A Federal Government review of the Horticulture Code of Conduct could have important implications for growers across the Mackay region, as one of Queensland’s key horticultural and food-producing hubs. The Government has announced an independent review of the Code, to be led by Mr Chris Leptos AO. The review will assess whether the existing rules governing trade between growers and traders of wholesale, unprocessed fruit, vegetables, nuts and herbs remain fit for purpose in a changing industry. While the Burdekin is widely recognised for its intensive horticultural production, Mackay and the surrounding Pioneer Valley also play a critical role in Queensland’s horticulture supply chain. Local growers produce a range of crops including vegetables, tropical fruits and small-scale specialty produce, much of which is sold through central wholesale markets regulated under the Code. Nationally, horticulture is Australia’s third-largest agricultural industry, with production value forecast to reach a record $18.9 billion this financial year. Exports are also expected to hit a new high of $4.4 billion, highlighting the sector’s growing importance to the national economy. The Horticulture Code of Conduct governs commercial relationships between growers and traders, particularly those supplying central wholesale markets. Around 10,000 growers supply produce through these markets, which are serviced by more than 400 wholesalers. Each year, approximately 4 million tonnes of horticultural produce—valued at more than $8 billion—is traded nationally. The review will examine whether the Code remains effective, given significant changes to the horticulture sector since it was last reviewed in 2015. This includes shifts in market power, supply chain structures and competition dynamics that may directly affect regional producers, including those in Mackay. Mr Leptos will consult widely with stakeholders across the horticulture supply chain over the coming months. Growers, traders, industry groups and government agencies are being encouraged to review the consultation paper and provide feedback on how the Code operates in practice and where improvements could be made. Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the review aimed to ensure the Code continued to protect all parties. “The horticulture sector has changed since the Code was last reviewed in 2015, and we want to understand if the Code is still fit-for-purpose,” she said. Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury Andrew Leigh said fair competition was essential for industry sustainability. “The Horticulture Code exists to stop unfair dealing and keep the playing field level,” he said. A final report is expected to be delivered to the Federal Government by the end of April. Submissions can be made through the Department of Agriculture’s ‘Have Your Say’ website. CAPTION: Mackay’s home to a thriving horticulture industry. Photo supplied
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Sleep is often the first thing sacrificed in our busy lives, yet its influence on both health and mood is profound. Far from just a nightly pause, sleep is a vital reset for the body and mind, and a natural process that affects everything from memory to immunity. Experts say a lack of quality sleep doesn’t just lead to grogginess; it can quietly undermine physical and mental wellbeing. During sleep, the body repairs cells, strengthens the immune system, and balances hormones that regulate appetite and stress. Skimping on rest can increase the risk of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, while also intensifying feelings of irritability, anxiety, and depression. Beyond physical health, sleep plays a crucial role in cognitive function. Studies reveal that people who consistently get adequate rest are better at problem-solving, decision-making, and retaining information. Conversely, even one night of poor sleep can leave the brain foggy, emotions heightened, and focus compromised. Simple habits can dramatically improve sleep quality: maintaining a consistent bedtime, limiting screen exposure before bed, and creating a calm, dark environment all set the stage for restorative rest. Experts also highlight the importance of listening to your body, and recognising when you’re tired and allowing yourself to recharge. Ultimately, sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a cornerstone of wellbeing. Prioritising it can transform your energy, resilience, and mood, making every day not just manageable but enjoyable. After all, a rested body is a thriving body, and a rested mind is a happier one!
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My Chiropractor continues to build on its long-standing presence in the local community, offering personalised, gentle chiropractic care supported by modern technology and decades of combined clinical experience. Under the ownership of Principal Chiropractor Marti Harris and his wife Colleen Harris, the locally owned practice has expanded its services and invested in advanced spinal decompression technology, positioning the clinic among a select group nationwide. The practice operates two of only 17 Spine MT Core decompression machines in Australia, giving local patients access to highly specialised treatment options for disc issues and nerve compression without travelling to major metropolitan centres. With more than 25 year’s experience each and a decade working together, Dr Marti and Dr Rod Le Coz place a strong emphasis on tailored treatment rather than a one-size-fits-all model. “We’re not a cookie-cutter clinic… every person has a tailored program designed to achieve their health goals,” Dr Marti said. Dr Marti said patients are drawn to the clinic’s blend of experience and innovation. “The reason people come here is for a combination of knowledge, experience and the integration of modern technology,” he said. Services include spinal adjustments, spinal decompression, dry needling, shockwave therapy, tailored rehabilitation and nutritional supplementation, supporting patients with disc injuries, nerve-related pain, arthritis, sporting injuries and those seeking alternatives to surgery or long-term medication. “We just want to help people get better so they can function at work, pick up their kids and live their lives without suffering with pain,” Colleen said. Centrally located and known for its friendly, welcoming team, My Chiropractor continues to build strong community relationships, helping patients move better, feel better and live better every day.
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As January wraps up and classrooms fill again, families across the region are adjusting to earlier mornings, packed lunches and the return of school routines. While the new year brings excitement, it can also bring fatigue and emotional overload for both children and parents. Developmental paediatrician Dr Angela Owens says the return to school is a major transition, and it’s normal for the first few weeks to feel unsettled. With some planning and gentle strategies, she says families can build routines that support learning, wellbeing and connection. Here are Dr Owens’ top 10 back-to-school tips to help families start the year on a positive note: • Expect a bumpy start: New routines and social dynamics can be tiring. Behaviour may be more challenging at home, but this usually settles within a few weeks. • Understand after-school meltdowns: Many children hold it together all day and release emotions at home. Keep after-school time low-pressure and offer snacks, movement or quiet time. • Prioritise sleep: Consistent bedtimes and wake-up times support emotional regulation, focus and smoother mornings. • Fuel the brain: Even small breakfasts help with stamina and concentration. Smoothies or grab-and-go options can work when time is tight. • Use social stories: Simple stories or visual schedules can help younger children prepare for tricky situations like drop-off or playground challenges. • Share a one-page snapshot with teachers: A brief summary of your child’s strengths, interests and support needs can help teachers respond quickly and effectively. • Regulation before expectations: When children are overwhelmed, connection and calm come first. Predictable routines and positive cues can help. • Short-term rewards are okay: In the early weeks, connection-based rewards can support emotional adjustment and motivation. • Restart shared reading: Just 10 minutes a day supports learning, attention and emotional wellbeing. • Schedule fun: Keeping enjoyable family time on the calendar supports resilience and helps children feel emotionally supported. Dr Owens also reminds families that support is available. If challenges persist or stress levels remain high, speaking with a GP can be a helpful next step to ensure both children and parents are well supported as the school year unfolds.
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Colonial Palms’ managers, Greg and Nettie Dunlop are approaching 12 months since taking charge of the resort and the place has been completely revitalised.
With the support and dedication of long-term local team on staff, Greg and Nettie have created a vibrant atmosphere where they are regularly praised by guests for the happy team and good vibes.
Greg and Nettie have worked in business management for 50 years and know the importance of having good teams.
Established in the 1980’s Colonial Palms Motor Inn has survived several cyclones, blistering hot summers, tropical wet seasons and it is still standing strong.
Under the management of Greg and Nettie, Colonial Palms Motor Inn is flourishing.
Boasting three qualified chefs with over 107 years of experience between them, Colonial Palms provide both guests and visiting diners with incredible meals.
Meanwhile, the ‘Clean Queens’ keep the rooms and apartments immaculate and spotless.
To grow the business Greg and Nettie are excited to bring weddings to Colonial Palms.
“We’re currently in the planning stages of turning this into a wedding venue,” said Greg.
“We figured we've got the tropical gardens, rock pools, the Palms restaurant, deck and accommodation.
“Planning your big day will be made stressless thanks to Shyrelle, our new and very experienced wedding planner that has recently joined our team.
“We will attend to your whole wedding day needs all at one venue.”
Colonial Palms will cater to small, intimate weddings and with the restaurant, accommodation and ceremony, your whole wedding could be hosted conveniently on-site.
Complete with a whole lot of character, stunning views over the water and two rock pools, Greg and Nettie say it’s going to be a “one stop wedding shop” where they offer the whole package.
Nettie and Greg Dunlop have been managers at Colonial Palms for almost 12 months, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
One of Colonial Palms Motor Inn’s rock pools
Colonial Palms deck
Photos supplied
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At Mika Airlie Kitchen & Bar prepare to be transported to the 70’s with their house-made California Margarita.
Ingredients:
• Tequila (GF)
• Triple Sec
• Fresh lime juice
• Vanilla
• Clove
• Ginger
• Almond bitters
Mika is bringing back a classic 1970’s margarita and the ingredients combine to create a charming and refreshing cocktail that is very easy to drink.
The vanilla provides a sweetness to the margarita, which is contrasted by the fresh lime juice that offers a delicate freshness and brings you back to summer days.
Additionally, the cloves and ginger add a depth to the margarita unlike anything else, the hint of almond bitters gives the cocktail a unique twist.
Mika offer a broad range of specialty Margs, designed to suit almost any taste. Try the Classic, Guava, Mango, Coconut, Matador (pineapple) or even the Smoky (a smoke infused tequila), Spicy– why not make an afternoon of it?
The spicy tequila is house infused with local chillis and they also infuse the tequila with Aussie Mesquite wood to give a touch of earthiness to your smoking sensations. The spicy coconut margarita is also a crowd favourite.
At Mika the tequila they use is Gluten Free and it’s great for those that have gluten intolerances, which means no-one will be missing out on the drinks they can offer.
Margaritas taste better at Mika Airlie Kitchen & Bar between 4pm and 5pm, grab yours now and try.
California Margarita from Mika Airlie Kitchen & Bar, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
80 gms ricotta-filled ravioli (white and green pasta)
20 gms butter
1 tblsp green peppercorns
4 capers (chopped)
10 gms fresh shallots or spring onions (sliced)
20 gms smoked salmon (sliced thin)
40 mls cream
10 gms fresh parmesan
10 mls Napolitana Sauce
Salt and pepper
Napolitana Sauce:
1 tblsp olive oil
1 clove garlic (crushed)
1 small bunch fresh basil
1 small can peeled Italian tomatoes
Salt and pepper
Put olive oil in small pot, sauté garlic, basil and add sliced tomatoes. Season to taste. Put lid on pot and simmer for one hour or until sauce has thickened.
Half cook the ravioli in boiling water. Place in a pan the butter, green
peppercorns, capers, shallots and smoked salmon. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Sauté together for a few minutes.
Add cream and reduce sauce on medium heat, taking care not to boil. Add parmesan cheese at the end to thicken sauce further.
Reheat the ravioli in boiling water. Add the pasta to the sauce and toss in the pan. Serve and garnish with basil leaves and a tablespoon of Napolitana sauce. (SERVES 1)
Recipe from A Taste Of The Whitsundays by Warren Gamack, Colin Bartley, and Alex Bortoli
During winter, only once or twice a year, a special day occurs when the tides are low enough for people to walk to Bowen’s Lighthouse.
This year Ingham resident Mary Brown is travelling down from Ingham to complete the walk alongside her family.
This walk is special Mary not only because of the rarity of the tide, but because her mother grew up on Bowen’s lighthouse island.
“There’s just a bit of connection there that I really like, and I want to do that walk desperately,” said Ms Bowen.
“I think it's fantastic, it's sensational the concept of being able to walk at low tide twice a year over there.
“I never had the opportunity to come with mum, and I actually haven’t been to the lighthouse yet”
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the annual ‘Walk to the Lighthouse’ is a great activity which happens each year in Bowen.
“We only recommend you walk when the lowest tide is below 0.2m, this is to ensure you don’t get stuck as we don’t want anyone having to swim back!” she said.
“In 2024, the lowest tide of the year will occur about 3.25pm on Monday, August 19.
“We recommend you leave about one hour before the lowest tide to ensure you have enough time to walk across, check out the lighthouse and walk back.
“We also recommend you wear reef shoes or an old pair of sneakers as you will get wet – and please be very aware of the marine life as you will see starfish and sea cucumbers.
“Please be careful not to damage any coral.”
WHAT: Bowen Lighthouse Walk
WHERE: Bowen
WHEN: August 19
Walking to Bowen Lighthouse is only possible at low tide once or twice a year. Photo supplied
On the first of September, we are thrilled to be welcoming a new direct service from Adelaide into Whitsunday Coast Airport. This new route will give 1.8 million people direct access to The Whitsundays with Jetstar.
To support the route and to encourage visitation, we have recently launched a significant destination awareness campaign in Adelaide.
This campaign runs across radio, billboards across Adelaide, digital advertisements and social media activity.
The campaign is led by the messaging ‘The Whitsundays: Wide Open’, highlighting the ease of access from Adelaide to The Whitsundays, our wide-open spaces and beautiful, warm weather.
Through the advertisements, we also highlight the variety of experiences available to travellers in The Whitsundays. Whether they are looking for an action-packed adventure or a relaxing escape, there is something for everyone.
This month, we will also be running advertisements for our members as a part of the campaign, to help South Australians dreaming about travelling to The Whitsundays to book their trip.
We couldn’t be more excited about the new direct service with Jetstar, and if you’re travelling to Adelaide on the new route, keep your eyes out for The Whitsundays!
Contributed by Laura Knipe, Marketing Manager Tourism Whitsundays
Fly Direct to Adelaide and visit Adelaide Oval, Photo supplied
Last Friday, students from nine schools across the region gathered at Glenfields Park in Glenella to plant 1,500 trees. The community continued the effort on Sunday, planting an additional 1,500 trees as part of National Tree Day. Residents were invited to roll up their sleeves and help plant trees as part of the council’s National Tree Day event, held at Glenfields Park on Wheeler Drive in Glenella.
Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council
Mayor Greg Williamson stated that the council aimed to plant more than 3,000 plants during this year's National Tree Day events, which included School’s Tree Day on Friday, July 26.
“These events help to increase the region’s tree canopy coverage and provide essential shade in this popular recreational area,” Mayor Williamson said.
“By participating in National Tree Day, residents can contribute to a greener, healthier future for our region.
“The benefits of tree planting extend far beyond aesthetics – trees improve air quality, provide habitat for local wildlife, and can reduce surface temperatures by up to 20 degrees.”
Mayor Williamson also noted that these types of community events brought people together and fostered a sense of shared responsibility for the environment.
“Whether you’re an avid gardener or just someone who cares about our environment, your help on National Tree Day is invaluable,” he said.
Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council
I often find myself grappling with the duality of my nature: balancing a career driven by stringent deadlines with an innate penchant for procrastination. I suppose you could say I thrive under pressure—like a diamond, I like to think I shimmer in the most challenging moments.
Though, last week, I finally ‘did a thing’ that’s been on my to-do list for years: I registered to become a tissue and organ donor. In New Zealand, where I grew up, this process is simple and straightforward. You opt in when you get your driver’s license, and your decision is clearly indicated on the license itself. In Australia, however, the process is different and, admittedly, it took me over a decade to finally register online.
The catalyst for this decision was a sign I saw at the entrance of Mackay Base Hospital promoting Donate Life Week. I had the time to reflect on this as I was receiving my second chemotherapy infusion which takes a few hours.
I won't lie, treatment number two was particularly brutal. That evening, I opened up to my friends and family, admitting that although I had been diagnosed with cancer months ago, it was the first time I truly felt like a cancer patient. The side effects were overwhelming, plunging me into relentless pain and discomfort. Even a simple trip to the toilet became a monumental challenge, with my hands and feet tormented by a cruel mix of very painful cold prickles and cramps. Tears streamed down my face and for the first time, I couldn't use humour to mask the pain—it was raw, unfiltered, and overwhelming.
However, registering as a donor during such a difficult time reminded me that even in our darkest hours, we have the power to make choices that can save lives.
I encourage each of you to consider becoming a donor. It's a simple act that holds the potential to transform lives. You can read more about organ donation on page 7 in this edition.
Amanda
Mackay Central State School recently received a kind contribution from Councillor Alison Jones of the Mackay Regional Council.
Her generous donation of seeds, grown and preserved from her own garden has significantly enriched the school's new Seed Library.
This initiative was originally noticed by Mackay Regional Council Libraries, where a selection of seeds are made available at various regional locations for community members to borrow seeds instead of books, to promote a love for gardening and seed sustainability as well as educate local children and families.
Councillor Jones’s says the Seed Library operates on a simple yet impactful principle: “Just like using a book, you use the seeds and then return it.”
The Seed Library allows you to borrow a packet of seeds, grow your plants and then return collected seeds in the provided envelope once your crop has matured for the next person. This system not only supports local agriculture but also helps cultivate a shared resource of seeds that are well-adapted to the local environment.
Previously, the Seed Library at Mackay Central State School has benefited from a range of generous contributions. Avah Plater, who assists with the school's Garden group, notes that donations have come from various sources, including her own garden, Councillor Jones’s Garden and even local businesses like Bunnings, which has provided garden goods.
The school is actively seeking further donations of gardening tools, seeds or other garden-related items. Such contributions are vital for continuing to grow fresh produce, provide educational opportunities for students and promote environmental stewardship.
Ultimately, the Seed Library aims to foster a thriving, sustainable community and inspire a new generation of gardeners.
Councillor Alison Jones of the Mackay Regional Council donated a variety of seeds from her own garden to support The Seed Library initiative. Image supplied
In a surprise announcement made last week, Julieanne Gilbert, the Member for Mackay, announced that she will not be contesting the upcoming State election in October.
Mrs Gilbert said that it has been an honour to represent Mackay in State Parliament.
“The world has changed immensely during this time, increased use of social media, the global pandemic and now we are combating the global cost of living pressures. I have loved working in our community.
“I have decided that it is time for me to pass the baton onto someone younger who will continue work for our collective betterment, she said.
“I would like to thank the Mackay community for their support.”
During a press conference held on Sydney Street, Mrs Gilbert sighted the opportunity to travel with her husband, Frank, as well as spending more time with her family as motivating factors for her retirement. She also said that this was her decision and she was not influenced by the Labor party to retire.
During her career as the Member for Mackay since 2015, there are a number of projects delivered for the Mackay community that she is proud of.
“Investment into our road systems to make our daily lives safer and get to our destinations quicker including the Vines Creek Bridges, Mackay Ring Road and Walkerston Bypass and a network of shared bike and walking paths,” she said.
“Our health services continue to grow to service our expanding population including, the rebuild of the Sarina hospital, the funding for the 128-bed expansion and multi-story car park at the Mackay Base Hospital. The expansion of the Heart Catheter Lab which is saving the lives of locals.”
The former teacher also said that the region’s future workforce will come from students currently sitting in classrooms.
“A new classroom block at the Mackay Special School, the upgrade to the performing arts blocks at North Mackay SHS and the new teaching spaces at CQU TAFE will prepare and train our young people.
“Even when you have not agreed with decisions being made at state government level, please know that each decision was made with the best interest of our community’s future at heart.
“Finally, I would like to thank my family, friends, ALP branch members, many volunteers, and my hard-working electorate staff for joining me on this journey.”
Premier Steven Miles visited Mackay last Friday adding his support to Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan’s nomination to replace Mrs Gilbert as the Labor candidate for the seat of Mackay.
Ms Hassan said she would take an unpaid leave of absence from her role as a councillor while campaigning for the state election.
After nearly a decade of service, Julieanne Gilbert steps down as Member for Mackay to focus on family and travel. Her Mackay Labor team L-R: Suzanne, Julieanne, Phil and Emily. Photo credit: Amanda Wright
Premier Steven Miles (left) visited a social housing project in Mackay last Friday adding his support to Cr Belinda Hassan’s Labor party nomination for the state election
The community came together in force this year to support the Crossroad Arts’ Annual Giving Program, smashing this year’s target of $17,500 out of the park.
The final tally included a generous $5,000 donation of matched funds from Golding as the 2024 Crossroad Arts Community Champion, Golding generously matched community donations $1 for $1 up to $5,000.
Last week the Crossroad Arts team and Ambassador Georgia Knoll visited a local Golding civil engineering infrastructure project for a behind the scenes site tour and to celebrate the success of this year’s Annual Giving Program raising a whopping $27,205, well above this year’s target.
This figure was made possible with thanks to the donations from numerous local businesses and individuals, many returning to support the Annual Giving program year after year.
Martin Brears, Lead Civil Engineer for Golding, shared the reasoning behind Golding’s decision to partner with Crossroad Arts as a community champion for 2024 Annual Giving Program.
Martin explained, “Golding as an organisation has always looked to support smaller regional charities and sporting groups in the communities where we work. A great opportunity to support a local organisation giving so much back to the community”
Golding Community Liaison Mark Cornelissen went on to discuss how they became connected with Crossroad Arts and the appeal of supporting this Mackay-based organisation.
Mark said, “We heard through the community about Crossroad Arts and just thought about what a great opportunity it would be to do something related to Regional Queensland.”
Golding delivers civil infrastructure, urban and mining services on the East Coast of Australia. Over the past 75 years, ongoing success has allowed Golding to expand its capabilities into New South Wales.
Crossroad Arts are dedicated to creating outstanding inclusive art experiences for all people to build stronger communities. Funds raised from the Annual Giving Program go directly to supporting local artists and programs. If you share their passion for inclusivity in your community you are invited to help them achieve their vision of Arts for All.
Crossroad Arts Staff visit Golding’s civil engineering infrastructure project site to celebrate the $5,000 matched donation
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Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay residents were treated to a welcome, and a level of hospitality, that was second to none whenever they visited Matsuura.
“Our sister city relationship has remained strong since its inception in 1989, but the people of Matsuura are just tremendous – they welcome us with open arms, invite us into their homes and share beautiful meals with us,” Mayor Williamson said.
Planning is currently underway for the first citizen's tour of our Japanese sister city since December 2019 (the 30th anniversary tour).
Twenty Mackay residents can take part in the tour, which will be led by Mayor Greg Williamson and council CEO Scott Owen.
The 2024 tour, from December 13 to December 20, will be an immersive experience with outstanding hospitality in Matsuura, including a dinner in the home of a Japanese family.
Matsuura City Council has planned a full range of activities including a visit to J-Power, the city’s coal-fired power station. There will also be a day trip to Mount Fuji and a free day in Tokyo.
Council is currently looking for residents who would like to take part in the citizen’s tour. Costs start from $3845 per person and booking deposits are required by the close of business, on August 2.
Mayor Williamson said during the last Matsuura tour in 2019, a crowd of about 400 people welcomed their group to the city and the Matsuura Mayor, Yoshi Tomoda unveiled a new park called Sister Park.
“The park has a giant platypus-shaped playground and a giant plinth engraved with ‘Mackay Regional Council’,” he said.
“It was an overwhelming experience that was a real pleasure to be involved in and I hope we can put together a great group to share that experience this year. This tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn about Japanese culture as a guest – not a tourist – and meet the people of Matsuura.”
For more information and booking details, contact mackaysistercities@mackay.qld.gov.au
Matsuura Mayor, Yoshi Tomoda and Mayor Greg Williamson unveiled a new park
called Sister Park in Matsuura in 2019
Digital marketing agency Rebel Nation opened Expressions of Interest earlier this week for The Rebellion – a marketing mentoring and coaching membership tailored to regional businesses and markets.
The Rebellion will commence with a founding membership – which is an early round available only to local organisations – with a discounted price.
To be eligible for the founding membership round, an EOI must be submitted by August 16.
Rebel Nation Director Jade McAuley said the membership would bring together upskilling, community connection and guidance in one platform to “empower anyone who wants to upgrade their marketing skills to not just learn more, but to also learn how to put it into action – and improve your marketing”.
"After 20 years in marketing in a regional area, across a number of industries and business types and sizes, I’m pretty used to ‘getting my brain picked’ by people wanting to get advice or learn more about marketing – and I love being able to help,” Ms McAuley said.
“The Rebellion is now the next step in that – to offer an affordable marketing coaching subscription, starting with our local organisations first.
“Marketing is fun! And most people can actually do a really good job, with the right knowledge, tools, and some proper guidance and mentoring."
Members will work closely with experts in marketing and business to build and implement effective marketing strategies – particular to their own organisation. It is a completely digital experience, allowing members to benefit from the program from anywhere.
"Our aim is to bridge the gap between what marketing will suit your business’s goals and audience, and how to actually make that happen.”
EOI closes August 16 and can be made at www.rebelnation.com.au.
Rebel Nation Director Jade McAuley
Final restoration works, including minor pavement and concrete repairs, have started on Mackay–Eungella Road.
Further significant repair works have commenced this month (July 2024) on the Eungella Range section of Mackay–Eungella Road, including the construction of a 62-metre-long, 2.4-metre high concrete sleeper wall at the base of the slope to provide protection from rock falls.
High tensile mesh and soil nails will be installed over two areas, and shotcrete will be applied to the water flow route to stabilise the slope face beside the road.
Further works on Mackay–Eungella Road, Eungella Range will include: clearing and scaling slope faces, removing scoured material and revegetation of slopes.
Works are expected to be completed by late 2024, weather permitting.
TMR spokesperson, Mr John Oppes, A/Regional Director Central Queensland said that the disaster event in January 2023 saw more than 1000mm of rain fall in one week, causing landslips at Eungella Range and Finch Hatton.
"Given the scale of the impact, it has not been a quick fix but since that time, crews have stabilised embankments above the roadway by securing and removing loose boulders, vegetation and other materials to reduce the risk of further slips, and repaired damaged bitumen, drainage, scours, headwalls and kerbs,” Mr Oppes said.
"These final restoration works are expected to be ongoing until late 2024.
"During this time, road users can expect intermittent delays.
“We ask all road users to pay attention around the roadworks, obey any directions from traffic controllers on site and not speed through the work sites.
"This is all part of TMR’s focus on rebuilding Queensland's transport network and we thank the local community for its patience while this work is completed."
For up-to-date information on road conditions, call 13 19 40, visit www.qldtraffic.qld.gov.au or download the QLDTraffic app.
Damage caused to the Eungella Range road by the rain event in January, 2023
Yesterday, the highly anticipated GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race was set to begin, attracting 29 boats from South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. Among the entrants is the impressive 72-foot Antipodes, registered to the Royal Yacht Club of Hong Kong, and the largest entry, the 100-foot super maxi Wild Thing 100. The race also features the beautifully restored 1904 timber classic, the 33-foot Maritimo Katwinchar.
The official Skippers Briefing took place earlier during the week at the Southport Yacht Club Main Beach Clubhouse, followed by a lively Welcome Party. The GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race was scheduled to commence around 10am yesterday, with an epic offshore start line straight off the beach in front of Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise. The Race Village at Mackay Marina will be open from Saturday, 3rd August through to Tuesday, 6th August, welcoming competitors and spectators alike.
Adding to the excitement, a special 'Race within a Race' was planned to be held, featuring three VIPs hosted by three of the competing boats. The Mayor of Mackay Regional Council, Greg Williamson, was racing onboard GCCM Arctic Blonde, City of Gold Coast Councillor Shelley Curtis competing on Ocean Crusaders J-Bird, and COO of the race naming sponsor Gold Coast City Marina (GCCM), Andrew Chapman, sailing on the super maxi Wild Thing 100.
This friendly competition marked the growing sporting relationship between the two host cities. Each VIP would be live-streaming their racing experience from the start line at Cavill Avenue to the Gold Coast Seaway. They then were planned to take the famous 'step off the stern' into Gold Coast waters, being swiftly collected by one of the Southport Yacht Club's high-speed patrol boats.
The thrilling action is being captured from the air by professional camera crews onboard Gold Coast Helitours, with on-water live commentary by Sydney-based Bow Caddy Media. The coverage is also being streamed directly to the Sydney International Boat Show. For live tracking, spectator opportunities, and more information, visit the official race website at www.goldcoastmackay.com.
William Baker was an adventurous, headstrong rule breaker; he also had a big and incredibly kind heart.
Like most teenage boys, he thought he was bulletproof and immortal, mum Kim Baker said.
The Baker family’s world fell apart when William tragically lost his life in 2022 following a serious traffic crash involving a van and motorbike at Blacks Beach.
Two years on, her grief still very raw, Kim said she finds comfort knowing that Will’s heart, lungs, liver and kidneys were donated to help save five people.
“From the minute we arrived in the ED that night I said ‘if he doesn’t make it, do everything you can to keep him alive and take his organs,’” she said.
“I guess it was instinct given my medical background as a nurse, but it also helped us find some good in the enormous and overwhelming grief.”
DonateLife Week, which is held from 28 July to 4 August, is the national awareness week to encourage more Australians to get behind organ and tissue donation.
As a donor family, Kim wanted to speak out to help raise awareness and encourage organ donation registration.
Four of the five recipients of William’s organs were women, including a baby, a teenager and a woman who had a rare form of liver cancer.
“I think sometimes that is seems so unfair; the recipients get another chance at life, to be able to function and be with their family, and William doesn’t,” Kim said.
“I know that is part of the grief process, but there’s also great comfort knowing that he lives on in others and that his sad loss gave others another opportunity at life.”
There are currently 1800 Australians on the organ waitlist and 14,000 more on dialysis for kidney failure. One organ donor can save the lives of up to seven people and change the lives of many more through eye and tissue donation.
Three months after William’s death, Kim wrote a confidential letter to the organ recipients describing their son and his love of skateboarding, fishing, travelling and snowboarding. She also detailed his love of fast-food including KFC and McDonalds.
The unwavering support of organ donation Mackay HHS clinical nurse consultant Donna Contor and DonateLife counsellors had also been vital as the Bakers came to terms with the loss of their son and the transplant process.
“She was and is always still there to offer us support, answer our questions or sit in silence when it’s needed,” Kim said.
“The DonateLife events like the annual Remembrance Service and Thank You days are important to donor families – they help validate our feelings and become a safe place to express our emotions.
“You meet other families and realise you aren’t alone in this process – we aren’t the first or the last to go through this and that everyone’s journey through grief is different.”
The Baker family travelled to the Cook Islands last month and participated in variety of William’s favourite activities including fishing, snorkelling and mud buggies. Kim and her daughter Brianna tackled Mt Kilimanjaro in June last year to celebrate William’s life and his love of snowy mountain tops.
Sadly, more than 50 Australians died last year while on the organ transplant waitlist.
“I really want people to spread the word about organ donation; to have the conversation with their families and then go ahead and register as organ and tissue donors,” Kim said.
“For someone who is seriously ill, an organ or tissue transplant can mean the difference between life and death, being healthy or sick.
“It only takes a minute, but lives really depend on it.”
Register at donatelife.gov.au or with three taps on your Express Plus Medicare app.
By Mackay Hospital and Health Service
Eimeo mother Kim Baker and Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) clinical nurse consultant (organ donation) Donna Contor
Images of William Baker. Images supplied
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