A new player has rolled into Mackay’s industrial landscape, promising to shake up the way local businesses buy, sell and manage high-value equipment. Slattery Auctions & Valuations, a nationally recognised leader in asset valuation and auction services, has opened a full-service site on the corner of Milton Street and Boundary Road, just 350 metres from the Mackay Airport.

Known for its work across Australia’s key mining and agricultural regions, Slattery’s expansion into Mackay is a strategic move to support regional industries with on-the-ground expertise and faster, more affordable access to market.

The new facility offers everything from vehicle and machinery inspections to full-scale auctions and collections. For local sellers, this means no more long hauls to Brisbane to offload equipment, because transactions can now be handled right here in Mackay.

Matthew Birch, Business Development Manager and head of the Mackay operations, says the timing couldn’t be better.

“This region is built on agriculture and mining, sectors where cash flow and efficiency are crucial. Our presence here allows businesses to turn trucks, trailers, mining gear, and ag equipment into cash without delay.”

Regular auctions are already underway, with events held every six weeks and moving to a monthly schedule. These sales are attracting a mix of local and national buyers, with strong interest in everything from workhorse utes to collectible items and rare number plates.

“We’re seeing record-breaking car sales and a growing appetite for electric vehicles,” Birch explains.

“The EV boom is real, and our auctions reflect the shift. At the same time, we’re seeing more rare and quirky items – like themed number plates going for over $10,000.”

With tourism bouncing back, the ability to value and sell niche assets has become a key offering.

But beyond the numbers, Slattery’s arrival is about regional empowerment.

“We’re here to support local businesses, reduce transport costs, unlock value from underutilised assets, and ultimately, help the region grow.”

Slattery Auctions invites locals to attend their upcoming auction on the 14th. Whether you're in the market for heavy machinery, a rare collectible, or simply curious about the buzz, the doors are open.

For more information, or to consign equipment, drop into the Mackay yard or give the team a call.

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Slattery Auctions opens in Mackay, offering locals easier, faster sales of vehicles, machinery, and equipment. Photo source: Slattery Auctions

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The family of 19-year-old Kai Johnson is calling on the community for support following a serious traffic crash in Mackay last Friday night, May 2.

At approximately 10.40pm, Kai was struck by a taxi while walking along Sydney Street in the Mackay CBD. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and he was transported in a critical condition to Mackay Base Hospital. Due to the severity of his injuries, Kai was later flown to Townsville University Hospital for further treatment.

According to Queensland Police, the Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and has asked for any witnesses to come forward.

Meanwhile, Kai’s loved ones have launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Cover medical expenses for Kai Johnson” to help cover the extensive costs associated with his treatment, travel, and family support.

“We are Kai’s family and are seeking your support to cover medical costs, travel expenses and other necessities during a very difficult time,” the family wrote on the fundraising page.

“On Friday evening Kai was struck by a taxi in Mackay CBD. Kai has suffered extensive injuries and required immediate transportation to Townsville where he is currently undergoing treatment.”

The young man, originally from Sydney, is now hundreds of kilometres from home. His family says this distance has added another layer of stress and hardship to an already traumatic situation.

“Kai is far from his home in Sydney and the costs of getting family to his bedside and ongoing medical needs are proving challenging,” the statement continued.

“We are asking for you to please help our son, brother, cousin, nephew, grandson and dear friend to ensure he is surrounded by the love and support he needs.”

As of early last week, the campaign had received an outpouring of support from the public, with more than 150 donations raising $13,374 toward their $16,000 target.

The generosity of the community has been deeply appreciated by Kai’s family, who thanked everyone for their support.

“Thank you for any contribution big or small, we are incredibly grateful.”

As police continue to investigate the incident, anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage from the area at the time is urged to contact Crime Stoppers or Policelink.

To support the Johnson family and help Kai’s recovery journey, visit the GoFundMe page: Cover medical expenses for Kai Johnson.

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The community is rallying behind 19-year-old Kai Johnson, who remains in critical care after being struck by a taxi in Mackay, with a GoFundMe campaign launched to support his medical and family expenses. Photo source: GoFundMe

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Selling real estate is about people, not about bricks and mortar.

What I mean by that is that the human element of the transaction, the buyers and sellers, are what elevate the experience above trading shares in BHP or the Commonwealth Bank.

If all you did was answer an on-line inquiry from a potential seller, sign up the listing without meeting the owner, take photos and a video of the property, send those images and basic information to potential buyers and then negotiate a sale over the phone and by email… well the human element tends to disappear.

The truth is that in Mackay at the moment, a lot of the sales are being conducted just like that. And sometimes, with a property that has got tenants on a long-term lease, that produces the best result for a seller because a southern investor will look at it just like they would BHP shares and pay according to value and potential returns.

But most of the time the best way to sell a property is to work with and advise the sellers on a strategy and take the property to the market, which includes investors and Mackay buyers.

It might sound a bit old-school but it means making sure your write-up, photos and marketing connect with potential buyers and that you hold private inspections and open homes that introduce buyers to the property.
You get to know the property and what it offers buyers. By understanding what the property can add to a buyer’s life, whether that is an individual, a couple or a family, you can help create an emotional connection between the buyer and the property.

All this needs to be subtle and understated because there’s no bigger turn-off than a pushy, obvious sales person who loves the sound of their own voice. Saying just enough is usually the right amount.

Anyway, that’s what I mean when I say selling real estate is not about bricks and mortar … yes, you’ve got to know the property but what creates the best sale is understanding the emotional connection that a buyer is going to have with that property.

It means that, to a degree, you’ve got to get to know the buyer. You can’t create that connection that a buyer might have with a property through an email exchange. You’ve got to be at the property with them and I’m hoping that this is why, in a world of AI, I get to keep doing what I do.

That human interaction you have with a buyer means that sometimes you get to sell their house again when they decide it’s time to move on.

It’s a great honour to sell a property for someone you sold it to. I’ve done it quite a few times and it is a terrific experience because you get to continue the relationship and help them achieve their goals.

There are different objectives when you work with a buyer who has become a seller but the basics of trust, communication and work ethic don’t change.

But don’t get me wrong, you do get to know the house pretty well. I have sold a couple of properties three times and it’s a bit like catching up with an old friend.

If the property’s been renovated it’s a bit like: “Oh, hello, aren’t you looking good? I see we’ve been working out. You look younger than when I last saw you. Amazing what a bit of botox and a smart new outfit can do.”
Sometimes the poor old girl has had a busy life with lots of kids and fun and life has taken a toll. That’s when I arrive with a make-up artist and a manicurist for a quick make-over before we go to market again. Ah, that’s better.

“Okay my friend, let’s sweep them off their feet again.”

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The to-do list of a business owner never sleeps, it’s a daily juggle of customer demands, staff management, competitive pressure, and those inevitable fires that need putting out. People are so busy working in the business, they often neglect to allocate time to work on their business. Well-planned marketing often gets pushed aside, not for lack of importance, but because the day runs out before the list does. When it's left on the backburner, growth stalls and great opportunities are missed.

Jody Euler, owner of Mackay’s first full service and longest standing creative agency, redhotblue, has seen it all and knows exactly how to give businesses back what they need most: time.

1. Why do you think business owners feel so time-poor?

Many business owners wear multiple hats. Whether it’s to stay in control, manage costs, or because they’re struggling to find the right team. Whatever the reason, it often leads to a scattered approach, long hours, and a to-do list that rivals Santa’s on Christmas Eve.

2. What common time-wasting habits do business owners fall into?

One of the most common pitfalls I see is a lack of focus and consistency in branding and marketing. Jumping from one idea to the next wastes time, dilutes the brand, and creates confusion in the marketplace.

3. What are some mistakes you see time-poor business owners making?

Too often, businesses underestimate marketing, until the lack of brand presence hits hard. It usually happens at a critical point: a competitor enters the market, sales targets are missed, or market share begins to slip away.

In response, there’s a rush to act, usually with whatever marketing deal or trend is most readily available. The result is generic messaging, uninspiring creative, and a muddled brand. In the long run, this quick fix costs more time than it saves, damaging credibility, relevance, and customer connection.

4. What practical advice would you give a business to reclaim some time?

One of the most valuable lessons in business is recognising your strengths and knowing when to bring in experts for the areas that aren’t in your wheelhouse. Whether it's finances, HR, marketing, or digital trends, surrounding yourself with the right professionals can be a game-changer. By stepping away from tasks that aren’t your strength and focusing your time where you can add real value, you create space for greater profitability.

5. What would you say to someone who thinks that liaising with a marketing agency will require more time than just doing it themself?

Yes, in the beginning it will take time. And I can already hear you thinking, “Time? That’s the one thing I don’t have.” But if long-term success matters, can you really afford not to make the time?
After 30 years in the industry and helping countless businesses through uncertain times, one thing is clear: once a plan is in place, your brand messaging locked in, and your marketing aligned with your goals and budget, it becomes a streamlined, results-driven process. That early investment of time pays dividends.

6. How does your agency streamline marketing efforts to help businesses reclaim their time?

If there’s one investment every business should make, it’s a marketing consultation. It’s often the first time a business owner gains real clarity around their brand and marketing from an external, expert perspective.
Working with a professional helps you save time because it eliminates the guesswork.

The real success happens when you move away from generic, off-the-shelf marketing and build a strategy designed specifically for your business.

A tailored approach not only saves time but delivers results.

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Earlier this week, midwives across the Mackay and Whitsunday regions were recognised for their outstanding contributions to maternal and newborn care during International Day of the Midwife celebrations.

At Mackay Base Hospital, three midwives were presented with awards acknowledging excellence in care, leadership and emerging practice:

Emerging Midwife Award (Postgraduate): Amber Moyle, registered midwife, Women’s Health Unit, Mackay Base Hospital.

Exceptional Midwifery Care Provider Award (consumer-nominated): Danielle Sorbello, clinical nurse midwife, Women’s Health Unit, Mackay Base Hospital.

Outstanding Nursing and Midwifery Leadership Award: Jessie Twivey, nurse educator, Women’s Health Unit, Mackay Base Hospital.

At Proserpine Hospital, the Isabelle Morris Memorial Award was also presented in honour of the late midwife who served the region for more than 30 years. This year’s recipient was Kirsty Dolphin, a registered midwife recognised for her commitment to women’s health in the Whitsundays.

The awards highlighted the dedication, compassion and clinical skill shown by midwives working across the region’s public health services.

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Award-winning team: Mackay Base Hospital midwives Jessie Twivey, Amber Moyle and Danielle Sorbello were recognised earlier this week for their outstanding contributions to maternity care as part of International Day of the Midwife celebrations. They are pictured beside the celebratory cake with MHHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon. Photos supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

group photos

Amber Moyle

Jessie Twivey

Danielle Sorbello

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A heart-warming act of kindness unfolded near the Beaconsfield petrol station last week, witnessed by a passing motorist returning home from North Mackay.

According to the eyewitness, traffic was flowing steadily when a four-wheel drive suddenly pulled over. Without hesitation, a man – described as of Indian descent – stepped out of his vehicle, despite a line of traffic beginning to bank up behind him. His purpose was simply to rescue an injured bird stranded in the middle of the road.

“To see this fourby pull up, an Indian fella getting out with a line of traffic banking up behind him to save an injured bird in the middle of the road,” the witness recounted.

“Hip hooray to this amazing caring person.

"It made my day.”

In a moment when most would choose convenience or continue driving, this individual’s compassion stood out, offering a quiet but powerful reminder that small actions can carry great meaning.

The bird, cradled gently in the man’s hands, was moved to safety its fate shifted by one person’s choice to stop and care.

It was a fleeting encounter, but one that left a lasting impression – proof that everyday heroes often wear no cape, just a conscience.

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Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has confirmed the start dates for its 2025 North Queensland crushing season, with the first of its eight sugar mills set to fire up from Monday 3 June.

Operations will begin in the Burdekin and at Plane Creek Mill in Sarina on 3 June, followed by the Herbert region on 10 June. Proserpine Mill will be the last to come online, with a planned start date of 17 June.

Pre-season commissioning is already well under way, with steam trials scheduled to begin at Inkerman Mill in the Burdekin on 13 May.

In preparation for the season, RSU and locomotive driver training commenced earlier this week across Wilmar’s milling regions. From Tuesday 6 May, empty cane trains began running on the cane rail network during daylight hours.

Motorists are urged to be vigilant at cane railway crossings and to observe all signs and signals throughout the pre-season and crushing period.

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No matter how many birthdays you’ve had, there’s something about your mum that still makes you feel five again. That reliable all-wise voice on the end of the line. The smell of her cooking that feels like safety itself.

At 42, I became a mum. Late, perhaps, by some standards, however I was just incredibly thankful for my little miracle to finally arrive. My own parents flew over from New Zealand to be here for the birth of my son. We had our first three-generation Mother’s Day together: me, my baby boy, and the woman who had given so much of herself to raise me. She stayed for three months, holding me up through the fog of newborn life. She was there when I stumbled through sleep deprivation, unsure of who I even was anymore. She never judged—just helped. Quietly. Gently. Lovingly.

A year later, cancer arrived. Colon cancer. And she came again to stay with my little family for three months. Without question. She stood by me through surgery and the start of chemotherapy, all while caring for my toddler like it was the most natural thing in the world. That’s what mums do—they show up. Again and again.

This year, though, I won’t get to spend Mother’s Day with her. She’s back in New Zealand, caring for my dad, who is battling lung cancer. And my wonderful mother-in-law is caring for my father-in-law, who’s also undergoing radiation for cancer.

These women are my strength, my blueprint. Their love runs deeper than any diagnosis, any hardship, any distance. A mother’s love doesn’t end—it just finds new ways to keep giving.

To every mum, whether you’re wiping noses, holding hands through heartbreak, or offering quiet strength in the background, Happy Mother’s Day for Sunday.

May your coffee be hot, your toddler’s tantrum be brief, and your partner elbow-deep in dishes. You’ve earned it.

Amanda

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Mother's Day 2024 in Mackay, two weeks after receiving my cancer diagnosis

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With strong winds and showers forecast for the weekend, council and stakeholders have made the difficult decision to postpone SPARK! Wood Street.

The SPARK! Wood Street event was set to “pop up” as a dynamic activation of the old cinema car park on Wood and Gordon streets from this Friday, May 9, to next Friday, May 16.

Unfortunately, the festivities were mostly centred around the Friday, Saturday and Sunday (May 9 to 11) and the Bureau of Meteorology has forecast a strong wind warning during that period.

The event is expected to be rescheduled for a weekend in June, however, residents are encouraged to follow the Mackay City and Waterfront Facebook page for new dates and updates.

Council apologises for any inconvenience and looks forward to reigniting SPARK! in a few weekends time.

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CQUniversity is thrilled to celebrate the success of alumna Lauren Hamilton Neill, who has secured the co-lead role in the upcoming Australian feature film The Girl in the Shadows, directed by award-winning filmmaker Darren K Hawkins.

A graduate of CQUniversity’s Bachelor of Music Theatre program, Lauren’s career has taken flight both nationally and internationally, with her latest project set to debut at an advanced screening on July 12.

The Girl in the Shadows marks a major milestone in Lauren’s fast-rising career.

Hawkins described Lauren as “a powerhouse performer,” adding that her “preparation, professionalism, and emotional depth” set a benchmark on set.

“She is, without a doubt, one of this country’s most unheralded premier acting talents,” he said.

“Lauren brought intensity, adaptability, and a profound connection to her character – and it’s clear that her time at CQUniversity helped build that foundation.”

Lauren credits her time at CQUniversity’s Conservatorium of Music for equipping her with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in the industry.

“The access to industry professionals and the demanding yet supportive environment laid a foundation for every role I’ve taken on,” she shared.

Director of the Central Queensland Convervatorium of Music, based at CQUniversity, Professor Judith Brown expressed pride in Lauren’s accomplishments.

“Lauren is a shining example of what our graduates can achieve with passion and perseverance.

“Her journey from the Conservatorium to the big screen is inspiring, and we’re incredibly proud to have played a role in her artistic development.

“Her story speaks to the power of training that blends technical skill with real-world experience.

“She’s not only excelling in front of the camera, but now also stepping into screenwriting – showing just how versatile and driven she is,” Professor Brown added.

Lauren’s performance in the Canadian feature film Stage 5 also garnered acclaim, and she has now been cast as the lead in Hawkins’ next film Kennedy, which she is also co-writing – an extraordinary step for a first-time screenwriter.

“She has a gift for understanding character and story at a deep level,” Hawkins said.

“The world is about to discover a remarkable Australian talent.

“As these projects are released, I hope more people, especially women attending CQUniversity, look to Lauren and be inspired by her talent and her journey."

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Mackay Regional Council Libraries want you to tell us what a great library service looks like and what’s on your library wish list.

Part yearly health check and part strategic planning tool, the annual Community Survey is Libraries’ way of giving the regional community a say in how their libraries operate.

The survey is live from today. Jump in and complete it online at www.connectingmackay.com.au/libraries-annual-survey or visit your local library to complete the survey and go into the draw to win one of five $100 WISH gift vouchers.

Mayor Greg Williamson said our libraries were constantly evolving hubs.

“Although traditional library services are still highly valued by our community, we no longer only read or borrow books from the library,” Mayor Williamson said.

“They are centres of knowledge, technology and social interaction – somewhere you can discover something you didn’t know was on offer,” he said.

“You will find things like robots, a sound booth and podcasting setup, sewing machines, a variety of musical instruments, gaming consoles and so much more.

“Community needs, hopes and expectations of public libraries are ever-changing, and it’s important that we hear from you so we can continue to improve and deliver the services you want and need.

“This survey is important because it helps influence our future priorities and initiatives – we want the good and the bad, because all feedback helps to shape this fantastic service.”

Questions in the survey cover topics like:

Do you feel connected to your community when visiting the library?
How do you Library? What library services do you use?
How happy are you with the libraries’ services and features?

The survey runs until Thursday, May 22.

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Burdekin Shire Council is delighted by the strong interest shown following the release of land in Stage 1 of the Ayr Industrial Precinct.Nutrien Harcourt McCathies have received numerous enquiries since the release with negotiations underway for a number of lots.Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the Ayr Industrial Precinct presents an exciting opportunity for businesses looking to establish or expand their operations in North Queensland.“The strong response to the Stage 1 land release highlights the confidence businesses have in the future of the Burdekin,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.“Land within the Ayr Industrial Precinct is competitively priced, starting from $50 per square metre plus GST, with pricing varying depending on the size and location within the precinct.“Council has worked to ensure the Ayr Industrial Precinct is not only well-located and fully serviced, but also priced to attract a diverse range of businesses.“Whether you are looking for a smaller site or a larger parcel, there are flexible options available to suit a variety of business needs.“Council is committed to supporting economic growth and creating new opportunities for our community by delivering strategic projects like the Ayr Industrial Precinct, which lay the foundations for a stronger, more resilient local economy for current and future generations.”To learn more about the opportunities available within the Ayr Industrial Precinct, download a copy of the Land Sales Prospectus at www.burdekin.qld.gov.au. For all sales enquiries contact Nutrien Harcourt McCathies on 4783 1911 or for any other enquiries, contact Burdekin Shire Council on (07) 4783 9800.

To ensure your dog and others around them are safe, it is important to keep your pet under effective control.

Effective control means holding your dog by a leash that is no longer than 2 metres when you are in a public place such as parks, foreshores or residential areas. It is also essential that you are physically able to control your dog.

When you are at home, please ensure that your dog has adequate fencing and is not aggressive towards people or other animals through the fence, including livestock in rural areas.

For further information on responsible pet ownership please visit Council’s website.

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Thank you for trusting me to be your representative for another three years. As the reelected Member for Dawson, I will repay your faith by continuing to work hard and fight
for our region’s fair share.

Saturday night was bittersweet. I celebrated our local team’s increased vote with family
and supporters, while also mourning the missed opportunity for the Coalition to form
government.

Labor has made many promises in retaining government, and I intend to hold them to
account for our region. I’ll continue to fight for upgrades to the Bruce Highway and other
vital infrastructure, demand real action on the cost of living, pursue greater investment
in our local economies, and remind the government that regional Australians need
access to affordable GPs and medical services.

To me, one of the most important attributes a member of parliament should have, is the
ability to listen. Listening helps me represent all constituents in the best way possible.
My team and I are here for everyone, and I welcome any feedback that helps enhance
our region.

To my dedicated campaign team and volunteers — thank you. Your tireless efforts, long
hours, and commitment played a major role in my re-election.

To my small but mighty electoral office team, your hard work and positive community
engagement make my job so much easier — thank you.

Raylene, Jack, Shannon and Tom — you keep me grounded, humbled and grateful.
Family is everything. You make the challenges lighter, the successes sweeter, and life
better.

To everyone who voted for me — thank you. And to those who didn’t, thank you in
advance for the opportunity to earn your support. I’m proud to be on Team Dawson and
will continue working hard for all Dawson residents to build a stronger future.

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Andrew Willcox re-elected for second term as Federal Member for Dawson. Photos supplied

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This month we meet, Drew and Lara Kell-Colliver of Whitsundays Property Buyers – the region’s first and only exclusive buyers agency.

Established in May 2024, they offer three core services – a comprehensive buying service from search to settlement: an exclusive access to pre-market and off-market properties; negotiation only service for buyers who want expert guidance to secure the best price, terms, and inclusions; and auction representation providing a clear, confident strategy on auction day.

Whitsundays Property Buyers was established with a clear purpose – to put buyers first.

“Having experienced the challenges of buying from out of area ourselves, we saw just how valuable it would be to have a dedicated buyers service – one that offered the same support, strategy, and advocacy sellers receive,” said Lara.

Their first year of business been focused on raising awareness on their purpose and how it benefits those moving to the region, first home buyers, and time-poor investors. Educating the community has paid off as they are now proudly working with several returning clients.

Lara and Drew believe in giving back, with $500 from their service fee going to a local charity or regional not-for-profit of their client’s choice.

Their top tips to other business owners include:

Know your value and communicate it – Understand exactly who you help, what problems you solve, and why it matters. People choose businesses they trust, built through real value and meaningful relationships.

Marketing isn't optional, it's foundational – It's key to growth and credibility. People can’t work with you if they don’t know you exist.

Learn more about Whitsunday Property Buyers: whitsundayspropertybuyers.com.au

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