Central Queensland’s endangered koala population is facing a dire future if nothing is done to prevent the number of animals being killed by vehicles.

That’s according to CQUniversity and Griffith University koala researchers who have released findings from two separate studies focused on a stretch of the Peak Downs Highway, between Mackay and Nebo in Queensland.

Lead researcher CQUniversity’s Dr Rolf Schlagloth said Koala Research-CQ and its collaborators have analysed koala roadkill data spanning nearly a decade, and the outcomes aren’t good.

Over this 51km section of highway, 145 koalas were struck by vehicles in 2023 (to November 25), with 83 per cent of the koalas dying as a result. These koalas were otherwise in good health.

In comparison, 365 koalas in the entire South East Queensland region are sent into care due to vehicle collision each year. 

“There are horrendous numbers of koalas getting hit and killed by vehicles every year on this relatively short stretch of road, with no reduction in sight,” Dr Schlagloth said.

“We’ve found that because of the amount and the mostly uniform distribution of good quality habitat, koalas are unfortunately killed nearly anywhere along this highway.

“Driver visibility is also a contributing factor. We know that the better or greater the visibility a driver has, the less likely it is for a koala vehicle collision to occur.”

Separating koalas and vehicles is difficult on the existing highway, but researchers believe future avoidance of high-quality koala habitat for highway infrastructure, in addition to constructing or retrofitting protective or diversionary infrastructure – which has already been started by the managing authority in several locations – could help reduce roadkill.

However, initial attempts to separate traffic and wildlife via retrofitted bridges are yet to bring good news to researchers – and the koala population.

“We have monitored three bridges that had been retrofitted with short sections of wildlife exclusion/diversion fencing to encourage koalas (and other wildlife) to pass underneath the road rather than taking the risk of crossing the road proper,” Dr Schlagloth said.

“While rare usage of other, similar structures by koalas has been reported, unfortunately, despite monitoring these underpasses, we have not found any evidence of koalas having used them to get to the other side of the road, while we do have evidence of koalas having crossed the highway successfully and unsuccessfully near those underpasses.”

Researchers said there was evidence that wildlife exclusion fencing may be assisting in keeping koalas away from particular stretches of road (three study sites), but it did not facilitate koala crossings under the highway.

“Maybe koalas will use underpasses over time, or maybe more and longer fencing would be of benefit – further research here is paramount.

“Improving driver attention and their awareness of the potential for koalas to be on the road could also go a long way to reducing the deaths.

“This is most definitely not a sustainable situation for this endangered species.”
Dr Flavia Santamaria, a co-author of these studies stressed: “The Central Queensland koala population is also under threat from diseases like Chlamydia and retrovirus, and opportunities for specialist treatment for injured or sick koalas are not readily available in the region, making it even more important to reduce the number of koala vehicle collisions.”   

Griffith University researcher Dr Douglas Kerlin believed governments needed to step in to protect this koala population.

“Unfortunately, these koalas are not receiving enough protection from the Government. In Queensland, koalas are listed as ‘endangered’ under the Nature Conservation Act, but policies enacted by the State Government are currently focused on populations in South East Queensland, while koalas in places like Central Queensland are largely ignored.

“Similarly, much of the traffic along this highway is supplying mining activities in the Bowen Basin, but the Federal Government Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act approvals process has only focused on the direct impacts of industry on koalas, and has largely ignored the wider indirect impacts, such as increased traffic volumes on transport infrastructure corridors.”

Dr Schlagloth also commended the tireless efforts of former citizen scientist, now CQUnversity Honours student, Charley Geddes who dedicated her time to monitoring the stretch of road all hours of the day or night to pick up dead koalas.

“Our understanding of this koala population is down to her dedication … given the level of population attrition caused by the road, this could be a koala population of national significance, one we would know very little about if it wasn’t for her work.”  

The latest studies were funded by the Department of Transport and Main Roads, and researchers believe further funding needs to be allocated to conserving this koala population.

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By Sonia Ball (QCAR Central District Manager)

Up she goes and what a beauty it is! This week our QCAR signage finally arrived at the doorstep of R&T Pumps in Mackay.  
The QCAR Central District is located on the first floor of R&T Pumps at 8 Tennyson Street, and now even people passing by will see that – it’s colourful and inviting and clearly states who we are as an organisation, and what we do.  
QCAR Central District is a mobile operation travelling throughout the Proserpine, Plane Creek and Mackay districts, so make sure you call first if you’d like to drop in to the office for a meeting rather than on your farm.  
For Plane Creek region mill suppliers, we park up at the QCWA Hall at Koumala every second Wednesday, and soon will be ducking down to Carmila on every third Plane Creek Day.
Catching up with growers is our priority and we can meet anywhere in the district on any other day when this doesn’t suit.
On every alternate Wednesday we are in the Proserpine region, but again able to meet on any other day.
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Changing of the guard
While some of us are relatively new to QCAR, there are a couple of our team members who have been talking, negotiating and working with former Mackay Sugar CEO Jannik Oleyas for years.
On behalf of these members QCAR Central District Chairman Steve McKeering and I dropped in for an informal meeting with Mr Olejas to wish him well in his future pursuits with Nordzuker in Denmark.
As a token of thanks for his role in negotiating the MSL-QCAR CSPA, we engaged award-winning cartoonist Harry Bruce to draw a caricature of Jannik, which we presented at the meeting.
And now as a region we move into a new era with Mackay Sugar where Carl Morton is officially the CEO. The QCAR Central District Committee and I look forward to working closely with Carl going forward.
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Reef Catchments AGM
QCAR Central District attended the recent Reef Catchments AGM hosted by Chair Julie Boyd and CEO Katrina Dent.
There’s a couple of big items on the agenda for Reef Catchments this year with the celebration of their 21st birthday as an incorporated natural resource management organisation, and with this being Chair Julie’s final AGM and year leading the strategic direction of the organisation with the Reef Catchments Board of Directors.
But that’s not all. The Reef Catchments Annual Report is where you can find an overview of all the projects and activities carried out during the financial year 2023 to 2024. You’ll find it at www.reefcatchments.com.au

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The Resource Industry Network’s Professional Development Conference took place on October 23, offering participants valuable skills, knowledge, and insights to enhance their leadership journey. Attendees learned the significance of fostering a healthy workplace culture and motivating their teams for optimal performance.
The conference focused on cultivating a culture of learning through personal development. Participants benefited from new skills, ideas, and perspectives to support their professional growth. The event equipped teams with the insights needed to become strong, informed, and inspiring leaders while promoting a healthy workplace atmosphere.
Hosted by broadcasting personality Kat Davidson, this year’s event featured two of Australia's leading keynote speakers. Kate Munari and Ashleigh Paholek took to the stage, sharing their stories, practical experiences, and leadership lessons.
Kate inspired attendees with real and raw stories from her time in Afghanistan. She shared strategies for empowering teams, making decisions under pressure, and the importance of positive mentoring and accountability. Kate emphasised that great leadership truly begins and ends with the team.
Ashleigh explored the powerful connection between confidence and peak performance, breaking down how mastering strategic soft skills can enhance both personal and professional life. She highlighted how effective communication fosters better relationships and outcomes, and how cultivating a supportive mindset can transform the way individuals live and work.
Other notable speakers included Judy Porter, Rick D’Amato, Shannon Robert Gibbs, Maddy Avery, Maria Langford, Joe Bonanno, Deb Rae, and Richard Wainwright, who led engaging breakout sessions throughout the day.

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Attendees gather for the Resource Industry Network's Professional Development Conference, sharing insights and strategies for effective leadership and team collaboration. Photo credit: Resource Industry Network

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Queensland’s Moranbah North mines rescue team have been named overall winners at the 2024 Australian Underground Mines Rescue competition that was held at Chain Valley Colliery near Newcastle yesterday.
The annual event brings together the top mines rescue teams to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to safety in the mining industry.
Four teams from NSW, each having won their respective regional competitions, and four teams from Queensland mining teams (also decided by a series of competitions), competed for the 2024 title.
The MG3 Appin team (Southern Mines Rescue, NSW) were runners-up, followed by Centennial Coal’s Springvale team (Western Mines Rescue, NSW) who took out third place.
Moranbah North Mines Rescue team proved their resilience and dedication by securing their spot at the Australian nationals after a hard-fought qualification in the State Cup in September. Remarkably, they achieved this just a day before flying to Colombia to compete in an international competition, showcasing their skills among top global contenders. Returning home, they clinched the national title, and their impressive performance has now earned them an invitation to compete at the next international competition in Zambia.
Now in its 60th year, the competition features a series of challenging scenarios that replicate real life emergencies faced in mining operations in both underground and surface environments.
Teams were assessed on their technical skills, teamwork and communications as they navigated simulated incidents such as hazard awareness, underground search and rescue, first aid and firefighting.
The competition not only highlights the critical skills required for emergency response but also fosters camaraderie and teamwork among participants from across the two states.

Photos supplied: Anglo American

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The Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) Stage 2 featuring Future Industries Hub (FIH) has commenced construction with earthworks beginning in October.
The project is set to transition and support an emerging new economy minerals sector which will help secure jobs for the future and the local economy.
The RCOE has been working closely with metallurgical test work experts Core Resources and world leading research experts The University of Queensland Sustainable Minerals Institute on the design and operation of the processing plant which will be the key delivery for Stage 2 FIH project.
Local Mackay engineering firm, DGH Engineering has been engaged to support the electrical and mechanical engineering design work and will commence fabrication of bespoke FlexiLab componentry, providing tangible evidence of the economic value and job creation provided to the local economy.
Together, RCOE and DGH are progressing with detailed mechanical and engineering designs, including digital and autonomous controls.
Resources Centre of Excellence CEO Steven Boxall said they are extremely excited to see construction commence.
“Reaching this milestone has been the direct result of working collaboratively with key stakeholders through the management or support of various projects across the Greater Whitsunday region”, Steven Boxall said.
“RCOE Stage 2 which features the Future Industries Hub will aim to take our region to the world, showcasing innovation and collaboration across traditional and emerging sectors, and forging a path as a global leader on how to connect resources across our region and the world.”
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the expansion will bring new opportunities and growth to the region.
“Once completed, the Stage 2 Future Industries Hub will put Mackay at the forefront of design and innovation and enable the region to become a key player in Queensland’s new critical minerals sector,” said Mayor Williamson.
“It’s a major investment that will ensure Queensland has access to a skilled workforce to capture, incubate and grow the industries of the future,” he said.
Currently, an $11.97m project, there is potential should the project receive further funding which will extend its offering and capabilities through an expanded mineral processing plant, a common use 'Class A Laboratory” and four tenancies for innovative and industrial businesses to occupy, allowing continued growth in industry connections and partnerships; gaining greater exposure to agriculture, sugar and bio futures sectors; and leading technology-based initiatives.

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Earthworks underway at the Resources Centre of Excellence as Stage 2 construction begins, setting the foundation for Mackay’s Future Industries Hub. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Anterior hip replacement has been an area of focus in my practice for several years.
Recognising the need for advanced training in this specialized technique, I pursued opportunities in leading centres across Europe and North America, complementing the foundational education available in Australia.
 
This procedure is technically demanding, requiring precision and a thorough understanding of patient anatomy. Research indicates that surgeons who successfully navigate the steep learning curve often see improved patient outcomes. While the learning curve is commonly associated with performing around 100 surgeries, the actual number can vary depending on individual factors and training quality. Through years of experience, I have worked to refine my approach to provide the highest standard of care.
 
I am committed to advancing the field through education and mentorship. I regularly work with both international and Australian orthopaedic surgeons, providing hands-on learning experiences to help them develop proficiency in anterior hip replacement. We also offer fellowship programs that allow surgeons to deepen their expertise through extended learning opportunities.
 
In collaboration with the University of the Sunshine Coast, I am involved in developing a graduate certificate in anterior hip replacement, scheduled to launch in February 2025. This course aims to equip surgeons with the necessary skills to perform this procedure effectively.
 
While hip replacement surgery is widely recognised as successful, it is important for patients to understand that all surgical procedures carry inherent risks. My goal is to ensure each patient receives care tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.
 
 

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In a world that constantly evolves, occupational therapy reminds us that everyone has the potential to thrive, no matter the challenges they face.

For Mackay HHS acute senior occupational therapist Alicia Eden, her role sometimes requires her to be a little “like MacGyver” and to get creative with solutions for her patients.

“Occupational therapists consider ‘occupation’ to be all of the everyday activities that people find meaningful and important; not just their jobs,” she said.

“This can be as simple as brushing your teeth or going to the toilet; from basic independent living to much broader goals including accessing the community and leisure activities like shopping or gardening.”

Occupational therapists optimised independence through a patient-centred approach based on what a patient wanted to achieve combined with their values and priorities.

“Illness, injury or disability can change a person’s ability to engage in their occupations and do them in their own environment – our goal is to help make all those things match up again and optimise their independence, however this looks very different for everyone,” Alicia said.

“You sometimes have to find a very creative solution as the same approach, intervention or piece of equipment is not going to work the same way for everyone and in their individual environment.

“That’s why the first step for us as OTs is to find out about the person; what they were doing before hospital and how well they were doing it. We then look at their current level of function and from there can help patients to identify their goals.

“Education is a big part of what we do so ultimately they are better equipped to support themselves.”

Alicia derives great satisfaction from her role, whether it’s a simple intervention or a long-term and complex solution which enables people to “not just live, but live in a way they find meaningful.

“It can be simple things – I had a patient with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) who I organised equipment for so she could more easily look after herself; she thought this was fantastic as she hadn’t been able to shower herself for two weeks,” she said.

“Small things can be lifechanging; I’ve also been working with a teen with a brain injury and he just moved his fingers for the first time –  it’s amazing and he’s so excited with his progress.

“Every patient’s journey is different based on their age, their motivation and the reason they are in hospital.”

The Mackay HHS OT team consists of 45 clinicians who are compassionate, dynamic individuals offering patients a holistic approach to health care, addressing physical, emotional and social factors to promote overall wellbeing.

World Occupational Therapy Day was celebrated on 27 October.

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Alicia highlighted the vital role of occupational therapy in fostering independence and well-being. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Skip intense stretch sessions and forget pushing past pain barriers – when it comes to maximising flexibility, ground-breaking new research from the University of South Australia shows that stretching takes as little as eight minutes per week to optimise progress.

The study found that holding a stretch for up to three minutes – or eight minutes accumulated over the course of a week – was the optimal amount of time required to maximise improvements in flexibility.

Importantly, the study found that stretching beyond three minutes per muscle within a single session (or eight minutes per muscle per week) returned no further meaningful benefit in flexibility. And that stretching to the point of discomfort or pain was entirely unnecessary, as it added no further benefit.

UniSA researcher Dr Lewis Ingram says this is the first study to identify optimal parameters for stretching.

“Static stretching - where you lengthen a muscle and hold this position for a predetermined amount of time - is the most common type of stretching and is considered a very safe and effective form of stretching,” Dr Ingram says.

“By systematically reviewing and meta-analysing data from 188 studies consisting of 8095 adults from 25 countries (representing six of the seven continents), we found that a single session of static stretching leads to a moderate increase in flexibility; and that longer-term static stretching training – regularly undertaken over a few weeks or more – leads to a larger increase in flexibility.

“These improvements occurred irrespective of the specific muscle group, the intensity of the stretch, the person’s sex, their health or training status, and the frequency of weekly stretching sessions or overall length of the intervention.

“But the surprising factor was that improvements in flexibility ‘maxed-out’ at three minutes per muscle per session, and at eight minutes per muscle per week.

“Specifically, in the case of the latter, it doesn’t seem to matter how often a week you spend stretching, so long as you accumulate eight minutes over the week.”

The researchers hope that the findings will provide simple and practical guidelines to help prescribe static stretching to improve flexibility.

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This Melbourne Cup Day, Goosies Sport & Recreation Club is ready to “giddy-up” with a tempting lunch buffet that promises to delight every guest while offering a stylish spot to enjoy the race-day excitement.

Kicking off at 11.30am on Tuesday, November 5, the spread boasts a variety that’s sure to please every palate, with selections ranging from savory mains and fresh, light options to indulgent desserts.

Start your meal with a well-stocked charcuterie table featuring a selection of flavourful salamis, artisan cheeses and creamy dips, paired with Melba toasts - an ideal way to sharpen your appetite. For the mains, guests can choose from savory options like mustard-crusted slow-roasted beef sirloin, honey-glazed baked ham and crispy Southern-style fried chicken. Seafood lovers won’t be disappointed, either, with lemon and caper-grilled salmon adding a refreshing twist to the line-up.

The buffet also offers an array of colourful, hearty vegetable sides, including roasted potatoes, sweet potato and pumpkin, alongside steamed seasonal vegetables. Fresh salads such as a classic garden mix, roasted pumpkin with feta, and a crunchy Wombok salad add balance to the table, with fresh bread rolls and butter rounding out the meal.

And for those craving something sweet, the dessert table won’t disappoint. Petite treats and fresh seasonal fruits await, with a rich chocolate fountain as the showstopper - perfect for dipping fruit and other delights.

With tickets priced at $45 for members and $55 for non-members, this buffet is a wonderful way to enjoy race day, at a great price, with great food, drinks and company. Book early at (07) 4942 3393 or email events@goosies.com.au to secure your table for this popular celebration.

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Fancy a stress-free Christmas lunch this year? Escape the stress of a traditional home-cooked Christmas lunch this year and indulge in a luxurious buffet at Ocean International, where the whole family can enjoy a festive feast without the hassle of cooking!

On Christmas Day, from 12pm to 2.30pm, Ocean International invites you to a seamless celebration where great food, good music and a welcoming atmosphere come together to create an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.
As you and your favourite people savour each exquisite dish, imagine the gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore and the cheerful melodies of holiday music filling the air, creating the perfect backdrop for your celebrations. The ambiance is warm and inviting, enhanced by beautifully set tables adorned with festive decorations, inviting laughter and joy to linger.
Ocean International prides itself on creating a dining experience that showcases the finest local produce and flavours. Guests can indulge in a remarkable variety of dishes, beginning with fresh local Hay Point prawns, South Australian Pacific oysters, and marinated green lip mussels. The menu continues to impress with poached Moreton Bay bugs and creamy garlic Ilbilbie prawns, perfectly complemented by handmade pasta.
For those with a penchant for exquisite seafood, the baked Tasmanian salmon fillets with champagne cream sauce and chili-glazed beer-battered cauliflower will delight the palate, alongside roasted seasonal vegetables drizzled with caramelised garlic butter. Meat enthusiasts will devour the 24-hour slow-cooked local beef brisket with a Merlot jus, roasted free-range chicken breast with ginger and cranberry glaze, and the ever-popular garlic and rosemary roasted pork loin with Murray salt crackling. The meal is further elevated by the inclusion of a Manuka honey glazed ham with seeded mustard, a festive classic.
To round out the culinary experience, guests will enjoy a thoughtfully curated selection of Australian cheeses accompanied by dried fruits and crisp-breads, alongside freshly baked bread and sliced smoked and cured meats with marinated vegetables. The cherry on top awaits in the dessert section, featuring an exquisite handmade patisserie selection, created by Ocean International’s talented pastry chefs using fresh tropical produce. This includes a variety of cakes, slices and tarts, ensuring a delightful conclusion to your festive feast.
Limited tickets are still available, with prepayment required to confirm your reservation.

Prices are set at $195 for adults, $95 for children under 12, and children under 3 dine free. To book your table for this exceptional holiday experience, please call 07 4957 2044.

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When futureproofing your career, remember that while certain trends may be universal, it’s essential to adapt them to your personal situation. We’re already seeing ongoing advancements in technology, impacting all job roles, however, the ways in which it affects each role, and the pace of adoption, may differ.

Forbes (2024) emphasises the ‘landscape of work is undergoing a seismic shift, driven by technological breakthroughs and evolving societal dynamics’. Other factors driving change are not only skills shortages but also people shortages, changing demographics and workforce expectations, along with economic uncertainties.

To futureproof your career, focus on these three important aspects.

Automation and Productivity: Yes, as technology advances roles are becoming automated. However, there is an increasing focus on using AI tools to enhance human capabilities and to increase productivity. The prediction is that technology will handle more routine tasks, leaving humans to become even better at the ‘human’ side – enhanced communication and collaboration, emotional intelligence and strategic thinking. Upskilling to work alongside the tech and AI will be critical.

Reskilling and Continuous Learning: The reports that jobs are changing are not new. Jobs are continuously evolving and some jobs will eventually cease to exist and new ones are created. The key is to be adaptable and open to learning new things and new ways of working. Inevitably, this means adapting to new systems and technologies. Regardless of age or career stage, be prepared to take advantage of reskilling and upskilling opportunities in the workplace and/or outside of work. Explore the options and be proactive about your learning. Invest in you and your future!

Adaptability and Agility: Change is a constant and is unavoidable. The dynamics of the work environment are forever changing; therefore, adaptability is a vital skill in futureproofing your career. It’s useful to embrace the mindset that nothing stays the same forever; this gives us room to look for new opportunities to grow personally and professionally. Resisting change that you truly have no control over is wasted energy. Focus on what you can control and/or what you can influence. Futureproofing requires both personal and professional agility.

Staying up to date with industry trends and gathering insights on the future of work, as well as being proactive, adaptable, and open to new learning opportunities, will allow you to futureproof your career in an increasingly unpredictable world.

If you're interested in exploring ways to future-proof your career, we're here to help. Contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or call 0409 894 131 for more information.

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Essential maintenance works on the Glenpark Street rail overpass bridge began on Monday, October 21.
Mackay Regional Council contractors, Fressinet Australia, are undertaking the works to extend the life of the bridge.
Traffic management will be in place as Glenpark Street will be closed to single lane traffic only.
Minimal delays are expected as the works will be undertaken at night from 9pm to 5am, Sunday to Thursday only.
The works are expected to take eight weeks, weather permitting.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience during these essential works.
For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

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Mackay Regional Council's Australia Day event grants are now open and local community groups are encouraged to apply.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council was excited to offer the Australia Day event grant funding once again.
“A number of our 2024 Australia Day community events had to be postponed due to a cyclone, so we are really looking forward to a ripper Aussie Day event line up in the new year,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Not-for-profit community groups can apply for up to $1000 to support their Australia Day event and celebrate what they love about our beautiful region,” he said.
“From beach games and park barbecues to awards ceremonies and morning teas, the events are a great way to celebrate our vibrant community spirit.
“The events will run at various times throughout the day and are a celebration of the amazing region we call home.”
To be eligible for funding, events need to be held on Australia Day 2025 (Sunday, January 26), be free for all to attend and held within the Mackay Regional Council area.
Organisers also need to be a registered not-for-profit group or have a letter of support from a registered group.
Applications are now open via the council website and will close midnight Sunday, November 24.
Australia Day event grant application forms and guidelines can be found on the council website at mackay.qld.gov.au/ausdaygrants.

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Celebrating Australia Day at Mackay Contract Bridge club, from left to right, Jewel Schmidt and Tricia Garner

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For more than two decades, Reef Catchments has played a significant role in protecting and restoring natural resources in the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region. From the mountains to the sea, they have worked to support resilient regional environments, build strong community partnerships, and lead initiatives in conservation, land management and ecosystem restoration.

As an independent not-for-profit Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisation, Reef Catchments are involved in the integrated management of natural resources like land, water, soil, plants, and animals, with a focus on balancing human needs with environmental health to ensure a sustainable future.

With offices based in both Mackay and Proserpine, Reef Catchments operates with a dedicated team working across 5 key project groups: Waterways, Biodiversity, Sustainable Agriculture, Great Barrier Reef and Healthy Rivers to Reef, all working together to drive positive environmental outcomes in our region.

Together their work includes:

   • Repairing landscapes
   • Monitoring and Improving water quality flowing through the catchment area to the reef
   • Sustainable agriculture practices
   • Habitat conservation
   • Revegetation, Weed and pest programs
   • Collaborating with Traditional Owners
   • Reduction of sediment loss, erosion mitigation and chemical run-off
   • Stewardship and community initiatives
 

Early Beginnings
In the early 2000’s, both the Federal and State Governments made a commitment to regionalise NRM and introduced 56 regional NRM organisations throughout Australia covering land, estuarine and coastal areas. This included the establishment of the Mackay Whitsunday Natural Resource Management Group (MWNRMG) in 2003, which would later be renamed Reef Catchments.

Starting with a small team, they worked closely with community stakeholders, including regional catchment and Landcare groups, to create the first Mackay Whitsunday Natural Resource Management Plan. This plan provided a collaborative assessment of the regional landscape and prioritised actions for enhancement and rehabilitation. This was followed by the Mackay Whitsunday Regional Water Quality Improvement Plan, marking the first time funding was secured for a regional water quality assessment and monitoring program. Strategic plans such as these have been the cornerstone for ongoing activity at Reef Catchments.. They have provided clear guidance, established accountability, and enabled measurable outcomes for both the organisation and the partners they work with.

Getting down to business
From the very beginning, the team got to work sourcing project investment to deliver on the recommendations outlined in the NRM plan. These early programs allowed the Reef Catchments team to develop an intimate knowledge of the region, build strong stakeholder relationships and gain crucial on-ground experience. Each plan and project laid the ground for the next, leading to the implementation of a host of programs over the years covering streambank remediation and maintenance, sustainable agriculture, reef resilience and biodiversity projects.

A vision for the region
Reef Catchments firmly believe a healthy environment and well-managed ecosystems are integral to a resilient region, strong economy, and a healthy community. By prioritising environmental conservation, they endeavour to protect natural resources while enhancing the well-being of residents and visitors. Investing in these initiatives fosters economic growth, creates jobs, and drives innovation, ensuring the region's long-term sustainability.

“Our strength lies in our people and our ability to observe, listen, and collaborate. We're all-in, because we believe in the collective power of working together to improve the natural resources that support both our community and our economy”
Katrina Dent – Chief Executive Officer

Over the past two decades, Reef Catchments has grown through dedication, strategic vision and positive action. Evolving from modest beginnings to becoming a key player in environmental stewardship, they have continuously adapted to the region’s changing needs, turning challenges into opportunities. Looking to the future, Reef Catchments is committed to using its rich history, regional expertise, and innovative approach to drive meaningful change.

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The Sustainable Agriculture team partners with farmers and landholders in the Mackay Whitsunday area to implement on-farm practice change. This collaboration produces on-farm benefits to productivity and profitability while directly contributing to important reductions in sediment, nutrient, and chemical losses.
These activities span multiple agriculture sectors and are centred around providing agronomic support in the adoption of holistic farm management and best management practices. As well as supporting the distribution of knowledge through the dissemination of water quality trials, monitoring, modelling, and reporting.
Our Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator (SAF) connects with farmers, landholders, and the broader agricultural industry to promote climate-smart and sustainable agriculture projects in the region. The SAF facilitates partnerships to help projects achieve outcomes that enhance productivity, build resilience, and protect natural resources.

Strong Foundations
Between 2006 to 2008, the first Mackay Whitsunday Regional Water Quality Improvement Plan (MWRWQIP) was developed. This marked the first time funding had been received for a regional water quality assessment, modelling, and measurement program. It aimed to identify a range of specific land management practices to improve on-farm economic and environmental sustainability. The delivery process focused on increased adoption of these land management practices across agricultural properties in the region.
Significant programs that followed include the Reef Rescue initiative - part of the Australian Government’s Caring for Our Country Program, Project Catalyst - a groundbreaking leader in sustainable farming within the sugarcane industry, and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation’s Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Program (MWWQP).
Alongside on-ground programs with landholders, the Sustainable Agriculture team organises regular events, forums and field days that bring together a wide range of regional landholders, industry experts, community groups and businesses.  The popular two-day Grazing Forum has been drawing large audiences for 11 years.  Events such as these introduce new technologies and perspectives, allowing attendees to network and share ideas.
Cultivating the future
Several long-standing projects were successfully completed in the 2023-24 period and the team has been actively planning and securing funding for a range of new projects, many of which are set to be announced and launched over the next year.
With a rich history and extensive experience to draw on, the team is focused supporting the grower’s and the agriculture industry’s efforts towards shared environmental goals and stewardship.

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