Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant. Photo Source: Blacks Real Estate
Roy Brunke has joined Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant, bringing decades of experience in commercial print and marketing to the Mackay property industry.
Roy recently commenced his new role with the agency and is set to assist clients across the region with the sale of residential and commercial properties.
His background in print and marketing is expected to provide valuable insight for vendors looking to effectively present and promote their properties in a competitive market.
Blacks Real Estate said Roy’s extensive experience working with businesses and clients throughout his career would be an asset to the team and future clients alike.
Operating from offices in Mackay and Dysart, Blacks Real Estate services residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients across the wider region.
Photo supplied
Mannie was named after the mangroves he was dumped in at Dolphin Heads. He survived there over many weeks sleeping on a sewerage manhole cover and hiding in the thick mangroves during the day. He was traumatized, scared and so wary of people it took dedicated volunteers well over a month to gain his confidence enough to coax him into care.
Mannie is a gentle, affectionate boy who loves being around people and furry friends. He has a very sweet nature forming strong bonds with those he trusts. He can be a little unsure in new situations but is growing in confidence every day. He still needs to build his confidence further through positive experiences.
Call 0494723928 or email LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com to arrange a meet and greet with beautiful Mannie.
St John’s Catholic Primary School
St John’s Catholic Primary School, Walkerston recently welcomed families and community members to a vibrant celebration of childhood, learning and community spirit during its annual Under 8’s Day festivities held on Friday, 12 June 2026.
The special event brought together Prep to Year 2 students, parents, carers, siblings and members of the parish community to recognise the important role that play-based learning, family engagement and strong community connections play in the early years of education.
Throughout the morning, students immersed themselves in a variety of fun and engaging activities designed to spark creativity, imagination and movement. Children enjoyed face painting, arts and crafts, playdough activities, sports games and a popular jumping castle, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement.
A highlight of the celebration was the involvement of local community organisations, which provided interactive experiences and learning opportunities for students. Representatives from Walkerston Fire Department, Walkerston Police, Core Defined Pilates, Play All Day, Walkerston Cricket Club, Country United Football Club and Active Squirtz joined the festivities, giving children the chance to connect with local services and sporting groups in a fun and meaningful way.
St John’s Catholic Primary School, which has proudly served the Walkerston community since 1924, places strong value on nurturing young learners through authentic partnerships between school, family and community. The Under 8’s Day celebrations reflected this commitment, showcasing the strength of these relationships and the positive impact they have on students’ development and wellbeing.
The morning concluded with a community sausage sizzle, providing families and guests with an opportunity to gather, connect and celebrate the success of the day together.
St John’s Catholic Primary School extends its sincere thanks to the many community organisations, volunteers and event sponsors whose generosity and support helped make the celebration possible.
The 2026 Under 8’s Day festivities were a resounding success, highlighting the importance of learning through play while celebrating childhood, family engagement and the strong sense of community that makes St John’s such a special place to learn and grow.
For almost 90 years, St Joseph's Catholic Primary School, North Mackay, has been providing a nurturing and faith-filled education, building strong foundations for generations of young learners. Established in 1936 by the Sisters of Mercy, the school continues to honour its rich heritage while embracing innovative and contemporary approaches to teaching and learning.
Inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus, St Joseph's is a welcoming and inclusive community where every child is known, valued and encouraged to flourish. Guided by the vision of being "an inclusive and welcoming community, committed to the whole development and dignity of all," the school fosters a strong sense of belonging for students and their families.
Affectionately known throughout Mackay as the "Family School," St Joseph's has built its reputation on positive relationships, genuine care and a strong partnership between school, family and parish. Through its motto, With Christ We Grow, students are encouraged to develop academically, spiritually, socially and emotionally within an atmosphere of compassion, respect and support.
The dedicated teaching team delivers high-quality, evidence-based learning programs that empower students to become confident, capable and hope-filled learners. A strong focus on individual growth ensures each student is supported to reach their full potential while developing the skills and resilience needed for the future.
Beyond the classroom, St Joseph's offers a rich and engaging educational experience. Information and Communication Technologies are integrated across all learning areas, while specialist Health and Physical Education lessons provide opportunities for students to develop healthy lifestyles and sporting skills. Students regularly participate in swimming, athletics, netball, touch football, hockey and rugby league competitions and carnivals.
The school's commitment to creativity and cultural enrichment is reflected in its comprehensive music program, led by a specialist teacher, along with opportunities in choirs, drama, eisteddfods and school musicals. These experiences allow students to discover their talents, build confidence and celebrate their achievements.
Student wellbeing remains a core focus at St Joseph's. A range of pastoral care and wellbeing initiatives support the physical, mental, social and spiritual development of students. These programs are complemented by the school's counselling services and strong community connections, ensuring every child feels safe, supported and valued.
Modern classrooms, flexible learning environments and well-resourced facilities further enhance the student experience. Flexible seating in upper primary classrooms and a variety of outdoor learning and play spaces encourage collaboration, engagement and personalised learning opportunities.
Guided by the shared values of Hospitality, Service, Stewardship and Courage, St Joseph's empowers students to become compassionate leaders and responsible stewards of God's creation. Through faith, learning and service, students are encouraged to make a positive difference in their communities and the wider world.
One Year 6 student sums up the St Joseph's experience perfectly:
"St Joseph's feels like a family. Everyone is welcoming, my teachers believe in me, and I've learned to be confident, kind and courageous."
At St Joseph's Catholic Primary School, North Mackay, every child is supported to grow in faith, knowledge and character, preparing them to enrich the world with compassion, dignity and hope.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie MP and Glen Kelly MP visiting the site of Riverbend Estate in Mirani. Photo supplied
Queensland is in the middle of a housing shortage and nowhere is that challenge more apparent than in our region. We need more homes, more choice and more affordable housing, but we also need to make sure we are growing in the right places.
The Crisafulli Government has recognised the need to increase housing supply through initiatives such as the Residential Activation Fund (RAF), which is helping unlock new residential developments across regional Queensland. It is a practical investment that supports the infrastructure needed to bring new housing to market sooner.
Recently, I was pleased to welcome the Deputy Premier to the Mirani electorate to see firsthand the progress being made at the Riverbend Estate in Mirani. Developments like Riverbend demonstrate what can be achieved when government partners with industry to invest in enabling infrastructure and support sustainable regional growth.
As we continue to plan for Mackay's future, I believe we also need to have an honest conversation about where that growth should occur.
The Northern Beaches have experienced significant residential expansion over many years. While that growth has brought opportunities, it has also placed increasing pressure on roads, schools and community services. We should be cautious about concentrating too much of our future housing supply into one part of the region.
Instead, we should be encouraging balanced growth across the Mackay region by investing in communities that already have the foundations in place to support new families.
Walkerston, the Pioneer Valley and Sarina are ideally positioned to accommodate future growth.
These communities offer excellent schools, established sporting clubs, thriving local businesses and strong community connections. They also provide opportunities for people to enjoy a regional lifestyle while remaining within easy reach of Mackay's employment centres, such as Paget Hay Point and over the hill.
That is why I am continuing to advocate strongly to the Deputy Premier and the Queensland Government for support for the proposed Crossing Estate development in Sarina. This project has the potential to deliver hundreds of new homes while supporting local jobs, businesses and long-term economic growth. Sarina also benefits from having more than one road connecting it to the wider region, providing greater resilience during emergencies and greater capacity to support future population growth.
Housing policy should not simply be about building more houses. It should be about building stronger communities.
By investing in places like Walkerston, the Pioneer Valley and Sarina, we can deliver the homes our region needs while making better use of existing infrastructure, supporting local economies and ensuring growth is shared across the entire Mackay region.
If we get this right, we won't just solve today's housing shortage, we will build stronger, more resilient communities for generations to come.
You've slept eight hours, so why does your body battery still feel like it's at 10%?
The answer often lies in two biological forces working behind the scenes: adenosine and your circadian rhythm.
Also known as "sleep pressure," adenosine steadily accumulates throughout the day, making you feel tired. The only way to clear it is through good-quality sleep. If sleep is too short or disrupted, that clearing process is interrupted and you wake feeling sluggish, vague, and fatigued.
Adenosine works in partnership with your circadian rhythm, your 24-hour body clock. As night falls and that familiar wave of tiredness washes over you, that's melatonin at work. Melatonin release alongside high adenosine levels is what triggers deep, restorative sleep.
During a full night of uninterrupted rest, your brain clears adenosine, files memories, replenishes your immune defences, and heals. When this cycle works properly, you wake feeling refreshed and mentally clear for the day ahead.
The challenge is that modern habits often disrupt this process.
Key habits to protect your sleep quality:
In the morning, reinforce your wake signal:
If you regularly wake unrefreshed or struggle with persistent daytime fatigue, it may be more than sleep habits. Undiagnosed sleep apnoea is a common but often overlooked condition that causes poor-quality sleep and disrupted recovery.
At CPAP Direct, our sleep specialists can help you understand what is happening during your sleep and guide you through testing, diagnosis, and tailored treatment options.
Visit your local CPAP Direct store or take the online sleep assessment at cpap.com.au to get your mojo back.
Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
Mackay Hospital and Health Service (Mackay HHS) is celebrating the people and teams who make a difference in the lives of patients and the wider community through its annual Let’s Celebrate Mackay HHS People Awards.
The awards provide an opportunity to recognise those who consistently go above and beyond in their work.
The finalists for the 2026 People’s Choice Award were nominated by patients and community members.
The finalists are:
Mackay HHS congratulated all finalists, noting their recognition as a significant achievement and a testament to the positive impact they have within the Mackay HHS.
The organisation will celebrate those who contribute to the community at its annual staff awards evening next month.
We service our cars. We take our pets for annual check-ups. We visit the dentist before a small problem becomes a big one.
Yet when it comes to our own bodies, many of us are experts at putting things off.
A little bladder leak when you laugh. Constipation that comes and goes. Rushing to the toilet “just in case.” Painful periods you’ve always assumed were normal. A feeling of heaviness after a long day. They might seem like small inconveniences, easy to brush aside in the busyness of everyday life.
But what if these small symptoms are actually important messages?
As a pelvic health physiotherapist, I hear the same phrases every week: “I thought it was just part of getting older,” or, “I thought everyone experienced that.” Sometimes they do. But common doesn’t always mean normal.
Around one in three women experience urinary incontinence during their lifetime, yet many delay seeking help because they believe it’s simply something they have to live with. The reality is that conservative treatments, including pelvic floor physiotherapy, are highly effective for many people.
Our bodies are remarkably adaptable. Rather than stopping us immediately, they often compensate for months or even years before symptoms become difficult to ignore. Those small changes can be the body’s way of letting us know something isn’t working as well as it could.
That doesn’t mean every symptom signals something serious. In fact, many pelvic health concerns are highly treatable. Recognising early signs often means simpler treatment and may help prevent symptoms becoming more disruptive over time.
Take constipation. Affecting around one in seven Australians, it’s often dismissed as “just one of those things.” Yet regular straining places repeated pressure on the pelvic floor and can contribute to bladder symptoms, prolapse, or pain. Likewise, rushing to the toilet “just in case” can gradually train the bladder to signal urgency before it’s actually full.
Pain is another important message. Whether it’s persistent pelvic pain, pain with intimacy, or severe period pain, discomfort shouldn’t simply be accepted because it’s always been there. Many people with persistent pelvic pain wait years before receiving an accurate diagnosis or appropriate treatment.
Listening to your body doesn’t mean becoming worried about every ache or twinge. It means becoming curious.
Notice when symptoms occur. What makes them better or worse? How long have they been happening? These observations provide valuable clues and help guide the right treatment.
One of the most powerful things we can do is stop normalising symptoms simply because they’re common. Bladder leaks, ongoing constipation, pelvic heaviness, or pain aren’t things you simply have to put up with. Early support can make a significant difference.
So perhaps it’s time we looked after our bodies the same way we look after the other important things in our lives. We don’t wait until the engine fails to service the car, or until a tooth breaks before visiting the dentist.
We only get one body. Unlike a car, we can’t trade it in when something starts to wear out.
So listen to the whispers before they become shouts. Your body is talking. Are you listening?
In today's digital world, it's easier than ever to launch a business. With thousands of website templates, AI-generated logos, and ready made social media graphics available at the click of a button, almost anyone can create something that looks polished in a matter of hours.
The problem is that "looking good" and "building a brand" are two very different things.
Templates are designed to appeal to the masses. By their very nature, they are reused, repurposed, and replicated across industries. While they can provide a quick and affordable starting point, they rarely capture what makes a business genuinely different. Scroll through enough websites or social media feeds, and you'll quickly notice the same layouts, fonts, stock photography, and predictable messaging appearing again and again.
When every business looks the same, customers have little reason to remember one over another.
Professional brand marketers take a completely different approach. Rather than beginning with colours or logos, they start by understanding the business itself. What is its purpose? Who is its audience? What problems does it solve? Why should customers choose it instead of the competition?
The answers to these questions shape every aspect of the brand, from its visual identity and tone of voice to its customer experience and long-term marketing strategy.
A professionally developed brand isn't simply attractive; it's intentional. Every element works together to create recognition, trust, and emotional connection. Customers don't just remember the logo they remember how the business made them feel and why it mattered.
Templates can save money in the short term, but they often create hidden costs. Businesses frequently outgrow them, spending valuable time trying to make generic designs fit unique needs. Many eventually invest in a complete rebrand after realising their identity fails to communicate their value or stand apart in a crowded market.
Investing in professional brand marketing is not about creating something expensive. It's about creating something authentic. It's the difference between borrowing someone else's identity and discovering your own.
Successful brands don't succeed because they have the latest template or the trendiest design. They succeed because they communicate a clear promise, deliver a consistent experience, and give customers a compelling reason to return.
In a marketplace where consumers are bombarded with choices every day, standing out has never been more important. A template may help you get online, but professional brand marketing helps you get remembered. And in business, being remembered is often the first step toward being chosen.
(L-R) Dean Kirkwood (General Manager, Resource Industry Network), Margot Brandenburg (National Manager, Bendigo Bank Business Banking), Karen May (Chair, Community Bank Sarina), Cr Mayor Greg Williamson, David Robertson (Bendigo Bank Chief Economist and Head of Economic and Markets Research), Josie Dahtler (Customer Relationship Manager, Community Bank Sarina), Luke Sheppard (Senior Business Relationship Manager Nth QLD Bendigo Bank), Maree Franettovich (Deputy Chair, Community Bank Sarina) and Harriet McLennan (Manager Qld & NT, Bendigo Bank Business Banking).
Business leaders from across the Mackay region recently heard firsthand from Bendigo Bank Chief Economist and Head of Economic and Markets Research, David 'Robbo' Robertson, who returned to Mackay following the strong response to his visit last year.
Robbo presented his 2026/27 financial year outlook at a NFY (New Financial Year) Outlook Breakfast hosted by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, in partnership with Resource Industry Network (RIN).
Known for making complex economic trends easy to understand, Robbo's engaging style has earned him a strong following. With more than two decades at Bendigo Bank and a career spanning senior roles across major financial institutions, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience.
Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said bringing a nationally recognised expert to the region was part of their commitment to supporting the long term resilience of the business community.
"Our region is heavily influenced by the resources sector, so understanding the economic outlook is critical not only for mining businesses but also for the many businesses that support them," Mrs May said.
"Bringing Robbo to Mackay is one way we're investing in the knowledge and capability of local businesses, supporting these organisations to prepare for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead."
Included in Robbo's outlook for the year ahead (dependent on the duration of the Iran conflict) were:
Robbo’s visit formed part of a regional tour, ensuring business leaders across Mackay and the Whitsundays had access to trusted economic insights to help them future proof their businesses.
Moranbah State High School Year 12 student Ella Oldfield discovered a passion for real estate through Netflix property shows and is now pursuing her dream career after attending the National Indigenous Business School at Bond University.Photo supplied
What started as evenings spent watching Netflix property shows with her mum has turned into a career ambition for Moranbah student Ella Oldfield.
The Year 12 student from Moranbah State High School is already gaining hands-on experience in the real estate industry through an internship with Century 21 Coast to Coalfields, after discovering a passion for property in an unexpected way.
"Honestly, it was my mum – she was really into it and watches all the shows on Netflix," Ella said.
"Watching with her, it was really interesting to me, the industry and the people and the relationships."
Ella's interest quickly grew beyond the television screen. After completing work experience with Century 21 Coast to Coalfields in Year 10, she has continued building practical skills in the industry through an internship.
"I first did work experience with them back in Year 10," she said.
"I like getting to learn and do hands-on activities with the team, even going out to the houses and doing inspections."
Growing up in Moranbah has also given Ella a unique perspective on the fast-moving property market, where the constant movement of workers in and out of the mining region creates a busy rental landscape.
While Ella had always envisioned a future in real estate, university was never part of that plan.
That changed after she was selected to attend the National Indigenous Business School program at Bond University, where she spent a week exploring university life, connecting with business leaders and learning about future study pathways.
"Before I came here, I actually didn't want to go to uni at all," she said.
"I thought it was a waste of time, but now that I'm here, I actually do want to go."
The experience has inspired Ella to consider studying a Bachelor of Property after finishing school, providing a clear pathway towards a career in the industry she has grown to love.
Ella was one of just 22 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from across Queensland selected to participate in the week-long program, which aims to broaden educational opportunities and encourage future business leaders.
Now preparing to complete Year 12, she hopes other Indigenous students will embrace similar opportunities.
"I'd definitely encourage them to apply," she said.
"You meet new people, have new experiences and it can inspire you to go to uni. It's a really good opportunity."
Andrew Willcox MP said hosting QME in Mackay reinforces the Dawson electorate's standing as the industrial engine room driving the nation.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP welcomed thousands of resource sector leaders, contractors, and innovators to Mackay for the 2026 Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) between July 21st-23rd.
Held at the Mackay Showgrounds, QME is the largest regional mining event in Australia.
Marking the start of its fourth decade in the region, the 2026 iteration of QME featured an expanded 9,000 square metre exhibition floor that sold out months in advance. Over 300 suppliers showcased cutting-edge mining equipment, heavy machinery, and technology.
The 2026 event also features the highly anticipated QME Mining Pavilion, the Hitachi Construction Machinery Leadership Series, and coincides with the Bowen Basin Mining Club’s Queensland Mining Awards held in Mackay.
Nationally, the mining sector remains the cornerstone of Australia's economic strength, contributing over 10 per cent to national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and generating more than 57 per cent of the country's total export earnings.
Mr Willcox said hosting QME in Mackay reinforces the Dawson electorate's standing as the industrial engine room driving the nation.
"It is fantastic to welcome QME back to Mackay, bringing together over 300 world-class exhibitors and thousands of delegates to the absolute heart of Queensland's mining sector," Mr Willcox said.
"Mackay is not just a gateway to the Bowen Basin; it is the service, engineering, and technological hub that keeps Australia’s resources moving."
Mr Willcox added that Mining contributes nearly 11 per cent to our national GDP and delivers almost 60 per cent of Australia's export earnings.
“But its true value is felt right here in our local communities," Mr Willcox said.
"From Mackay to Townsville, the resource sector keeps local engineering workshops open, supports family-owned businesses, and puts food on the table for thousands of hard-working regional families.”
Mr Willcox said the Coalition has a policy to back our resource sector and ensure regional communities get their fair share.
"We need to dig and drill to pay down the debt bill, turning our natural resources into long-term strength for future generations," Mr Willcox said.
"Since coming to office, the Labor Government has received almost half a trillion dollars in revenue upgrades, mostly driven by higher resource prices delivered by our miners. Instead of paying down debt and building our nation, Labor has squandered these resource profits with self-indulgent spending.
"The Coalition will establish a Future Generations Fund to ensure resource windfalls are used responsibly. Where resource tax revenues are higher than forecast, we will bank 80 cents in every dollar into the Future Generations Fund.
“The Fund will help pay down Labor’s trillion dollars of debt and invest in nation-building infrastructure.
"Crucially, 25 per cent of all infrastructure flows from the Fund will directly support the regions that fuel, feed, and power our nation.
“This is about basic responsibility to our children and grandchildren: it is about making sure today’s good fortune builds tomorrow’s strength."
By Cr Belinda Hassan
Following the recent adoption of Mackay Regional Council’s 2026–2027 Budget, there has understandably been plenty of discussion about rates and what council should – and shouldn’t – be spending money on.
With an average residential rates increase of 7.16%, I understand why people are asking questions. I also understand the call for council to get “back to basics” – often described as “roads, rates and rubbish”. These are fundamental services, and they must remain a priority.
But I believe there is another important part of this conversation.
With only about 54,000 rateable properties across our region, there is a finite number of ratepayers contributing towards an ever-growing cost of maintaining infrastructure and delivering the services our community expects.
If we want to ease that pressure over the longer term, we need to grow our region.
That means attracting new residents, investment and development – expanding our economic and ratepayer base rather than expecting existing ratepayers to continually carry an increasing burden.
Council’s Corporate Plan sets an ambition for Mackay to become the best region for liveability and livelihood and a number of our initiatives are designed with exactly that in mind.
Our Facilitating Development in the Mackay Region Policy, for example, is specifically designed to attract investment and stimulate growth. It targets developments that create jobs and investment, improve housing diversity, strengthen our economy and provide important regional services. Eligible developments can receive assistance including a dedicated Council contact, accelerated assessment and, in some circumstances, incentives relating to infrastructure charges and other fees.
Since 2015, the Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction Program has supported 313 events and conferences, injecting an estimated $221 million into our local economy. These events bring visitors who stay in our accommodation, eat in our restaurants and spend money with local businesses.
Sometimes the benefits are even more direct. Council’s partnership with the Gold Coast SUNS helped introduce Certainty Wealth to our region through a business delegation. The result? A planned investment of more than half a billion dollars over seven years, including residential development, retirement living, childcare and commercial centres.
And securing the Australian premiere of Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, running in Mackay from December 2026 to May 2027, puts our region on a national stage and creates another opportunity to attract visitors and showcase Mackay.
These initiatives may not fit neatly into the traditional definition of “roads, rates and rubbish”, but economic development is not about spending for spending’s sake. Done well, it is an investment in growing our economy, broadening our ratepayer base and strengthening our region.
Going back to basics and planning for growth are not mutually exclusive. We need to do both – because building a stronger Mackay today is one of the best ways we can protect the affordability and liveability of our region tomorrow.
Men's Grief Support Group facilitators Joshua Hart, Rod Francisco and Nick Bennett are encouraging local men to seek support as the peer-led group prepares to resume in September. Photo source: Shutterstock
By Chelsea Ravizza
When three Mackay men launched the region's first dedicated Men's Grief Support Group earlier this year, they knew building trust would take time. Founded in February by Rod Francisco, Joshua Hart and Nick Bennett, the peer-led initiative was created to provide a safe, confidential space where men could talk openly about grief and loss without judgement.
Several months on, Mr Francisco said the response from the community has confirmed the need for such a space, even if many men remain hesitant to take the first step.
"The response has been notable, but men are appearing to be reluctant to engage, which is not surprising," he said.
"We have been contacted by men themselves, partners, families but there is a reluctance or apprehension on attending."
Rather than seeing the hesitation as a setback, Mr Francisco said it reflects the challenges many men face when it comes to grief and asking for support.
"There's a mix of issues and one of the worst is that men get told they don't grieve like women," he said.
"Grief is not a gender thing as we all grieve in different ways, and we all have different types of loss so it is about breaking down those barriers and creating a space where men can just chill and express themselves anyway they want. Sometimes just knowing you are not alone in this is all someone might need."
While the group itself has only recently begun meeting, Mr Francisco said conversations outside the sessions have reinforced why the initiative matters.
"The moment when someone says 'this is needed' in a softer voice followed by silence. Then you know you are touching in the right places for the support this group can provide."
He believes attitudes towards men discussing grief and vulnerability are beginning to shift, particularly in regional communities where expectations around masculinity can often discourage emotional openness.
"There is a perception of immutable stoic strength in men in the regions when a lot of them, in my experience, just want an opportunity to be vulnerable and to be able to express themselves."
Facilitating the group has also been a personal journey for Mr Francisco, who said one of the biggest lessons has been gaining a deeper understanding of his own grief.
With sessions set to resume in September, he hopes men who may be struggling silently will consider reaching out before deciding whether to attend.
"Drop us a note when we post the session details," he said.
"We can always have a chat beforehand so there is no need to go in cold."
The Men's Grief Support Group is a free, peer-led initiative facilitated by volunteers and offers a confidential space for men to share, listen or simply be around others who understand the experience of loss. To find out more, contact Mr Francisco via emailing rod_francisco@hotmail.com.
Keynote Speaker Delivers Powerful Message At DBI Literary Dinner
Few people have the ability to silence a room full of hundreds of people. It takes skill, but more importantly, it takes a story. All eyes and attention were on Jelena Dokic last Friday night at the DBI Literary Dinner hosted at the MECC, as she did exactly that.
As she spoke of a little girl who fell in love with tennis after her father handed her a racket at just six years old, to how she quickly rose to fame as one of Australia's top tennis players, she also shared the heartbreaking reality that beyond the courts, she endured years of extreme physical and emotional abuse at the hands of her father.
Ms Dokic addressed guests as the keynote speaker at the Whitsunday Voices Literary Dinner, sharing how she once felt powerless but has since turned her past into purpose. Through sharing her story and writing books, she now encourages not only the next generation, but anyone with a story, to find their voice and help end domestic and family violence.
“My biggest highlight and achievement was finding my voice through sharing my story,” she said.
“It literally saved my life.
“I would not be here today if I didn't find my voice and share my story.”
Today, Ms Dokic said she uses that voice “to call out injustice, to advocate for change,” describing her journey as one from “victim to survivor, but most importantly, now a thriver.”
Earlier that day, Ms Dokic was one of 17 authors who inspired students through author talks, workshops and presentations as part of the 2026 Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival at Whitsunday Anglican School.
Now in its 22nd year, the festival welcomed more than 7,000 students, teachers and supporters from more than 80 schools across Central Queensland, cementing its place as one of the country's leading youth literacy events.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said Whitsunday Voices had become “one of Australia's icon literacy events” and highlighted the importance of reading and storytelling in an increasingly digital world.
“Literature and literacy is all about experiences... it's about a range of emotions, and what humans can actually experience,” he said.
“AI can put words together, they can't give the lived experience.”
Mayor Williamson said the event continued to thrive because of its lasting impact on young people, and noted that it was, “exceptionally important to get kids involved in reading and literature at any stage in their life.”
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the festival ensured students from rural and remote communities had the same opportunities as those in larger centres.
“Everyone's got a story to tell,” she said.
“Their story is important.”
She said events like Whitsunday Voices “really do break down the barriers” by creating access to literature and empowering students to contribute their own stories.
One student travelled six hours from his remote rural hometown to attend the Literature Festival, an opportunity that would otherwise be unavailable as he completes his education through online learning. Despite the distance, he enjoys the lifestyle of his hometown and values the chance to connect with fellow students and teachers through initiatives such as The Winchester Foundation.
The foundation provides funding and support for rural students, helping bridge the gap between location and opportunity by enabling them to participate in experiences such as the Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival.
Festival Manager Liz Russell said bringing the festival together was a year-long effort supported by a dedicated team and the Whitsunday Anglican School community.
“It's a big job that takes us about a year to put together,” she said.
Ms Russell said students were leaving the festival with experiences they could only gain through Whitsunday Voices, with authors, illustrators and presenters inspiring creativity across every age group.
“What they're taking away back to their classrooms... is something that they can only get here.”
A record crowd of 500 guests attended the DBI Literary Dinner, where Ms Russell described the turnout as another “major milestone” for the much-loved festival.
Photo supplied
Fresh opportunities are now available for community groups, businesses and creatives with bold ideas to bring Mackay's City Centre or Waterfront to life, as council opens applications for its Make Your Place Mackay Waterfront Grant Program.
Grants of up to $7,500 are available to help deliver community-focused projects and activations that transform public spaces.
The program supports projects and activities that connect the local community and create vibrant, welcoming places where people want to gather, visit and spend time.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the placemaking grants were designed to help turn creative ideas into projects that enhance the city's public spaces and strengthen community connections.
“We know some of the best community initiatives start with a simple idea,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The Make Your Place grants give local organisations, businesses and community members the opportunity to bring those ideas to life and create experiences that make our City Centre and Waterfront even more vibrant and welcoming,” he said
Under the program, grants of up to $7500 are available for larger community-led projects, while microgrants of up to $1500 are available for smaller pop-up activities and activations.
Previous initiatives have included community events, live entertainment, creative activations and other projects that add vibrancy to the precinct.
In addition to the Make Your Place grants, council is also offering two complementary funding programs:
Together, the three grants support local businesses, organisations and community members to create vibrant, safe and welcoming places while enhancing Mackay’s City Centre and Waterfront precinct.
Applications for all grants are now open and close at 11.59pm on August 28th.
Application forms, guidelines and eligibility information are available at mackaywaterfront.com.au.
Applicants are encouraged to discuss their project with the Mackay City and Waterfront team prior to submitting an application.
To help applicants prepare competitive submissions, the Mackay City and Waterfront team will host a day of community briefing sessions.
Date: Thursday 30th July
Venue: Aligned Corporate Residences – Level 1 Conference Room, Macalister Street, Mackay.
Session times: 7.30am, 8am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm.
The team will also be available throughout the day from 7.30am to 4.30pm to answer questions and provide guidance.
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