In the world of air travel, where turbulence and tight spaces are the norm, one group of compassionate ladies showed that kindness can soar above it all.

Cheyenne Edwards, a solo-traveling mum, embarked on a flight from Mackay to Brisbane with her two sons, aged 2 years and 3 months. Juggling two carry-on bags and a baby strapped to her, the challenge was real. Battling a migraine that blurred her vision, Cheyenne found herself in the midst of an anxiety-inducing situation.

But then, a group of local ladies extended their hands to help. Recognising the struggles of a mum flying solo, they stepped in, tending to Cheyenne's 3-month-old so she could engage with her toddler. The collaborative effort not only made the flight more enjoyable for all nearby passengers but also eased the burden on a mother facing the daunting task of flying alone with her little ones.

These unsung heroes didn't stop there. They accompanied Cheyenne and her sons to their next gate, ensuring a smooth transition for their second flight to Darwin. Cheyenne, overwhelmed with gratitude, took to a local Facebook chat group to express her thanks.

"Thank you so much for your help," Cheyenne shared, "A little kindness goes a long way, and I hope you have the best time at Juicy Fest in Melbourne."

In a world where the skies are shared by strangers with stories, this tale reminds us that a small act of kindness can turn a potentially stressful journey into a smoother ride for all.

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The group of ladies and their friend helped keep a three-month-old infant entertained on a flight from Mackay to Brisbane to assist a solo-traveling mother. Photo source: Facebook

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The Queensland Government is initiating a significant investment of $51.7 million to support up to 7,020 vulnerable job seekers across the state.

Skilling Queenslanders for Work is one of the Government’s most successful job creating initiatives – assisting unemployed and underemployed Queenslanders to gain skills, qualifications and experience to either enter or remain in the workforce.

In Mackay, organisations such as Community Solutions Group, Selectability and Ideal Placements will receive grants, aligning with the government's commitment to fostering a skilled workforce and providing tailored opportunities for marginalised individuals throughout the region.

The organisations will be able to use the funding towards building Community Work Skills, to assist disadvantaged job seekers and low skilled workers to gain nationally recognised skills and qualifications up to a certificate III level.

More than $684 million has been committed to the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative since 2015.

This major investment has helped to secure the workforce of industries like construction, primary industries, hospitality and community services.

In this new round of Skilling Queenslanders for Work, 225 community-based organisations will receive grants to help participants to overcome barriers such as social isolation, learning difficulties and mental health, while providing the skills and experience necessary to transition them to further education and employment.

Round one funding for 2023-24 saw $39.6 million awarded for 162 projects to support more than 5300 disadvantaged Queenslanders into the workforce.

The first Skilling Queenslanders for Work funding round for 2024–25 will open on 29 January 2024.

Minister for Training and Skills Development Lance McCallum said that Queensland businesses need skilled employees across the board, and we are committed to delivering the training needed in areas of demand.

“The Skilling Queenslanders for Work program is one of our government’s most successful job creating initiatives, so I’m pleased to announce more than $51 million towards the next round of projects.

“This funding will see 7,020 job seekers supported to find work, particularly in priority industries like healthcare and tourism. 

“The organisations receiving fundings understand their communities and their workforce needs and can make vital connections between job seekers and employers.

“Skilling Queenslanders for Work is helping people overcome the barriers to participation, to acquire new and in-demand skills. 

“More than half of all participants are young people aged 15-24, almost 1 in 5 identify as First Nations, and more than 12 per cent of participants are people with disability.”

Minister for Tourism and Sport Michael Healy said the tourism and hospitality sector is crying out for more talented workers of all ages, cultures and backgrounds.

“The Skilling Queenslanders for Work program plays a vital role in creating good job opportunities for those who’ve found it tough to find work.

“These Queenslanders come out the other side with the skills and confidence they need to help tourism operators thrive and attract more visitors to the state.”

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Queensland's Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative receives a $51.7 million investment. Selectability is among organisations in Mackay to receive funding to play a pivotal role in providing tailored opportunities for job seekers

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox is backing calls for an Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Inquiry into fruit and vegetable prices to make supermarkets pay their fair share.

“While Coles and Woolworths made record profits of more than $1 billion each last year, the individuals and families living in our electorate of Dawson are struggling with rising grocery costs during a cost-of-living crisis,” Mr Willcox said.

“Over the past 18 months we have seen fuel prices increase, energy prices increase, and now we’re all paying more at the checkout while supermarkets are paying farmers less and it’s not good enough.

“Farmers are integral to Australia, they provide food and fibre to the entire nation, and as a third-generation farmer myself I know just how difficult it can be on our farming families.

“If something doesn’t happen soon, we run the risk of seeing farmers walking away entirely and food security in Australia plummet.”

The Federal Government has appointed Dr Craig Emerson to lead the 2023-24 review of the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct (the Code) to ensure that the supermarket sector is working as it should.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the government was tackling cost of living and ensuring Australian families have an economy that works for them.

“We have been clear - if the price for meat and fruit and vegetables is going down at the farm gate then families should be seeing cheaper prices on supermarket shelves too.

“Supermarkets have a duty to make sure they’re providing affordable options for all Australians, especially when they’re making savings on their own costs.

“We’ve made looking after consumers a key priority over the past 18 months and we’ll keep looking at every option to make sure Australians aren’t paying more than they should or getting less than they deserve.

“If there are further steps that are needed then the Government will not hesitate to take action.”

Mr Willcox stressed that a review isn’t going to go far enough.

“The ACCC has the expertise and the ability to do something about this issue, and the last thing we need are more politicians who don’t have the intricate understanding of market and pricing policies just sitting around asking questions.

“Something must be done, it’s now a matter of urgency.

“After 100 days from their announcement for a review of the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct, the Prime Minister has only just appointed someone to lead the review and it’s too little too late.

In November last year Mr Willcox urged Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Agriculture Minister Murray Watt to launch an investigation into supermarket meat sale prices and the Dawson MP is now putting the pressure on them to expand that investigation to include fruits and vegetables.

 Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government expects all companies to treat Australian consumers fairly including in the food and grocery sector.

“As a Government we’re taking a fresh look at the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct to make sure the sector is giving consumers and suppliers a fair deal.

“When the price of meat and fruit and veggies comes down for supermarkets, it should come down for families as well – it’s a big chance for the big supermarkets to do the right thing.”

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Murray Watt added, “We’ve been making clear for many months now that retailers should start dropping their prices to reflect the reduction in prices farmers are getting for their produce.

“Farmers deserve a fair price for their hard work and some of the prices supermarkets are charging just don’t pass the pub test.

“While the Government is getting on with taking action on the cost of groceries, the ball is in the court of the big retailers.

“They don’t have to wait until this review is finalised to drop their prices, they can do that right now to help Australian families doing it tough.”

Mr Willcox said the escalating prices are not only impacting family budgets in Dawson it is now starting to impact the health of families living here.

“We’re seeing reports of families bypassing the fresh food section in their local supermarkets altogether and instead opting for cheaper, unhealthy pre-packaged meals.

“We are seeing Queenslanders hospitalised for diet deficiencies so severe that they’re leading to diseases such as scurvy and rickets, and if the cost of fruits and vegetables continue to rise this is only going to get worse.

“The Albanese Labor Government must act before it’s too late. We need to ensure there is an ACCC Inquiry into supermarket price gouging.

“The families and farmers in our electorate of Dawson deserve an urgent response and I am going to do everything I can to make sure that happens.”

The Food and Grocery code is prescribed under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. Aldi, Coles, Woolworths and Metcash are signatories to the Code and are bound by it.

The Code was introduced to improve standards of business behaviour in the food and grocery sector.

The Code regulates the conduct of these retailers and wholesalers towards suppliers.

Dr Emerson was the Federal Minister for Small Business from 2007-2010 and Minister for Competition Policy and Consumer Affairs from 2009-2010. He was Minister for Trade from 2010-2013. He is a former Queensland Government Director-General and Senior Economic Adviser to Prime Minister Bob Hawke.

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A fair go for farmers. Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, supports the call for an Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Inquiry into fruit and vegetable prices, advocating for fair compensation from supermarkets. Photos supplied: Andrew Willcox MP

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Last year, as the school term came to a close, the Grade 5/6 students from Middlemount Community School embarked on an educational journey to the Queensland Parliament, creating lasting memories that they would cherish for years to come.

The students were accompanied by the Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, who took the time to catch up with them during their visit. Mr. Last expressed his enthusiasm for the day, stating, "No doubt the children left with plenty of stories to share with their families when they got home." His presence added a personal touch to the excursion, making the experience even more special for the young learners.

The day began with an enriching walk through the Botanic Gardens and Planetarium, providing the students with an opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse plant life and astronomical wonders. However, the highlight of the excursion was the visit to Parliament House, where the students were granted a rare opportunity to step inside the chamber and even sit in the actual seats of parliament.

Rod Flood, a teacher at Middlemount Community School, extended his appreciation to Mr. Last, saying, "Thank you, Dale, for making this such a special experience for our students! They didn’t want to leave." The visit undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the young minds, offering them a glimpse into the world of politics and governance.

In addition to their parliamentary adventure, another highlight of the students' end-of-term activities was a day spent at Dreamworld theme park on the Gold Coast.

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Middlemount Community School students captivated by the inner workings of Queensland Parliament, as well as a day of thrills at Dreamworld, making their end-of-term adventure truly unforgettable. Photo credit: Middlemount Community School

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In a bid to enhance water-based tourism along the Pioneer River, the Mackay Regional Council is gearing up for the completion of the Pioneer River Pontoon by the end of February, weather permitting. This exciting development opens doors for ambitious businesses keen on operating commercial ventures from the pontoon.

Interested entrepreneurs are encouraged to submit their applications promptly, as the deadline for tenders is set for Friday, February 8. To access the tender documents and initiate the application process, registration on QTenders is a prerequisite, and aspiring applicants can join for free. For more details and to submit applications, visit https://bit.ly/48rQ1dH.

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Construction of the Pioneer River Pontoon is expected to be complete by the end of February. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Temporary Closure of Brisbane Street Fishing Platform

Simultaneously, the Mackay Regional Council has announced the temporary closure of the Brisbane Street Fishing Platform, effective from January 16, until mid-February. The brief hiatus is necessary to facilitate preparation work for the delivery and installation of the new pontoon gangway.

During this temporary closure, land-based anglers are urged to explore alternative options, with the Carlyle Street Fishing Platform remaining accessible for those eager to cast their lines. This strategic closure aligns with the ongoing efforts of the Mackay Regional Council to improve waterfront infrastructure, ensuring a seamless transition for both local anglers and future water-based tourism endeavours.

As the Pioneer River evolves to accommodate diverse recreational activities, these developments mark a significant step forward in shaping the region's aquatic landscape. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to seize this opportunity, and anglers are advised to adjust their plans accordingly during the temporary closure period.

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The Brisbane Street Fishing Platform will be temporarily closed until mid-February

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In a bid to foster connection and support within the rapidly expanding Northern Beaches community in Mackay, a new initiative is set to launch – the Northern Beaches Community Playgroup. This free playgroup opportunity aims to provide a welcoming and relaxed space for parents and children to come together, play, and strengthen their sense of community.

Rebecca Cooper, one of the organisers, expressed her excitement for the upcoming launch.

"We are thrilled to bring this opportunity to the area, further complementing the existing playgroups and providing a new option for parents and children to connect and play in nature,” she said.

The official launch is scheduled for Tuesday, January 30th, from 9:15 am to 11:15 am at the Northern Beaches Community Hall, located at 24 Wallace Street, Bucasia. Ms Cooper encourages everyone to attend: "Our launch is a free event, and we invite everyone to join us for a delightful morning filled with activities and the chance to learn more about what our playgroup has to offer."

The playgroup is made possible through the generous support of grants, including the Mackay Regional Council Community Grant and the BHP/BMA Benefiting My Community Program.

"The grants have allowed us to bring in various activity providers and offer a mix of indoor and outdoor play, creating a dynamic experience for both parents and children,” Ms Cooper said.

Sessions will alternate between the Community Hall in Bucasia and the Eimeo Esplanade, with a variety of activities planned, including sessions with providers such as Active Squirtz, Kids Yoga, Wild Puppets, Toddler Time Soft Play Hire, and the First Five Forever program.

"We aim to provide not just a playgroup but a holistic experience, where families can connect, children can play, and everyone can strengthen their sense of community,” Ms Cooper added.

What sets this playgroup apart is its commitment to creating a sense of belonging and providing outreach services to the community. Ms Cooper highlights the collaboration with organisations like The Neighbourhood Hub and Mackay Connected Beginnings, as well as the monthly visit from the Qld Health Child Health Nurse, as key components of their support system.

As a Northern Beaches resident, she understands the unique challenges faced by the community and said that the playgroup will become like a 'village' for a diverse range of families.

"We are consciously aware of how it can be an isolating time with a new baby or a young family. Our playgroup is here to bridge that gap and provide a supportive space for everyone.

“We are extremely thankful to Mackay Regional Council, Play Matters Qld, BMA and Greater Whitsunday Communities for their support and involvement so far.”

Follow ‘'Northern Beaches Community Playgroup (Mackay)’ on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date with the playgroups development and for a timetable of activities.

What: Northern Beaches Community Playgroup launch

When: Tuesday, January 30, 9:15am

Where: Northern Beaches Community Hall, 24 Wallace Street, Bucasia

Cost: Free event

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As the Northern Beaches Community Playgroup gears up for its launch at the Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia, families anticipate a vibrant and supportive addition to their community life. Photo supplied

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Mackaybids farewell to a beloved figure as Charlie "Chook"Deguara, former owner of Deguara Supermarket, peacefully passed awaysurrounded by his family on Saturday, December 30, 2023. His legacyas a respected businessman and the warm-hearted proprietor of a localinstitution profoundly impacted the community.

DaughterAndrea Hale shared the news, inviting friends and acquaintances tojoin the family in farewelling their beloved Chooky at St Bernard'sCatholic Church on Klumpp Road, Upper Mount Gravatt. The service willtake place on Friday, January 19, at 10:30 am. Afterward, acelebration of Chook's life will be held at the Mount Gravatt BowlsClub.

Chookcelebrated his 80th birthday in June, surrounded by an abundance offamily, creating cherished memories that now serve as a testament toa life well-lived. Andrea shared that pneumonia, compounded by theloss of his wife Cheryl, eventually took him. The DeguaraSupermarket, under Chook's stewardship, was more than just a store—itwas a cornerstone of the community, where locals gathered for morethan just groceries. Many locals remember him as a kind man and arespected businessman, creating a lasting bond between the Deguarafamily and the Mackay community.

Forthose unable to attend the service in person, the family inviteseveryone to join via live stream on Friday, January 19, at 10:30 am.The live stream link can be accessed athttps://www.tastefultransitions.com.au/charlie-deguara/.

Chookleaves behind a legacy that extends beyond the shelves of asupermarket, touching the lives of those who had the privilege ofknowing him. Mackay mourns the loss of a local icon and extendsheartfelt condolences to the Deguara family during this time ofgrief.

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The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that occurred on Pleystowe Connection Road in Mackay on January 10.

Initial investigations indicate the rider, a 27-year-old Beaconsfield man, was riding as part of a group when he collided with a trailer attached to a vehicle travelling north just after 1.40pm on the John Cook Bridge.

Police confirmed that the rider was a learner rider, travelling with a group of learner riders who were under instruction at the time of the incident.

“The other riders and members of the public came to his aid, however he succumbed to his injuries at the scene,” a police spokesperson said.

The rider was travelling south at the time of the accident on the dual-purpose bridge which also has railway lines on the southbound lane. There was heavy rain which police said may have been a factor.

Pleystowe Connection Road was closed for several hours as investigators carried out their work and traffic was diverted.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have relevant dash-camera footage, or CCTV from the area, to contact them.

Investigations are ongoing.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24 hours per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

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Pleystowe Bridge. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Infusing Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) with a shot of vitality, 31 emerging medical talents arrived last week. As the first-year doctors undergo their orientation, they stand at the threshold of a captivating journey through diverse rotations, commencing their healing odyssey on Monday, January 22. The prognosis? An injection of fresh perspectives and limitless potential in the heart of healthcare.

They have been welcomed to the health service by Chief Executive Susan Gannon and Chief Medical Officer Dr Charles Pain.

“It’s exciting to welcome first-year doctors to our team and support them as they begin their career with Mackay HHS,” Ms Gannon said.

“They’re not only bolstering our workforce and making a real difference to our patients, but they’re building the foundations of medical careers which will serve our community and Queensland for decades to come."

Dr Pain said interns would benefit from exposure to a wide range of clinical cases with support from highly skilled medical professionals.

"We have a very supportive medical workforce to support our interns as they undertake rotations in a range of areas including emergency, cardiology, orthopaedics, anaesthetics, obstetrics and gynaecology, intensive care, general surgical and mental health," he said.

"We aim to provide excellent training experiences and we hope many of our 2024 interns will also choose to build their future careers in the Mackay region."

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Meet Mackay’s Future Healers: A dynamic cohort of 31 interns injecting fresh passion and expertise into the heart of Mackay Hospital and Health Service. Ready to revolutionise healthcare one rotation at a time! @Mackay Hospital and Health Service

A dynamic cohort of 31 interns injecting fresh passion and expertise into the heart of the Mackay Hospital and Health Service. Photo supplied

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In the world of daredevils and snake enthusiasts, one name stands out—Edward Royce Ramsamy, or as many knew him, Ram Chandra. A fearless showman, Ram's journey was a captivating tale of courage, passion, and a profound connection with some of the world's most dangerous snakes.

Born in Lawrence, near Grafton, New South Wales, on May 24, 1921, Ram Chandra embarked on a path that would make him a legend in the world of snakes and venomous creatures. His journey began on the show circuit in Sydney during the early 1940s, where he fearlessly handled both venomous and non-venomous snakes as part of The Carnival of Eastern Wonders.

Ram Chandra's daring act, "The Pit of Death," showcased his skills with 20 tiger snakes, performing tricks that captivated audiences. His passion for snakes led him to Mackay, where he married Nolear Barba in 1944. The couple raised eight children and adopted three more. It was in Mackay that he adopted the name Ram Chandra and continued his show circuit endeavours.

The turning point in Ram Chandra's life came with his encounters with the taipan, one of the world's most feared snakes. This natural fascination spurred him to become The Taipan Man, as he embarked on the perilous journey of milking venom from these deadly creatures. His dedication earned recognition from the Commonwealth Serum Laboratory (CSL).

In mid-1955, just three weeks after distributing the serum produced from taipan venom, a Cairns schoolboy's life was saved from a taipan bite. Ram Chandra himself experienced the life-saving impact of the serum when bitten by a taipan during a demonstration to ambulance officers in 1956.

Ram Chandra's annual visits to schools across the region were eagerly awaited events. His captivating talks and snake demonstrations were a source of excitement and curiosity for students, leaving a lasting impression on the young minds he engaged with.

For over 50 years, he shared his extensive knowledge of snakes, delivering lectures to medical professionals, school children, and adults about venomous and non-venomous snakes. Beyond his educational pursuits, he raised substantial funds for charitable causes, contributing over $80,000 to the Queensland Ambulance Service, $9,000 to the Queensland Cancer Fund, and supporting various local Lions clubs, Rotary clubs, Apex, and charities.

Ram Chandra's contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including the British Empire Medal in 1975, Pioneer Shire Citizen of the Year in 1982, the Order of the Outback in 1985, and the Order of Australia Medal in 1995. A flamboyant showman and a dedicated researcher, Ram Chandra passed away in Mackay on July 31, 1998, leaving behind a legacy of education, courage, and a deep respect for the often-misunderstood world of snakes.

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Ram Chandra handling a Black Headed Python. Photo supplied by Les Batros

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Queensland's regulator for the resources sector, Resources Safety and Health Investigation (RSHQ), has launched an investigation into an incident at BHP Mitsubishi Alliance's (BMA) Saraji mine on Monday 15 January 2024.

Two men were working in the fuel-bay area of the open-cut mine around midday when an interaction between two vehicles left a 27-year-old coal mine worker with significant crush injuries. 

Luke O’Brien has been identified as the victim of a tragic incident that occurred. He was taken to Dysart Hospital but later died from his injuries.  

Mr O’Brien’s mother, Yvette, shared her heartbreak on social media.

“A piece of my heart has been shattered,” she wrote.

“My baby boy is gone.”

RSHQ CEO Rob Djukic said the death will impact the entire Queensland mining community. 

"We'd like to offer our sincere condolences to the family of the victim, his friends and his co-workers," said Mr Djukic. 

"As soon as we were notified of the incident, we launched an investigation sending multiple investigators and inspectors from our Serious Incident Investigation Unit and Coal Inspectorate to the site.

"We're also working closely with BMA to find out what went wrong and prevent this from happening again."

The Mining and Energy Union released a statement saying the whole mining community is shocked and saddened at news of a fatality.

“We are devastated that a coal miner is not returning home at the end of their shift,” the statement read.

“Our hearts go out to friends and family. We offer our deepest thanks to first responders and support to workmates who may be traumatised.”

The union said safety inspectors were also on site to conduct a thorough investigation.

“We will ensure no stone is left unturned in understanding what has occurred and preventing future fatalities and injuries.”

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Saraji Coal Mine. Photo source: Wikipedia

Luke O’Brien died due to injuries from an incident at Saraji mine near Dysart. Photo source: Yvette O'Brien

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Ever felt that yoga might not be your 'thing'?

Perhaps, it's precisely what your body and mind have been silently yearning for.

Why not indulge your curiosity, take a step onto the mat, and discover the transformative power that yoga can bring to your life? Join us at Tranquil Yoga Mackay, where we believe in the inclusive embrace of everyBODY, offering a space for exploration, self-discovery, and well-being.

More than just a studio, we are a family-run establishment with a commitment to community values, embracing every individual who walks through our doors.

Meet Ashley, our principal yoga teacher and passionate owner, with years of experience, particularly in the realms of Yin and Restorative practices. Hence, the name Tranquil Yoga Mackay. Our studio focuses on offering a diverse range of classes that cater to slowing down and moving inward, allowing you to find the zen within.

Joining Ashley is fellow yoga teacher Shannon Clare, who shares a love for rest and digest practices. While we use movement and breath to heal and empower, our timetable also features dynamic forms of yoga and movement, including the newly introduced Barre and Ashtanga classes, balancing the serene ambiance of our studio.

Discover a variety of classes tailored to suit everyone's preferences, with affordable membership options, including compatibility with FITNESS PASSPORT and WHEREFIT, Tranquil makes yoga accessible to all.

Tranquil offers a mixture of classes such as:

YinYang (movement and stretch)

Restorative Yin (slow, gentle and relaxing)

Yin (stretch and meditative)

lunch time Nidra (30 mins to reset your nervous system)

Hatha Nidra (movement and meditation)  

Ashtanga Vibes (dynamic movement)

Monthly Men’s Yoga (taught by a man for men)

Barre classes (fun, fun and more fun)  

AND a sneaky weekly Pilates matwork class (35 min workout)

Ashley and Shannon are here to support you on your yoga journey, whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner. We believe that yoga, with its myriad benefits, may be just what your body and mind need.

Some of the commonly known benefits of practicing yoga:

• Improves flexibility and balance

• Enhance range of motion in various joints in the body

• Reduces stress and anxiety

• Improves overall health

• Enhances mental clarity and concentration

• Promotes better sleepy

• Increases strength and muscle tone

• Boosts self-awareness and self-esteem

Our studio not only offers a space for yoga but also shares its warmth with other local small businesses, including Warisa Thai Massage, where Tranquil members enjoy exclusive discounts. We envision a kind, caring community within our walls, where people feel safe and welcome to explore their yoga journey.

Tranquil Yoga Mackay awaits, ready to embrace you on the mat and nurture your well-being.

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The economic development bodies of North Queensland – Advance Cairns, Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and Townsville Enterprise - have joined forces to seek a better outcome for the region amid questions around the effectiveness of the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool.

This follows the recent devastating flooding which impacted the Far North in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper last month. The collective call from these three organisations is for a review into the terms of the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool, specifically the claims period for cyclone and related flood damage arising during a cyclone event, from the time a cyclone begins until 48-hours after the declared end of a cyclone.

Ex-TC Jasper was the first event to test this framework and the pool has been left wanting, as extensive flooding occurred outside of the 48-hour claims period. It is imperative that the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool is fit-for-purpose and meets the challenges it set out to address, which is to provide more affordable and commercially viable insurance for North Queenslanders.

Insurance availability and affordability remains a critical concern across North Queensland.

A significant number of households and businesses are underinsured or worse, are without insurance, given the spiralling costs of insurance premiums.

Advance Cairns, Greater Whitsunday Alliance and Townsville Enterprise are calling on the Government to conduct a review with a specific focus on the following:

1. Extension of the 48-hour period: Propose an extension of the post-cyclone period of coverage from 48-hours to 168-hours (seven days) in line with global reinsurance standards.

2. Inclusion of Flooding in Reinsurance Pool: Advocate for the expansion of the reinsurance pool to cover flooding, a crucial component in comprehensive coverage.

3. Insurance Incentives: Propose targeted insurance incentives to alleviate the cost-of-living pressures for residents and businesses which would reward policyholders for risk mitigation measures.

4. Enhanced Data Transparency: Reinforce the transparency of data requests to the ACCC for consumers to foster trust and understanding.

5. Long-Term Resilience Mitigation Action Plans: Develop and implement long-term resilience mitigation action plans, including: a. Investment in mitigation infrastructure in collaboration with local councils. b. Grants for property owners to enhance the safety of their dwellings. c. Strengthening building codes and improving disaster management planning. d. Removal of unfair taxes and charges from insurance policies by governments.

6. Build greater understanding of the role of the reinsurance pool.

The economic development bodies welcomed recent comments by the Federal Government opening the door to bringing forward the review of the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool from 2025 to this year. They strongly support any interventions aimed at resolving the issues highlighted with the Pool in its current form.

Advance Cairns Chief Executive Officer Jacinta Reddan said, "There is a lot of confusion about the impact of the reinsurance pool, particularly in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper. It is so important we can allay fears for those who have suffered damage and are making claims against their insurance policy.

“Ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper was the first test of the reinsurance pool which has certainly highlighted shortcomings around timing. However, it is important that we also give the pool time to function – and it is important we work together to develop a framework that can ultimately be applied nationwide as we face increasing extreme weather events across Australia.”

Greater Whitsunday Alliance Chief Executive Officer Kylie Porter said that the future of North Queensland’s economy is bright and prosperous, whether it be tourism, biomanufacturing, green energy or critical minerals. However, she pointed out that the sky-rocketing costs of insurance premiums for both businesses and residents has the potential to hold back our regions and significantly limit ongoing investment and workforce attraction.

“Now is the time to review the effectiveness of the Cyclone Reinsurance Pool design and implement changes that can support the future direction and prosperity of North Queensland.”

Townsville Enterprise Chief Executive Officer Claudia Brumme-Smith said their concern from the beginning has always been that a 48-hour rule would not be sensible to address the unpredictability of weather events, including impacts from flooding.

“We have continued to urge the Government and subsequent insurers to consider the effects of a cyclone past the 48-hour window and having now seen the impacts of this firsthand on our North Queensland community, we urgently need action to address this market failure.

“The reinsurance pool needs to be fit for purpose for North Queensland, and right now – it is not.

“The minimal impact on insurance premiums, and failure to deliver the intended reduction in overall insurance costs means North Queensland are again left wanting, and now is the time for Government to enact positive change.”

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GW3 CEO Kylie Porter. Photo credit: Coffee and Hops Photography

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As the Australian summer unfolds, garden enthusiasts are presented with the perfect opportunity to transform their outdoor spaces into a vibrant and flourishing oasis. With warmer temperatures and abundant rain in the wet season, adapting your gardening practices becomes paramount.

Mulching Magic:

Mulching is a game-changer when it comes to preserving soil moisture and regulating soil temperature. Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or bark, around your plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate the soil against temperature extremes. Be sure to replenish mulch periodically to maintain its effectiveness.

Choose Heat-Tolerant Plants:

Opt for plants that are well-adapted to Australia's hot climate. Native plants, succulents, and heat-tolerant varieties such as agapanthus, kangaroo paw, and bougainvillea are excellent choices. These plants are better equipped to withstand the harsh summer conditions, requiring less maintenance and water.

Prudent Pruning:

Regular pruning is crucial during the summer to promote air circulation, reduce shading, and encourage new growth. Remove dead or damaged branches, spent flowers, and any excessive foliage to ensure optimal energy allocation. Pruning also helps control the size of plants and prevents them from becoming overly dense, allowing sunlight to penetrate effectively.

Fertilise with Care:

During summer, plants require an extra boost of nutrients to support their growth. Choose a slow-release fertiliser with a balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply fertilisers early in the season and follow the recommended dosage to avoid overfeeding, which can be detrimental in hot weather.

Container Gardening:

Container gardening is an excellent option for those with limited space or looking for more control over their plants' environment. Use large pots with adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging. Grouping containers together helps create microclimates, providing mutual shade and reducing water evaporation.

Pest Control:

Summer is prime time for garden pests, but chemical pesticides are not always the best solution. Adopt integrated pest management strategies, such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, using neem oil, or practicing companion planting. Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests and take swift action to prevent infestations.

Achieving a flourishing summer garden in Australia requires a combination of strategic planning, diligent care, and a touch of creativity. By implementing these tips, you can create a resilient and stunning outdoor haven that not only survives the summer heat but thrives in its unique challenges.

So, gear up, embrace the warmth, and watch your summer garden come to life!

NORTH QUEENSLAND VEGGIE TIPS

Use the summer months to prepare your soil while it’s warm and wet. Spend January and February enriching your soil and mulching. Leave the planting until the winter, April at the earliest.

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As we step into the new year, having delved into the realms of movement and nutrition, it's time to turn our attention to another essential aspect of self-care—our skincare routine. Achieving radiant and healthy skin isn't just about the products you use; it's about cultivating habits that promote long-term well-being. So, bid farewell to last year's skincare sins and embrace 2024 with these eight transformative skincare resolutions that will have you glowing from within.

1. Clean out your skincare stash: Begin the year by decluttering your skincare arsenal. Discard expired products and bid farewell to those that didn't quite make the cut.

2. Moisturise both morning and night: Hydration is key to plump, youthful skin. Make a commitment to moisturise in the morning and before bed to keep your skin nourished and resilient.

3. Mask at least once a week: Treat your skin to some extra love with a weekly masking session. Whether it's a hydrating mask for a moisture boost or a detoxifying mask to purify, this ritual can make a significant difference in your skin's texture and appearance.

4. Exfoliate regularly: Bid farewell to dull, lacklustre skin by incorporating regular exfoliation into your routine.

5. Wear sunscreen every single day: Sunscreen isn't just for beach days; it's a daily essential. Shield your skin from harmful UV rays by making sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your morning routine. This simple step not only prevents premature aging but also protects against skin cancer.

6. Remove makeup every single night: Never hit the hay with a full face of makeup. Taking a few minutes each night to remove your makeup ensures your pores remain clear, reducing the risk of breakouts and allowing your skin to breathe and rejuvenate as you sleep.

7. Wash your makeup brushes: It's easy to overlook, but regularly cleaning your makeup brushes is crucial for maintaining skin health. Dirty brushes harbor bacteria that can lead to skin irritations and breakouts.

8. Wear skin-healthy makeup: Upgrade your makeup routine by opting for products that not only enhance your beauty but also nourish your skin. Look for formulas enriched with minerals, ensuring that every application contributes to your skin's well-being.

With these eight skincare resolutions, you're not just caring for your skin; you're investing in a radiant, healthy future.

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