OPINION PIECE

Immigration is important. Our country has been built on it. We would not be the Australia we are today without people choosing to set up their lives here.

In Dawson, we have some of the best and most successful examples of what immigrations brings and what it builds over generations. I’m talking about all the people who run farms, workshops and businesses across the region, professionals in our clinics, schools and our offices, the on the ground workers who came looking for a better life, and of course the backpackers who came for a visit but have stayed a lifetime. To everyone who has come to create a life and contribute to our region and nation, I say thank you.

But we have to be honest. Immigration needs to be properly managed. Right now, I have major concerns. Major concerns with how the current government has been managing our immigration.

There are two key elements of immigration the government must get right.

First, the number of people coming in must be balanced with the pace in which infrastructure can be built. Infrastructure like housing, roads, schools, and hospitals. Yes, we’ve got the space, but if there’s nowhere to live, no hospital beds, no classrooms, then the pressure flows to everyone.

Second, we must make sure the type of people coming share our values. To be allowed to live in Australia is like winning the Lotto, the golden ticket! Migrants should be here to make a life, make a contribution, and become a positive part of our communities.

The government is failing on both of these key metrics. The numbers are way too high, and the vetting process appears to be non existent. Labor has lost control of our borders.

The government, through weak border controls and poor vetting, has allowed too many people in, and they have let in too many that openly hate our country and people. This is unacceptable.

It’s not like new arrivals have tripped over the border like they can in other parts of the world. At the very least, the government has the time of the flight to make sure we’re not letting in people who will do harm.

There’s no excuse for un-Australian behaviour, and there is no excuse for letting that behaviour in and allowing it to stay.

It’s simple. Do the right thing, a forever life awaits. Do the wrong thing, then back you go.

Labor has always had a poor record on immigration. But the scary thing with the current Labor government is that they are knowingly turning a blind eye. They do nothing about vile hatred being spewed on our city streets or when our national flag is burnt. Yet, they condemn those who wave the Aussie flag in face of that hate.

We need a government with the guts to get immigration right. We need a governemnt that balances incoming numbers with the infrastructure being built, and we need a government that properly vets new arrivals to ensures Australia remains safe, united, and strong.

Australia is built on immigration. Get immigration wrong, and all the things we value as a nation could be resigned to history. Get immigration right, and the Nation prospers long into the future.

Andrew Willcox
Member for Dawson, Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

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Mackay has taken a vital step in becoming a key player in Queensland’s new critical minerals sector.

Construction is now complete on stage two of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) – the Future Industries Hub.

Delivered by Fergus Builders, the project marks a major milestone in expanding the RCOE’s capacity to support emerging industries and advanced manufacturing.

It will also support activities around critical minerals, reprocessing of tailings, and other precious metals.

The modern facility will also feature flexible, innovative meeting and training spaces, and upgraded amenities designed to foster collaboration between industry, researchers and education providers.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council provided about $6 million to bring stage two to life, recognising the project’s role in driving economic diversification, creating skilled jobs and attracting investment to the region.

“The Resources Centre of Excellence has become a leader for the whole resources sector in the nation and we are very proud of that,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The Future Industries Hub is now setting our region up to support the industries of the future,” he said.

“This facility keeps us on the forefront of the ever-evolving resources sector and lets us focus on training, research and development, while growing industry connections and partnerships.

“This isn’t just about mining – this facility will allow our region to foster greater collaboration within the agriculture, sugar and bio futures sectors and allow us to lead technology-based initiatives.”

Steven Boxall, CEO, Resources Centre of Excellence said the completion of stage two of the Resources Centre of Excellence marked a significant leap forward in RCOE’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the critical minerals sector.

“We are excited about the potential this facility holds for driving economic diversification and creating skilled jobs in our region," Mr Boxall said.

With construction complete, council is preparing to hand over the facility to RCOE so that interior fit-outs can begin.

For more information on the RCOE stage two, head to rcoe.com.au/future-industries-hub

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The Future Industries Hub at Mackay’s Resources Centre of Excellence is now complete, marking a major step in positioning the region at the forefront of Queensland’s critical minerals and advanced manufacturing sectors. Photos supplied

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Locals in Moranbah now have a direct line into university, TAFE and trades courses with the region’s first Country Universities Centre officially open.

Isaac Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the new hub is about giving locals a fair go and making education more accessible, no matter what their background or situation.

“This is a real investment in people, it’s about backing people who are trying to make a go of study and just need a bit of help to get there,” Mayor Vea Vea said.

“We’ve seen for years how many people walk away from a course because they’re too isolated or trying to study at midnight after a long shift. This centre changes that. You can treat this like your campus. It’s your place to focus away from distractions and build a proper study routine. Whether you’re working at the mines, in childcare, hospitality or health, you don’t have to leave town to chase qualifications anymore. We’re creating a place where people stay and grow, and that’s what makes strong communities.”

This project would not have been possible without the $2 Million dollars received from the Regional Economic Futures Fund and the Regional University Study Hubs funding from the Federal Government of $1.4 Million dollars over 4 years.

The new centre gives students a free, practical study base with fast internet, printers, remote exam supervision, video conferencing and quiet spaces. It also means anyone trying to juggle family life, shift work and study won’t have to do it alone.

Councillor Melissa Westcott, Chair of CUC Isaac, said the Centre’s strong start showed how much the community valued having study opportunities close to home.

“The response so far has been incredible and really shows the difference this will make for local people,” Cr Westcott said.

“Until now, most of our residents have had to leave town if they wanted to study. Having this option in Moranbah is a practical way to build skills locally and strengthen our future workforce.”

Kim Edwards, Manager of Isaac's Country Universities Centre, said that the centre provides all the additional support for students to succeed in their studies.

"We provide fast internet, free printing, networking with other students and a quiet place to study," Ms Edwards said.

"We try and give students the full higher education experience while they stay here in the region. We also provide the human support, such as having someone to talk to about their studies, and help them know how to find solutions."

The centre is open from 6am to midnight, seven days a week, with face-to-face student support available during business hours. Study rooms and breakout spaces are free to book, with exam supervision, academic help and wellbeing services all available on site.

Moranbah’s facility is the first of two planned for the region, with Clermont’s Country Universities Centre to follow in 2026. Both form part of the national CUC network and are funded through the Regional Economic Futures Fund.

“This is how we build a future workforce locally,” Ms Edwards said.

“You support people through their learning journey and the whole region benefits.”

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Councillor Melissa Westcott, Chair of CUC Isaac

Kim Edwards, Manager of Isaac’s Country Universities Centre. Photos supplied

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is now accepting applications for its 2025–26 Community Fund.

The fund offers $100,000 to support initiatives across NQBP’s port communities of Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point (Bowen) and Weipa.

NQBP Acting Chief Executive Officer Carissa Mansfield said the fund provides direct support for local groups and organisations.

“Our Community Fund is about backing the people and projects that strengthen our port communities,” Ms Mansfield said.

“Over the last decade, we’ve invested more than $1 million in community partnerships. This year we look forward to supporting ideas that bring people together and create lasting benefits.”

The NQBP Community Fund provides funding for community events, programs and activities that deliver positive outcomes and reflect NQBP’s values of Care, Connection, Courage and Curiosity.

Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club President Brendan Smith said that, as a previous recipient of the NQBP Community Fund, he would encourage other community groups to apply for this year’s round.

“Through last year’s NQBP Community Fund, we were supported to run a Club Youth Leadership Development Program,” Mr Smith said.

“For our Club, this meant our kids were able to compete at their best at the annual North Australian Surf Life Saving Championships hosted at Harbour Beach.

“The capabilities and confidence instilled during these events help us to conduct patrols, rescues and community events, which is vital to our role as the guardians of Mackay’s Harbour Beach.”

NQBP is a Queensland Government-owned corporation responsible for the ports of Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point and Weipa in far north Queensland.

The NQBP Community Fund is open to non-profit groups and organisations, and registered charities, and seeks to support events, programs and activities that align with NQBP’s strategic themes and vision to be a leader in responsible port trade, where Queenslanders thrive for generations.

Applications that identify a community or environmental need and are consistent with or promote the principles of diversity and inclusion are encouraged.

Applications for this year’s NQBP Community Fund close on Friday 3 October 2025.

For further details visit the Sponsorships and Donation page online at https://nqbp.com.au/community/sponsorships-and-donations.

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

In the heart of Queensland’s sugar capital, Mackay Sugar’s Racecourse Mill’s 38MW co-generation plant, commissioned in 2012, is a testament to regional innovation and sustainability.

This state-of-the-art facility, which burns sugarcane waste known as bagasse to generate clean, green, renewable energy. Bagasse is a fibrous residue left after juice extraction from sugarcane. At the co-gen process core is the factory’s boilers which burn the bagasse as a primary fuel source to produce steam to power not only the mill, but also in turn drives turbines to generate electricity and now supplies over 30% of Mackay and district’s electricity requirements.

It has become a keystone of the Mackay sugar industry’s commitment to greener industry and economic resilience. It exemplifies how industry and environment can thrive side by side, whilst still benefiting the wider Mackay community.

The plant’s ability to annually utilise some 220,000 tonnes of by-product indicates that Mackay’s sugar industry has for many years operated as a circular economy. By converting bagasse into clean energy, Mackay Sugar reduces greenhouse gas emissions, making its own positive environmental impact to Australia’s renewable energy targets. When the plant was established, it was a piece of forward thinking by a then grower-owned milling company, responsive to the early shift towards reducing its carbon footprint that has become more commonplace only 15 years later.

Bagasse is a renewable and locally sourced feedstock, its use as fuel reduces the reliance on fossil fuels, thus reducing carbon emissions. The closed-loop nature of the process ensures that the majority of sugarcane’s energy is recaptured and reused, further enhancing sustainability and helps to stabilise the local ecosystem. This proactive approach which has been in place for many years to waste management sets a benchmark for other industries seeking to shrink their environmental footprint.

Beyond its environmental achievements, the Mackay Sugar co-generation plant delivers substantial economic benefits by reducing operating costs for the sugar mills, supporting both profitability and job security in the region. Surplus electricity sales provide an additional revenue stream, strengthening Mackay Sugar’s financial health and enabling further investment in the factories and therefore benefiting the wider community.

Furthermore, the plant continues to create local job creation, both through plant operations and maintenance as well as indirectly via associated supply chain services. This has cemented Mackay’s status as a regional hub for both agriculture and advanced energy technology and should pave the road forward for further similar projects not only in Mackay, but throughout the wider sugar industry. It is a model of sustainable progress. By transforming agricultural waste into clean power, the plant demonstrates the potential of smart, circular solutions to energise regional economies, protect the environment, and power a greener future for generations to come.

As this article goes to print, Mackay Canegrowers will have participated in the Queensland Government inquiry into Sugarcane Bio-Energy opportunities, which held a consultation session at Souths Leagues Club this week. The aim of the inquiry is to identify future opportunities in bio-energy production and create a roadmap to further help secure the future viability of the sugar industry as a whole.

With the assistance of state government, and some changes in legislation going forward, we believe that there are tremendous opportunities for growers, in particular. Such opportunities could include innovative ideas on electricity retailing. We are calling for regulation enabling growers to access cheaper electricity for irrigation, via a virtual microgrid arrangement with Mackay Sugar and therefore increasing production for the growers and enhanced throughput for the factories. It allows a value-add for growers to be able to access cheaper electricity sourced from their own product: sugarcane. Moreover, irrigation offers benefits for the environment, reducing runoff by improving nutrient uptake and water use efficiency.

A more efficient industry will, in turn, benefit the wider community. It must be remembered that for every dollar produced at the farm gate, the flow on effects to the wider community is around $6.40. This is of major benefit to the whole Mackay economy now and into the future.

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The sugar industry could build productivity without increasing actual land under cane, if irrigation were a more affordable option. Creating a microgrid with mill cogenerated power could achieve this. Photo source: Mackay Sugar (Racecourse Mill)

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Annual Grazing Forum Strengthens Local Grazing Enterprises

Across the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region, grazing is more than an occupation - it’s a way of life. Early mornings checking fences, long days walking paddocks and ongoing careful decisions about pasture, herd health, and markets. All of it shapes the land, the livestock, and the livelihoods that depend on them. Seasons are unpredictable, challenges are constant, and yet graziers keep going, knowing that every choice today echoes for years to come. It’s in that context that gatherings like the Reef Catchments Annual Grazing Forum become so vital.

For the first time, the Grazing Forum will be held in Proserpine giving graziers across the Whitsundays easier access to the event and its wealth of knowledge. Adding to the excitement, cattle will be showcased in the Proserpine Showgrounds show ring, giving participants a chance to see genetics, bull selection, and animal presentation demonstrated live.

Reef Catchments Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator, Kellie Harmsworth, says, “This year’s Grazing Forum is all about the theme - Paddock to Sale, taking a big-picture look at the whole grazing journey. During the Field Day we will get out into the paddock to explore pastures and practical management, while the Forum will turn the focus to the beast - looking at genetics, performance, and how to get the best value at sale.”

Out in the paddocks and under the wide Queensland sky, graziers connect with others who understand the realities of the job. They swap stories about what worked and what didn’t, compare notes on pastures, pests, and herd nutrition, and discover new approaches that might transform their own operations. The annual Grazing Forum is a “must attend” event for many graziers, including Travis Perry.

“I always found the Grazing Forums to be not only an excellent event to come to socialise and interact with other graziers, meet new producers, be influenced by what other people are doing, and forming relationships there - but the actual information offered is something that you can’t just access any day of the week. As soon as it comes up in the calendar, it’s locked in - a must attend event,” says Travis.

This year will mark his 10th year attending the Grazing Forum.

“Events like the Reef Catchments Annual Grazing Forum are an investment to the region. They bring together practical know-how, shared experience, and a strong sense of community. It gives graziers a chance to step off-farm, see what’s working for others, and pick up fresh ideas to improve herd health, lift pasture productivity, and strengthen the bottom line. The benefits ripple out - healthier land, more resilient businesses, and a network of graziers backing each other,” says Kellie.

The 2025 Grazing Forum will be held on Wednesday 22 October (Field Day) and Thursday 23 October (Forum). To find out more about this year’s Grazing Forum, contact Kellie Harmsworth: saf@reefcatchments.com, or 0456 182 348.

The Grazing Forum is presented by Reef Catchments Ltd, through funding from the Australian Government and Glencore.

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Sarina residents embraced the sunshine and some leafy new additions to their backyards at the annual Green Up Sarina event.

Hundreds of locals turned out to the giveaway on Saturday, with more than 140 people pre-registered to collect their free native plants. Staff and volunteers were kept busy handing out a variety of species that will soon be taking root in gardens across the district.

The initiative, supported by Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association, aims to encourage residents to plant natives that thrive in local conditions and support biodiversity.

Those who missed the event can still pick up a bargain, with plants available for just $3.30 each at the Sarina Landcare nursery, 101 Sarina Beach Road.

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Two Mackay-based organisations are among seven Central Queensland grassroots groups to share in grants from Kinetic’s 2025 Moving Communities Fund, which distributed more than AUD $120,000 across Australia this year.

Now in its second year in Australia, the fund supports initiatives that champion young people, improve access and inclusion, and address critical local needs.

In Mackay, the recipients are RISE and the Road Accident Action Group, both delivering initiatives that strengthen safety, resilience and opportunity across the region. Grants will support road accident prevention programs and junior rugby league development, while other Central Queensland groups will deliver affordable access to cricket and environmental education.

“In Central Queensland, the Moving Communities Fund is backing groups that go the extra mile to keep their communities safe and connected,” said Kinetic Executive General Manager (Central Queensland) Marcia Shield.

“From road accident prevention to junior sport, each initiative has a direct impact on local families.”

For RISE Mackay, the funding will ease the cost for families and expand opportunities for young players.

“RISE is about much more than rugby league. It’s about giving young people in our community the chance to grow in confidence, build resilience, and access genuine pathways in sport and life,” said Les-Lee Reid, Program Manager, RISE Mackay.

“Thanks to the Kinetic Grant, we can reduce the costs for families, and ensure every player feels proud to represent Mackay.”

The fund aligns with Kinetic’s commitment to social and environmental sustainability, supporting initiatives that create lasting positive impact across the communities it serves.

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Young RISE Mackay participants in action – building confidence, resilience, and pathways in sport with support from Kinetic’s 2025 Moving Communities Fund. Photo supplied

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Mackay Regional Council has greenlit five major projects under its “Facilitating Development in the Mackay Region” policy this August, unlocking more than $117.8 million in economic output while offering $2.426 million in concessions aimed at accelerating construction and development.

Among the standouts is the highly anticipated $35 million, 14-storey “Horizons Mackay” on Victoria Street. The high-rise tower will house 108 apartments—a mix of 84 two-bedrooms and 24 one-bedrooms—alongside ground-floor retail and hospitality spaces, with parking for 108 cars and bicycles. Developers M Construction and B3 Developments were awarded a $2 million concession, bringing infrastructure charges down to an estimated $668,921. The development is expected to generate 126 jobs during construction and deliver housing for around 100 families upon completion by 2028.

Other projects benefiting from the policy include new residential units in Beaconsfield, a 28-bed expansion of Nanyima Aged Care Centre in Mirani, a warehouse extension in Bakers Creek, and a two-storey housing development on Byron Street.

The scheme is part of a broader economic strategy designed to match growing industrial momentum with diverse housing options, innovation in aged care, and improved logistical infrastructure across the region.

By providing incentives for mixed-use, affordable housing and infrastructure-intensive developments, the council is setting the stage for sustainable growth. Residents and potential investors can expect to see more of these transformative projects shaping Mackay’s skyline in the years ahead.

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Concept design of the Horizons Mackay development, set to deliver 108 new apartments in the city heart. Image: Mackay Regional Council LinkedIn

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Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) empowers women and welcomes community connection by bringing people together, creating belonging and reducing social isolation. Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is proud to support QCWA and the impact it has across our region.

QCWA is about local women organising, learning and contributing to causes that strengthen their communities. From fundraising for health initiatives to the recent QCWA NQ Conference held in Sarina, the organisation assists in building leadership skills and ensuring women in regional areas have opportunities to thrive.

Increasingly, QCWA are welcoming new members of all ages and backgrounds, showing that it’s not just a space for long-standing members. More women are recognising the value of connection and bringing fresh ideas and energy to branches across the region.

QCWA Pioneer Division Vice President Deborah McIntyre said QCWA is open to all women, as QCWA recognises the value of connection, learning and shared purpose it provides, which was displayed at the recent conference.

“All our members feel welcome the moment they walk through the door,” Ms McIntyre said.

“It’s not just about learning and developing skillsets, it’s the way being together and sharing experiences builds real connections. The support of Community Bank Sarina means we can continue to build those networks and keep our doors open to all.”

As a profit-for-purpose organisation, Community Bank Sarina is committed to strengthening local organisations and enhancing their capability through collaborative partnership opportunities.

Community Bank Sarina's focus is on encouraging leadership, supporting grassroots groups and creating pathways that strengthen community connection. Without the support of local businesses and active volunteers, community organisations wouldn’t be able to do what they do best – bring a community together.

By supporting organisations like QCWA, Community Bank Sarina ensures the spirit of collaboration, care and community resilience continues to grow across our region.

If you’re interested in connecting with a QCWA division in your region, simply enter your postcode to locate the nearest branch. To learn more, visit https://www.qcwa.org.au/find-your-closest-branch.

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Manager Erin Ryley and Community Bank Sarina Customer Service Officer Josie Dahtler with members of QCWA Pioneer Division.

L-R QCWA State Vice President Northern Fay Lambert, QCWA Pioneer Division Treasurer Sharon Price, Community Bank Sarina Manager Erin Ryley, Community Bank Sarina Customer Service Officer Josie Dahtler

Attendees from the QCWA Northern Queensland Conference. Photos supplied

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Mackay Regional Council, in collaboration with urban design and place activation consultants, is actively engaging with the Sarina community to rejuvenate the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct. A series of meetings and a comprehensive two-day workshop have been conducted, involving community stakeholders, councillors, and key council staff. The aim is to gather valuable feedback and ideas to inform the development of a draft precinct activation plan.

The Sarina Field of Dreams precinct, a beloved community space, is poised for transformation. The revitalisation efforts seek to enhance the precinct's appeal and functionality, ensuring it continues to serve as a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike. The draft activation plan, once developed, will be circulated for broader community consultation, allowing for further input and refinement.

For more information and to stay updated on the progress of the Sarina Field of Dreams revitalisation, residents and interested parties are encouraged to visit the Connecting Mackay website at www.connectingmackay.com.au/sarina-field-of-dreams. The website provides details on upcoming consultation opportunities and avenues for community involvement.

Through collaborative efforts, the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct is set to embark on a new chapter, fostering a sense of pride and connection within the community.

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Community stakeholders, councillors and council staff have already met in workshops and meetings to share ideas for the Sarina Field of Dreams revitalisation. Photos supplied

The current layout of the Sarina Field of Dreams parklands, which is the focus of council’s precinct activation planning. Image source: MRC website

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Sustainable Printing With Uncompromising Quality

“As green as possible,” is a lifelong commitment made by BB Print as Central Queensland’s #1 Printing Service and North Queensland’s first Sustainable Green Print accredited company. Known for their quality printing, community connection and sustainable processes, BB Print has built a name locals can trust.

The printing industry has transformed in recent years when it comes to environmental responsibility, and BB Print has been at the forefront. In 2013, the business became North Queensland’s first company to achieve Level 2 accreditation for Sustainable Green Print (SGP) – the Australian Printing Industry’s recognised certification program for environmental standards.

Office Coordinator, Nicola Kaye, is very passionate about sustainability.

“We strive every day to better our procedures to reduce the impact on our surroundings,” Nicola said.

That commitment was tested in 2020, when China stopped accepting Australian recycling waste.

“This became particularly challenging… We had to come up with a solution to allow us to recycle our paper waste such as trimmings, and this is when we discovered beneficial recycling to compress the waste.”

“This has reduced our general waste from 600kg to 150kg per week.”

And the innovation didn’t go unnoticed.

BB Print was named a finalist in 2022’s Resource Industry Network Awards.

“It was a really proud moment to be recognised within the resources industry amongst the big mining companies,” Nicola added.

Ready to make your print projects greener and sharper? Contact BB Print today!

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Mackay’s New Economic Strategy

The Mackay Regional Council has formally adopted the Economic Development Strategy 2025–2030, setting a clear roadmap for how the region will grow, diversify and attract investment over the next five years.

The strategy has been developed through close collaboration between council, community stakeholders, industry representatives and consultants. The strategy’s creation was guided by the Economic Development and Growth Strategic Advisory Committee (EDGSAC), which I have the privilege to co-chair. This process ensured the strategy reflects both community aspirations and the region’s economic opportunities.

Now adopted, the strategy will move into its next phase, prioritising and implementing the identified action items. EDGSAC will continue to play a key role in monitoring progress, ensuring accountability, and providing advice as council delivers on the strategy.

The strategy is built around several key pillars that will help strengthen the Mackay region’s economic base. These include:
• Live and Visit – enhancing liveability and ensuring a diverse mix of spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.
• Business and Investment – fostering a supportive environment for businesses and attracting new investment to grow jobs and industries.
• Industry Development – leveraging existing strengths while supporting innovation and diversification across sectors.
• People – building the skills, talent and workforce readiness required for a resilient future economy.

Practical action items sit beneath each of these pillars. For example, initiatives include attracting new industries to the region, supporting small and medium enterprises, strengthening the visitor economy, investing in place-making projects and working with education providers to build workforce capability.

The strategy also emphasises collaboration across government, industry and community to maximise outcomes. By working together, the Mackay region can harness its competitive advantages, from natural assets to emerging industries, and position itself for long-term prosperity.

Importantly, this strategy will deliver real benefits to the community, including more local jobs, stronger businesses, enhanced lifestyle opportunities and a more resilient economy. I look forward to working in this space with my fellow councillors, stakeholders and the community to ensure the Mackay region thrives over the next five years and beyond.

By Cr Nathenea MacRae

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Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) celebrates the recognition of GW3 Future Projects Lead Ms Jarrah Steen, who has been awarded the CRC TiME (Transitions in Mining Economies) Community Champion Award.

The award recognised her leadership and contributions through the Decarbonisation Accelerated Project and was presented at the CRC TiME Annual Forum Dinner in Darwin recently.

The award celebrates individuals and organisations driving excellence in collaboration, knowledge translation, and community-centred approaches that support positive mine closure and transition outcomes.

For Ms Steen, the award represents a collective win for the Greater Whitsunday region.

“This award is recognition of the collective effort of so many people in our region. From visionary leaders and dedicated industry representatives to passionate community members, we are all working together to reimagine the future of our region and its industries.

“I’ve simply had the privilege of holding some key pieces of work. For my team and the stakeholders who walk beside us in this work every day, it’s a moment to pause and celebrate the impact of our collaboration — and to feel seen and valued for the work we do behind the scenes,” Ms Steen said.

GW3 Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the award reflects the depth and impact of the work being delivered through Decarbonisation Accelerated.

“The Decarbonisation Accelerated Project has laid a strong foundation for positive regional impact. As a first-of-its-kind, long-term initiative in Australia, its success is being driven by strong collaboration, even as the full benefits are yet to be realised,” Ms Porter said.

“Our project team has taken the heat out of the decarbonisation conversation by focusing on the evidence that decarbonisation and mining can continue to co-exist in our region.

“By highlighting the region’s strengths and focusing on changes that make sound business sense, we’ve shifted the narrative from challenges to possibilities — delivering tangible benefits that reduce emissions and enhance long-term economic resilience,” Ms Porter said.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Project is helping prepare the Bowen Basin and Greater Whitsunday region for the global transition to a low-emissions economy. The project builds on the strengths of traditional industries, such as agriculture and mining, while creating pathways for revenue diversification, new industry development, and long-term resilience.

To date, the project has:
• Delivered briefings to over 144 stakeholder groups and established 24 partnerships, securing 40% additional funding beyond the initial commitment from foundation partners.
• Provided direct support to more than 120 businesses.
• Reached over 600 participants through 10 key events.
• Seen strong impact from its Summit in 2024, with awareness and confidence in decarbonisation initiatives rising by up to 45%.

Initiatives delivered under the project include the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit, the Decarbonisation and Gas Scope Emissions Micro-credential with CQUniversity, the Greater Whitsunday METS Revenue Diversification Strategy, the METS & More Campaign, the Biomanufacturing Blueprint, and the Greater Whitsunday Reimagine Rehab Prospectus.

Looking ahead, Ms Steen said the award funds would be reinvested back into the work to continue to develop strong storytelling to share the progress, potential and people behind the decarbonisation journey in the region.

“Every step forward helps build momentum, and this award will support us in continuing to connect meaningfully and engage with purpose.

“I want to see a Bowen Basin that is thriving — economically, socially, and environmentally. A region where communities feel empowered to shape their own futures, where industries are future-fit and sustainable, and where the legacy of mining is one of regeneration and opportunity.”

The Decarbonisation Accelerated project is a partnership between Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) and the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE), along with major funding partner the Local Buying Foundation (LBF).

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Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) celebrates the recognition of GW3 Future Projects Lead Ms Jarrah Steen, who has been awarded the CRC TiME (Transitions in Mining Economies) Community Champion Award. Photo supplied

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MADASSIA Marks 25 Years Of State Recognition

The South Sea Islanders Hut was the centre of culture and community last Sunday, as the Mackay and District Australian South Sea Islander Association (MADASSIA) and the wider public came together for the 2025 Family Fun Day. The event marked 25 years since the Queensland Government formally recognised Australian South Sea Islanders as a distinct ethnic group.

The day featured traditional dances, market stalls, cultural displays, music, food, and children’s activities, offering a vibrant celebration of heritage. Beyond the festivities, the gathering provided a moment of reflection and remembrance, honouring the contributions of past generations while reinforcing the unity and resilience of the community today.

Ms Elizabeth Warren of MADASSIA said the milestone held a deeper meaning for the community.

“It’s really important to our community because it is 25 years since the state government acknowledged our group as a separate ethnic group,” she said.

“It’s also about honouring our grandmothers, grandfathers, mothers, and fathers who worked so hard with the government to make this happen. Today is as much about remembering their achievements as it is about celebrating what has been done for us.”

Ms Warren added that the celebration had an educational purpose.

“It’s also about sharing our story so that generations to come, and even the wider public, understand our history. Many people don’t realise the contribution of South Sea Islanders to the sugar industry and the economic development of this region.”

MADASSIA President Dwayne Penola said the anniversary was both a celebration and a call to action.

“The biggest thing for me is getting our young people involved to keep this going,” he said.

“We’re not a community that likes to put our name out in bright lights. We just do our thing and make things happen. But recognition matters… not for the glory, but so that our young people know their story and can keep sharing it.”

Dwayne’s wife, Dorisina Penola, who helps organise events behind the scenes, reflected on the importance of passing history to younger generations.

“A lot of people know about blackbirding, but they don’t always understand what happened afterwards… the policies, the struggles, the deportations. That part of the story often gets lost,” she said.

“For our younger generation, it’s really important they know their family lines and feel proud of their identity. Even if you don’t look like your grandparents, you still carry that history and connection inside you.”

“We don’t tend to celebrate ourselves loudly… But gatherings like this are special because they help keep our traditions alive.”

Cr Namarca Corowa, Mackay’s first Australian South Sea Islander councillor, highlighted the significance of the day coinciding with Father’s Day.

“Our forefathers may not have ever been able to leave us wealth, but they left us resilience, faith, and identity. They showed us that a father’s role is not only to provide, but to guide, protect, and love his family,” Cr Corowa said.

“As the first Australian South Sea Islander Councillor in Mackay’s history, I feel the weight of that legacy. Our community, which once had no recognition, no voice, and no seat at the table, now has representation in the council chambers. Something not even my grandparents would have ever believed was possible.

“And as I always say, that is not my achievement alone, it is the fruit of our forefathers’ labour, our elders’ faith, and a community that refused to be silenced.

The eventful day ended on a note of unity, pride, and a shared commitment to honouring past generations while ensuring that stories and traditions continue into the next generations to come.

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Treasurer Melanie Yasserie and Secretary Robin Mann with President Dwayne Penola of the Mackay and District Australian South Sea Islander Association.

2) Lenore Davis, Janette Bickey and Tasha Bickey

3) Elizabeth Warren, Charlene Williams and President Dwayne Penola

4) Dorisina Penola

The 2025 Family Fun Day celebrated 25 years of South Sea Islander recognition and heritage. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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