Council will soon begin works at Paradise and Webberley streets, West Mackay, to improve safety at the intersection for motorists and pedestrians.

The extensive upgrade project will begin in late January 2024, and finish in December 2024, weather permitting.

The project will include installing traffic signals at the intersection of Paradise and Webberley streets and incorporating designated slip lanes onto and off Webberley St.

Additional lanes will be added through the intersection on Paradise Street to facilitate two lanes for through traffic, both northbound and southbound.

There will also be signals for pedestrian access through the intersection for safety, and a designated bike lane.

A pathway will be built to connect to existing pathways in Paradise Street, Webberley Street and the bus stop.

During the works, Webberley Street will be closed between Paradise and Simpson streets, with detours in place. Paradise Street will remain open throughout the works.

The existing bus stops and routes on Paradise and Webberley streets will have some changes, and temporary bus stops will be implemented for commuters. Signage will be installed at the existing bus stops detailing the location of the temporary bus stops and timeframes for their use.

Prior to work beginning, the removal of trees along Paradise Street will be necessary to allow for the construction. This is expected to be undertaken in late January, 2024.

Trees will be replaced with native species along the Paradise Street pathway.

There will be some minor noise and dust disturbances due to various plant and equipment that will be used on site.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience during these essential improvement works.

For more information visit connectingmackay.com.au

This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government through the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme and Mackay Regional Council.

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A map shows the area of works at the intersection of Paradise and Webberley streets, West Mackay

Get ready to witness the magic of empowerment and celebration as the JSP Women’s Awards 2024 gears up to honour the phenomenal stories and accomplishments of the women in the Mackay region. This annual event transcends mere awards, transforming into a vibrant celebration of resilience, triumphs, and inspiration.

Nominations are now open, offering a platform to recognize the strength and success of women across diverse spheres of life, culminating in a magnificent gala slated for March 2 at the MECC.

Embracing the diverse tapestry of narratives, this event shines a spotlight on the inspiring stories, challenges overcome, and successes achieved by the women who shape the region. It’s a celebration of empowerment and recognition, a platform where stories of determination, leadership, and sheer resilience take centre stage.

JSP Women’s Awards 2024 proudly presents an extraordinary guest speaker, Claire Christian, a multifaceted artist whose vibrant storytelling illuminates stages and hearts alike.

A prolific writer, theatre maker, and facilitator based in Meanjin, Claire is renowned for her three published novels, including "It’s Been A Pleasure, Noni Blake." As a Queensland Theatre Fellow and a dynamic member of the Mama’s Boys theatre collective, she infuses her work with unapologetic brilliance, exploring themes of body positivity, pleasure, and the unfiltered joy of life.

Claire’s stories not only entertain but also provoke reflection, celebrating the beauty of life's intricacies while resonating deeply with audiences.

CATEGORIES

Magic Muse (Merged Categories): Formerly known as the Modern Muse and Magic Maker, the Magic Muse celebrates women who serve as muses through various artistic mediums like performing arts, visual arts, fashion, photography, broadcasting, or writing. They inspire others, fostering self-esteem and positive change through their creativity and passion for the arts.

Mother of All Mothers: Honouring exceptional mothers, this category acknowledges their leadership, selflessness, and dedication within their families and communities. It applauds their resilience, serving as role models for future generations.

Health and Wellbeing Warrior: Recognizing advocates for health, fitness, and mental wellness, this category celebrates women committed to raising awareness and making a positive impact in healthcare, fitness, or mental health advocacy.

Resilient Rebel: Celebrating resilience and courage, this category honours women who turn challenges into triumphs. They embody strength in adversity, inspiring others with their determination and individuality.

Woman Who Breaks the Mould (New Category): This award celebrates women embracing their uniqueness unapologetically. They embody intelligence, humour, and individuality, breaking stereotypes and shining as beacons of authenticity.

The Equaliser (New Category): Honouring men who champion gender equality and support the women in their lives, this category celebrates allies advocating for gender parity, challenging biases, and empowering women in their communities.

The Rising Star: This recognition celebrates the rising generation of empowered women aged 15 to 25, standing as the embodiment of #thefutureisfemale. It honours young women making significant strides in their communities, serving as inspirations to others by championing causes, exhibiting extraordinary talent in various fields like sports, arts, activism, volunteering, or blazing trails with their innovative endeavours.

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JSP Founder, Fallon Drewett

Detectives from the Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit declared a crime scene at a house in Eungella following the sudden death of a two-year-old girl on 31st December, 2023.

Police were called to the property on Bee Creek Road at 2.20pm and found the child unresponsive in a vehicle.

An investigation has commenced and detectives will work to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

No further information was available at time of print.

In a swift response to an emergency call, the RACQ CQ Rescue team sprang into action on 30th December, following a Queensland Police Service directive to aid in the search for three individuals aboard a tinny that had gone adrift near Sarina.

The rescue team located the trio safe and sound, ashore at Freshwater Point Beach.

This timely mission highlights the invaluable role played by emergency response services. 2023 was the busiest year on record for the rescue service, clocking up more than 700 missions.

Mackay families worried about expensive back-to-school costs for the new year can breathe a sigh of relief with the news that School Savvy is coming back to town.

Selling secondhand school uniforms and quality booklist stationery supplies at extremely low-cost, School Savvy will be opening their pop-up shop at the St. Patrick’s Senior Campus Hall from January 8 – 12.

The program’s incredibly popular free haircuts for kids will also be on offer again.

CatholicCare’s General Manager for Health and Wellbeing, Flavia Prospero, said that she and her local School Savvy team were excited to be bringing the much-needed event back to the region for its second consecutive year.

“We believe very strongly that a family’s financial situation should never be a barrier to accessing a good education,” Flavia said.

“We saw such a huge demand for this program the first time we brought it to Mackay, and we’re anticipating that the demand will only continue to grow in 2024.

“Our pop-up shop prices generally range between one to five dollars, and we’re committed to making sure that no student is left without the resources they need.”

Providing essential back-to-school resources for kids is something that Flavia says the CatholicCare Central Queensland team feel particularly passionate about.

“For us it’s about making sure that kids not only get back to school with what they need, but also that they have the exact same things that their mates do.

“It’s hard enough being a kid in today’s day and age and going to school feeling different or left out isn’t ideal for a child’s confidence or self-esteem.

“By helping to provide them with access to the right uniform, the right stationery supplies, and a nice fresh haircut, we’re able to help parents and caregivers worry about a few less things.”

The School Savvy pop-up shop will open on January 8 at 9am and will be open throughout the week until January 12. The shop is open to the public and does not have an eligibility criteria. For more information, find School Savvy CQ on Facebook.

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The Mackay Mens Shed designed and built portable clothing racks for the School Savvy pop-up shop with 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝘆 donating the PVC product

As the 50th anniversary of the Good Shepherd Lodge approaches next year, we take a reflective journey back to its inception. Founded in 1974, this institution's genesis can be traced back to the visionary Canon Gordon Guy, who foresaw the pivotal role the Anglican Church could play in caring for the elderly.

The Good Shepherd Lodge project commenced in 1967 with the arrival of Canon Guy in Mackay, recognising the Anglican Church's need for active involvement in aged care. By May 1968, a steering committee formed to establish an Aged Persons' Home in Mackay. On February 16, 1970, Dr. Rex Patterson, the Federal Member of Parliament for Dawson, was approached to lead the executive committee. To secure Federal Government grants, Geoff Nolan, a consulting engineer, became secretary, Stan Tait, a chartered accountant, treasurer, and real estate agent Doug Graham and town clerk Laurie Payne joined as committee members alongside Canon Guy.

Once the steering committee was formed, the search began for suitable land. A four-acre site in a residential area, not too far removed from the seashore, was purchased for $26,000. It was said that people who were still spry could walk into the city centre to do their shopping.

Collaboration with Diocesan architects and local talent gave birth to the lodge's architectural blueprint, leading to its grand unveiling on September 14, 1974. The foundation stone was laid by Bishop John Lewis on 26th August, 1973 and exactly one year later the first residents moved into their units.

As the lodge's doors opened, it marked the beginning of an era cantered on compassionate pastoral care, helmed by Chaplain Father Cecil Smith, who became the guiding spiritual force within the lodge's walls.

Over the years, the lodge underwent significant expansions. St. Oswald's, envisioned as the first of many buildings, came to fruition, setting the stage for a naming competition inspired by the Cumberland Islands. This period of growth culminated in the addition of Keswick House, Brampton Villas, and a specialised dementia care unit in 2000, emphasising the lodge's commitment to comprehensive care and innovation.

Under the broad umbrella of Good Shepherd, Kerrisdale Gardens emerged as an epitome of modern-aged care. Its construction commenced in 2014, reflecting an innovative approach focused on wellness and life engagement. Boasting contemporary living spaces, the facility emphasised healthy aging and innovation, a concept embraced by the community.

As Good Shepherd Lodge approaches its 50-year milestone, it signifies more than mere caregiving. It represents adaptability, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to enriching the aging experience in Mackay. The recent expansion of Kerrisdale Gardens, with its 10 spacious apartments, 3 villas, and 40 residential aged care beds, further underscores the lodge's commitment to evolving care standards, cementing its place as a revered icon of compassionate care in the community.

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Photo credit: Good Shepherd Lodge 30 year anniversary book

Good Shepherd Lodge, 2000

Prime Minister, Mr Whitlam with G.F. Guy, Archdeacon of Mackay and the Bishop of North Queensland, Rt. Rev, John Lewis at the official opening of Good Shepherd Lodge on 14th September, 1974

The Anglican Bishop of North Queensland, Rt, Rev, John Lewis blessing the foundation stone for the infirmary extensions to Good Shepherd Lodge

Nursing home facilities in 1980

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A new road has opened at the Northern Beaches Community Hub site and its name has been chosen by traditional owners to honour young lives lost during a sad era of our history.

The new road, which provides access to the site from Rosewood Drive and Eimeo Road, has been called Badyari Yalu Road (pronounced bud-jar-e yar-loo).

This translates to “little child” in the Yuwi Aboriginal language.

Mayor Greg Williamson said up until now the road had been known simply as J4 as work on the Northern Beaches Community Hub site got under way.

He said council decided it would be appropriate to consult with the traditional owners to come up with an appropriate and respectful name for the new road.

“The Yuwibara people have a strong affinity with this area through their families’ ancestors and they were honoured to be involved in the road’s naming.”

Yuwi Aboriginal language knowledge holder Deb Clark nee Hazeldean said the name was in recognition of the many young children who died during the years an orphanage was run at the Northern Beaches.

The St Joseph's (also called Merara) Orphanage, established in 1874, was in Bucasia and run by Father Pierre Bucas (in whose honour the suburb was named).

The orphanage cared for orphaned and abandoned boys and girls, but also cared for children from Aboriginal families taken against their will.

In 1885, when doctors and inspectors began recording the mounting deaths of children and the increasingly sickly appearance of others, the surviving children were relocated to a Rockhampton orphanage.

The cause of most deaths was malaria-related illness borne by mosquitoes from a nearby swamp. However, authorities at the time believed malaria was caused by "odours" which could be avoided by building on higher land elevation.

Ms Clark and Aunty Veronica Ahwang said to this day many of those children silently remained in unidentified resting places on Yuwi country.

“On behalf of the Yuwi language knowledge holders, I would like to extend our sincere thanks and gratitude for reaching out and working collaboratively with us on the naming of the J4 road,’’ they said.

“The implementation of the name ‘badyari yalu’ also means it will stand as a reminder of a part of Mackay's sad but true early history.

“This project will provide acknowledgment, education and truth telling for all people to view and understand as we move into the future.”

At least 23 children died during their time in the Bucasia orphanage, as well as 10 who died within six months of relocating to Rockhampton.

Ms Clark said her great grandmother was one of the children who was later removed by the Aboriginal Protection Board of the time and transferred from Mackay to be placed in Meteor Park (in Rockhampton).

“She was fortunate to survive the silent and cruel mistreatment she experienced within the walls of this institution,” Ms Clark said.

“It is for all these children – the ones whose lives were lost and the ones that survived such harsh and cruel treatment in a place devoid of love and comfort – that we saw it only fitting to be able to honour and remember these children by naming the J4 road badyari yalu, little child/children, in remembrance of them all.”

The road is now open to the public.

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Badyari Yalu Road connecting Rosewood Drive and Eimeo Road in Rural View is now open to the public. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

In its final ordinary meeting during 2023, Mackay Regional Council adopted a proactive plan to ensure the region’s coastal communities are as prepared as possible for the impacts of climate change.

The Mackay Coast Our Future – Coastal Hazard Adaptation Study identifies coastal hazards that may impact our region both now and into the future including erosion, coastal flooding and rising sea levels.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the study also identified adaptation options to mitigate the risks associated with these coastal hazards.  

“The study guides land use planning and investment in infrastructure, ensuring that the values of our coastal areas and the contribution they make to the community’s way of life are protected,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It analyses the risks different coastal hazards pose in each of our regions and identifies adaptation options that may be suitable to mitigate the risks associated with them,” he said.

“From groynes and seawalls, to increased vegetation on the foreshore and everything in between, there are a range of adaptation options that have been considered for our coastal areas.

“It is important that we have a shared understanding and focus when responding to coastal hazards, given the importance these areas have to our way of life.

“That is why we conducted extensive community consultation in producing this document.

“We need everyone in the community to understand and prepare for the impact these coastal hazards may have on local communities, the environment, our cultural values and the built assets in our coastal areas.”

Residents can read the study online by visiting connectingmackay.com.au/future-coast.

Mackay Coast Our Future is funded under the QCoast2100 program, which is funded by the State Government and administered in partnership with the Local Government Association of Queensland.

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Photo credit: Mark Fitz

Ready to add a splash of wanderlust to your Insta feed? This ultimate guide will have your followers clicking 'like' like never before! Get ready for a visual treat as we take you on a lens-worthy journey through the Mackay Isaac region. Say cheese, because these spots are camera gold!

#Capehillsborough: Rise and shine with the wallabies on the beach! It's like having your own paparazzi moment with these wild cuties.

#Wedgeisland: Timing is everything at this hidden gem! Catch the tides just right and unveil the mystical Wedge Island rock pool for that dreamy snap.

#Blacksbeach: Break up the wanderlust with a beachside lunch at Mackay's Northern Beaches. Dip your toes, catch some rays, and maybe even snap a pic or two of the sea breeze.

#Wolfangpeak: Explore the Isaac region and discover Clermont's wide-open spaces. Then, set that alarm for a sunrise hike up Wolfgang Peak. Snap a photo from the cave—your feed will thank you!

#ClairviewBeach: A stop at Clairview isn't just a beach break; it's a rendezvous with dugongs! Dive into a tropical paradise and maybe spot a sea creature or two.

#Brokenriver: Pssst! Want to spy on platypuses in their natural habitat? Head to Broken River, where the platforms make platypus spotting a picture-perfect experience.

#Eungellatreearch: Get ready for a rainforest rendezvous! Eungella's famous tree arch is a frame-worthy hike. Strike a pose under the arch, and let nature do the rest.

#Skywindow: Feel on top of the world at Sky Window! A short stroll through a rainforest paradise leads to breathtaking views of Pioneer Valley.

#Araluenfalls: Last but not least, make a splash at Finch Hatton Gorge. Take a dip at Araluen Falls—nature's own water feature set amidst the mountains.

So, grab your camera and embark on a picturesque journey through Mackay's best-kept secrets. These places aren't just sights; they're opportunities for stunning snapshots! Get clicking and watch your Insta-game soar!

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Eungella Tree Arch

Wedge Island

Araluen Falls

As the summer sun illuminates Mackay, safety takes centre stage at the city's aquatic centres, ensuring a season of enjoyment and precaution.

As the summer school holidays approach, Mackay Regional Council is reminding residents of the importance of water safety at the region’s aquatic facilities.

Mayor Greg Williamson said children must be supervised by a parent or guardian when swimming at the region’s swim centres.

"Lack of direct supervision by a parent or carer is believed to be a contributing factor in 70 per cent of all drowning deaths at public pools," Mayor Williamson stated.

"We want everyone to have a fun and enjoyable time at our aquatic facilities, but safety must always come first, especially when it comes to our children," he said.

Council is a Keep Watch at Public Pools partner and encourages residents to follow the Royal Life Saving Society’s guidelines for pool safety:

> 0-5-year-olds and non-swimmers – Stay within an arm’s reach.

> 6-10-year-olds and weak swimmers – Be close, be prepared and maintain constant visual contact.

> 11-14-year-olds – Maintain visual contact.

Mayor Williamson also stressed the importance of proper swim attire when visiting the region’s aquatic centres.

"We kindly request that all children who are not toilet trained wear an appropriate swim nappy when visiting council's swimming facilities,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This measure is not only important for general hygiene but will ensure we can avoid unnecessary facility closures during our busiest time of the year,” he said.

Stay up to date on council’s aquatic facilities’ opening hours over the festive season at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/pools.

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Mackay's aquatic centers prioritize water safety for a summer of fun

It is easy to fall into the trap of internet scams, and with the holiday season in full swing, scammers will take this opportunity and use it to their advantage. Stay alert and keep your privacy protected.

Common scams in the New Year include e-cards, online shopping, and parcel delivery notifications.

Nefarious e-cards will often contain viruses and malware that embeds in your device, stealing valuable data such as personal information and financial/banking details.

When someone has their personal information compromised, scammers can hack into their social media accounts and access bank accounts.

Exercise caution when opening an e-card from someone you know, as their account could have been compromised without their knowledge. NEVER click on links or attachments, or open unsolicited emails.

It is encouraged to keep your devices updated with the latest anti-virus and anti-spyware software for the highest level of security.

Shopping scams are commonly implemented by cyber criminals. Scammers often try to take advantage of people shopping for after-Christmas sales, by creating fake websites to advertise goods and services which are poor quality, or goods that will never be delivered in the first place.

Once you make a ‘purchase’ on the website, the scammers will use your personal information and card details you enter which can then be used to steal money or commit identity theft.

When shopping online, always use a secure payment method such as PayPal or credit card, never transfer money via your bank account. Double-check the URL address and only use sites with a green secure padlock in the address bar.

Advertisements often appear on Facebook with images of well-known products at much cheaper prices than usual, luring customers to go to their site. Scammers will say something like ‘unwanted Christmas gift’ to make it appear genuine.

Parcel delivery scams are a regular occurrence throughout the year, but target people more regularly before and after Christmas. Scammers take advantage of this by sending out phishing emails or text messages advising a parcel is ready for collection.

Correspondence will include a link or attachment, which people unknowingly click on, oftentimes leaving you locked out of your computer, or providing hackers with personal information and banking details.

Make sure you always check the sender’s email address, if it doesn’t have a legitimate domain name, delete it immediately. Most scam messages often have spelling or grammatical mistakes.

If you think you’ve been scammed, contact your bank, change your PINs and passwords, and report the scam via the Australian Cyber Security Centre.

A life-long ‘people person’, health care leader Amanda Clark considered careers in vet science and medicine, before she found her calling as a nurse.  

But it wasn’t a straight path to her high-powered role as Executive Director of Nursing and Patient Experience at Central Adelaide Local Health Network.  

“I hit my teenage years, got interested in boys – my grades dropped, my pets all died, and that left nursing!” she laughed.  

“But nursing was absolutely where I was meant to be – I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Originally from New Zealand and growing up in Mackay with her family, the proud Ngai Tahu Maori woman took on her Bachelor of Nursing with CQUniversity, then her Graduate Certificate while working in Brisbane.  

“From a clinical perspective I was flying, but every time I went for a role with more leadership, they’d tell me, ‘you’re too young, you need more experience,’” she said.

Her solution was CQU’s Master of Clinical Studies, which she completed in 2014.

Ms Clark said juggling part-time postgraduate studies and her full-time role was worth it.  

“It wasn’t common for an RN (registered nurse) to have a Masters – that tended to be for people at the top, not people on the floor,” she said.

“So the next leadership role that came up, it was perfect timing – and the Masters had really helped me to think at that critical level, and to have an understanding of research and processes for executive decision-making.”

Now 37, and mum to two young children, Ms Clark recently completed the prestigious Young Executive Leaders Program with the International Hospital Federation.  

With expertise in workforce planning, building capacity, and digital transformation, the health leader says she’s passionate about empowering the next generation of nurses.  

That even extends to preschoolers, with her plans to coordinate a visit from her son’s daycare centre to the Central Adelaide Local Health Network Simulation Lab.  

“It really does start when you’re young! Asking kids to think do they like talking to people, are they good at caring, thinking about other people,” she said.

Ms Clark said her cultural background also drives her approach to health care.  

“Where our health system can improve, and where we can better close the gap for Indigenous health, it all comes down to listening,” she said.  

“Often the gap exists because of fear, and the only way we can do better is to loop in and ask people what they actually want.”  

Ms Clark holds multiple Associate or Adjunct Professor roles across Australian universities, and her two decades of experience have included work across Australia, the United Kingdom and Africa.  

For young people considering careers in health care, she advises life-long learning.  

“If you want to be a leader, and you want to drive change, you need a point of difference to climb up the ladder – and that’s absolutely what my Masters meant for me,” she said.  

“Juggling work and study really highlights that you are capable, and ready for a career that requires a lot of working with other people, and a lot of problem-solving!”

By CQUniversity

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Amanda Clark

Picture a league of pet protectors, unsung heroes in the realm of responsible pet parenting. These are the RSPCA QLD Inspectors, custodians of a silent code—a creed that embodies the essence of compassionate care and unwavering dedication to our furry companions. Their playbook isn't just a set of rules; it's a testament to the heart and soul poured into safeguarding the well-being of our beloved pets.

We reveal the cardinal rules they uphold—ten sacred vows never to be broken in the special bond between humans and their animal companions.

10 Things NEVER To Do To Your Pets

1. Tether a dog where it can get tangled

Inspectors are inundated with calls every year around summer for animals that have been tethered and become tangled and are suffering with heat stress. If an animal requires tethering, care should be taken to ensure it is for short periods and the animal cannot tangle itself. Sadly, Inspectors often arrive too late to save tangled animals.

2. Treat an animal without consulting a vet

Vets can be expensive, however, all too often Inspectors come across people who have begun treating injuries at home and often with human medications. Most human medications are not suitable for animals and can even be fatal. If your animal is sick or injured then a vet should always be consulted before starting treatment.

3. Purchase poor quality flea and tick products

Inspectors come across animals suffering from tick paralysis or flea allergy dermatitis (a secondary condition causing inflamed skin and hair loss from flea bites) when owners have been treating their pets with flea and tick products purchased from supermarkets. Owners often spend a lot of money on inferior products which do not work.  It is best to purchase good quality flea and tick products from a vet to ensure your pet is appropriately protected.

4. Feed a cat a vegan diet

Cats are carnivorous animals and rely on meat in their diet to survive. Inspectors are coming across more and more animals being fed vegan diets, which in cats can be fatal. Cats absolutely must have a carnivorous diet to survive. Human nutrition is vastly different to cat nutrition and what might sustain a human will not necessarily be appropriate for a cat.

5. Not desex a pet

We say it repeatedly, please de-sex your pet. Inspectors are often dealing with situations where owners become inundated with too many animals after they breed. Cats especially breed very readily and owners become trapped in a continuous breeding cycle where one animal quickly turns into 20 or more. Desexing also has many health benefits to animals and can reduce certain types of cancers or health issues down the track. There is also the work that goes into caring for puppies and the expense of vaccinations, microchipping and health checks and the possibility of not being able to re-home the puppies. To protect your pet please de-sex!

6. Walk a dog in the middle of the day especially on hot concrete or bitumen

Animals can suffer from heat stress easily during hot weather. Even if their owner is not feeling heat stressed, an animal with a fur coat can become heat stressed very quickly if exercised during hot weather. Dogs can also burn their feet if walking on hot ground. As a general rule if you cannot hold your hand on the ground for 5 seconds then it is too hot to walk your pet on it.

7. Adopt a puppy from an unreliable source

Buying a pet from a third party where the parents cannot be sighted and the living conditions the animals are kept in cannot be assessed is risky business. When considering purchasing a puppy or kitten to add to the family people should seek out responsible breeders who allow you to view the parents as well as where the animals live day to day. People often assume if they are purchasing from a pet shop that the pet shop has done their due diligence and that the breeders must be responsible, however, often animals are dropped off at pet shops and no one has been able to see the parents or the living arrangements.  

8. Leave a dog in a hot car

This is a message we put out annually and yet every summer Inspectors are inundated with calls for animals left in hot vehicles. Dogs can die in a hot vehicle within 6 minutes. Even if the car is in shade and there is water, animals can still overheat quickly. A pet is much happier at home where they can seek shade and water than in a hot vehicle.

9. Acquire a pet without considering the long-term financial commitment

Inspectors are often having to manage people who have acquired an animal which has become sick and they are unable to afford veterinary care and the animal suffers. Another concern is people being unable to continue to feed their animals. An animal is often a long-term commitment, with some birds outliving their owners for example.

10. Physically discipline their dog

Research has shown physical punishment does not get results when training a dog. Sadly media personalities like Cesar Milan have given the public a misconception that dominance-based training will get results in training their animal. Similar to children, causing fear in an animal does not breed a healthy animal-owner relationship.

The value of Australian agriculture production is forecast to fall as increasing global supply and drier conditions impact farmers.

Acting Executive Director of Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) David Galeano said the forecast for total agricultural production values in 2023–24 is $78 billion.

This is $16 billion lower than estimated production values for 2022–23 but would still be the third highest result on record.

“The gross value of production is forecast to fall in 2023–24 as drier conditions impact record-high crop production levels seen in 2022–23,” Mr Galeano said.

“In total, Australian crop production values are expected to fall by $12 billion in 2023–24. Livestock production values are also forecast to decline reflecting recent price falls.

“Falling production values and incomes are also linked to declining global prices that are reflective of higher global supply.

“The past 3 years agriculture has seen record-breaking crop production because of higher rainfall.

“As we enter the El Niño period, we expect to see the national crop production fall from these record highs.

“Crop prospects for winter crops over spring have been mixed, and planting of summer crops in 2023–24 is expected to fall, reflecting below-average rainfall and low soil moisture levels during the early planting window.

“Drier conditions and lower prices mean average broadacre farm cash incomes are forecast to fall strongly in 2023–24.

“However, the past 3 years of high incomes have allowed broadacre farms to build up liquid assets, which should help cushion the forecast downturn.”

The Agricultural Commodities Report contains ABARES forecasts for the value, volume and price of Australia's agricultural production and exports. Underpinning the forecasts contained in the Agricultural Commodities Report are ABARES outlook for global commodity prices, demand and supply.

By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

We regard membership levies as growers’ investment in their future, so it is important that we offer a good return on that investment. Whether that is advocacy on issues, industry representation, training and labour needs, or giving members access to some top professionals and great services.

We aim to create a strong voice for growers, and creating a forum for that enables unity and common voice among growers is one of the most important aspects of CANEGROWERS.

Members are always our core, the driving voice that propels policy. CANEGROWERS is a not-for-profit organisation that operates a democratic, grass roots federation model, that spreads up from branch membership across districts to milling areas, regions, and state boards.

Across Mackay and Plane Creek Milling areas, there are five branches, at Calen, Marian, Racecourse, Finch Hatton and Plane Creek. Each meets monthly, with a mix of social shed meetings and presentations from industry organisations and businesses, and an opportunity for growers to discuss the matters affecting them with their representatives, and with each other.

CANEGROWERS is one of only a handful of agricultural member-based organisations in Australia whose representatives are selected from the same grassroots the organisation represents – the farmers. As a result, we are closely in touch with the practical realities of modern sugarcane farming businesses and keenly aware of the issues which make or break them.

We have a very busy district office that enables members to talk to people based here in Mackay who will assist them to deal with matters around their agribusiness.

With our networks spread throughout the whole of the value chain we are able to identify and deal with issues before they grow to an irreversible situation that would take away from growers’ rights and ultimately their financial returns.

It's in that way, we have growers’ backs covered. It is member’s continued faith that gives your organisation a powerful voice to government, industry stakeholders and the wider community, and helps us to punch above our weight. We work towards building an industry that is both sustainable and profitable for growers.

Beyond offering a voice with some clout, CANEGROWERS Mackay aims to give members good support through their membership benefits, including representation on Cane Supply Agreements, legal matters relating to farming operations, support in dealing with millers and government.

We offer training services from basic chemical accreditation up to business management; sugar marketing information services; assistance with leasing and share farming industry advocacy in the community and in the labour market; industry information through magazines and social media; payroll services; insurance services; cane auditor services in mills; support with electricity, irrigation, and transport. And more. And moreover, the organisation employs staff with specialised backgrounds equipped to provide expert service.

Most recently, and excitingly, the CANEGROWERS organisation has introduced free crop insurance to $35/tonne for members, who can then negotiate to top up beyond that.

Without unity, we would never make headway. Membership is a worthwhile investment for cane growers.

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CANEGROWERS Mackay has a strong commitment to members.  Pictures: Kirili Lamb