Technology advances in the medical sector, along with specialist training, are delivering a service to women in the Mackay region that previously required surgery.

Endometriosis in Queensland has a higher prevalence than the national average and is a condition where endometrial-like tissue is present outside the uterus.

It is associated with pelvic pain, infertility, and poor mental health, and often many women suffer for years without a diagnosis, as up until now it would require surgery.

With new advances in imaging and specialist training undertaken by the team at Mackay Base Hospital’s Medical Imaging Department, this condition can now be identified, diagnosed and treated sooner, and without the need for surgery to confirm its presence.

Having the ability to diagnose Endometriosis locally is proving a boom for the Mackay region, with women across the area now able to take advantage of the new imaging process without having to travel.

Allan Hellmuth is the Ultrasound Team Leader at the Mackay Base Hospital Medical Imaging Department and working alongside Senior Radiographer/Sonographer Amy Symonds, they are both excited about the future of imaging in a region that continues to grow at a fast pace.

“Endometriosis can be a debilitating condition, and it can affect women of all ages,” Allan said.

“In fact, we are seeing young women, even teenagers coming in for scans who get diagnosed. The symptoms are abdominal pain, and many women live with it for years.

“One of the main issues with endometriosis is a lack of knowledge, and the fact is that many women simply haven’t heard of it. I’ve seen some women suffer for up to seven years before getting diagnosed, and that’s where this technology, while in its infancy, is so good for patient outcomes.”

“That’s one of most exciting things about my job…we’re still finding new ways to do things and implementing new innovations to find things we couldn’t find before. Ultrasound technology can change so much in a short space of time,” Allan said.

Senior Radiographer/Sonographer Amy Symonds recently travelled to Sydney to undertake specialist training in the detection and diagnosis of endometriosis through imaging, and believes that this will be a great step forward for women’s health in the region.

“There is definitely more awareness about endometriosis, especially in the last couple of years,” Amy said.

“For patients, it takes years to get a diagnosis but now with these new techniques and technology, that is going to change. The training I did has put me on a whole different path, so much more in-depth. I’m looking at parts of the body I wouldn’t have looked closely at before, I’m looking now for things I wouldn’t have before, and the ripple effect of this is that there are going to be many surgical procedures that can be avoided. That’s going to affect thousands of women in Mackay.

“We are now doing scans at a level that Mackay has never seen, our knowledge and training has gone up to new levels. Ideally, we hope that one day we can set up an endometriosis clinic and that’s never been done before.”

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Mackay Base Hospital Medical Imaging Department Ultrasound Team Leader Allan Hellmuth and Senior Radiographer/Sonographer Amy Symonds

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Last week, two dogs embarked on an unexpected adventure. While enjoying their regular morning beach walk, Rebecca and Paul Douthwaite were accompanied by their three dogs: Nym, Bella, and Loki. Suddenly, Nym and Bella bolted into the nearby bush.
The worried dog parents quickly jumped into action, posting on facebook and approaching everyone on the beach. They approached a woman called Megan. The lovely lady still had Rebecca’s number saved to her phone from the last time Bella and previous dog Boyd ran off years before. Megan walked home immediately, got on her ATV and started searching for the missing pups and sharing the post with all her neighbours.
Alongside Megan, Rebecca also approached another guy on an ATV on the beach, who had seen the post on Facebook and had also began looking, and a family friend Karen Penhallurick, who also contacted a neighbour and spread the word. Before long, it felt like everyone in the community knew Bella and Nym were missing and were on the lookout.
Rebecca and her family were touched with how amazing the community is and how they all rallied behind them in efforts to find their dogs:
“I just couldn't believe how amazing and helpful they all were,” Rebecca enthused.
After finding their dogs, nearly 12 hours later, safe and sound Rebecca wanted to thank the Conway community for their efforts.
When she went to do this, she realised there was no community Facebook page, but took it upon herself to create a new page for Conway community members called ‘Conway Community Chat’.
“Thank you again for all your help! Bella and Nym are very sore, but home safe.”
A worrying beginning but a happy ending, welcome home Bella and Nym and hello to the new Conway Community Chat.

The two adventurers, Nym and Bella

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A growing coalition of community groups is raising concerns about the Government’s plans for privatisation of iconic parts of National Parks across Queensland.
These groups believe that developers are being offered exclusive leases and parks will be pricing everyday Queenslanders out of the natural experiences these parks were created to offer, for private profit.
Local community groups are worried that if Queensland’s National Parks continue to grant exclusive leases to commercial operators it will transform public parks into high-priced, privatised ventures that only a few will be able to afford.
At a recent public meeting in the Whitsundays, residents and business operators made it clear that they did not support these moves. While eco-tourism is touted as a benefit, many fear it has become a cover for high-end, profit-driven enterprises that cater only to wealthy tourists. Instead of genuine conservation-driven activities.
"National Parks were established for conservation and for all people to enjoy. We believe these plans are nothing less than developer land-grabs being carried out in a process that by no stretch of the imagination could be called open and transparent" says Suzette Pelt, President of Whitsundays Save Our Foreshore Inc, a local public land advocacy group.
Suzette believes that privatising National Parks undermines the very purpose of these protected areas under the Nature Conservation Act 1992.
They are calling on the Queensland Government to put a stop to this commercialisation and to protect the rights of all Queenslanders and future generations to access and enjoy the state’s stunning natural landscapes without financial barriers.
You can show your support for this issue by signing a petition entitled Save Our National Parks From Commercialisation available through parliament.qld.gov.au and sponsored by Michael Berkman MP.
So far, the cause has garnered 4,183 signatures on the petition.

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Community groups say no to privatising national parks

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Council wishes to inform the community that the old Quota Park playground, which is currently fenced off, will be decommissioned in the coming weeks.

Recent testing has shown that the softfall no longer meets current Australian safety standards.

The playground equipment is also showing signs of wear.

As a result, council has made the decision to remove this playground, located at the southern end of Binnington Esplanade, permanently.

The newer playground in Quota Park will remain available to use while these decommissioning works are underway.

Iluka Park, which is located at the northern end of Binnington Esplanade, is also available as an alternative playground.

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This year’s 2024 order of candidates on Election Ballot Paper was determined earlier this week on Tuesday 8 October at Returning Officer Whitsunday in Whitsunday Shopping Centre.

The Electoral Commission Queensland (ECQ) had the 5 candidates’ names and parties on separate pieces of paper, all the same size. Placed them into blank envelopes also the same size.

They were then placed in a Ballot Box, shaken, mixed up and drawn blindly.

The results:

   1. Bauke Hovinga - Labor
   2. Amanda Camm - LNP
   3. Elena Quirk - Greens
   4. Julie Hall - One Nation
   5. Peter Atchison - Family First

Julie Hall from One Nation party was in attendance on the day.

Election Day is Saturday 26 October and voting is compulsory.

Can’t vote on Election Day? Below are early voting centre locations.

Early voting centre locations:

Proserpine
Whitsunday Masonic Lodge, 29 Chapman Stree

Cannonvale
Whitsunday Shopping Centre, Shop 15, 226 Shute Harbour Road

14 – 25 October
Monday - Friday 8am-6pm

1 One Nation candidate for Whitsunday Julie Hall attended the Ballot Draw on Tuesday

Photo Credit: Daniel Heggie

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This week Cruise Whitsundays proudly marks its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of delivering world‐class experiences and pioneering innovation in the Whitsundays.
From the introduction of Australia’s first luxury underwater accommodation on The Great Barrier Reef, to timeless adventures on Camira Sailing Adventure, Great Barrier Reef Adventure, and Whitehaven Beach tours, Cruise Whitsundays has been at the forefront of showcasing the region’s unparalleled natural beauty.
The jewel in Cruise Whitsundays crown is Reefworld, the only permanently moored pontoon in the Whitsundays outer Great Barrier Reef. It provides an unforgettable way to explore the reef, with guests able to spend the night on the Reef sleep deck or enjoy the unique experience of Reefsuites, Australia's first underwater accommodation, where they can sleep surrounded by the beauty of the reef.
While these unique offerings have delighted guests, Cruise Whitsundays continues to honour its classic experiences that have stood the test of time. The Camira Sailing Adventure remains a much‐loved choice, offering a perfect blend of sailing, snorkelling, and beachside relaxation.
The Great Barrier Reef Adventure takes visitors on an unforgettable journey to explore one of the world’s most renowned natural treasures, while tours to Whitehaven Beach, famous for its untouched white sands and crystal‐clear waters, are an essential experience for any visitor to the Whitsundays. In addition to sharing these incredible places with the world, Cruise Whitsundays has played an active role in supporting the local Whitsundays community.
Over the past 20 years, the company has contributed to the region by sponsoring events, offering prize giveaways, and employing hundreds of locals. This long‐standing commitment has helped foster a strong connection between Cruise Whitsundays and the Whitsunday community.
General Manager Renee Branton‐Brown expressed her pride in the company's journey:
"Celebrating 20 years is a wonderful milestone. Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to share the Whitsundays with so many guests, helping them create memories that last a lifetime. Our focus has always been on sustainably showcasing the natural beauty of the region and supporting the community that makes it so special."
As Cruise Whitsundays looks to the future, the company remains committed to sharing the unique beauty of the Whitsundays with the world, creating experiences that shape lasting memories for guests.

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Sales and Marketing Manager Liza Muller and General Manager Renee Branton‐Brown cutting the cake. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
Some fantastic prizes were given out
Cruiser the turtle paid a visit

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The Mackay and Whitsunday regions are facing uncertainty as they await road infrastructure commitments from both major parties ahead of the Queensland Government election on October 26.

While the Labor Government announced it will invest $157M, funded by progressive coal royalties, for critical improvements to Isaac region roads to enhance safety and supply chain efficiency, Mackay and Whitsunday regions have received only one commitment for their key state-controlled road projects.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the $157M commitment from the Labor Government for Isaac was welcomed, however noted the LNP was yet to extend a similar commitment.

The LNP announced a $20 Million proposal for upgrades to the Mackay Bucasia Road and Golf Links Road intersection, however neither major party have announced any funding for the Dawson or Capricornia sections of the Bruce Highway.

“The entire Greater Whitsunday region makes an oversized contribution to the Queensland economy, with a total economic output of $74.4B annually,” said Ms Porter.

“Like the Isaac region, both Mackay and Whitsunday have a long list of road projects that require investment now to not only improve safety and connectivity outcomes across the region, but also promote economic prosperity.

“We are calling on all candidates to clearly articulate their commitment to funding road projects across the entire Greater Whitsunday region in the next term of government.”

Ms Porter said that both Whitsunday and Mackay are key mining communities and also deserve their share of progressive coal royalties to fund key road and other infrastructure projects.

“The Whitsunday region is an important mining community in its own right, while Mackay is the key service sector location for the entire Bowen Basin region,” said Ms Porter.

“The Greater Whitsunday region deserves its fair share of election commitments and funding announcements in anticipation of a new government. It is vitally important to invest in the Greater Whitsunday region to protect Queensland’s long term economic prosperity.”

The Greater Possibilities for Greater Whitsunday and Queensland election priorities document outlines strategic initiatives and investment commitments needed for the Greater Whitsunday region.

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GW3 Chief Executive Officer Kylie Porter, Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins and Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson are advocating for commitment from state election parties to fix the shocking condition of the region’s Bruce Highway. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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At 5.50pm this Sunday 13 October the annual Miners Memorial Day will commence at Collinsville Workers Club but this year it is even more special to the Collinsville and Whitsunday community.

This year marks the 70th year since seven miners lost their lives in the state mine in Collinsville.

The disaster was a Carbon Dioxide CO2 gas outburst and happened at 5:50pm at the Collinsville State mine on 13 October 1954.

The gas outburst was later said to be 98% CO2 and the seven men died from asphyxiation.

The seven Collinsville men who died were Alex Parkinson, Peter Miller, Henry Petersen, Frederick Ernest Walker, James Reid Logan, Arthur Shrubsole and Herbert Ruff.

Two other men, Robert Munro and J. A. Baker were severely affected by the CO2 outburst and were taken to hospital to make a recovery.

The mining disaster has affected all miners and the broader Collinsville community for generations.

Even today, people who have since moved away from Collinsville often return specifically to be part of the Memorial Day.

President of the Memorial Committee Brett Murphy said for the first time this year they will also be honouring the two horses that passed in the mine during the disaster.

“This year we will be having for the first time a plaque for the two horses that died down there that day,” explained Brett.

“It was always about the men, but we've decided that the horses needed to be on the wall as well.”

The plaques will be unveiled by one of the horse handlers.

Brett also said that Memorial Day is always important to past and present miners, due to the closeness and relationships you develop in the mines.

“Underground workers form a family very quickly when they're working underground, and I believe that that's because of the danger, and you've got to look after each other,” said Brett.

“Basically, you really need to be looking after each other and be like family.

“And when someone from your family dies, and especially if it's seven people out of your family die on the one day, you can imagine how they felt.”

What: Miners Memorial Day
Where: Collinsville Workers Club
When: Sunday 13 October, 5:50pm start

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The community marched to pay their respects following the  Collinsville State mine disaster which claimed the lives of seven men on 13 October 1954

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Geoffrey Huegill, an Australian swimming legend and dual Olympian, boasts an incredible career with 72 international medals, including two Olympic medals and six world champion titles. Known for his dominance in the 50 metres butterfly, Geoff also held eight world records throughout his career.

Although originally from Mackay, Geoff now resides in Singapore but maintains strong ties to his hometown as he cherishes his time visiting his mother, friends, and family in the Mackay region.

Understanding the challenges faced by regional athletes, who rarely have access to world-class mentors, Geoff is passionate about inspiring the next generation of swimmers.

He recalls his own journey, beginning in Mackay, where he was raised with a strong work ethic and grew up swimming at local clubs.

“I grew up in Mackay, and it’s always special to come back and visit my mum and reconnect with the community… hopefully this is the start of many trips back,” Geoff said.

“Swimming is a connector and it's really helped me in my life.

“I'm still in the pool in some way, shape or form every single day and I'm very blessed to have that opportunity, and for me, it all started in Mackay.”

During his visit to the region, Geoff will conduct a series of swimming clinics tailored for athletes of all skill levels. These sessions will cater to a wide range of participants, from club and regional swimmers to state and national competitors, as well as those involved in surf sports and open water swimming.

• Club and regional swimmers specifically for Butterfly, Sprint, Speed and Skills on Sunday 13 October at 08:30-11:00 at Pat Wright Swim School

• State and national swimmers specifically for Butterfly, Sprint, Speed and Skills on Sunday 13 October at 11:30-14:00 at Pat Wright Swim School

• T.O.M.S (Triathlete, Open Water, Masters Swimmers) for competitors wanting to fine tune ALL strokes, dives and turns on Friday 11 October at 17:00-19:30 at Mackay Memorial Pool

• Surf Swimmers especially for surf sports athletes. This pool-based session will focus on building skills and endurance necessary for the unique, dynamic conditions faced in the surf on Wednesday 16 October at 16:00-18:30 at Mackay Memorial Pool

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Photo source: Australian Olympic Team (Facebook)

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Last week, 25 local men and women gathered at Paradiso in Airlie Beach to support the Mama Paulina Mangare Foundation of Tanzania and its Chief Patron, Dr. Joseph Masika OAM, a White Ribbon Ambassador and Rotarian.
The Foundation supports education and social needs such as ‘period poverty’ in rural areas for vulnerable school girls whose parents cannot afford to pay for their education.
Local charity worker Sandy Clark had worked with Dr Masika for several years at the Australia Tanzanian Services Foundation as a board member:
“Joseph called out for help last week and as he had supported so many of our African fundraising projects of course I jumped to help him. Overseas organisations battle for funding so I said I would see what was possible,” explained Sandy.
“Within a week we sold our seats and managed to get some support from local businesses with items for a silent auction and a raffle. What a great and compassionate community we live in!
“Local, well-known woman about town, Heather Sutton, volunteered to help me on the day with the raffle and silent auction and she has proven to be a great supporter of all of our fundraisers.”
Live Life Pharmacy in Cannonvale provided a fantastic prize for the raffle, which was a huge basket of perfumes and beauty products valued at around $300.
Michael Thomas won the prize and gifted it to his guest, Zena Glendening. Silent auction donations included a $100 Precision Auto service voucher, a Palm Beach diffuser from Jungle Trader, a $100 dining voucher from Paradiso, a $200 Hamilton Island voucher from Luxury Holidays, a Vibe Yoga voucher, and artistic gifts from local artist Trudy Hastings.
The event was a financial and social success, and final proceeds will be announced midweek.
Sandy’s next fundraiser on Friday November 15, is an evening cocktail party ‘Moulin Rouge Soiree’. The event being held from 6pm to 9pm will raise funds for the build of medical staff quarters at the Arthur Wina Memorial Hospital in Nalolo, Zambia, one of the poorest parts of Africa.
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WHAT: Moulin Rouge Soiree
WHERE: Whisper Gin Bar & Restaurant, Airlie Beach
WHEN: Friday November 15 from 6pm-9pm

Mama Paulina Mangare Foundation helps support vulnerable school girls
The Moulin Rouge Soiree and fundraiser promises to be a huge success
Include QR code

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Do you have enough supplies to last you three days in the case of a disaster? Are you even sure what you might need to get you through?

Mackay Regional Council and Woolworths have again joined forces to make it easier for Mackay region residents to organise their disaster supply kit.

From now until November 19, each of the region’s eight Woolworths stores will have two dedicated aisle ends stocked with key items for household disaster kits.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council had installed banners with tear-off shopping lists out the front of Woolworths stores, that customers can rip off and take into the store with them.

“These shopping lists have been specially designed to list most of the key items that a household would need in an emergency situation,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We know that our region is vulnerable to some of the worst disasters, such as cyclones, floods and bush fires,” he said.

“It is essential that everyone has at least three full days of supplies, including water, non-refrigerated food items, medicines and toiletries.

“We recommend that an emergency kit is kept in a safe dry place at all times as we head into disaster season.”

Woolworths Caneland Store Manager Jackie Good said shoppers would find handy aisle signage highlighting items from the list inside stores.

“Our Mackay team is here for their community and many locals will already be familiar with the role we play in disaster recovery to ensure households can restock their pantries with essentials,” Ms Good said.

“While we’ll always work to get our stores open as soon as possible after a disaster, road closures and flood waters can mean some residents simply aren’t able to get to us, and that’s why we want to help them build up a supply of essentials that they can rely on,” she said.

Visit the Disaster Dashboard at disaster.mackay.qld.gov.au for more information on how to Get Ready.

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Woolworths Caneland Store Manager Jackie Good met with Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson to discuss how residents can organise their disaster supply kit. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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During their regular turtle spotting sunset cruise, Whisper Cruises discovered what appeared to be an injured turtle floating off Cannonvale Beach about 100m from Pigeon Island.

Upon closer inspection they discovered it had sadly died. They retrieved the critically endangered Hawksbill turtle and took it to the VMR boat ramp where Libby Edge, from Eco Barge Clean Seas and the turtle hospital, took care of the body.

It was evident that the turtle had been struck by something, though not a propeller.
Tragic events such as these emphasise the importance for boaters to observe the "Go Slow for Turtles and Dugongs" buoys recently installed by Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ).
These buoys are crucial for safeguarding these vulnerable species from preventable harm while they feed on seagrass.
With ample open water available for faster speeds, boaters are urged to reserve those areas for high-speed activities and to slow down near seagrass beds, which are critical feeding and breeding grounds for turtles and dugongs.

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The poor injured turtle which was collected by Whisper Cruises

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry is calling on candidates in the upcoming Queensland state election to prioritise urgent action on critical issues affecting the local business community. With a focus on infrastructure, affordable insurance, and enhanced regional influence, the Chamber has identified key areas that require immediate government attention.

Priority 1: Urgent Road Infrastructure

The Chamber highlights the frequent closures and congestion of the Bruce Highway and Shute Harbor Road, which pose significant safety concerns and economic costs for local businesses. Chamber members are calling for the reinstatement of state budget funding for road projects and a long-term strategy to improve connectivity and safety for both residents and businesses.

Priority 2: Accessible Business Insurance

Small businesses in the Whitsundays are struggling with rising insurance costs and limited coverage options. The Chamber is advocating for the abolition of stamp duties on insurance products and amendments to the Reinsurance Pool to ensure fair and affordable insurance for all businesses.

Priority 3: Stronger Regional Influence and Representation

The Chamber emphasises the need for a more equitable distribution of resources and representation for northern Queensland. Local voices must be heard in state policy decisions to address the persistent imbalance favouring Southeast Queensland.

In addition to these priorities, the Chamber has highlighted other pressing issues, including the regional housing crisis, rising utility costs, and the need for streamlined government processes to support local businesses.

The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry has invited all candidates to provide formal responses regarding their commitment to addressing these critical issues and will publish them Friday 11 October via  www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au
 

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Mackay needs a representative who understands the community’s needs on a deeper level—someone embedded in its fabric with a proven track record of delivering for the region.

Belinda Hassan, Labor’s candidate for the seat of Mackay, is that leader. As a fifth-generation local with years of dedicated service, Belinda is ready to take her advocacy to a higher level, tackling larger-scale issues like homelessness, cost-of-living pressures, and regional development.

Belinda’s passion for addressing the housing crisis is evident in her strong push for new housing solutions. Under her advocacy, the government’s Homes for Queenslanders Plan is delivering 79 new homes to the Mackay and Whitsunday region, including 27 modular units, ten of which will be in Mackay by early 2025. These modular homes are designed for faster delivery and will provide immediate relief to those struggling with housing. In addition to the modular homes, seven 1-bedroom units are currently under construction in North Mackay.

"This is something I fought hard for," Belinda notes.

"Homelessness is not just a statistic—it’s a real issue affecting real people in our community."

Belinda aims to be a fierce advocate for Mackay on the state level, ensuring that local concerns are addressed in meaningful ways. Her previous term with Mackay Regional Council gave her firsthand experience of what people in Mackay want and need—whether it’s housing, employment, or essential services. Now, she’s ready to channel that experience into larger issues, like finding solutions for homelessness and fighting for Mackay to get its fair share of mining royalties.

The Labor government’s broader commitment to easing cost-of-living pressures is another area where Belinda is eager to make an impact. As part of a progressive team tackling these challenges head-on, Labor has implemented measures such as publicly-owned fuel and electricity retailers to drive competition, $1,000 energy rebates for households, 50-cent bus fares, free kindy for 4-year-olds and reduced vehicle registration fees.

“Mackay needs a representative who is not only grounded in the community but also part of a team that is delivering real, tangible benefits for locals,” says Belinda.

The Queensland government has committed a record $11.2 billion in concessions for families and businesses in 2024-25—an increase of more than 31% compared to the previous year. This includes billions in expanded measures such as lower public transport fares, motor vehicle registration cuts, and financial support for first-time home buyers, to name a few. Belinda is dedicated to ensuring Mackay fully benefits from these initiatives, helping residents manage the rising cost of living and ensuring no one is left behind.

Belinda’s vision for Mackay goes beyond addressing the immediate challenges. She wants to see Mackay grow as a bio-futures hub, tapping into the region’s potential for innovation and economic diversification. She believes in a prosperous Mackay, where progress is made not just in infrastructure, but in creating long-lasting social and economic benefits for future generations.

Belinda’s roots in the local community, her understanding of regional issues, and her ability to bring state resources to bear make her the ideal candidate for Mackay. For those seeking a representative who combines local passion with state-level influence, Belinda Hassan is ready to lead.

For more information or to get in touch with Belinda's campaign, please email belinda.hassan@queenslandlabor.org or call 0412 421 451.

Advertisement for Belinda Hassan, authorised K Flanders Level 1, 16 Peel St South Brisbane QLD

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Eastern Curlews Arrive In Mackay After Massive Migration

Australia’s largest migratory shorebird - the eastern curlew (Numenius madagascariensis) – has recently been spotted on the beaches around Mackay.

This critically endangered species travels up to 20,000 kilometres each year via the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. The route takes them to Australia from their European summer nesting sites in northern China and Russia.

After thousands of kilometres of flying, the eastern curlew can lose between 40% to 70% of its body weight and even begin to digest its muscles for energy. Therefore, it is essential for them to rest and feed undisturbed when they arrive in Australia to replenish their energy and recover from the exhausting journey.

Unknown to many, their global population has seen declines of up to 80% in the last 30 years. During the austral summer non-breeding season, an estimated 73% of the species’ population migrate to Australia, emphasising the importance of protecting this species when visiting our shores.

Reef Catchments, the local Natural Resource Management (NRM) Group, are thrilled to commence a four-year project that aims to support efforts to reverse the trajectory of critically endangered eastern curlew, as well as the endangered red goshawk, within the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region.

Reef Catchments Project Officer, Kellie Best, elaborates, “The project will deliver fauna surveys and targeted habitat restoration activities as well as support feral animal management across the region.”

The eastern curlew is known for being skittish and will take flight at the first sign of danger. In particular, unrestrained domestic dogs running along the beach are a major disturbance to the birds while trying to eat and rest.

The Mackay/Central QLD Coast is an important roosting area for rebuilding muscle and fat. To help our visiting eastern curlews, beachgoers are encouraged to observe them from a distance (100m+) and use a leash when walking dogs to avoid frightening and chasing shorebirds, burning vital energy.

Local birdwatchers can enjoy spotting these beautiful birds along our coastline. They have a predominantly coastal distribution and can be seen on coastal sand/mudflats and wetland areas.

Eastern curlews can often suffer from mistaken identity and are best recognised by their distinctive beak, which is long and curves downwards, averaging 18 centimetres long. They use their long bills when foraging for food, such as crustaceans and small molluscs, by probing in the sediment.

This project is funded by the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust and delivered by Reef Catchments, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel. Reef Catchments are the Natural Resource Management (NRM) group for the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region. It facilitates change and works for long-term solutions to sustain, protect, and improve our region’s natural resources and environment, now and into the future.

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Eastern curlew (Numenius madagascariensis) at Bucasia Beach, August 2024 (photo credit: Kellie Best)

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