From Sarina to Dows Creek, St Helens Beach to the Northern Beaches, amongst the City Heart and even flying into Mackay Aeroclub, Mackay Regional Council is supporting Christmas celebrations across the region.
More than 20 events have been supported to ensure everyone has the chance to celebrate with their communities this festive season.
There will be something to suit everyone’s festive tastes, from a City Centre light show projection to a guided silent disco and Christmas laneway market.
Community favourites like Carols in the Gardens will return and council is once again supporting regional events through our Christmas Grants program.
With the Christmas Grants, council has kicked in $10,000 to boost festive celebrations in regional areas.
The following regional events are open to the public and have been proudly supported by council’s Christmas Grants:
   • Armstrong Beach and Freshwater Point lolly drop and Christmas party (November 23)
   • Pioneer Valley Sporting Association Christmas break barbecue (November 25)
   • Eungella Christmas Party (November 30)
   • Northern Beaches Community Christmas Party (December 6)
   • Mackay Riding for the Disabled Community Christmas Party (December 12)
   • Sarina Sporting Services Club Christmas Car Park Party (December 13)
   • Mackay Aeroclub's Annual Christmas Party (December 13)
   • Sarina Beach Barbecue and Movie Night (December 13)
   • Mackay Christmas Lights Ride (December 14)
   • Dows Creek - Celebrating Christmas in our Community (December 15)
   • Habana Carols Under the Stars (December 21)
   • St Helens Beach Christmas Party (December 21)
   • Sarina Festive Christmas Pool Party (December 22)
Other Christmas events and celebrations supported by council and council facilities include:
   • MECCMAS – 12 days of Christmas deals and giveaways from the MECC – from December 1.
   • The annual City Heart Christmas – Guided silent disco, laneway markets, kids’ activities and more – December 6.
   • Santa’s Secret Present Search – a fun adventure through the City Heart collecting secret presents – December 6.
   • City Heart Magical Christmas Window Competition – judged from December 6 to December 16.
   • City Heart Christmas Bright Lights – watch the Masonic Hall transform into a tropical Christmas light show – from December 6 to December 14.
   • Carols in the Gardens – presented by StarFM and 4MK at Meadowlands Amphitheatre – December 7.
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For a full list of Council-supported Christmas events with all the details, head to mackay.qld.gov.au/christmasevents.

Events and festivities will be spread throughout the City Centre, from Macalister Street to Sydney Street and from River Street to Gordon Street

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When I came back to work after my Christmas/New Year break in early January this year, there was a feeling that something had changed.
Yes, I was fatter, older and poorer, but that happens every year after the Christmas break. It was more than that.
My first open homes were frenetic, energised events with dozens of buyers ready to buy.
The market had been good the previous year but nothing crazy. Suddenly it was as though Santa had snuck a message in everyone’s parcels that said, “It’s time to buy in Mackay”.
I often discuss the real estate market with Gardian colleagues and a consistent topic the previous couple of years had been how we felt the market should be stronger and that prices should be going up quicker.
Rents had gone up dramatically in the previous couple of years and there was a ridiculous level of demand among tenants.
There was an incentive for tenants, if they had the money, to take the plunge and buy.
But we also wondered why investors were not jumping into the market. People who lived in southern markets only had the option of high purchase prices for investment properties that delivered a much worse rental yield than Mackay offered.
While rental yields were 1 or 2 per cent in those places, Mackay offered 5, 6 and 7 per cent yields on rental properties. Our median sale price remained way lower than other vibrant cities and regional centres.
I told anyone who listens to me that this was the place to buy … but my dog isn’t in a position to buy and did nothing about it.
First there was that frenzy of activity from local buyers in January and then, in February, the calls started coming in from investors and buyers’ agents from down south.
It wasn’t a trickle. It was a flood of investors wanting to get into the Mackay market. They were driven by the relatively low prices, high rental returns, high average incomes, low vacancy rates, low unemployment rate and the strong economy of a significant regional centre.
The world had suddenly changed and Mackay became one of the hottest markets in Australia. Investors have been driving the market, although there are also plenty of local people who have decided to buy rather than rent.
But what has it meant, in practical terms, for the Mackay market? What has happened to prices? Sit down and brace yourself for the latest figures, provided to me by realestate.com.au this week.
The median price for houses sold in Mackay in the month of November, 2023, was $490,000. The median price for November this year was $643,000. That is an increase of over 30 per cent.
That is the biggest increase in Queensland and compares with the annual national median price increase of 5.62 per cent. House prices in Melbourne, Hobart and the ACT decreased this year. Sydney prices also recently dropped slightly.
(It is true that the Mackay figure is a snapshot of prices for one month and there might have been more upper-end properties sold then, however the figures are instructive.)
The figures are great news for home owners in Mackay. However, I want the people who haven’t bought yet to bring it in close.
The median price of units was $280,000 in November 2023. This November it was $329,000. That’s about an 18 per cent increase, a lot smaller than for houses. And it means there are still units available for around $300,000.
Now, I would never give financial advice but I was telling my dog the other day that units still offer an affordable opportunity to break into the Mackay market.
I doubt my dog will do anything about it but someone might.

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Delightfully light and airy, this pavlova wreath bursts with fresh summer flavours, making it an ideal showstopper for your Christmas celebrations!
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Ingredients
For the Pavlova Base:
   • 6 large egg whites, at room temperature
   • 1 1/2 cups caster sugar
   • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 1 tablespoon cornflour
For the Toppings:
   • 300 ml thickened cream, chilled
   • 2 tablespoons icing sugar (plus extra for dusting)
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • Fresh strawberries, halved
   • Fresh raspberries
   • Fresh blueberries
   • Pomegranate arils
   • 2 passionfruit, pulp only
   • Fresh mint leaves
   • Optional: edible gold leaf for garnish
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 120°C (fan-forced). Line a large baking tray with baking paper. Draw a 25 cm circle on the paper, then draw a smaller 15 cm circle inside to form a guide for the wreath. Turn the paper over so the ink doesn’t touch the meringue.
Make the Meringue:
   • In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
   • Gradually add the caster sugar, one tablespoon at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue until the mixture is thick, glossy, and the sugar is fully dissolved.
   • Add the vinegar, vanilla, and cornflour, gently folding them into the meringue with a spatula.
Shape the Wreath:
   • Spoon the meringue onto the prepared baking tray, shaping it into a wreath by following the drawn circles. Create decorative swirls or peaks with the back of a spoon for texture.
Bake the Pavlova:
   • Place the tray in the oven and immediately reduce the heat to 100°C. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the meringue is crisp on the outside and slightly soft in the centre.
Turn off the oven and leave the pavlova inside to cool completely with the door open.
Prepare the Toppings:
   • In a chilled bowl, whip the cream with icing sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
   • Slice the strawberries and prepare the remaining fruits.
Assemble the Wreath:
   • Once the pavlova is completely cool, gently transfer it to a serving platter.
   • Spread the whipped cream generously over the top. Arrange the strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, pomegranate arils, and mint leaves decoratively around the wreath.
   • Drizzle with passionfruit pulp for a tangy finish.
Add the Final Touches:
       ◦ Dust lightly with icing sugar for a snowy effect.
       ◦ Add edible gold leaf for a luxurious festive touch (optional).
Serve and Enjoy:
       ◦ Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 2 hours before serving.

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By Hannah McNamara

In the shadow of loss and the light of brotherhood, Managing Director Sam O’Neill has built a supportive network for veterans through a not-for-profit organisation, Never Alone Fight Together (NAFT). Drawing from his own experiences with life after service, Sam is on a mission to create a unique space for veterans…one that embodies the essence of brotherhood while breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and financial struggles.

An eight-year Australian Army veteran, Sam shares that NAFT was born from both the camaraderie forged on the battlefield and the heartbreak of losing those bonds too soon.

"Ever since leaving the Army, it’s been a slow journey of building this up,” Sam said.

“Along the way, I’ve seen too many friends pass - through their own hand or circumstances that could have been avoided."

Sam O’Neill, Managing Director of NAFT – Never Alone Fight Together, is forging connections and breaking barriers, striving to rewrite the story for veterans. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Turning Loss Into Legacy
A Veteran’s Fight For Change

Sam’s military career included deployments to East Timor with 1RAR and Afghanistan with 5RAR, where he served as a section commander. These experiences not only shaped his life but also deepened his understanding of the immense struggles veterans face after service.

The detrimental loss of a close mate on January 24, 2023 soon became the spark that ignited his mission.

"Last year, a good friend of mine passed, and it was his death that sparked this," Sam said.

“After months of grieving, I realised I had to do something…not just for him but for everyone like him."

Through his grief, Sam envisioned a future where no veteran faces their battles alone, and within his darkest moments, he found the courage to turn that vision into reality.

Sam channelled his sorrow into creating NAFT, a charity dedicated to providing emergency financial assistance to veterans and their families for necessities such as groceries, fuel and medical bills. Yet, the journey to establishing NAFT was far from easy.

Sam invested his personal savings into legal fees, navigated bureaucratic challenges, and faced the emotional toll of revisiting the loss that inspired the organisation.

"The day we were officially registered was the same day I was grieving the one-year anniversary of his passing,” he said.

“It felt like a message, a sign that this is what I’m meant to do.

"I’m not doing this for myself…this is about veterans, about community, and about preventing unnecessary deaths.

“It’s about ensuring no one has to walk this journey alone," he added.

“We’ve received incredible support from the community, and many are keen to purchase our merch."

To further NAFT’s reach, Sam also hosts a podcast that delves into ‘what it means to serve’ and the ‘similarities between that of a professional soldier and a professional athlete.’

"The podcast amplifies voices - not just mine, but those of everyday Australians who have faced challenges," Sam said.

“It’s about creating connections and showcasing the resilience and shared values of veterans and athletes."

If you’d like to donate or sponsor veterans facing hardship, visit: www.naftlimited.org.au/donate/.

Give to those who gave their all for us.

Sam O’Neill’s military service includes deployments to East Timor with 1RAR and Afghanistan with 5RAR, where he served as a section commander. Photo source: NAFT

“It’s about ensuring no one has to walk this journey alone."

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A dramatic turn of events unfolded on Wednesday night last week when a trimaran sought refuge from rough seas in the Pioneer River, only to run aground on a sandbar and be battered by strong winds and waves.
The incident occurred around 7:30 pm as the vessel attempted to navigate the river’s shifting approach during an outgoing tide and 25-knot winds. The challenging conditions holed the trimaran’s hull, leaving it stranded and partially submerged.
At 3:30 am, Mackay Police contacted Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay (MRQ), alerting them to the situation. The crew of the trimaran had reported themselves safe, and given the hazardous conditions, MRQ postponed recovery efforts until daylight.
At first light, MRQ’s crew, led by duty skipper Don B, launched from the River Street ramp. They located the trimaran high and dry on the sandbar and helped its crew retrieve personal belongings. The vessel was secured with an anchor to prevent it from drifting, and the crew was later collected by friends at the ramp.
Over the following tides, the trimaran was broken apart by the rough conditions. During the process, the vessel’s emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) floated free and activated, prompting another callout. MRQ launched again at dawn to locate and deactivate the beacon.
A spokesperson for Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay commented on social media, "The only silver linings here are that no lives were lost and there were no serious injuries."

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Photos supplied: Marine Rescue Queensland Mackay

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Battling cancer is an incredibly tough journey, but some stories remind us of just how terrifying the storms we never see coming can truly be.
On page 5, you can read about Teharnee Peel, a Mackay mum diagnosed with cervical cancer while five months pregnant. Teharnee discovered a 6.5cm cancerous mass in her cervix at 22 weeks pregnant with her son, Harry. Determined to do everything possible to protect her unborn child, she began a specialised course of chemotherapy designed to be safe for pregnancy.
Her strength was tested in unimaginable ways, from enduring chemotherapy while pregnant to undergoing further treatment just four weeks after Harry’s birth at 32 weeks. Holding her baby boy for the first time was a surreal and emotional moment. Harry, born weighing just 2.3kg, spent weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit while Teharnee faced gruelling physical and mental challenges. She describes those early months with her newborn as a "whole new level of fatigue"—a testament to the resilience of this mother-son duo.
Through my own cancer journey, I met another mother whose late-term scan revealed her unborn baby had cancer. While preparing to welcome her child into the world, she had to grapple with the devastating reality that her baby would require chemotherapy just weeks after birth.
These stories highlight a unique kind of fear and courage that few can imagine.
By the time you read this, I’ll have completed chemotherapy treatment number eight. I promise to share a full update in next week’s newspaper.
Like Teharnee, I’ve found a new purpose in giving back, advocating for body awareness and earlier detection of cancer. Supporting others through the Trudy Crowley Foundation has been deeply meaningful. This weekend, I’ll be at Harrup Park for the Trudy Crowley Round, where Mackay Cricket Association’s Junior, Senior, and Ladies games will unite to support this incredible organisation. Teams will proudly wear zinc in solidarity with the foundation’s efforts to help those impacted by cancer in the Mackay and Whitsunday regions.
If you can, come along to Harrup Park on Saturday afternoon and meet the ‘Survivors XI’ to show your support.
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Amanda

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A heartfelt act of kindness has brought joy to Ayuka and her partner, Pato, who recently faced the frustration of having their bike stolen… not once, but twice. Living in a foreign country, away from family and navigating a whole new language, the experience was particularly overwhelming.

Ayuka first posted about the theft on social media, and was amazed by the outpouring of support they revived by the community.

“Even people who didn’t know us offered to help us buy another bike,” she shared.

However, an unexpected gesture soon heightened their gratitude, and left them overjoyed.

Corry Cycles, a local bicycle shop heard of the challenges that Ayuka and Pato were having, and in a selfless act, provided a brand-new replacement bike.

“I’m still surprised at what happened for us,” Ayuka said.

“From tomorrow, my partner can go to work on this amazing bike.”

Alongside the bike, they also received a secure lock to prevent future thefts.

Ayuka thanked Evan Corry and the team at Corry Cycles for their generosity.

“You don’t know how much your gesture has influenced us…we are surprised and enormously grateful.”

Ayuka also praised the broader Mackay community, acknowledging the many who commented, reacted and reached out with support.

“The Mackay community is wonderful, despite some bad people,” she said.

Ayuka and her partner were touched by the outpouring of support and said they “felt a little less foreign.”

How can you spread kindness today?

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Mackay Regional Council will be replacing an aged water main at Alfred Street, between Wellington and Peel streets.
Works began early this week (from Monday, November 25), and are expected to be complete by late-January, 2025, weather permitting.
The centre parking on Alfred Street, in this section, will be unavailable for the duration of the work.
While works are underway, a partial road closure will be in place, with the westbound lane (towards Peel Street) closed during working hours for the duration of the project.
The eastbound lane (towards Wellington Street) will remain open.
Works will be undertaken from Monday to Friday, 6am to 6pm. Some weekend and night work may also be required.
There may be some intermittent noise and dust disturbances associated with these works.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience during these essential works.
For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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A Mackay mum who was diagnosed with cervical cancer while five months pregnant says she owes her life to her baby.
Teharnee Peel, 34, was “shocked” when doctors told her she had a 6.5cm cancerous mass growing in her cervix while she was 22 weeks pregnant with her son Harry.
Mrs Peel, who is now in remission, had been vaccinated against the HPV (Human papillomavirus) virus and her most recent pap smear results had been negative.
“I went to my local Emergency Department in Mackay to get checked out as I had bleeding on and off multiple times,” she said.
“Harry was my biggest concern, he was our first baby and I wanted to do everything I could to save his life.
“Initially doctors thought it was a hematoma on my uterus or a low-lying placenta that was causing issues.
After a biopsy revealed she had a suspected squamous cell carcinoma, one of the most common forms of cervical cancer, Mrs Peel was referred to South Brisbane’s Mater Cancer Care Centre for specialised cancer treatment by Senior Medical Oncologist Dr Catherine Shannon.
Mrs Peel said the plane ride to Brisbane with her husband Simon was “petrifying”.
“I was waiting for results, waiting for a treatment plan, we had started putting the nursery together and I was gutted I couldn’t paint the nursery,” Mrs Peel said.
Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer affecting women worldwide, causing nearly 8% of all female cancer deaths every year.
Sharing her story for last week’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Week (17–23 November), Mrs Peel urged women to be aware of their bodies.
“Don’t be embarrassed about any gynecological issues, doctors have seen it all,” she said.
Mrs Peel she had found it uncomfortable to wear tampons for around 12 months prior to her diagnosis.
Dr Shannon sees around three to four cases of cervical cancer in vaccinated women each year.
Vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain are the most common symptoms of cervical cancer, according to Dr Shannon.
“All cervical cancers more than 2cm will be treated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy,” Dr Shannon said.
Mrs Peel was given a special course of chemotherapy adapted for pregnant women and posing no risk to her unborn child.
Mrs Peel said she was determined to do “whatever it took” to give her son a fighting chance.
“Harry is now two years old and he’s a fighter, he was from the very beginning,” Mrs Peel said.
“I started chemotherapy while pregnant, then again four weeks after I had Harry in conjunction with radiation.”
Harry was born at Mater Mothers’ Hospital during a planned caesarean section at 32 weeks gestation, weighing 2.3kg.
Mrs Peel said it was a “surreal moment” when she held Harry for the first time.
“I remember that day, I cried. Harry spent around three weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit,” she said.
Mrs Peel described her fight against cervical cancer as “challenging”.
“I did three rounds of chemotherapy every three weeks while pregnant,” Mrs Peel said.
“I got COVID after my first round of chemotherapy and I was so scared, I was just 23 weeks pregnant.
“Harry was three months old when we returned to Mackay, we had been in Brisbane for five months, and Simon had taken seven months off work to be with us.”
She said the hardest part of her cancer journey was having gruelling treatment.
“The mental and physical recovery was a whole other ordeal in itself,” Mrs Peel said.
“No one talks about that enough, like when you get home your whole world changes – it’s a whole new level of fatigue with a newborn baby.”
Mrs Peel is now an ambassador for the Trudy Crowley Foundation Cancer Support Centre in Mackay, which is a charity supporting people and their loved ones through cancer and beyond. 

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Teharnee Peel was diagnosed with cervical cancer when she was five months pregnant.  Photos supplied
Harry is Teharnee Peel's little fighter
Teharnee Peel during cancer treatment at the Mater Cancer Care Centre in South Brisbane
Baby Harry was born at Mater Mothers' Hospital

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Visitors and residents will soon be sitting pretty in the Mackay City Centre.
Starting Monday, November 25, council contractors will begin work refurbishing the timber slats on 58 seats in the City Centre.
The work is expected to take about two weeks to complete, with minimal disruption to the public.
Individual seats will be temporarily cordoned off while refurbishment works are underway, before contractors move onto the next seat.
Council appreciates the community’s patience as it polishes up Mackay’s City Centre seating, ensuring a comfortable and inviting space for all to enjoy.

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February 6, 2023, is a day Dylan Holmes will never forget. What began as an ordinary workday at Jennmar Australia took a dramatic turn when the worker in his 40s suddenly collapsed mid-conversation with a colleague. Without warning, he had suffered a sudden cardiac arrest - a life-threatening condition where survival hinges on immediate medical intervention.

Luckily, Dylan was in a workplace equipped with an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and colleagues who knew exactly what to do. Within 90 seconds, Jennmar’s Queensland Branch Manager, Mick Baker, and his team sprang into action. They performed CPR and used the AED to deliver five critical shocks, buying Dylan the precious time he needed before paramedics arrived.

“The AED undoubtedly saved Dylan’s life,” Mick said.

Paramedics administered four additional shocks at the scene before rushing Dylan to Mackay Base Hospital. There, he underwent intensive care and surgery to have a subcutaneous internal defibrillator implanted in his chest. This advanced device monitors his heart and automatically delivers a shock if another life-threatening rhythm occurs, giving Dylan peace of mind and a second chance at life.

Mackay Base Hospital Cardiologist Dr Dominika Budzbon said that Mr Holmes’ cardiac arrest was caused by very fast and abnormal heart rhythm.
“After a period of stabilisation in hospital, we decided he needs protection from any possible event like that in the future.”
Dr Budzbon explained that Mr Holmes became the first patient in Mackay to receive an implant of a subcutaneous defibrillator (ICD).
“This is a clever and highly programmable processor which recognises dangerous heart rhythms and works out what to do with it,” Dr Budzbon said.
“It is suitable for patients who only need a device to shock the heart, and do not need the support of a pacemaker as well.”
Since that fateful day, Dylan has become a passionate advocate for workplace defibrillators.

“All workplaces should have them; they’re a lifesaver,” Dylan emphasised.

"I wasn’t sick or anything like that—there was nothing wrong with me. It could happen to anybody," he said.

"If I’d been feeling unwell, I wouldn’t have clocked on early for overtime. It was a hot day, and the work’s physical, but everything seemed fine," he explained.

"The guy I was working with said I was talking normally one minute, then I let out a moan and crunched over some plates before hitting the ground.”

He now urges businesses to not only install AEDs but also to ensure employees are trained to use them and know their location.

Inspired by Dylan’s miraculous survival, Mick Baker and the Jennmar team have made it their mission to promote the life-saving potential of AEDs. Their efforts have already started making waves. One local business manager, deeply moved by Dylan’s story, paused operations to train employees in the proper use of defibrillators.

“For the amount of money they cost, it’s the best investment your business will ever make,” Mick said.

“If we can get just one business to purchase an AED, that’s a success…it could save a life.”

Recently, Jennmar Australia extended their advocacy efforts even further by donating a brand-new AED to CASA (Community Accommodation & Support Agency). CASA is a vital local organisation committed to helping individuals secure housing and access support services that foster stability, independence, and self-reliance.

This donation ensures that CASA staff, clients, and visitors will have access to life-saving equipment during a cardiac emergency.

“Thanks to Mick and his team, CASA now has a defibrillator installed to ensure the safety of everyone who resides in or enters our business,” said a CASA representative.

“On behalf of everyone at CASA, our clients, and the community surrounding our business, we extend heartfelt thanks for this generous donation. It ensures that more lives can be saved with on-site AEDs.”

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Jennmar Australia’s generous donation of an AED to CASA ensures that staff, clients, and visitors are equipped with life-saving equipment in critical moments. Photo source: CASA - Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc.

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Illawong Beach became the scene of a heartwarming homecoming on November 23, as Mickey, a juvenile Green sea turtle, was released back into the ocean following his successful rehabilitation at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre.
Mickey's journey began when he was found floating and struggling in the waves off Illawong Beach, covered in algae and barnacles and in urgent need of care. Ali from the Mackay District Turtle Watch team stepped in to transport him safely to the Whitsundays, where his recovery began.
Upon arriving at the rescue centre, Mickey underwent thorough cleaning, treatment, and observation. With the support of dedicated Turtle Carers, he received the nourishment and care required to regain his strength. After weeks of rehabilitation, Mickey was finally deemed ready to return to his natural habitat.
The release marked a celebration of the community’s efforts to protect marine life, showcasing the vital collaboration between Eco Barge Clean Seas and Mackay District Turtle Watch. A spokesperson for Eco Barge Clean Seas praised the teamwork, saying, “Ali’s dedication and the tireless work of our Turtle Carers highlight the incredible impact of community-driven conservation initiatives.”
Ali's commitment was instrumental in ensuring Mickey’s recovery, and her efforts exemplify the passion and perseverance behind the work of Mackay District Turtle Watch and the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre.
Eco Barge Clean Seas encourages the public to support their ongoing turtle rescue and marine conservation initiatives. For more information or to get involved, visit www.ecobargecleanseas.org.au.

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Mickey the juvenile Green sea turtle makes his triumphant return to the ocean at Illawong Beach after weeks of care and rehabilitation at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre. A true community effort brought him back to health. Photos supplied

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The Queensland Government has announced an exciting opportunity for local residents, businesses and road users to have their voices heard about the future of the Bruce Highway. As part of a long-term commitment to improve road safety and capacity, the state government will re-establish the Bruce Highway Advisory Council (BHAC) by the end of 2024. This is a significant step forward for the region, and residents of Mackay, Whitsundays, and surrounding areas are encouraged to play a part in the process.

The Bruce Highway is a vital corridor connecting the communities of Queensland, from the Far North to the Sunshine Coast. It serves as the main route for thousands of commuters, freight operators and tourists, but it also faces challenges, particularly in the Mackay and Whitsunday region, which has long been plagued by safety concerns and congestion. Now, the government is calling for local representatives who regularly use the highway to help shape the future of this essential infrastructure.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton assured the region that the state government is getting to work on a long-term plan to fix the Bruce Highway by re-establishing the Bruce Highway Advisory Council.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg emphasised the importance of local voices in the decision-making process.

“It’s important we listen to our regional communities to be able to deliver the upgrades that are so desperately needed to the Bruce Highway,” Mr Mickelberg says.

“We want to hear from a broad cross section of people who drive the Bruce Highway regularly from the Far North to south of the Sunshine Coast, whether they be truck drivers, local commuters or interested stakeholders.”

The Crisafulli government is seeking expressions of interest from Queenslanders who have firsthand experience using the Bruce Highway and can identify key locations that require attention.

Those living in Mackay and the Whitsunday region, where the highway has some of its most challenging sections, are strongly encouraged to submit nominations. The areas most in need of attention include sections notorious for accidents, as well as areas prone to flooding and congestion. Having a seat at the table on the BHAC will allow regional residents to highlight their unique needs and advocate for improvements that matter most to the local community.

The focus of the re-established BHAC will be on road safety, with a particular emphasis on identifying priority locations for investment. The Council will play an instrumental role in advising the government on the sequencing of key upgrades along the highway. While issues like flood resilience and capacity will be addressed, road safety remains a top priority, particularly in areas like Mackay and the Whitsundays, where hazardous sections of the Bruce Highway have been identified as high-risk.

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox has also weighed in on the urgency of addressing the state of the highway, particularly the stretch between Mackay and Townsville.

“There have been several reports recently that have identified the section of the Bruce that runs through Dawson as having the worst safety rating for the entire highway,” said Willcox.

“I don’t support the current funding arrangement of 50-50 from the Federal and State Government.

“The original arrangement of 80-20 needs to be restored to look after the roads and infrastructure in Far North Queensland.”

The current safety concerns along the Bruce Highway are alarming, with Andrew Wilcox MP saying, “Every day on Australian roads, on average three people are killed and 100 people are seriously injured.”

“These deaths may have been prevented if the busy highway was up to scratch.”

This is an opportunity for local residents to directly influence the government’s road upgrade plans and ensure that their voices are heard when it comes to prioritising safety and infrastructure improvements on the Bruce Highway. For this plan to be truly effective, it is essential that regional Queenslanders are at the forefront of the discussion.

With the BHAC’s first meeting set for December 2024, there is no time to waste for interested locals to submit their expressions of interest.

Interested residents in Mackay and the Whitsunday region must submit their applications by 5pm on Friday, 29 November 2024.

For more information and to apply, visit the Queensland Government’s Transport and Main Roads website.

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Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, doesn’t support the current funding arrangement of 50-50 from the federal and state governments for roading infrastructure and is calling on the 80-20 model to be reinstated. Photos supplied

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As the festive season approaches, Mackay finds itself grappling with an escalating homelessness crisis that serves as a stark reminder that not everyone will experience a merry Christmas. For many in our community, the holidays are not a time of celebration but of survival—a daily struggle for shelter, food, and safety.
At the heart of the city’s efforts to combat homelessness is Chances House, Mackay’s only dedicated drop-in centre for those experiencing homelessness. Located at 2 Endeavour Street, Chances House is more than just a service provider—it’s a lifeline for the vulnerable.
Chances House operates Mackay’s only daily meal service, offering breakfast and lunch Monday to Friday, as well as weekend meal packs. Since 2020, the organisation has provided over 120,000 meals to those in need. This vital service ensures that no one has to face hunger alone.
The drop-in lounge at Chances House is a safe, inclusive space offering essential resources like phone charging facilities, internet access, lockers, and even creative outlets like music and art activities. It’s a place where compassion meets practicality, giving individuals a moment of reprieve and access to much-needed support from caring staff and volunteers.
Beyond immediate relief, Chances House focuses on long-term solutions through its case management program. By working closely with individuals, case managers help connect them to healthcare, housing, job opportunities, and mental health services, guiding them toward a path of stability and hope.
Despite these remarkable achievements—like opening Mackay’s first homelessness drop-in centre and distributing over 11,000 essential items—Chances House operates without regular government funding. Instead, it relies on the generosity of the Mackay community.
This Christmas, Chances House is calling on locals to help make a difference. Donations of money, food, or essential items can go a long way in easing the burden of homelessness. Volunteering your time is another powerful way to contribute, offering companionship and support to those who need it most.
The statistics are sobering, but they highlight the incredible impact of Chances House: over 800 nights of crisis accommodation provided, more than 116,250 hours of support and connection shared, and countless lives touched by their unwavering dedication.
As Mackay faces a growing homelessness crisis, there’s never been a more crucial time to act. By supporting Chances House, you’re not just giving a meal, a blanket, or a safe space—you’re giving hope. This Christmas, let’s come together as a community to ensure that no one is left behind.
If someone is experiencing difficulties, they can visit Chances House at 2 Endeavour Street, Mackay, for support, while members of the general public are encouraged to visit www.chancesmackay.org for more information on how to help.

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For some, Christmas can be a challenging time and it is up to us to check on those around us by being suicide alert this festive season.
There is no doubt that Christmas is special, but Mayor Greg Williamson reminds us that while many love celebrating with family and friends, some will struggle.
“Unfortunately for some people it is the most challenging time of the year emotionally.
“Knowing the signs and having the courage to reach out to those struggling at Christmas is a gift that can change lives,” Mayor Williamson said.
There are a range of reasons that Christmas can be hard. It might be a relationship breakdown, child custody issues, financial pressure or loneliness, which makes it all the more important to learn about the warning signs of suicide.
“I know it’s the busiest time of the year, but taking a couple of minutes to learn the signs can help us check in on those we care about,” said Grapevine Group President Debbie Knight.
Geoff O’Connor, President of the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce echoes the concern.
“We don’t know what pressures people may be experiencing.
“Many people could be feeling the cost of living impacts, so let’s reach out to our networks and make sure they’re ok this Christmas,” Mr O’Connor said.
Dean Kirkwood General Manager of the Resource Industry Network wants to remind businesses and the community that they can take advantage of the free safeTALK suicide prevention training and safety toolbox talks available.
“This might be a great opportunity to make suicide education a New Year’s resolution,” he said.
Conveniently, Grapevine Group trainers are available to train groups on-site.
The Mackay community are urged to download the free Grapevine Group app or visit grapevinegroup.org.au to learn the 16 warning signs, find local suicide prevention services in Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday communities and book public or private group training.
The campaign, supported by Mackay Regional Council’s Mayor, Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, Resource Industry Network and Queensland Police Service, has run for 14 years and includes a video with a life-saving message for the community.
Recognise the 16 warning signs of suicidal thoughts
   • Talking about suicide, death, and/or having no reason to live
   • Preoccupied with death and dying
   • Withdrawing from friends and/or social activities
   • Severe recent loss (especially a relationship) or threat of a significant loss
   • Major changes in behaviour
   • No interest in hobbies, work, school, etc
   • Unexpectedly making a will or funeral arrangements
   • Giving away their prized possessions
   • History of suicidal thoughts or attempts
   • Taking unnecessary risks and/or is impulsive
   • No interest in their personal appearance
   • Increases their use of alcohol or drugs
   • Expresses a sense of hopelessness
   • Experienced a situation of humiliation or failure
   • History of violence or hostility
   • Unwilling or unable to connect with potential support

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