By Hannah McNamara

Col Benson’s name was met with cheers and heartfelt applause last Sunday, 25 January, when he was named the 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year. Known across the region for his extraordinary knowledge of Mackay’s history and the people who have shaped it, Col has dedicated decades to keeping stories alive through his storytelling, memorial services, and community work.

A Vietnam veteran, former Royal Australian Air Force radio technician, and long-time Mackay RSL member, now Senior Vice President, Col has quietly supported veterans and their families for more than 40 years. His tireless efforts range from organising solemn commemorations to educating young people about the region’s past.

Humbled by the recognition, Col described his work as a labour of love, driven by a desire to preserve history rather than seek accolades. Despite his "unexpected" win, he has proven himself truly deserving, and his dedication continues to inspire the Mackay community.

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Col Benson Recognised For Decades Of Service And Community Dedication

By Hannah McNamara

Col Benson is a man of great integrity, best known for his extraordinary knowledge of the Mackay region and the people who have shaped it, both past and present. His passion for keeping history alive through storytelling is nothing short of remarkable, and his long-standing dedication to organising and hosting memorial services has earned him recognition he never quite expected.

That recognition came last Sunday, 25 January, when Mr Benson was named the 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year at the Mackay Australia Day Awards.

Mr Benson said he was shocked and greatly moved by the honour, admitting he “can’t believe it” and was “quite emotional” when his name was announced.

In an earlier interview about Mackay’s worst natural disaster that happened in 1918, Mr Benson reflected on his work, saying, “We don’t do these things for recognition… I just do it because I want to see these people’s stories kept alive.”

He also referenced the 1918 cyclone in his awards night speech, further emphasising his passion as a local historian, with a heart for preserving Mackay’s history, and the stories of those affected.

As a Vietnam veteran, former RAAF radio technician, Senior Vice President, and long-time member of the Mackay RSL Sub-branch, Mr Benson has spent more than 40 years supporting veterans and their families.

Mayor Greg Williamson noted Mr Benson’s contributions in organising some of the community’s most significant commemorations.

“ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day, Victory in Europe Day, Victory in the Pacific Day, the Rats of Tobruk ceremony, the Bakers Creek Memorial and the annual tribute to the 29 lives lost in the Fokker Friendship crash – each of these solemn occasions is delivered with precision, dignity and deep respect because of Col’s tireless coordination,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Col also educates young people through school visits and supports veterans and families during times of hardship – offering guidance, compassion and dignified poppy services at funerals,” he said.

Col was one of eight individuals and one community group that were recognised for their exceptional contributions to the Mackay region. His humble nature and passion for preserving history, particularly within the landscape of war and some of Mackay’s most memorable events, have had a major impact on those who know him, as well as the wider community.

Congratulations Col!

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Local historian and Vietnam veteran Col Benson took home the 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year award for his lifelong dedication to preserving Mackay’s history and serving the community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Col Benson, a Vietnam veteran, former RAAF radio technician, long-time Mackay RSL member, and passionate local historian, was named 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year for his decades of dedication to preserving history, supporting veterans, and serving the community. Photo source: Mackay Tiger Moth Museum

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Hi lovely readers!

Last Sunday I attended the 2026 Mackay Region Australia Day Awards for the first time, and it was so wonderful to celebrate the local legends of our region. Thank you to the MECC and Mackay Regional Council for hosting such a great event.

As you can see on the front cover and page 3, Mr Col Benson was named Mackay Citizen of the Year, and I’d like to take a moment to personally congratulate him on this incredible achievement!

Col often rings me with stories about Mackay’s history – whether it’s about the war, some of the region’s most devastating disasters, or even to help gather resources from old newspapers and snippets of the past.

He’s incredibly knowledgeable and often encourages me in my own journalism. Well done, Col!

Congratulations also to the other seven individuals, and Mackay Parkrun, who took home wins in their respective categories. Stay tuned for next week’s paper to read more about the other recipients.

Speaking of Mackay Parkrun… if you turn to page 23, you can read about another remarkable gentleman, David, who broke a running record in his age category on the same weekend as his 80th birthday! He’s achieved so much throughout his life, and I had the pleasure of getting to know him last week.

It’s moments like this that remind me of why I love what I do – what a blessing to be able to highlight the best of our local community!

Scripture of the week: “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalms 118

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In Mackay, a simple act of kindness is making a powerful difference — clean clothes, a warm shower and a genuine conversation.

That’s the heart of the work being done by Orange Sky Australia, whose Mackay service supports people experiencing homelessness and hardship through regular laundry and shower services, delivered with empathy and dignity.

Orange Sky’s model is refreshingly simple. Volunteers aren’t social workers or specialists — they’re everyday locals who show up to listen, chat and connect. The focus is on creating a safe, positive and welcoming space for people who are too often overlooked or feel disconnected from the wider community.

That community spirit was on full display late last year, when the Mackay Airport community once again rallied behind Orange Sky during the festive season. Continuing a much-loved tradition, the team donated personal care packs to support people doing it tough over the holidays.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to looking after Mackay’s most vulnerable, especially at a time of year when loneliness and hardship can hit hardest.

"Thank you so much for this generous support and for backing our Mackay service year after year Mackay Airport. We’re grateful to be part of such a caring region," said an Orange Sky spokesperson.

In a world where problems can feel overwhelming, Orange Sky proves that meaningful change often starts small — with clean clothes, a kind word and someone willing to listen.

It’s a reminder that when locals look after locals, the whole community is stronger.

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Photo source: Mackay Airport

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Australia Day Honours Reflect Regional Pride

The Australia Day 2026 Honours List proudly recognises the exceptional service, leadership and commitment to community that exists across the Dawson electorate. This year, Dawson is represented by one outstanding local honoured for distinguished service to the nation, while the Honours List also celebrates former Mackay local and Australian sporting icon Cathy Freeman for her extraordinary contribution to sport, reconciliation and national life.

Warrant Officer Class One Michael Killalea, OAM (Mil) – Medal of the Order of Australia (Military Division)

Warrant Officer Class One Michael Killalea of Annandale, Townsville, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (Military Division) for meritorious performance of duty advancing and fostering the Distribution Specialisation trade. His dedication exemplifies the professionalism and steadfast commitment to excellence that are hallmarks of the Australian Defence Force.

The Honours List also recognises distinguished Australians from a broad array of endeavours, including economic leadership, community service, and sporting excellence.

One of the nation’s most revered sporting figures, former Mackay athletics champion and Olympic gold medallist Cathy Freeman AC, is among those honoured in this year’s Australia Day list. A proud Kuku Yalanji woman, Freeman has been appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia, recognising her service to athletics and the reconciliation movement, as well as her positive community impact and status as a role model to young people.

Freeman’s historic victory in the 400 metres at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most iconic sporting moments and a defining chapter in the nation’s Olympic history.

Freeman, born and raised in Mackay’s Slade Point, began her athletics journey racing on local tracks, including the recreation area now named in her honour, where she first demonstrated the talent and tenacity that would later captivate a nation.
More recently, the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre, part of the Great Barrier Reef Arena’s multimillion-dollar Stage Two development, has been announced in Mackay as a state-of-the-art training hub designed to inspire and nurture future athletes. The facility carries her name as a lasting legacy to her achievements and her belief in empowering young people to pursue excellence in sport.

Andrew Willcox MP, Member for Dawson, said that Australia Day is a time to honour remarkable Australians whose service, courage and commitment strengthen our nation.

“To see Warrant Officer Class One Michael Killalea recognised for his meritorious military service reflects our deep respect for those who serve with distinction in the Australian Defence Force,” he said.

“Townsville, as one of our nation’s strongest garrison cities, has a proud military heritage and a long tradition of producing leaders who embody selfless service and operational excellence.

“And who could forget the inspirational legacy of Cathy Freeman?

“Her breathtaking 400 metres gold medal run at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games united a nation and remains one of our greatest sporting moments of all time. Growing up in Slade Point, she raced on the old athletics ground that today honours her name, and that same spirit of determination is now reflected in the new sports performance centre at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena, a facility that will support aspiring athletes for generations.

“It was fantastic to catch up with Cathy last year when she visited the arena, reinforcing how sporting excellence and community pride go hand in hand here in regional Queensland.”

Mr Willcox added that these honourees reflect the best of our community, individuals who serve others, enrich our cultural and sporting landscape, and inspire us all to reach higher.

The Australia Day 2026 Honours List includes 949 Australians recognised across the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards, and distinguished defence service medals, representing an increase of more than 200 awards from last year’s list.

Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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On Saturday 17th January, the Mackay Conservation Group conducted a post-cyclone rubbish clean-up at Harbour Beach, Mackay, following the impacts of recent severe weather.

Cyclones and storms are known to wash plastic and debris onto local beaches, posing a threat to marine life and coastal ecosystems. The clean-up brought community members together to remove rubbish that had accumulated after ex-Tropical Cyclone Yoji, with the group meeting at Mulherin Park before working along the shoreline.

Organisers described the event as an impressive community effort, with volunteers collecting a wide range of debris including plastic bottle tops, piping, foam and other discarded items, highlighting the scale of waste that can be deposited during storm events.

The group urged the community to take simple steps to help keep local beaches clean, including proper waste disposal and reducing plastic use.

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Community members joined the Mackay Conservation Group on Saturday 17 January for a post-cyclone clean-up at Harbour Beach, removing storm-washed debris and highlighting the importance of protecting local coastal environments. Photo source: Mackay Conservation Group

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Mackay women are set to benefit from a series of workshops designed to improve financial literacy and security, thanks to inaugural grants from the Queensland Government’s Empowering Women initiative. Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton announced the grants last week, highlighting the impact these programs will have for women across the region.

“This is really exciting news. We’re blessed to have four recipients in Mackay,” Mr Dalton said.

One of the grants will fund a workshop run by the Older Women’s Network, focused on helping women navigate financial decisions and housing options.

Mr Dalton said, “The workshops allow women, particularly those in the later stages of life, to understand their financial responsibilities, accommodation options, and strategies for managing superannuation or downsizing their homes, especially if they live alone.”

Another grant targets women living with autism, ensuring support for those who face unique financial challenges.

A third workshop, hosted at a local neighbourhood hub on Evans Street, will address financial security more broadly for women in Mackay.

The fourth grant will go towards Broken to Brilliant, which will assist women who have experienced domestic and family violence, with programs extending across Mackay, Townsville, and the Whitsundays.

Combined, the four grants represent $40,000 of the $297,000 awarded state-wide, with 29 projects funded across Queensland.

“This is a fantastic proportion for Mackay, and these funds will really help our ladies in Mackay gain more financial security.” Mr Dalton said.

For Rosemary Paidley, State Treasurer of the Older Women’s Network Queensland, the grants are a vital step in supporting women navigating the challenges of later life.

“As women get older, circumstances change. Some don’t know how to manage their housing, finances, or superannuation, and others are forced to make difficult decisions about downsizing or living arrangements,” she said.

“Through these workshops, we aim to give them the knowledge and confidence to make the right choices.”

Helen Stanton, co-convener of the network, emphasised the importance of spreading information beyond the immediate groups.

“We bring speakers on topics that matter, and our members take that knowledge into other parts of the community. It’s about supporting women wherever they are,” she said.

Ms Paidley added that the workshops also provide support for women experiencing domestic violence.

“Many women find themselves in unsafe situations or at risk of homelessness. We can’t provide housing, but we can guide them to the right services and give them confidence to take the next steps.”

For the Older Women’s Network, the grant is the first of its kind, and its impact is expected to be long-lasting.

“This funding allows us to bring experts to Mackay, provide face-to-face guidance, and create a safe environment where women can learn and feel supported,” Ms Paidley said.

With the workshops now confirmed, organisers hope to reach as many women as possible, providing the tools and knowledge to improve financial security and independence across the region.

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Mackay women will benefit from new Queensland Government–fundeding aimed at strengthening financial literacy, housing knowledge, and long-term security for women across the region.

Helen Stanton, co-convener of the network with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, and Rosemary Paidley, State Treasurer of the Older Women’s Network Queensland. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Cenotaph For Younger Veterans Gains Momentum

A new cenotaph honouring every Australian Defence Force veteran who has served since 1975 is one step closer to reality in Mackay’s Jubilee Park. With pathways laid and partial funding secured, the project is progressing, however, more support is still needed to bring this long-awaited tribute to completion.

“This is a memorial for everybody who served. It’s not for a particular war or group – it includes everyone,” said Mackay RSL Sub-branch Vice President Mark Preston.

“Instead of three separate services, all will be recognised in one dedicated space.”

Stage 1 of the project is already taking shape, with pathways and the base of the monument in place. Mackay Regional Council generously contributed $40,000 to fund the pathways, allowing the project to move ahead smoothly.

The cenotaph will stand two metres square and two metres high, featuring the Australian Defence Force emblem alongside the Army, Navy, and Air Force logos. In a special personal touch, Mr Preston’s original boots from his first enlistment have been cast into the monument.

Secretary of Mackay RSL Sub-branch Georgia-Lee Ricketts said, “It’s so beautiful. The detail is incredible.”

“It honours all those deployed to the Middle East and elsewhere.

“It’s a recognition that hasn’t existed locally until now.”

A standout moment came when Mackay Harley-Davidson raffled a motorbike and donated more than $13,000 toward the cenotaph.

Ms Ricketts said, “We’re also very grateful that Mackay Harley-Davidson got involved with a donation, which was a wonderful boost for the project.”

Stage 2 of construction is scheduled to commence later this year, with the RSL Mackay Sub-branch aiming to create a lasting tribute that the community can take pride in.

RSL President Ken Higgins said, “It’s going to be fantastic. We can’t wait to see it completed.”

Community members wishing to support the project can contribute by emailing the Mackay RSL Sub-branch at info@mackay.rslqld.net.au. Every donation helps bring this inclusive tribute closer to completion and ensures all veterans who have served since 1975 are remembered and honoured right here in Mackay.

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A new inclusive cenotaph honouring all Australian Defence Force veterans since 1975 is taking shape in Mackay’s Jubilee Park, with early works complete and further community support sought to see the tribute finished. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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On Sunday, 18th January a male patient in his 50s was transported to Mackay Hospital in a stable condition with minor injuries after emergency services responded to calls a vehicle had crashed into a pole on the corner of Sams Road and Malcomson Street at 7:46pm.

The Queensland Police Service's Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a fatal traffic crash at Blacks Beach on 16 January, after a pedestrian involved passed away on Tuesday, 20 January. Around 5pm, emergency services were called to Blacks Beach Road following reports a Toyota Hilux had collided with a 83-year-old female pedestrian. The driver of the Toyota, a 39-year-old Rural View man, remained on scene and assisted police with enquiries. The 83-year-old female pedestrian from Blacks Beach was transported to Mackay Base Hospital with life-threatening injuries, however, has since passed away. Investigations are ongoing.

Two people lost their lives as a result of a two-vehicle crash on the Peak Downs Highway, about 20 kilometers North of Nebo on Tuesday, 20 January. At approximately 10:10pm, a westbound Toyota Hilux collided head-on with an eastbound Mitsubishi Triton. The 49-year-old male driver and sole occupant of the Triton was declared deceased at the scene, as was the 39-year-old female driver and sole occupant of the Hilux. The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances leading to the crash, and anyone who was travelling in the area around the time of the crash and may have information is urged to contact police and quote the reference number: QP2600128649.

On Thursday, 22nd January, paramedics transported one stable male patient in his 60s with minor injuries to Mackay Hospital following a single vehicle crash on Goldsmith Street, East Mackay, at 8:13pm.

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The QPS Forensic Crash Unit is currently investigating multiple local incidents. Photo source: QPS

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Mackay Acts On ‘Antisocial Behaviour’ To Restore Safety In Public Places

By Hannah McNamara

The Crisafulli Government and Mackay Regional Council are stepping up efforts to address antisocial behaviour in Mackay, while advocating for people sleeping rough and offering accommodation pathways for those camping in public areas including the riverfront, the CBD and Queens Park.

As part of the riverfront activation plan, police crews and council officers have been engaging with people sleeping rough, issuing notices to leave and offering accommodation and housing solutions. Both Mayor Greg Williamson and Mackay Regional Council CEO Gerard Carlyon have confirmed that “All services have confirmed they can accommodate everyone.”

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the Crisafulli Government was taking decisive action to improve safety and amenity across the region.

“After hearing from locals at our community forum, the Crisafulli Government has acted quickly with a stronger police presence and bolstered local services,” Mr Dalton said.

“Our top priority is ensuring those who live, work or visit Mackay are safe, while connecting vulnerable individuals to the help and services they need.

“We know there is much more to be done to make Mackay safer, and we will continue to work with residents and businesses to deliver the fresh start we promised.”

As part of the clean-up, abandoned material such as trolleys, tents, mattresses and debris has been removed by council crews. CEO Gerard Carlyon confirmed, “We are not taking people’s personal possessions.”

“Police are key partners in this operation,” he said.

“We work as part of a combined agency group that includes Housing, Health, alcohol and drug services, and mental health services. This has been a multi-month operation, beginning with outreach visits to everyone sleeping rough in the CBD and waterfront areas, where appropriate services were offered.

“We are now at the clean-up stage. There have been some very challenging incidents, including staff being scratched, rocks being thrown, and needle-stick injuries from discarded syringes.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said community safety had reached a critical point.

“The people who are still here now are here by choice. All services have confirmed they can accommodate everyone who has been living here," he said.

“The antisocial behaviour has made the public feel unsafe, and we cannot accept that any longer. This is about making our city safe again for people who want to use the public environment.

“Our workers have been spat at, had rocks thrown at them, and police have also been involved in those incidents. That is not the environment we want for our community, or for these people.”

People who choose to remain camping along the riverfront, in the CBD or in Queens Park will be issued with a 24-hour notice to leave and seek accommodation. If they do not move on, council and police will return to enforce compliance.

CEO Gerard Carlyon said, “If people choose to remain, council and police will return daily to ensure camping ceases in public spaces, including the waterfront, Queens Park and the CBD.”

“We are confident supports are in place. On a daily basis, there are vacancies that people are choosing not to use.

“Our goal is to reclaim public spaces for the public and activate these areas so families, children and the wider community can safely enjoy them.”

Mayor Greg Williamson reiterated that the focus remains on safety, support and restoring confidence in public spaces.

“This is not about criminalising homelessness. It is about saying enough is enough.”

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Mayor Greg Williamson and appointed CEO of Mackay Regional Council Gerard Carlyon said the Crisafulli Government and Mackay Regional Council are enforcing public space rules to improve community safety while offering accommodation and support to people sleeping rough across Mackay’s riverfront, CBD and Queens Park. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Councillors are swapping the council chambers for taverns, bowls clubs, halls and hotels as they hit the regions in 2026 for the second round of council’s Let’s Chat – Council Connect sessions.

Following last year’s successful trial of the program, councillors have committed to monthly sessions in local areas starting at Eungella and Finch Hatton next Tuesday (February 3).

Councillors will be at the Eungella Chalet from 1pm to 2pm and then will be at the Cattle Creek Admin Building in Finch Hatton from 5pm to 6pm.

Future sessions will be held at regional communities including Midge Point, Sarina, Eton, Seaforth, Koumala, Mirani, Hay Point, Walkerston, Calen and Marian.

Mayor Greg Williamson said residents had been loud and clear in their feedback last year around engagement with their elected officials.

“Residents, especially in our regional areas, were telling us that they didn’t feel heard and appropriately represented by council,” Mayor Williamson said.

“They wanted to feel that councillors knew them personally, knew their issues and their local priorities and represented them when decisions were made,” he said.

“Let’s Chat – Council Connect is residents’ chance to connect directly with their councillors in a relaxed, informal setting in their local areas.

“These aren’t town hall meetings – rather they are informal chats that let councillors build local relationships and get a handle on regional priorities.”

Residents can simply come along, or if required book a 10-minute time slot to discuss a specific issue or idea with a senior council officer.

To book a 10-minute time slot, go to connectingmackay.com.au, click “Let’s Chat – Council Connect” and then go to “Book a Session” on the right-hand side of the page.

No RSVP is required for general attendance. Just drop in and have a chat.
Tea and coffee will be available.

A full timetable of Let’s Chat – Council Connect sessions for the year is available at connectingmackay.com.au

Should you have any questions or need help making a booking, please contact council's Community Engagement Team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au

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Photos supplied

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A Sweet Soul Searching For Her Forever Home

Pheobe is a four-year-old American Bulldog currently in care and ready to begin the next chapter of her life in a loving home.

When Pheobe first arrived, she was frightened and facing a challenging road after testing positive for heartworm. She immediately began treatment and has now completed the most difficult phase. Since then, she has gained healthy weight and continues to grow in confidence, showing more of her gentle and happy personality each day.

Pheobe is a people-loving dog who wants to be everyone’s friend. She walks beautifully on a lead and is just as content spending time indoors with her humans. She is known for greeting people at the door with her enthusiastic wiggle-bum and a big smile, complete with her distinctive front tooth.

She is looking for a slow, calm and loving home where big changes are handled with patience and care. As she continues to recover, Pheobe will need limited exercise, so movie nights in is something she is very comfortable with.

Pheobe is microchipped, desexed and up to date with her vaccinations.

Anyone interested in adopting Pheobe is encouraged to contact Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue to find out more. Donations to support Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue are also welcomed.

Bank details: Commonwealth Bank
Name: Lucys Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc
BSB: 064-722
Account: 1069 7243

Photos supplied

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A Satellite Point of View

Life in the Mackay region can be a balancing act. Between FIFO rosters, sugar industry demands, or busy professional and family lives, even the strongest marriages can feel strained.

Satellite Psychology, a specialist digital practice serving the region, offers the road map back to ‘Us’. While Clinical Psychologist Cassandra Burford provides quality individual therapy for adults, her passion is Gottman Method couples therapy—a renowned approach based on 40 years of research.

“The Mackay region is unique, but local couples report universal relationship struggles. They find themselves stuck in cycles of endless bickering, reeling from big hurts, or simply lacking closeness.”

“The Gottman Method is gold standard for a reason,” Cassandra explains.

“By studying ‘Master’ versus ‘Disaster’ couples, we know exactly what makes love last. My role is helping couples adjust the patterns that keep them stuck. Using the Sound Relationship House (pictured) as our blueprint, we’ll replace disaster habits with research-backed tools that improve relationship satisfaction.”

Satellite Psychology operates entirely online, a choice Cassandra says is perfect for regional Queenslanders.

“In a town like Mackay, privacy is paramount. Online sessions offer unmatched privacy and flexibility, making sure stretched and busy couples don’t go without support. It allows the work to happen where your relationship actually lives—at home.”

“Ultimately, it’s about more than just surviving each week—it’s building real connection and equipping you both with the tools to restore your relationship for more better days together.”

www.satellitepsychology.com.au

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Clinical Psychologist Cassandra Burford, from Satellite Psychology

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Residents across the Mackay region are being urged to take extra care during post-rain clean-up efforts, with authorities reminding the community to protect themselves against potentially deadly diseases following recent wet weather.

Four cases of melioidosis, a potentially fatal bacterial disease found in ground water and soil, have been confirmed in the region this week, including one in Bowen, one in Seaforth and two at Armstrong Beach south of Sarina.

The four patients, three males and one female, who range in age from 67 to 89 had been exposed to recent flood waters and mud. They are currently patients at Mackay Base Hospital.

Although these cases were not cause for alarm, Townsville and Mackay Public Health Unit physician Dr Steven Donohue said it served as a timely reminder that the elderly and those who have pre-existing medical conditions were at greater risk during the clean up after Cyclone Koji.

“Melioidosis is just one of many serious infectious diseases which are caused by contact with flood waters and soil,” he said.

“Bacteria can enter the body through any skin break in contact with contaminated water, or by breathing in muddy droplets, causing pneumonia,” he said.

“People at most risk of contracting melioidosis are already unwell, elderly, have existing chronic conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease, or are heavy alcohol users.

“Symptoms of melioidosis include fever, cough, chest pain, weight loss, muscle pain and headaches.”

Melioidosis was treated with intravenous antibiotics, and infections were more likely during the wet season when there was a higher chance of coming into contact with mud and flood water, he said.

Dr Donohue urged people to take simple precautions including avoiding contact with muddy water where possible, wearing protective clothing when working outdoors and covering cuts or sores with waterproof dressings when in contact with mud or floodwater.

“If you have come into contact with muddy water or soil and you feel unwell, then seek out medical help as quickly as possible,” he said.

“Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics can be life-saving.”

Symptoms of melioidosis can vary but often include fever, cough, chest pain, difficulty breathing, disorientation, headache, seizures, abdominal discomfort, skin abscesses or ulcerations, joint pain and swelling. The effects can be severe and often require hospitalisation.

To reduce your risk of melioidosis infection:

• wear a mask if you’re using a hose or high-pressure cleaner around soil. This is to prevent breathing in bacteria that causes the disease.
• Wear protective footwear and gloves and wash your skin thoroughly after exposure.
• Avoid contact with soil and floodwaters, particularly after heavy rain.
• Cover open wounds and broken skin with waterproof dressings and wash thoroughly after exposure to soil or muddy water.

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The Queensland Government has updated crocodile management zones in the Mackay region as part of its ongoing efforts to protect the community while conserving estuarine crocodiles.

The changes are part of the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan (QCMP), which guides how crocodiles are managed across the state based on risk. Estuarine crocodiles, or saltwater crocodiles, are a protected species but can pose significant dangers to humans, particularly in waterways near towns and popular recreational areas.

In the Mackay region, crocodile management focuses on removing problem crocodiles—those that are large, aggressive, or have developed a dangerous association with humans. In high-risk zones, such as rivers, creeks, and wetlands frequented by the public, crocodiles may be removed through traps, direct capture, or monitoring patrols.

The QCMP classifies areas into four zones: Active Removal, Targeted Crocodile Removal, General Management, and Reportable Removal. In Active Removal Zones, all crocodiles are targeted for removal, while in Targeted Removal Zones, large crocodiles and those displaying dangerous behaviour are prioritised.

The plan is supported by the long-running Be Crocwise public safety program, which educates residents and visitors about safe behaviour in crocodile habitats. Authorities emphasise that while removal reduces risk, no waterway can ever be considered completely crocodile-free.

Residents are encouraged to report sightings and remain vigilant near rivers, creeks, and wetlands. The Queensland Government also conducts annual consultations to ensure the management plan reflects the latest science and community feedback.

For more information on crocodile safety and reporting sightings, visit the Be Crocwise website.

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Estuarine crocodiles are commonly spotted around the region. Photo credit: Linda K

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Genomics to Transform Sugarcane Breeding at Meringa

Sugar Research Australia’s (SRA) breeding program is set to undergo a major transformation, with genomics poised to reshape how new sugarcane varieties are developed.

From next year, SRA General Manager Variety Development Dr Garry Rosewarne will be based at Meringa, leading the rollout of genomic selection within the breeding program. DNA, genomics and big data will become central tools, allowing researchers to assess quality and disease resistance much earlier in the breeding process.

“We will be recombining the existing genes from parents through crossing programs like we have always done but now we will be able to select our parents and their progeny much more efficiently and based on data collected from the best lines,” Dr Rosewarne said.

“Using genomic selection we will be able to check for quality and disease resistance right from the beginning so that everything coming through the pipeline will succeed at the end of the PATs, CATs and FATs in the field for traits such as tonnes of cane per hectare, CCS, fibre, and resistance to Pachymetra and smut.”

The change follows eight years of research, with 8,000 sugarcane clones already genotyped, including all parents in the Meringa crossing plot and FAT clones from the past decade. This data has been used to create “training populations” in the field to develop prediction equations linking DNA to performance.

“We genotype these lines and then we test them in the field for tonnes of cane per hectare, CCS scores, smut resistance, for fibre and for Pachymetra resistance,” Dr Rosewarne said.

“From this work we have a prediction equation which enables us to analyse brand new germplasm straight out of the honeymoon suite by taking a DNA sample from the baby leaves.”

Dr Rosewarne said the approach would allow earlier and more accurate selection of promising lines.

“The impact it has on a breeding program is a complete game changer,” he said.

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