.com

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Attending the Mackay Birth Centre Celebration event last Saturday are, back from left, midwife Marion Fazakerley, Friends of Mackay Birth Centre representatives Nakia Watters and girls and Hayley Wilson, former midwives Rosie Refalo and Robyn Husband, Friends Annemaree Nolan and Karla Ball, midwife Donna Towers. Front from left are midwives Sarah Baker, Jaclyn Comin and Makenzie Falzon and former midwife Sue McPherson. Photo supplied: MHHS

MHH Board Deputy Chair Kerry Maley and MHHS CE Susan Gannon

Midwife Jaclyn Comin with birth centre bub Kian Shenfield

Sally and David Wood with daughters Phoebe and Imogen – born at the birth centre in 2003 and 2005

Community members gathered at Mackay Base Hospital to honour the Mackay Birth Centre's legacy and share cherished memories during a fun celebration

Balancing Child Safety And Freedom In Library Resources

The Mackay Regional Council finds itself at the centre of a heated debate concerning the delicate balance between providing unfettered access to educational resources in libraries and safeguarding children from potentially explicit or inappropriate content.

The recent assertions by the "Worldwide Rally For Freedom Mackay" group, led by Tine McDonald, underscore a growing concern about the presence of what they term as pornographic literature within local libraries. This contentious issue pits the imperative to protect young library users from accessing sensitive material against the principles of information access and freedom, emphasising the need for a delicate equilibrium between these vital aspects.

Key spokesperson Tine McDonald expressed her concerns at a Mackay Regional Council ordinary meeting, standing up in the public gallery saying, "Today I draw attention to the fact that it appears not one member of council is prepared to take on the fight for our children." McDonald further highlighted the lack of concern displayed by the council towards explicit content in libraries, even detailing explicit excerpts from books, leading to a pause in the live feed.

“Not one of you can say you are unaware of the pornographic literature available to our children in the Mackay Regional Libraries, because we have sat here displaying the images, enlarged and in full colour, and each of you have received emails regarding this issue, but you didn’t seem to think these graphics offensive at all,” she said.

Highlighting the Commonwealth Classification Act of 1995, McDonald emphasised the responsibility of publishers, including those making material available to the public, to have potentially offensive content classified. McDonald accused the council of subjecting children to explicit material, a notion she equated with child grooming, stressing the need for zero tolerance towards such exposure.

McDonald questioned, “I know that many of you have children and grandchildren which leads me to wonder about your level of concern. These are your flesh and blood and I can’t believe you are not concerned that they are being exposed to this filth?”

She accused councillors of putting their pay packets before the welfare of local children.

“You get one shot at raising your precious children, don’t waste it for a pay packet. There is life outside of council,” she added.

“It takes a village to raise a child and, in my opinion, this village is doing a damnable job.”

Responding to these issues, Community and Client Services director Janine McKay said the Worldwide Rally for Freedom Mackay group had raised concerns about certain publications in Mackay Libraries and council, including CEO Scott Owen, had responded to them on multiple occasions.

She said council took its obligations to provide library users and staff with a safe environment, free from exposure to unlawful material or unacceptable threats, extremely seriously.

“All items at council’s Libraries are made available in line with recommended age range ratings, and we work diligently to ensure that items made available are compliant with all advice guidelines.

“Council does not have any publications available that contravene Classification Review Board advice.”

Ms McKay said as a condition of Libraries membership, any children under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when joining the library.

She said parents or guardians were responsible for items borrowed by those junior members.

“We acknowledge that not all publications will be suitable for, or accepted by, all library members. However, accessing them is a personal choice.

“It is important that libraries provide an unbiased source of knowledge, information, and ideas through a comprehensive and balanced collection.

“Library collections must be as diverse as the community they serve.”

In their response, the council reiterated their dedication to maintaining balanced and diverse library collections, promoting access to knowledge, information, and ideas while underscoring the personal responsibility involved in accessing library resources.

This exchange has spotlighted the balancing act between the right to access information and the responsibility to protect young library users from potentially sensitive or explicit content.

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Tine McDonald holding literature available from local libraries saying the “pornographic” material should not be able to be accessed by children

Hannah Farrar took to Mackay Crime Watch Facebook page on 28th November, but instead of reporting a crime, she reported a heartwarming act of kindness.

A young P-plater driving a Toyota single-cab cruiser hopped out of his vehicle in the pouring rain. The man ran over to an elderly gentleman on a mobility scooter, who was waiting to cross the road at Sydney Street Markets.

The man provided him with an umbrella to shield him, as he was being soaked by the rain.

Hannah commented, “Just to see the kindness that young man showed was a great way to start the day.

“It’s great to see our young people going out of their way to help others, it’s the nice side of our community that we often don’t see or don’t hear much about.

“To that young man, well done for thinking of others and going to their aid, as I could see you went out of your way to try to assist. You should be proud.”

Many locals on the forum also commended the young man’s efforts, sharing their own stories of positivity they themselves have witnessed in the Mackay community.

This goes to show that kindness is alive and well in our beloved region, and that simple gestures can make someone’s day.

It's the most wonderful time of the year, right? Glitter, twinkling lights, and the aroma of Nan’s secret recipe Christmas cake fills the air. But let's get real; sometimes, the festive season isn't all sleigh bells and mistletoe.

Life's unpredictability can throw us a curveball or two.

The festive season is often painted with a brush of joy, but behind the glittering facade, the realities of life's financial strains echo loudly. I've found myself, much like many others, in the tightening grip of these challenges. The cost-of-living crisis is an ever-present weight on the shoulders of many, sometimes forcing unexpected creativity just to get through to the next pay day. A lot of us can relate to the ‘mum hustle’ to make things happen.

Scrolling through local community boards on social media, I see a symphony of pleas. Parents reaching out, struggling to provide food for the table, let alone Christmas presents.

In one way or another I believe we are all starting to feel the pinch as the cost of everything continues to climb around us. It’s like a new kind of ‘me too’ movement, one where we admit we have been finding things hard. There’s no shame in admitting that. You’re certainly not alone.

In an effort to help those who may be struggling this Christmas, on page 10, our team has curated a guide for those seeking support. From places to enjoy Christmas lunch, to being able to put presents under the tree and fill the pantry with staples, there are many organisations extending a helping hand.

For those in a position to donate to those in need, the organisations listed on this page could sure use your help, offering hope during this trying time. Christmas, beyond its material trappings, embodies the resilient spirit that unites us all, reminding us of the enduring power of community, especially in the face of adversity.

Amanda

Seven Mackay businesses have been given a helping hand to breathe new life into their building facades.

The businesses have each received a grant under Mackay Regional Council’s Facade Improvement initiative, which has been in place for nine years and supports quality facade improvement works.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Facade Improvement Grant was a collaborative effort between council and local property owners and business operators.

“By working together, we strive to encourage the revitalisation of commercial facades, infusing new vibrancy into the region's business districts,” Mayor Williamson said.

“By providing a co-contribution towards planned works, it makes it easier for businesses to embark on the enhancement projects they envision,” he said.

Successful applicants were eligible for a co-contribution of up to 50 per cent of the total project costs to a maximum of $5000.

The grant covers a wide range of improvement projects such as painting of facades and exterior walls, restoration of historic buildings, installation of new exterior business signage, renovation of entranceways and installation of external awnings, lighting and street-visible windows.

Successful grant recipient Renee Kitto, of Sprinkles and Love Cake Emporium on Nebo Road, said the upgrade of the facade would bring a whole new look to an old building.

“Many people have known and loved this shop as Chatt-A-Ways for many years,” Ms Kitto said.

“We want to bring all new memories to this shop by making it a more elegant and up-market place to visit and relax. We want them to feel totally at home while they are here,” she said.

Ms Kitto said the grant would allow them to paint the exterior of the building, install new external signage and tint the windows, making the shop less glary inside as well as more energy efficient.

Simon Ross, from Ninety-Five, at 95 Victoria Street was also successful in receiving a grant.

“I bought the building a few years ago and have undertaken a major renovation of the interior, which I’m now using as the head office for my business, Minespec Parts,” Mr Ross said.

“The space looks fantastic inside and is great central location for our sales staff to do their work and meet with clients,” he said.

“This grant will enable me to do a full facade makeover, with new signage as well a security alarm system.”

Successful applicants in the 2023/24 round are:

• Whitsunday Design Drafting Pty Ltd, Gregory Street - removal of the damaged shade awning, repair and restoration of the roof overhang, replacement of fascia boards with updated materials, installation of energy-efficient light fixtures, addition of security lighting, refresh the appearance of the marble feature wall, painting of the brick exterior, utilising a graffiti-resistant paint to prevent vandalism and maintain a clean appearance and installation of new building signage.

• Goanna Brewing, Carlyle Street - installation of business signage strategically positioned in front of an illuminated decorative screen.

• Sprinkles and Love Cake Emporium, Nebo Road – installation of new branded signage and application of window tinting to front facade windows and painting of the front facade.

• Soulfood, MacAlister Street – installation of new business signage above the window of store fronts, eye catching window wrap on our shopfront windows, as well as replacing a damaged hanging sign above the footpath.

• Flavours of Vietnam, Nelson Street – installation of new fascia signage, the application of new window decals, box signage at the main entryway, and update the exterior door entrance.

• Bings, Victoria Street – installation of illuminated sign lightboxes to prominently display the business's brand and indicate designated customer parking areas.

• ‘Ninety-Five’, Victoria Street - updated exterior flashing, structural board, timber trim and weather shield paint intend to compliment the overarching modern and sleek concept of the recently renovated interior.

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Sprinkles and Love Cake Emporium co-owners Renee Kitto, left, and Yasmine Aughton are excited about putting the finishing touches to their business thanks to council’s Facade Improvement Grant

Urban Greening Strategy Takes Root In The Northern Beaches

While many residents are starting to put up their Christmas trees at home, Mackay Regional Council is planting some trees of their own in the Northern Beaches.

Council will be planting 74 street trees along Eimeo and Blacks Beach roads this month.

This is the first major planting project of the Mackay Urban Greening Strategy, with more to come in the future.

The project supports the strategy’s vision of growing cooler, greener and more connected neighbourhoods. Mayor Williamson said the region’s urban vegetation cover was relatively low and declining in some areas.

“One of the primary goals of council’s Mackay Urban Greening Strategy is ensure that more trees are planted than removed each year,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We want to achieve an average of 40 per cent tree canopy coverage over pathways, public parks and council-owned open spaces by 2042,” he said.

“We currently have less than 20 per cent coverage over our pathways, so this is a positive step forward in providing more shade cover for residents in the growing Northern Beaches area.

“It will help in providing pedestrians with a much nicer experience walking to school and accessing any other essential services by footpath.”

There will be no impact to pedestrians or traffic as part of this work.

Ratepayers who want to add more greenery to their own gardens are reminded that they can sign up to council’s Gardens for Wildlife program to collect 10 free native plants for their property.

Visit www.mackay.qld.gov.au/gardensforwildlife for more details.

Stay up to date on all the latest urban greening news by subscribing to the Urban Greening eNewsletter at www.connectingmackay.com.au/urban-greening. The eNewsletter will notify you of upcoming native plant giveaways and sales, and tree planting projects, activities and events.

Grapevine Group have launched their annual campaign ‘Be Suicide Alert this Christmas’ hoping to remind everyone to keep an eye on colleagues and loved ones who might find the festive season mentally challenging.

The Mackay, Whitsunday and Isaac community can do their bit by downloading the Grapevine Group app which contains the sixteen warning signs of suicide.

Community members can do their part by being aware of these signs and making themselves familiar with the local suicide prevention services.

As part of this campaign, which has been proudly supported by DGH, Grapevine Group, Mackay Regional Council’s Mayor, Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, Resource Industry Network and Queensland Police Service have combined to produce a video to get a life-saving message to the community.

“It’s so important we take the time to check on those around us during the festive season - for anyone that has lost a loved one, experienced a relationship breakdown or going through child custody issues, Christmas can be especially difficult.

“If you know anyone experiencing this, just show them kindness and take a couple of minutes to familiarise yourself with the signs to keep an eye out for,” said Grapevine Group President Debbie Knight.

As he does every year, Mayor Greg Williamson reminds us that Christmas is a time that can be very tough for the most vulnerable in our community.

“If you know somebody who fits into this category, please learn the warning signs by downloading the Grapevine Group app or visiting their website.

“Your assistance might be the greatest gift that you can give this Christmas,” said Mayor Greg Williamson.

Other stressors might also add to the festive season, like bills and the increased cost of living.

“Financial pressures can make many in the community feel it a lot more this Christmas than in past years,” said Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce President Geoff O’Connor.

Resource Industry Network General Manager Dean Kirkwood has already downloaded the Grapevine Group’s app to make sure he is aware of the resources available at his fingertips.

“It couldn’t be easier with the Grapevine Group app - it provides all the information I need to access local help and allows the community and organisations to sign up for free suicide prevention training” said Mr Kirkwood.

The vital local suicide prevention services on the Grapevine Group app can also be found at www.grapevinegroup.org.au

Mental health service providers:

• Lifeline 13 11 14 | www.lifeline.org.au/gethelp

• Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 | www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au

• Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 | www.kidshelp.com.au

• MensLine 1300 78 99 78 | www.mensline.org.au

Gargett branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association celebrated their 75th anniversary on 20th November, with a luncheon to commemorate the special occasion that comes once-in-a-lifetime.

A cake cutting ceremony was held, alongside a day of reminiscence and nostalgia as members and their families looked back fondly on the seventy-five years of service that local women have dedicated to the branch.

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QCWA Pioneer Division treasurer Sharon Price (right) was at the luncheon with Danni Quast, (centre) and Barbara Plumb (left) from Sarina.

Branch treasurer Maree Head (left) and member Browyn Draheim greeted visitors to Gargett QCWA’s 75th anniversary luncheon

Alice Jensen of Owens Creek (left) and Anne McVicar of Mirani

Former Gargett district residents Marianne Webster (left) and Doyia Webster

Gargett branch members cut the 75th birthday cake

Photos supplied

A special presentation ceremony took place at Banksia Scout Den in Andergrove on 27th November, celebrating the Australian Scout Award (ASA).

Winners of the ASA included Scouts Avianca Johnson, Bindi Nongsra, Ebony Anderson and Logan Perkins.

Scout Leader Joanne Hamilton said that all four recipients worked extremely hard to complete the requirements of the ASA and congratulated them for sticking it out. The recipients have displayed extreme persistence and perseverance, in both understanding this new award scheme and getting through the COVID years.

Earning the ASA is no easy task. Some of the activities they were required to achieve were Stage 5 Level in bushcraft, bushwalking and camping, ten advancements in Outdoor Adventure Skills, six special interest badges, attending a Leadership Course and plan and take part in an Adventurous Journey - which is a three day, two night hike. The final requirement was to complete a personal reflection.

Bindi’s adventurous journey was a hike through Eungella visiting The Diggings and Crediton and Avie, Ebony and Logan completed their hikes along the Conway Circuit through the Conway National Park.

Avie invited Rover Scout Kat Allen to present her with the Award. Bindi, Ebony and Logan invited Scout Leader Joanne Hamilton to present theirs.

Avie Johnson started scouting as a Joey Scout in 2015 and has progressed through the levels and she will advance to the Venturer Scout Section. She has enjoyed the many hikes, she said it was amazing being a part of the JOTA JOTI planning committee, attending the Leap 2023 camp in Townsville which is like a mini Jamboree.

Bindi Nongsra started scouting in the Cub Scout Section and progressed to the scout section. She found achieving the Special Interest Awards (SIA) and the planning for hikes etc somewhat of a challenge at times, however once she completed the requirements she said, she was amazed how much she had learned along the way and the friends she has made.

Ebony Anderson said that starting in the scout section with the new award scheme and the lockdown for COVID and learning how to do activities demonstrated by Patrol Leaders online was a challenge. Ebony said she has grown in knowledge and skills immensely without realising it. Ebony said all the tears, groaning, and non-stop complaining when going on the 3 day hikes turned into laughter and memorable times.

Logan Perkins started in scouting in the Cub Scout Section and progressed to the Scout Section. He said he learned immensely from attending the Leadership Course. He really enjoyed the Water Activities, paddling, canoeing etc. At the presentation Logan encouraged the younger scouts to take as many opportunities as possible like he did in his journey in scouting.

All Awardees thanked their leaders and their parents in encouraging and supporting them in their endeavour to earn the Australian Scout Award.

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Ebony, Avie, Bindi and Logan at the Australian Scout Award ceremony

Photo supplied

Excited Prep-Ready Kids and their families celebrated their graduation on 27 November 2023 at Ocean International. The children had all completed the Prep-Ready Kids Program delivered by The Neighbourhood Hub.

Prep-Ready Kids Program is for children aged 3.5 to 5 years old and aims to prepare them for primary school. The Program is funded by the Multicultural Affairs through the Department of Environment and Science.

The Program allows children to learn some of the basic skills they will build on as they enter primary school including numbers, letters, listening, comprehension, cooperation, socialising, experiments, physical literacy, excursions and more.

Celebrations on the day included watching a photo compilation of the group’s achievements over the year, a visit from Santa, and celebratory games. Special guest, Taylor Warrell, Transition to Prep Coordinator from Victoria Park State School, gave an inspiring message to the graduating children and their families. The graduating children received their framed certificates and medals from student representatives from Victoria Park State School.

Ela Maglente, the Program Coordinator has worked with the children throughout 2023.

“We’ve had an enjoyable learning experience this year,” Ms Maglente said.

“We run the sessions as if they were happening in the Prep class rooms at school. The children excelled in this setup and instantly bonded with each other.

“This also allowed us an opportunity to provide activities which focused on parents such as fitness sessions, information sessions, workshops, and other activities which the parents thoroughly enjoyed and, in the process, found friendship and connections with one another.”

Ms Maglente said the end of the year event is always a special one which families look forward to.

“This year is a celebration of the children and parents’ hard work and resilience.

“The success of the Program is also made possible with the help of our lovely volunteers who generously share their time and efforts. It was wonderful to see the families come together and celebrate what has been a fruitful year for the multicultural families.”

The Neighbourhood Hub is taking expressions of interest for its class of 2024 and encourages anyone who is interested – either of Australian or multicultural background – to email Ela at elam@tnhub.org.au.”

Prep-Ready Kids is delivered at 43 Shakespeare St, East Mackay every Monday (school term only) from 9:30 am to 11:30 am.

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Photos supplied: The Neighbourhood Hub

Mackay Women’s Services Bring Christmas Joy To Survivors of Domestic Violence

Mackay Women’s Services are a strong pillar in the Mackay region, not only offering support and resources for women facing domestic violence (DV) situations, but also an annual Christmas Hamper Drive to lift spirits in the lead-up to the festive season.

For many women facing the uphill battle, these hampers are a positive note to finish off the year. Many women have children that are forced to go without when the going gets tough, and Mackay Women’s Services are striving to change this narrative as December rolls around.

In 2022, Mackay Women’s Services put together 293 hampers. This year, they are expecting numbers to exceed the 300 mark.

Mackay Women’s Services have started early this year to encourage volunteering and advertising with local radio station Star 101.8 to spread the word.

Community Engagement and Fundraising and Events Coordinator Julie said, “We send out letters at the beginning of November, we advertise with Star FM who have been on board with us for the last five years, for three weeks every year.

“It's one less thing for those women and children to worry about. A woman might have gone through a DV situation and is now living in a hotel with her kids. So it's the last thing on her mind,” She said.

Julie couldn’t pinpoint an exact figure that the centre will be catering for this year, with the rising cost of living and housing prices, Mackay Women’s Centre is receiving a new intake of clients every single day.

“More than half of the women that we see are struggling over the Christmas period this year. And it's not just women that have gone through DV. Every single person is struggling with it,” Julie said.

Hampers provide the essential items, but are focused more-so on what most people would usually have to eat on Christmas Day, like a ham for the family to enjoy. The centre also caters to the kids, including treats such as icey-poles, chocolate and cordial to add a special touch.

This amazing annual feat wouldn’t be possible without the support of local organisations and community members rallying behind the cause, who put in their time and supplies to make Christmas magic come alive.

Julie added, “We have that much support, not just from organisations and businesses, just from community members in general.

“With our community able to bring a bit of relaxation for these women, it's one less thing for them to worry about.”

Women who are facing domestic violence can utilise the centre’s services, who also offer counselling and laundry services, as well as a hot shower and a warm meal.

To assist Mackay Women’s Service in their efforts, you can collect food items, food/fuel vouchers, toiletries and gifts for mothers and their children which will then be made into a hamper for vulnerable families. The service kindly requests gifts/vouchers for teenagers and mothers, as they currently have an abundance of gifts for small children already.

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Mackay Women's Services annual Christmas Hamper Drive

Photo credit: Star 101.9

Mackay Women’s Services getting their hampers ready

Photo credit: Mackay Women’s Services

The festive season is a joyous occasion, but for many people this time of year can be emotionally and financially taxing, with stress relating to family, isolation, and securing the funds to provide themselves a meaningful experience on Christmas Day.

It is paramount that people can access safe spaces to feel welcome in, so they can truly enjoy the holiday season without any pressure. If you’re feeling the pinch and doing it tough this year, read on to discover the range of free events and support services available this holiday season, so you can join your local community in celebration.

● The Neighbourhood Hub are hosting their Community Christmas Lunch on 13th December, join them at 4 George Street from 10am to 11:30am.

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● Christmas hampers are available to women and their families who have utilised the Mackay Women’s Services, sponsored by Star FM. Register to receive yours by calling (07) 4953 1788 or visit 418A Shakespeare Street.

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● NewLife Church Food Hand Up will be donating hampers to those in need. The service operates every week on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9:30am to 11am and Fridays 9:30am to 10:30am, closed between Christmas and New Years Day. All are welcome, and people with the ability to are encouraged to donate in the leadup to the festive season.

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● Washing doesn’t take a holiday with Orange Sky Mackay, who will be operating their free laundry services on the morning of Christmas Day, from 7am to 11am at 14 Juliet Street. There will be a free breakfast available at the start of the shift, giving people the chance to get their washing done in time for lunch.

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● Speaking of lunch, Roshni Indian Restaurant will once again be hosting their seventh annual ‘No One Eats Alone’ Christmas Lunch from 11am to 1pm on 164 Victoria Street.

The team at Roshni’s are inviting everyone from the local community to enjoy the lunch with all the trimmings - including ham, prawns, rolls, salad and dessert, as well as some of your favourite Indian delicacies from their menu. They will also have a small gift for those who attend! This year they encourage anyone who would like to donate to either purchase a gift voucher from Coles or Woolies so they can make sure those who are struggling can have more than just one meal during the holiday season.

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● The Salvation Army is again proud to be the founding charity partner of The Kmart Wishing Tree Appeal. This year calls on the community to support those doing it tough this festive season by dropping off a new gift under the Wishing Tree at any Kmart store, or by making a monetary contribution in-store or online. The ongoing support by the community during this time of year will make an incredible difference to the lives of so many Australians who need a helping hand this festive season.

● Stop by your local IGA store and pick up a $2 Vinnies bauble or any product with a Community Chest ticket from 8th - 25th December to give back to your local community and support families doing it tough.

● If you’re struggling to put groceries on the table, Whitsunday Foodbank is located at 14 Wood St, Mackay and is open Monday to Friday 10am till 3pm. In order to shop at the Foodbank you will require one of these cards or statuses. Centrelink Card - Seniors Card - Veterans Card - Carers Card - Disability Card etc. These cards are required by Foodbank QLD to be able to ensure they are providing cheap affordable foods to the right people. The not-for-profit organisation strives to acquire cheap food from local food distributors who have been very generous in keeping the costs down to pass savings onto the public.

● The Sarina Food Hand Up project also provides discount food parcels and assistance to families in need. It is located at Sarina’s New Life Church.

● Chances Op Shop will be providing a Christmas lunch for their homeless clients. The organisation is also arranging non-perishables for the days that Chances won’t be open to ensure our community’s most vulnerable stay fed over the holiday season. Please consider donating to this cause to support those less fortunate and if you are without a fixed abode, please visit Chances Op Shop on 7 Victoria Street for assistance, such as sleeping bags, food and other help.

● Triple M have rallied the elves to help with a toy drive for the region. Jay, Dave and the crew will collect gifts up until Wednesday 13 December, you can drop them off at Harvey Norman Mackay under the tree. The Salvation Army will collect and distribute to those in need.

● At Caneland Central there’s loads of ways to boost your shopping with good will. Grab a Christmas cake from the Lions, drop a present under the tree at Big W and see the volunteer gift wrappers to wrap your gifts for a gold coin donation for a charitable cause.

We encourage the local community to get involved and give back this Christmas, by donating items or volunteering your time to create a special memory for those who are less fortunate.

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Christmas hampers are being prepared by organisations around Mackay for Christmas Day. Photo credit: Mackay Women’s Services

The KMart Wishing Tree Appeal in Mackay was launched at Mt Pleasant Shopping Centre

Raj, Jess and daughter Lily will once again host a free Christmas lunch at their restaurant, Roshni Indian by Raj

The Triple M toy drive tree is located at Harvey Norman

Grab your Christmas Cake from the Lions at Caneland Central