Contributed By Mayor Ry Collins
Opinion Piece

The Whitsundays is known for its 74 wonderful islands but during the Christmas period our whole region was an island with our national highway cut to the south at Goorganga Plains and further to the north of Bowen.

Which is why this week’s announcement by PM Anthony Albanese that the Bruce Highway will get a $7.2 billion investment in upgrades and repairs is so exciting for our Whitsunday community. Even better is that the Federal Government have committed to work starting on priority projects this year.

I welcome this investment with open arms. From my first week in the Mayoral role, I have been very proactive in advocating for improvements to this essential route, which serves not only as a key economic corridor but also as a critical connector for families, businesses, and tourists.

For too long, Queenslanders have borne the brunt of inadequate infrastructure funding. The Bruce Highway’s deadly reputation is a stark reminder of what happens when safety is sidelined.

But with this $7.2 billion investment, we’re turning the page on a history of neglect. Safer roads mean fewer tragedies, and fewer tragedies mean stronger, more resilient communities.

This funding will enable critical upgrades such as widening narrow stretches, improving intersections, installing safety barriers, and enhancing flood resilience. These measures are not just about reducing accidents; they’re about ensuring that people get home to their loved ones safely.

It’s also an investment in our economy. A safer, more efficient Bruce Highway will enhance the flow of goods, reduce travel times, and boost tourism. It’s a win-win for both lives and livelihoods.

The federal government has also agreed to reinstate an 80:20 funding split for the national highway and the LNP Opposition leader Peter Dutton has also committed to the 80/20 funding agreement.

I will be following up my recent conversations with Infrastructure and Transport Minster Catherine King to dig deeper and ensure the “priority projects” are within our Whitsunday region.

I also have a meeting next week with the Brent Mickelberg MP, Minister for Transport and Main Roads to ensure that the State step up and play their role in the new 8—20 funding split.

Finally, I want to express my gratitude to our incredible Council roads and drainage crews.

Their swift and tireless efforts ensured that flooded roads were reopened as quickly as possible, providing a lifeline for stranded travellers in the lead-up to Christmas.

Our dedicated teams from Proserpine and Bowen worked around the clock to manage and reopen the Bruce Highway. These staff and Collinsville crews undertake the important work of patching countless potholes, clearing silt from causeways, and repairing minor scours at culverts and crossings.

Also stepping up to the plate when needed during the flooding event was our Whitsunday Coast Airport team which went above and beyond to assist stranded passengers impacted by flight cancellations due to the extreme weather.

Their professionalism and care ensured that travellers received timely updates, guidance, and support during an understandably stressful time. The airport team’s ability to manage this situation with efficiency and compassion deserves our highest praise.

Some of the damage to the Bruce Highway after the recent flooding event
A large b-double truck is caught in the flood waters and leaves the road
Photos supplied

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Meet Lentil, an incredibly affectionate dog who’s already won the hearts of her foster family. Known for her gentle nature, Lentil has quickly bonded with her new home and has learned to trust her humans. Despite her young age, she has taken on a nurturing role with the other dogs, often "mothering" them with care and kindness.
Lentil is the definition of selflessness; she gives all of herself and asks for little in return. Her greatest joy is cuddling up with her family, especially jumping onto the bed for some extra love and attention. Her easy-going and loving personality make her an ideal companion for anyone looking for a loyal friend.
Not only is Lentil great with people, but she’s also fantastic with other dogs, making her an excellent addition to any family with pets. Her sweet, affectionate nature will surely bring joy to any home lucky enough to welcome her.
To learn more about adopting Lentil, please contact:

Phone: 0459 757 455
Facebook: Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue
Email: bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com

Rehoming fee: $400
Age: 2 years
Sex: Male
Breed: Huntaway X Shepherd
Other dogs: Great with both big and small dogs

For a packed day of sails and sunshine, pop on down to North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club in Bowen (NQCYC) where you will find boats abound. On the 12th of January the Yacht Club will host a Blessing of the Fleet ceremony and all watercrafts are invited to participate. The NQCYC doesn't discriminate with the event’s motto: ‘If it floats, it's a boat’ so get out there on the water, dress up your boats and hoist your flags because it's time for some anointed fun in the sun!
Providing live, musical entertainment will be the wonderful Kimmy at 12.30pm before the boats set sail for their blessings. Then at 1.30pm the ceremony for the Blessing of the Boats will begin, followed by a cruise around the bay in the blessed watercrafts.
The Blessing of the Fleet is a tradition dating back centuries and is performed when launching new vessels as well as a regular, yearly ceremony to ensure the protection of a ship and its crew. At Bowen’s own North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club you will find this year's ceremony has a few extra ways for the community to get involved.
Like how about a sausage sizzle to whet your appetites? After the sailing around the bay comes to an end, the barbeque goes on and all are welcome to enjoy an afternoon at the harbour. With local cafes and bars open, it's a sea-breezy time suitable for all the family.
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WHAT: Blessing of the Boats Ceremony
WHERE: Yacht Club, 1 Starboard Drive, Bowen
WHEN: Sunday 12th 11:30am - 2pm

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North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club, locals sail into the harbour with flags raised. Photo supplied

Tourism Whitsundays is excited to be part of the launch of the Queensland Welcomes You initiative, with its suite of online welcome programs for each of Queensland’s tourism regions.

The Whitsundays Welcomes You Program has been developed to inspire everyone involved in welcoming guests to become proud hosts and deliver exceptional experiences so that our guests become passionate advocates for our region.

What you’ll learn
The Whitsunday Welcomes You program includes online training programs, and in-person workshops tailored for our region, with topics including hosting visitors, storytelling, accessibility, inclusion, sustainability and local experiences.

Who can participate?
The program is open to all businesses that play a role in welcoming and hosting guests in our region as well as passionate volunteers. Program participants may include those working in hotels, venues, transport, tours, events, attractions, retail, restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as volunteers across the visitor economy.

In-region workshops 
Next year, 2-hour workshops will be held which will be highly interactive, taking a deep dive into specific topics to help participants apply the learning in their guest interactions. 
 
The interactive workshop will cover the practical application of:
   • destination pride –unpacking what about our region makes us proud
   • guest mindset – what is it and the priorities for meeting guest expectations 
   • meeting guest needs - creating itineraries based on different guests needs
   • storytelling – best practice tips and how to create and tailor for different guests.

Contact us for further information: info@tourismwhitsundays.com.au
Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays
Queensland Welcomes You initiative

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This week, the Tourism Whitsundays team enjoyed a memorable one-day getaway on Hamilton Island, staying at the luxurious Reef View Hotel. With its stunning location and panoramic views, it was the perfect spot for a quick but rejuvenating island escape.
Our evening began with an exquisitely high-quality dining experience at The Beach Club. We dined just steps from the shore, enjoying delicious food while watching the sunset over the sparkling waters—a perfect start to our stay. The atmosphere was as beautiful as the meal itself, making it a truly relaxing experience.
The next day, the team enjoyed a more laid-back start, most indulging in a well-deserved sleep-in. I opted for my regular 4 am wake-up, eager to catch the breathtaking sunrise from One Tree Hill. The early morning trek was generously rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Whitsundays as the first light of day painted the sky.
Afterwards, we all gathered for a delicious breakfast at the Reef View Hotel, fuelling up with fresh local options before heading out for some fun. We spent the morning playing pickleball, cooling off in the resort pool, and soaking in the tropical vibes.
Though our time on Hamilton Island was short, it provided the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and explore.

Contributed by Jade Yvonne, Business Development Executive,  Tourism Whitsundays

The Tourism Whitsunday team dining at The Beach Club

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When Charlene Saez touched down in Australia in 2019, she never imagined her working holiday would stretch beyond a year.

However, a pandemic and a career opportunity would lead the French woman on a new path, one that ultimately shaped her career in Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) at Richglen.

“I came to Australia five years ago with my partner, intending to stay for just one year,” Charlene said.

“Our plan was to explore the country, work a bit, and see what adventures we could find.”
But when COVID-19 hit and international borders began closing, Charlene and her partner made the choice to stay.

“It allowed us to continue building a life here in a place that felt safe and full of opportunity, even as the world was shutting down.”

“Australia has become more than just a destination – it’s become home,” she explains, reflecting on time spent exploring and working in Tasmania, Queensland, and Western Australia.

Charlene’s professional journey took a sharp turn when she made the move from social work in France to a trades assistant (TA) role in Australia.

“When I came to Australia and transitioned into mining, I started as a TA and was then given a chance to step into a health and safety role,” Charlene said.

“I embraced the challenges of HSE, and I was eager to learn as much as I could.”

Over the next few years, Charlene worked toward a formal qualification, completing her health and safety diploma between November 2023 and March 2024 while managing the demands of her job during shutdowns.

“This hands-on experience and formal training have made HSE a field I’m truly passionate about,” she says. “I always felt supported by Richglen management.”

For Charlene, fostering a culture of safety begins with communication and leadership.
“It’s about making safety a priority in everything we do,” she says.

She’s a believer in leadership by example, and encourages workers to “stop and think” if something feels unsafe.

“I also encourage a culture of openness where people feel comfortable raising safety concerns and looking out for each other.”

Her proactive approach has proven effective, helping boost safety awareness and reducing risk on-site.

Charlene’s adding a dash of culture into her team’s toolbox talks by introducing a new French word each day.

“This came about as a fun way to bring a bit of my background into our routine and make our toolbox talks more engaging,” she says.

“The response has been great! The team enjoys trying out new words, and it’s become a bit of a friendly challenge to remember each one.

“It’s not just about learning French – it’s a way to build team spirit and make the start of each day a bit more lively.”

Charlene is committed to growing her career and is undergoing further study. Through Richglen, she’s pursuing a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, with plans to combine her HSE experience with the new training qualifications.

“My goal is to have a more significant impact in mentoring and guiding others.”

Charlene says anyone interested in pursuing a career in HSE should be proactive in learning and always be curious.

“HSE is a field that’s constantly evolving, so stay up to date with best practices, regulations, and new technologies. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from experienced professionals, and take every opportunity to gain hands-on experience.”

She says safety is about people.

“Building strong relationships with the team is key – understanding people’s concerns and how they work will help you create a safer environment.”

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Richglen HSE Advisor Charlene Saez conducts a toolbox talk with her team at a coal mine in Queensland. 

French woman Charlene Saez is building a life and career in Australia through her HSE role with Richglen. 

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Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls visited Mackay Base Hospital the week before Christmas to confirm that the previously announced multi-storey car park project will proceed, now with the addition of a rooftop helipad.

The car park will provide 550 new parking spaces, improving community access to healthcare, but will introduce paid parking for the first time. Rates are yet to be determined, and the project is part of the Queensland Government’s state-wide Hospital Carparking Program, with completion expected in 2026.
The LNP has called out the former government for “mismanagement”, claiming that Labor’s hospital expansion program for Queensland was announced with a projected cost of $9.785 billion but now exceeds $16 billion when accounting for additional beds and clinical facilities.
Minister Nicholls said that the Crisafulli Government is committed to rescuing these projects from Labor's failures and delivering the health services all Queenslanders deserve, including the expanded Mackay Base Hospital.

“The previous Labor Government’s sweetheart deal with its CFMEU paymasters drove up costs and delayed vital upgrades across the Queensland hospital expansion program,” Minister Nicholls said.

L-R: Mackay Hospital and Health Board member Bill Cooper, Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon, Minister for Health & Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls, Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton, and MHHS Executive Leadership representatives Natalie Williams and Jenny Farley. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

Rooftop Helipad To Boost Emergency Access

“Upgrading Mackay Base Hospital is a critical project, which is why I’m here to talk to doctors, nurses and healthcare practitioners about what they need to be able to do their job properly.

“Let me be clear – the Crisafulli Government will deliver this project as we promised – with the final budget and timeline to be determined during negotiations for construction.

“Our focus being on ensuring taxpayers money is spent wisely and delivers better facilities for patients.”

Minister Nicholls also revealed the design of the new carpark had been changed by the Labor Government in May 2024 to include the proposed relocation of the helipad.

This change had apparently not been previously announced or discussed with the local neighbours and the project is subject to the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation approval process, including consultation with the local community. 

Subject to planning and other approvals, the carpark is planned to commence early works in 2025 and is budgeted separately from the hospital expansion from the statewide hospital carparking program.

The carpark is planned to be completed in 2026.

“This new carpark at the Mackay Base Hospital will make life easier for staff, patients, and their families.

“The potential for including a helipad on the roof of the carpark would significantly improve patient transfers to the critical care needed in the hospital,” Minister Nicholls said.

The helipad was temporarily relocated to Mackay Airport at the start of the year to allow for the safe delivery of hospital expansion works at Mackay Base Hospital.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon welcomed the design and said it would help to boost patient outcomes.

“I have no doubt our staff, patients and visitors will welcome an end to our car parking challenges.

“We know how challenging it can be to find a park, considering we have very big and busy outpatient clinics.

“As we continue to expand our services and provide increasing care for our community, we know this new carpark will provide a secure location close to the hospital for all our visitors and staff.

“Importantly, the addition of the helipad in the design will further improve our services to patients because it will enable us to transfer them from the helipad to the emergency department faster,” Ms Gannon said.

   • Better healthcare services being delivered in Mackay
   • Work continues on hospital expansion
   • New carpark design to include helipad for quicker and safer patient transfer to emergency services

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls with Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Artist Impression of Mackay Base Hospital upgrades set to commence in 2026

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As we welcome 2025, there’s a collective sense of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps even a little bit of uncertainty about what this new year will bring. The turning of a calendar page symbolises the possibility of a fresh start, a chance to reset, reimagine, and pursue our goals with renewed energy.
However, as the philosopher Lao Tzu reminds us, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” While the promise of a new year is motivating, it is the actions we take that ultimately lead to transformation. A new calendar won’t magically change our lives—it’s up to each of us to make it happen by embracing the power of choice and taking the first step toward our aspirations.
If you’re hoping for change in 2025, remember that it’s not just about wishing for things to be different; it’s about committing to the actions that will bring you closer to your goals. Whether it’s in your career, relationships, health, or personal growth, every small step you take is part of the larger journey.
In this week’s edition, we’ve curated a collection of inspiring features to help you begin the year with intention. Pages 18-22 are filled with content to inspire your health and wellness journey, including tips on nutrition, mindfulness, and wellness practices to nourish both body and mind. Whether you’re looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle or simply seeking balance in a busy world, these pages offer practical advice to set you on the right path.
Additionally, pages 23-25 showcase our Back to School feature, highlighting the achievements of local students and offering helpful insights on making the transition to the new school year easier.
As we step into 2025, let’s remember that the new year is not just a time to reflect on what we hope for, but also a chance to take action toward making those hopes a reality.
Here’s to a year filled with growth, courage, and the power to create the change we seek.
Amanda

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During the bustling Christmas season, one act of kindness turned a near disaster into a heart-warming story of gratitude. A local shopper at Mt Pleasant Shopping Centre was plunged into panic after losing his iPhone, which contained all his cards and holiday cash. With Christmas just days away, the thought of cancelling everything and losing precious family moments was overwhelming.

Thanks to Jade, a security guard at the centre, his compassion and quick thinking turned things around for the local shopper. When the distressed shopper approached him, he didn’t hesitate to help. Walking alongside him, they retraced his steps, searching high and low for the missing phone.

When their efforts seemed fruitless, Jade then had a brilliant idea.

He offered his own iPhone, allowing him to log in to iCloud and use the “Find My iPhone” feature. Together, they followed the map, navigating the busy shopping centre. Despite juggling work calls and handling mischievous scooter riders, Jade was committed to assist and help the shopper find his phone.

At one point, he even left the shopper with his phone while assisting another woman with her wheelchair, and when he returned, they continued the search.

Soon after, the missing phone was found, intact with all its contents.

Thanks to Jade’s kindness and trust, the shopper and his family woke up to a “beautiful Christmas morning”. In a display of his gratitude, he plans to return to the centre to thank him personally, perhaps with a small gift.

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Police are investigating after a Mackay man lost his life in a tragic road accident on the Bruce Highway near Kuttabul on the 28th of December.
Emergency services were called to the scene around 2:35 pm following a three-vehicle collision involving a northbound Toyota Hilux, a southbound Chevrolet Silverado towing a caravan, and a southbound Toyota Kluger.
Initial investigations suggest the Hilux came into contact with the Silverado before colliding with the Kluger. The driver of the Kluger, a 76-year-old man from East Mackay, suffered critical injuries and was declared deceased at the scene.
A 68-year-old East Mackay woman, who was a passenger in the Kluger, was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital in critical condition.
The driver of the Hilux, a 65-year-old Bloomsbury man, was also taken to Mackay Base Hospital but was reported to be in a stable condition.
The occupants of the Silverado escaped without physical injuries.
The Forensic Crash Unit is conducting investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Police have urged witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage from the area at the time to come forward.

Man Faces Multiple Charges Following Mackay Harbour Incident
Police have charged a 40-year-old Slade Point man with multiple offences after an alleged trespass at a business on Ken White Avenue, Mackay Harbour, on the morning of December 19.
Authorities were called to the scene at approximately 9:45 am following reports of a disturbance. Upon arrival, officers located the man in a Holden Commodore utility.
Following a brief interaction, the man was taken into custody and transported to the Mackay Watch House. He has since been charged with several offences, including trespass, unlawful possession of a dangerous drug, drug driving, unlawful possession of a knife in a public place, and two counts of shop-stealing.
The accused is set to appear in Mackay Magistrates Court on February 5, 2025.

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The Mackay region celebrated a heartwarming Christmas with the arrival of two beautiful babies at Mackay Base Hospital on December 25, spreading festive joy to their proud families.
Little Harrison ("Harry") Timms was the first to make his debut, arriving at 4:52 am. Weighing a healthy 8lb 8oz (4.01kg), Harry is the first child for Moranbah couple Jaime and Ben Timms. The delighted parents are overjoyed with their Christmas miracle, who was warmly welcomed by the hospital’s midwifery team, including Jasmine, Sarah, Jess, Kaylah, Megan, Sharni, and Emily.
Later in the day, at 2:03 pm, Airlie Beach couple Shakaya and Age became parents to their first child, a son born via caesarean section. The early arrival, born three weeks ahead of schedule, was a joyful surprise after Shakaya was transferred from Proserpine Hospital to Mackay for the delivery. The couple is keeping their little one’s name under wraps for a special announcement in the coming days.
These two precious arrivals have brought extra cheer to the region this Christmas, making it an unforgettable holiday for their families. Huge congratulations to Jaime, Ben, Shakaya, and Age on their very special Christmas gifts!

Harry is pictured with Mackay Base Hospital midwifery staff, back row from left, Jasmine, Sarah, Jess, Kaylah and front row from left, Megan, Sharni and Emily. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
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Airlie Beach couple Shakaya and Age welcomed their first son at 2.03pm on Christmas Day

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OPINION PIECE
As 2024 draws to an end the Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox reflects on the year that was, somewhat pleased with what he has achieved over the past 12 months, and knowing more needs to be done, is looking forward to 2025, where he says he will be working to be rid of Labor when the election takes place.
Despite being in opposition, Mr Willcox has been focused on improving the lives of residents, community organisations and businesses for generations to come in his large electorate.
“Why do I do this?
“To grow a stronger future for generations to come, to make the electorate a better place for my people to live. My goal is to be in government, have access to the treasury and get more things done,” Mr. Willcox said.
Mr. Willcox says he is a member for the entire electorate. He doesn’t take his role for granted with his strong presence both across the region from Mackay to Townsville. When the Member is not down in Canberra at Parliament he spends his time on the road clocking up over 60,000 km a year meeting with constituents and holding pop-up mobile office stalls and can be regularly found in shopping centres like Canelands Central Mackay or Fairfield Central Shopping Centre in Townsville.
“There’s nothing more powerful than speaking directly with the people, then taking those wishes and comments to Parliament. When questioned, I know exactly what I am saying is correct, as it has come straight from my constituents, you can’t argue with that.”
The community has shown great support for the work the member for Dawon does each day raising concerns about the current state of the Bruce Highway, the cost-of-living crisis and the plagued telecommunication network, just to name a few. Each year Mr Willcox’s team in the Mackay office helps take calls about NDIS, Aged Care, Immigration and other issues as well as processing applications for grants.
Mr Willcox said sometimes it was the little wins like when the 2023/24 Volunteers Grant was awarded to a local Meals On Wheels.
“These are the things that make my job worthwhile. Meals on Wheels is an amazing organisation and for them to receive even just a small amount of funding goes a long way.”
It’s been no surprise that the current state of the Bruce Highway has been high on the Federal Member’s mind, he describes it as a “congo line of potholes” and thanks to Labor's callous decision to pull funding from 80:20 split with the State Government to 50:50, no improvement will be forthcoming anytime soon.
Recently in Canberra during the final sitting week Mr Willcox met with the Honourable Peter Dutton and Nationals Leader David Littleproud who confirmed if elected into government, they will restore the funding back to the 80:20 arrangement. Mr Willcox was instrumental in starting the “Back Our Bruce” petition which has received more than a thousand signatures so far and will be tabled to the Federal Transport Minister Catherine King.
During his time in the nation’s capital, he spoke against the Misinformation Bill which was rejected by the Coalition. Each year several rallies happen, and Mr Willcox spoke at the fight against the banning of gillnet fishing and attended a rally to support farmers.
Moving forward to 2025 Mr Willcox will continue to fight for an improved Bruce Highway where he hopes common sense prevails to bring the highway up to a safe standard like other states have.
The Federal Election will be called sometime in early 2025 and the Federal Member for Dawson is looking forward to serving the region of Dawson from the north to south in the new year.

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In one of the final acts for Mackay Regional Council in 2024, Keswick Island off Mackay was officially gazetted as a locality on 20th December, 2024.
That means the island is now effectively a suburb of Mackay Regional Council.
This follows lobbying by the island’s residents and a collaborative effort between the State Government and council.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said Keswick Island residents had been lobbying for this to happen.
“They wanted this to occur so they effectively have their own suburb, and it is clear where they live,’’ Cr May said.
“In the past, not being a locality has impacted residents trying to obtain insurance,’’ she said.

“It also made it difficult to establish their address for the purposes of verifying their identity based on place of residence.

“Ultimately, this will make it clear the exact location of the properties located on the island, so they can be easily located and verified by government and corporate agencies.”
The decision was made under the Place Names Act 1994 by Minister for Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing, and Regional and Rural Development, Dale Last.
It followed work undertaken by the State Government and council’s GIS (Geographic Information System) staff.
The process also involved public consultation by the State Government with relevant stakeholders in July and August.
The decision was published in the Queensland Government Gazette on December 20th, 2024.

Photo source via Instagram: @b.l.a.i.r._.h.i.l.l
Map showing the new locality of Keswick Island

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Dudley Denny City Library is currently closed due to water damage sustained during last month’s extended rain event.
Areas of flooring and ceiling material will need to be replaced.
Mackay Regional Council is currently assessing the damage and will undertake remediation works as soon as possible.
Council hopes to have the facility reopened by the end of January, 2025.
All other libraries will reopen on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Mackay residents looking to return borrowed items and access library services during the Dudley Denny City Library closure are encouraged to use Gordon White Library (54 Phillip Street, Mt Pleasant).
While Dudley Denny City Library is closed, Gordon White Library will open on Sundays from 10am to 2pm.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by this unplanned closure.
For updates, please follow Mackay Regional Council Libraries on Facebook.

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In Mackay Regional Council’s new Arts and Culture Strategy 2025 to 2030 there is a focus on providing artists and community groups with more affordable access to facilities and infrastructure.
The strategy, which is now adopted and live on council’s website, sets out a clear vision for arts and culture in the Mackay region, which underpins our region's liveability and prosperity.
A key action of the strategy is to partner with local stakeholders to develop an “Arts Hub” that considers community needs and provides a multi-arts facility.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said such a facility would ideally have low-rent studios, rehearsal spaces, workshop spaces and potential exhibition and retail spaces.
“Ideally we want to explore ways for creative practices to activate underutilised regional places and spaces, like many of our beautiful City Centre buildings,” Cr May said.
“Not only would the activation of a City Centre Arts Hub fill a shortage in affordable multi-arts infrastructure, but it would also help to further enhance foot traffic in the City Centre and the liveability of our region,” she said.
“Such a hub would also provide a base for future placemaking activities and initiatives that further activate the area.”
Cr May said investigations were already underway into potential City Centre buildings that could accommodate an Arts Hub.
She said that council was also committed to ensuring the Northern Beaches Community Hub was reflective of the community’s creative needs.
“The facility will include spaces that will facilitate a range of community activities, programs, services and events.”
Other goals in the strategy include:
   • Amplifying First Nations voices and talents while building inclusive and diverse audience engagement pathways.
   • Growing local creative ecologies by increasing capability, growing opportunities, raising profiles and deepening audience engagement and community participation.
   • Building and promoting a distinctive creative identity for Mackay, showcasing the richness of our cultural landscape.
The Arts and Culture Strategy 2025 to 2030 was developed with extensive consultation with local artists, performers, creatives, venue hosts and industry stakeholders.
Residents can view the strategy at mackay.qld.gov.au/arts

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