Over time, the things we want and need in a home can change. This is when you ask yourself ‘do I renovate and create exactly what I need?’ or ‘do I relocate and find something new?’. Here’s some tips to help you consider what may be best for you.
 
Choosing to renovate
Renovating allows you to customise your plans and create a home that is exactly how you want it to be. An office space, another bathroom, a second living area. Although a renovation may cost you money upfront, any upgrades or additions can add value to your property in the long term.
 
However, renovation budgets can blow out. The cost of building materials can rise, and delays can push out completion dates. There's also the risk of overcapitalising your home. This happens when the renovation costs more than the value you’ve added.
 
Choosing the relocate
If you choose to relocate, you can look for a property that meets your needs, rather than having to work with a property that’s no longer suitable. You’ll have more freedom over location, and you might be able to leverage equity in your current home to buy a property with greater growth potential.
 
Depending on where you want to live, relocating may come with significant costs. This is especially true if you need to sell your existing home before you buy. Real estate agent fees, stamp duty, moving and solicitor/conveyancing costs can quickly mount up.
 
So, which is best?
If your current location isn’t right for you, that’s a significant reason to relocate. But, if you’re happy where you are and you think a renovation could transform your home into what you need, staying put might be the better option for you.
 
Your friendly team at Community Bank Sarina are here for you. For more information on funding options when renovating or relocating, call 4943 2634 or visit us in branch at 37 Broad Street, Sarina.
 
Bendigo Bank – the better big bank.

‍

If you’re on the hunt for a new addition to your wardrobe, look no further than the North Mackay Kidney Support Network (KSN) Inc Community Op Shop on Evans Avenue.

This week, from 8-15th of November, they’re offering readers a special offer of 50% off all clothing!

Here’s the best part… every dollar spent at KSN’s Op Shop directly supports individuals living with kidney disease in the community, with proceeds going towards essential services, particularly door-to-door transport for patients attending dialysis or medical appointments.

Operations Manager Paula O'Neill emphasises the importance of this initiative.

“All of the revenue from the op shop goes towards supporting kidney patients in the Mackay region, particularly providing transport to and from the hospital,” she said.

The Kidney Support Network not only aids individuals with kidney disease but also extends support to their families and carers. All KSN shops are staffed entirely by dedicated volunteers, ensuring that every dollar spent is reinvested into vital services for those affected by kidney disease.

Their transport service is crucial for patients requiring dialysis treatment up to three times a week, however, this initiative is not government funded and relies solely on donations, volunteering and community support. This means that your purchases play a critical role in sustaining these indispensable services.

“We’re definitely always looking for volunteers to work in our Op Shops to help support our service,” says Paula.

If you’re interested in making a difference and have some spare time, consider stopping by the Evans Avenue Op Shop to discuss volunteering opportunities with the team. From sorting donations to assisting customers, every bit of help contributes significantly to supporting patients and advancing KSN’s mission.

By shopping at the KSN Community Op Shop, you’re not just grabbing a bargain, you’re also funding life-saving services for those navigating the challenges of kidney disease.

Their Op Shop offers a diverse selection of items and sizes, from trendy tops and versatile trousers to cozy winter wear. With new items arriving frequently, there’s always something fresh and exciting on the racks, making it the perfect opportunity to update your wardrobe while supporting a worthy cause.

In addition to the Evans Avenue location, KSN operates four Op Shops throughout the region, including sites in the Mackay city centre, Sarina and Mirani.

As you shop, Paula also encourages everyone to consider their eligibility to become a donor, noting that it could be the “gift of life to someone.”

Stay informed about great weekly items and promotions on clothing and other goodies by following KSN on their Facebook page.

Find something fabulous and be part of something extraordinary!

‍

Get in quick as the 50% off sale ends November 15th! Photos supplied

‍

The Pioneer Swimming Club is excited to announce their new club captains for the 2024/25 season, Zahli Herring and Stevie Brand.

A representative from swimming club said, “The role of captain is given to those athletes whom the rest of the team respect and trust to lead them in the right direction - Zahli and Stevie nominated for these roles, and agreed to lead and inspire their junior swimmers for the season.”

Members from the club also expressed their gratitude to WHF Constructions - Building Contractors Australia for sponsoring the captains this season. .

At the Pioneer Swim Centre itself, pride is taken in offering a variety of programs that cater to the diverse needs of the community. The facility boasts an 8-lane, 50m swimming pool surrounded by ample lawn space, making it the perfect spot for families to swim and relax. Programs include swimming and water safety lessons, Junior Squads, birthday party packages, and aqua aerobics, all designed to ensure everyone can enjoy a positive aquatic experience.

Centre Hours
Monday - Friday: 5:30 am - 7:00 pm
Saturday - Sunday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Public Holidays: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Pioneer Swimming Club announced Zahli Herring and Stevie Brand as club captains for the 2024/25 season. Photo credit: Pioneer Swimming Club (Facebook)

‍

By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
This being our first column post-election, on behalf of CANEGROWERS Mackay I would like to congratulate the successful candidates across the region. We look forward to continuing to work with them as the new term of a new government for Queensland takes office and implements policy and programs.
CANEGROWERS, throughout the election was clear about the needs of the industry to continue to raise productivity, sustainability in an effort to continue to reach and supply our diverse markets. We hope that the Crisafulli Government has taken these matters on board.
We are confident that we can work with our local members to achieve good outcomes on local issues.
The top issue for the Mackay area is cost of electricity, which is preventing irrigators making use of their water allocations and challenging the viability of irrigation schemes.
We will continue to press the case for a food and fibre tariff for electricity, but in Mackay’s case, there is another option. We have a mill that is supplying electricity to the national grid. It would require only a change to legislation to allow Mackay Sugar to establish a virtual microgrid with it supplying its own electricity to its growers as its customers, and without any extra infrastructure.
Irrigation has been proven through projects like the CANEGROWERS Mackay Irrigation Project to deliver benefits not only for productivity, but for reducing nutrient runoff by increasing the cane plants Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE). It makes sense to increase the industry’s capacity to affordably irrigate.
Which leads to Smartcane BMP. It is vital that the State Government continue to support the funding for this and to increase incentives for growers to make the practice change that has been proven across (almost) a decade of the best management practice program.
Strong research and development remains a critical area for maintaining the industry, and helping build productivity, sustainability and biosecurity. Funding to continue to improve research into practices and products remains an important way government can keep the sugar cane industry strong. However, it is a fallacy if we think growers can implement change on their own. Previous Federal and State Governments have spent massive amounts of money on water quality, however change is slower than it should be. Actual change and results happen at farm level, leaving us asking the question: why isn’t more of the funding targeted at changes on the farm.
Feral pigs remain one of the region’s major pest species problems, across all agriculture. Helicopter shoots are an effective way to deal with the ever-increasing population. However, these are costly. Farmers are working to control the pest on their land, but the reality is that pigs are using unmanaged state and federal land as a breeding ground. Governments are as big a landholder as it gets, so realistically there needs to be far greater investment by state and Federal Government in control measures, including subsidising community pest control projects like helicopter shoots.
We also encourage our new State Government to continue to support the work that has been done in market diversification by its predecessor and the sugarcane industry. This is work across the development of a sustainable aviation fuel manufacturing sector that sources sugarcane waste as a feedstock, and alternate proteins production that uses sugar as a base. Moreover, we would like to see government policy and practical support for mill co-generation plants to take an increasing role in the State’s energy generation mix. The capacity has been proven at Mackay Sugar’s Racecourse Mill, delivering a third of Mackay’s energy demand.
We also need to see clear support that across any value-add to sugarcane, whether molasses, ethanol, SAFs, or cogenerated electricity, that there is a clear benefit to the feedstock producers: the cane growers. There must be a value proposition across the paddock to mill supply chain.

‍

Feral pigs remain a serious pest in this region, posing threats across biosecurity, environment and productivity. Photo credit: Reef Catchments

‍

This week
Season to date
Cane crushed
62,004
942,058
Average bin weight
3.93
3.91
CCS
14.73
14.06
Cane variety performance for region
Variety
%
CCS
Variety
%
CCS
Q183
20.8
15.04
Q253
24.2
13.91
Q240
13.3
15.15
SRA9
10.0
15.04
Q208
13.3
15.57
SP80
5.9
14.63
KQ228
2.6
14.34
Q138
4.4
14.44
Comments:
Plane Creek Mill processed just over 62,000 tonnes of cane for the week, bringing the season total to just over 940,000 tonnes.
Average CCS dropped by 0.14 of a unit over the previous week, closing out at 14.73 units. The year-to-date average is now sitting at 14.06 units.
Standover cane made up approximately four per cent of the week’s cane supply.
The highest CCS honour for the week was a rake of Q183 plant cane from the Dawlish productivity area with a CCS of 17.40 units.
Road users are urged to use their train brain as they travel in and around our sugar milling districts.
Approach all cane rail crossings with caution and always give way to cane trains.
‍

Lindsay Wheeler
Cane Supply Manager
Plane Creek Region

‍

The Mackay Farmers' Market is excited to announce the expansion of its offerings to include a wider range of artisan products, with a focus on items crafted using local, Queensland, or Australian materials. From handmade massage oils to expertly blended spices and freeze-dried produce, the market aims to become a vibrant hub that highlights the creativity and quality of regional artisans.
This expansion is a fantastic opportunity for small businesses and local makers to showcase their products to the community. The initiative is part of the market’s ongoing commitment to supporting local producers and providing customers with unique, high-quality items that reflect the diversity and richness of our region. Whether you're passionate about sustainability, locally-sourced goods, or just love discovering new artisanal creations, the market promises an exciting variety of offerings.
If you're an artisan or know someone who might be interested, the market is now accepting applications for new stallholders. All applications will be reviewed by the committee, and those who meet the criteria will have the chance to join this growing community of passionate producers.
The market runs every Wednesday morning from 6:30am to 10:30am at Bluewater Quay. For stall applications, email: mackayfarmersmarket21@gmail.com.

‍

A time to celebrate and a time for action! November is National Rural Health Month and it’s time to spotlight rural communities and health care.
 
Throughout November, the National Rural Health Alliance is excited to share rural healthcare stories and highlight the success stories of rural healthcare champions. We will also draw attention to the myriad of issues faced by rural, regional and remote communities in Australia when trying to access health care.  
 
“We all know that Australia’s rural, regional and remote communities experience poorer health outcomes compared to their urban counterparts,” said the Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen.
 
“National Rural Health Month highlights health sector stakeholders who are working towards tangible and sustainable healthcare solutions for rural Australians.”
 
“On average, a person living in rural Australia receives $848 less in healthcare funding each year, which equates to a $6.55 billion underspend across the country. This is despite rural industries generating about 80 per cent of Australia’s exports and providing about 90 per cent of the fresh food in our markets,” she said.
 
Rural people experience a triple health disadvantage: poorer circumstances in terms of social determinants of health, a lack of service availability, and higher costs of access and delivery, all resulting in poor health outcomes.
 
“Rural communities are amazingly resilient and innovative in their solutions to overcome healthcare challenges. As such, National Rural Health Month is also a time to reflect on their achievements that help bring positive changes.
 
Keep your eye on the Alliance’s social media accounts and the hashtag #NationalRuralHealthMonth and #NRHM24 throughout November for day-to-day stories of rural Australians and their healthcare journeys.

The National Rural Health Alliance (the Alliance) comprises 53 national organisations committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the over 7 million people in rural and remote Australia. Our diverse membership includes representation from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health sector, health professional organisations, health service providers, health educators and students.

‍

National Rural Health Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen

‍

Prepare to have some spooky fun as you enter the majestic haunted house this Saturday, November 9, located at 67 Peak Downs Highway, Ooralea.

If clowns give you nightmares, Jazz Party Hire, MAD Animal Addiction and Let’s Just Face It Entertainment have got you covered, with jumping castles, a petting-zoo and face painting for the whole family…as well as fairy floss, slushies and popcorn to satisfy your sweet tooth!

A sensory-friendly break with no lights or animatronics will take place from 5:30pm to 6pm for those who require a quiet space and all money raised at the event will go to a charitable cause.

This year, event organiser Rebecca Ryan chose Broken Ballerina as the fundraiser’s recipient.

“As a family, we always choose local charities,” said Rebecca, “Last year, we raised nearly $3,000 for Mackay Pet Rescue, and this year I just hope we’re able to help Broken Ballerina.”

Reflecting on the rising demand for support, she added, “Over the past year, I’ve seen a significant increase in people needing help from Broken Ballerina.”

Jules Thompson, founder of Broken Ballerina Inc said that “Funding like this enables us to continue our mission to help survivors of domestic violence in our community.

“We save lives and we change lives… and we do it all with the help from community donations, sponsorships, and fundraising events like this.”

‍

Get ready for a spooky family adventure this Saturday at the haunted house, 67 Peak Downs Highway, Ooralea. Image supplied

‍

CQUniversity’s Safety Circus production is set to bring its impactful musical theatre performance Safety Circus back to the classrooms of Mackay primary schools from 28 October – 15 November.
The iconic show will continue to share essential safety skills to Year 2 students with engaging storytelling, fun, and unforgettable characters. 
This tour is made possible by a long-standing partnership between CQUniversity’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) and the Mackay Crime Prevention Unit of the Queensland Police Service, with funding from the Daniel Morcombe Foundation and the Friends of the Conservatorium Inc.
The 2024 production features eight CQU Bachelor of Theatre students, directed by CQU graduate Hannah Herwin and CQCM Director Professor Judith Brown AM as producer.
“This production makes safety relatable for children, and our cast’s vibrant performances really connect with the young audience,” Prof Brown said. 
“Through an engaging storyline and memorable songs, Safety Circus teaches kids to recognise, react, and report unsafe situations – core principles of the Daniel Morcombe Foundation’s Child Safety Initiative.”
Safety Circus first premiered in 2013 and has since become an impactful, research-backed program in the Mackay region, reaching thousands of children.
 “We’re proud to support the community with an outreach program that’s fun, effective, and timely," Prof Brown said. 
"Safety Circus doesn’t just entertain – it equips children with safety skills they’ll use for life.”

By Tiahna Fiddling, CQUniversity

‍

Safety Circus cast in Day for Daniel shirts
Students at Walkerston State School and Eton State School enjoying the Safety Circus performance
The Safety Circus comes to town at Alligator Creek State School. Photo source: Safety Circus (Facebook)

‍

With The Mackay Woodturners

Get ready to deck the halls and spread some holiday cheer at the Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo, taking place at Snow Wright Court, Beaconsfield, on the weekend of November 16th and 17th from 9am to 3pm.

This festive event is a wonderful opportunity to discover unique, handcrafted treasures that make perfect gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list…especially the little ones. You’ll find everything from quirky tables and intricate pots to beautifully crafted boats and whimsical toys. Explore a variety of intricately designed clocks that are both functional and artistic, alongside beautifully crafted ornaments and figurines.

Step into a summer wonderland of creativity where local artisans will showcase their stunning woodwork through woodturning, pyrography, intarsia, scroll sawing and carving, resulting in beautiful decorations and one-of-a-kind gifts. Among the intricate designs are a charming wooden Christmas tree and a mini wine rack crafted by talented Scroll Saw artist Rose Ware. These delightful pieces add a touch of elegance to any home and are sure to become cherished keepsakes for years to come.

The Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo is all about celebration, bringing together the community to share in the joy of the season. With a range of unique items available, you'll find something special for everyone, from handcrafted toys that spark imagination to exquisite ornaments that brighten your holiday décor. This is the perfect opportunity to shop locally and support talented artisans who pour their heart and soul into their creations.

Come along for a weekend filled with festive spirit, creativity and the joy of giving. Whether you’re searching for that perfect gift or looking to add a personal touch to your holiday celebrations, the Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo promises something for everyone. Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this chance to create lasting memories while finding unique treasures that embody the true spirit of Christmas!

‍

Check out the Mackay Woodturners Christmas Expo and give the perfect gift to your friends and family this year. Photos supplied

‍

This is a question I ask my kids each year, in the hope that I can get an early mark to all the festive fun here in the north.

Now the question remains, is that OK?

I’ve got two kids and they both have differing views on this. My son is with me, the earlier the better. My daughter however is a little different. She has always given me a timeline of December 1 and not before. No challenges. No arguments. That is her rule, and she will not let me change it.

On my travels over the last two months, yes two, I have seen a lot of Christmas paraphernalia already on the store shelves. I am talking about the beginning of September where I’ve seen lots of Santas helpers gracing the shelves in the hopes that people like me will take them home and start to decorate to be ready for December 25.

Some say that even September for having festive materials for sale is way too early, let alone October, but you know what, each to their own. Just because it’s on sale, doesn’t mean you have to buy it.

I’ll let you in on a little secret. Each year my kids and I get a couple of new decorations to continue our Christmas tradition of making the house look great. We get a couple of new pieces like tree ornaments and wall hangings each year and we’ve been doing this for years. Most times we also get something cool for my daughter’s bedroom so she can get into the spirit too. My son, however, couldn’t care less so that’s easier and cheaper on my hip pocket.

If you’ve got something similar at your place let me know. Decorations or even modifications to the house to get it ready for the festive season? There are many people who have been working all year to get their homes ready for the season, and some who never stop.

Remember we will be heading out in December for a few nights to check out the light displays around Mackay, the Pioneer Valley and Sarina. If you have a place that’s putting lights up, let us know where and what time they will be on. We will have the annual map on our website to make it easy when you’re driving around.

Oh yes, we can’t forget when we’re talking Christmas, our annual 4MK Carols in the Gardens is on Saturday December 7 at the Meadowlands Amphitheatre. Santa will be there, Mackay’s big band with the best festive tunes and a lot of fun with the Grinch and family fun, food, dancing and more.

Put it in the diary and get ready to get festive.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

‍

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrated the 20th anniversary of being active in the region this Thursday with a special event held in their honour at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.

Coordinator Lyn Blanche said the group was extremely proud of this milestone especially since it is a volunteer group.

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors celebrate 20 years this week. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Award Winning Volunteers
Welcome 1 Million Passengers In 20 Years

The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors’ main role is to greet the cruise ship passengers. As they disembark, the volunteers are there to welcome guests to Airlie Beach, they provide maps, information booklets, and ask what passengers want to get out of their day.

Cruise ship passengers only have limited time in Airlie Beach, so if the passengers do not currently have plans, the volunteers can suggest numerous activities.

Browsing through the local markets, exploring the Bicentennial Boardwalk, taking a dip at the lagoon or indulging at one of the restaurants are popular choices.

Many passengers enjoy spending time in a café or eating lunch and Lyn says this is a byproduct of what they are trying to achieve.

“The main priority is to make sure that every person who comes off the boat has a really good time because what we are looking for is return business,” said Lyn.

“We want them to have such a great day in Airlie Beach that they are going to come back again another time and spend a bit longer with us.

“Additionally, we're aiming to support the local businesses, that's the flip side of inviting people and being enthusiastic about the area is that it supports our local businesses as well.”

As Coordinator, Lyn creates a schedule of all arriving cruise ships and then creates a roster open to all volunteers, and those available can greet the passengers.

Lyn has been with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors for almost five years and Coordinator for two.

“In July we reached the millionth visitor and it has been fantastic to be able say, we have welcomed our one millionth visitor in our twentieth year,” said Lyn.

“A big thing for us this year was to win the gold award at the Whitsunday Tourism Awards for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group.”

Visitor Services Manager at Tourism Whitsundays Dea Huvonen helps out Lyn and the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors where possible and is thrilled with them reaching 20 years.

“It is an incredible achievement for a volunteer group to celebrate 20 years of service,” she said.

“A big warm thank you and congratulations to each and every cruise ship volunteer who has so kindly donated their time over the years.”

Tourism Whitsunday Chief Executive Officer Tim Booth expresses his thanks towards the volunteers and says they showcase our region to travellers.

“Their dedication and warm welcomes make everyone feel right at home, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone who arrives,” he said.

“We want to give a huge thank you to each and every one of the volunteers for helping showcase the beauty of our region.

“In doing so, they create a lasting impression of our community and truly make Airlie Beach such a special destination.”

‍

Cruise Ship Ambassador Lyn Blanche Woodham and Dea Huvonen from Tourism Whitsundays accepting an award for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards last month. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

‍

Congratulations to the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors on celebrating 20 years this week – such a huge achievement for this active volunteer group who bring bright smiles and friendly welcomes to cruise ship guests as they arrive in the Whitsundays.

To think they’ve welcomed their 1 millionth passenger this year as well is just incredible.

Twice this week I have been down to the Airlie Beach sign at the Lagoon, once with our journalist Daniel to meet up with the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors and the second time we went down to interview Tim Booth, the new CEO of Tourism Whitsundays.

It was great to meet Tim who seems like a really nice guy and is full of energy and enthusiasm for the massive role of leading tourism marketing in our region.

You can watch our full interview by clicking the QR code next to the article on page 6, this will take you to our YouTube Channel.

While at the Airlie Beach sign I noticed a nearby landmark had popped-up overnight – the iconic Airlie Beach Festival of Music big-top tent was in-place and ready for this weekend’s festivities.

There is always something that makes your heart sing when you see the big white awning of the tent – the promise of fun and good times – the tent perched on the headland, creating one of the most scenic main-stage venues anywhere in the country.

Now in its 13th year, our local music festival attracts thousands of people from all around the country and, if you haven’t got your tickets yet, I suggest you go and get some!

For the full line-up and an insight into some of the local venues that will be hosting live performances over the weekend turn to page 15 for our special feature.

The weather looks to be amazing all weekend so it will be a spectacular event to attend.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Life is like a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving” (Albert Einstein)

‍

In November, you might notice more mo’s popping up everywhere. While they often serve as a fashion statement, this month they carry a much deeper significance.
Movember is a charitable organisation dedicated to raising funds for different facets of men's health, including mental health, suicide prevention, testicular cancer, and prostate cancer.
Now emerging as a global movement, Movember is a powerful conversation starter for men worldwide and opens a safe space for those struggling.
Here in the Whitsundays, local men are already embracing the spirit of Movember by growing their moustaches, whether on their own or as part of their workplaces.
Do you think you can grow the best moustache in the Whitsundays? Enter our free competition for a chance to have your 'mo featured in the newspaper! The top mustache will win a business feature valued at $600 for your chosen business.
Join the Movember squad this year and make a difference. Grow a 'mo for your bros and help raise awareness!
Head to Mackay and Whitsunday Life Facebook page on how to enter the competition:

‍

Monday, November 11, marks the anniversary of the Armistice that ended the fighting with Germany in World War I.
Each year, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, millions around the world observe a moment of silence to honor the sacrifices made by countless individuals, ensuring the freedoms and peace we enjoy today.
Suburbs around the Whitsunday region are all hosting remembrance services to pay respects to the lives that were lost.
‍

Find your local remembrance service below:
Bowen – Bowen RSL, 11TH November 2024, 10:45am
Airlie beach – Cannonvale Cenotaph, 11TH November 2024, 11am

‍