Three major events on this year’s calendar have received a significant funding boost from the Queensland Government in a bid to expand tourism and deliver a vibrant program of events for locals and visitors alike.

The announcement came last week as Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton met with BMA Mackay Marina Run organiser Tim Magoffin to confirm support under Tourism and Events Queensland funding programs.

Event Director Tim Magoffin said the funding would directly support efforts to grow visitation and promote the region to a wider audience.

“This funding will enable us to increase our targeted campaigns, digital advertising and social media presence, all focused on increasing visitation to our fantastic location. This year’s Mackay Marina Run will see us tip over the $1 million mark of donations to the local Mackay branch of the Leukemia Foundation since the inception of the event,” he said.

“With the long term and ongoing support of Tourism and Events Queensland this local community support and tourism activation will continue to grow.”

The funding forms part of the Queensland Government’s broader Destination 2045 strategy, which aims to strengthen the state’s reputation as a leading events destination while driving tourism and economic activity across regional communities.

The program provides grants of up to $300,000 over three years to support event organisers in growing standout local events that promote Queensland as a must-visit destination and boost the visitor economy.

To further support cultural tourism, grants of up to $40,000 are also available for events that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

In Mackay, a total of $100,000 has been allocated to support key events, including the BMA Mackay Marina Run, Rhythm and the Reef and Rumble on the Reef.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the funding would help strengthen Mackay’s growing events calendar and deliver lasting benefits for the region.

“Mackay has a strong and growing events calendar, and this funding helps ensure local favourites like the Mackay Marina Run, Rhythm and the Reef and Rumble on the Reef can continue to grow, attract visitors and deliver lasting benefits for our community,” Mr Dalton said.

“The BMA Mackay Marina Run is a signature event that brings thousands of visitors to our region and delivers real economic and community benefits."

Queensland Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said the funding reinforced the Queensland Government’s commitment to supporting events that drive tourism and strengthen regional economies.

“Events draw visitors into our regions, fill hotels, boost local businesses and showcase everything that makes Queensland an unbeatable place to visit.”

“Through this latest round of the Homegrown program, we are delivering real economic and social benefits for communities right across the state.”

Mackay funding recipients:
Destination Signature Events
• BMA Mackay Marina Run – $45,000
• Rhythm and the Reef – $15,000
• Rumble on the Reef – $20,000

Destination Indigenous Events
• Rhythm and the Reef – $20,000

Photos supplied

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is delivering local jobs through continued investment in apprenticeships across key trade and horticulture roles.

Four new apprentices have commenced at the Port of Mackay as part of NQBP’s 2026 intake, gaining hands-on training that supports long-term skills development in the region.

The intake builds on the success of NQBP’s previous apprentice cohort, with five apprentices having recently completed their training and progressed to the next stage of their careers.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said apprenticeships were critical to developing the skilled workforce needed to support port operations and Queensland’s supply chains.

“By investing in apprenticeships, we’re building a skilled local workforce that supports our business, regional communities and the port industry into the future,” Mr Webb said.

“Having started my own career as an apprentice, I know how powerful these opportunities are. Apprenticeships open doors, build confidence and create skills that last a lifetime.”

NQBP’s 2026 cohort includes plumbing, electrical and two horticulture apprentices. Apprentices earn while they learn by the waterfront, gaining nationally recognised qualifications and hands-on experience as part of NQBP’s maintenance team.

“Mentored by experienced tradespeople, apprentices gain real-world experience maintaining critical port infrastructure that keeps essential trade moving and supports Queensland communities,” Mr Webb said.

More than half of Queensland’s trade, valued at over $53 billion annually, passes through NQBP’s ports of Mackay, Hay Point, Abbot Point and Weipa, highlighting the importance of a skilled and reliable local workforce.

“Starting my plumbing apprenticeship at NQBP marks a major new chapter for me. I’m keen to build my skills across all areas of the plumbing industry while gaining experience in a port environment, and I chose NQBP for its strong reputation within the Mackay community,” said Luke Reeves, Plumbing Apprentice.

Ethan Little, Electrical Apprentice, added, “NQBP has given me the opportunity to turn my interest in maths and science into an electrical apprenticeship, and I’m excited to learn new skills as part of the team.”

Horticultural apprentices are also joining the team. Alicia Bryant said, “I was excited and a little nervous to start my horticultural apprenticeship, but I love working outdoors and I’m looking forward to learning as much as I can over the next three years. I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”

Jasmine Bourke, another Apprentice Horticulturalist, commented, “Starting with NQBP is a great opportunity for me. I’ve always loved working outdoors in gardening and horticulture, and I’m keen to learn more about the region’s native plants and how to protect and maintain them. Being part of the NQBP team means a lot to me and my family.”

By investing in local talent today, NQBP is helping ensure the long-term capability of its ports and the communities they support.

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NQBP Apprentices Ethan Little, Jasmine Bourke and Luke Reeves

Apprentices with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP and NQBP CEO Brendan Webb. Photos supplied

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Catherine McAuley College is excited to announce that our first cohort of senior students now has access to the Formula High School Program! This hands-on STEM opportunity will let students explore engineering, design, and innovation in an exciting new way.

The Formula High School Programme is a comprehensive education initiative that allows senior secondary students to complete a nationally recognised Certificate II in Engineering Pathways while still at school. The programme combines practical engineering training with an exciting, real-world project: the design and construction of a full-scale race car, that the students get to take to Lakeside Park Raceway and drive!

Throughout the course, students work in a workshop environment where they apply their learning directly to the race car project. They develop foundational engineering skills such as using hand and power tools, mechanical assembly, basic fabrication, welding, and safe workshop practices. Strong emphasis is placed on workplace health and safety, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, all of which are essential in engineering and trade-based industries.

The race car project provides a practical framework for learning, allowing students to see how individual components and systems come together to create a functioning vehicle. Students are involved in tasks such as chassis construction, suspension and braking systems, engine installation, and general vehicle assembly, depending on the stage of the build. This project-based approach helps students understand engineering concepts in a meaningful and engaging way.

In addition to technical skills, students gain valuable employability skills by working as part of a team under real deadlines and expectations. The programme also introduces students to a range of engineering and automotive career pathways and helps them make informed decisions about further education and employment.

On successful completion, students receive the MEM20422 Certificate II in Engineering Pathways, a qualification recognised across Australia. This certificate can contribute to a student’s senior secondary certification and provides a strong foundation for apprenticeships, traineeships, or further study in engineering and manufacturing fields.

By combining a nationally recognised qualification with a hands-on race car build, the Formula High School Programme offers students a unique and practical pathway from school into the engineering workforce.

Taking enrolments for 2027! Visit https://cmcmrok.catholic.edu.au/ for more information.

Catherine McAuley College senior students now have access to the Formula High School Program! Photo supplied

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The Greater Whitsunday Region is gearing up for a night of inspiration, courage, and celebration as the Just Saying Project (JSP) presents the Women’s Awards 2026 – A Night of Storytelling. Set for Saturday 14 March at the MECC North Foyer, doors open at 5:30pm for a 6pm start. Tickets are $115 for general admission, with guests encouraged to book early for this age 15+ event.

The annual awards shine a spotlight on women and allies who bring joy, strength, and purpose to the region. This year’s theme celebrates the power of storytelling, sharing voices that heal, connect, and empower. Bestselling author Belinda Alexandra will take the stage as keynote storyteller, sharing her memoir Emboldened, which traces her journey through devastation, courage, and renewal.

Nominees have now been announced across all award categories. Guests can look forward to recognising leaders, innovators, and changemakers who embody the spirit of resilience, courage, and inspiration.

2026 Nominees:

The Equaliser 

   • Marty Strecker
   • Namarca Corowa
   • Lachlan Cooke
   • Mitchell Flor
Sponsored by FMS Group

Rising Star 

   • Alexis Versaci
   • Jennifer-Lee Houseman
   • Zoe Place
   • Jorja Jurczlyuk
Sponsored by Move It Chiropractic

Health and Wellbeing Warrior 

   • Dr Ritu Rana
   • Dr Suzanne Kippen
   • Debbie Knight
   • Dr Saarh Springer
   • CJ Fitsos
   • Rebecca Cooper
   • Alice Ruddell
   • Michelle Byrne
   • Gemma Refalo
   • Tabitha Brennan
   • Denise McCullen
   • Amy Fiore
   • Kate Woods
   • Jen Gils
   • Inge Hilhorst
   • Pier Tierney
   • Charlotte Hellar
   • Lauren Hietman
   • Sammy Cole
   • Amanda Potter
   • Chloe Gaudion
   • Scout Fraser
   • Dr Kerry Summerscale
   • Kimberly Stevens
   • Sari Jurczyluk
Sponsored by Athletica Fitness Centre

Resilient Rebel 

   • Teanna Ramsamy
   • Katie Chapman
   • Barb Hill
   • Vikki Corowa
   • Kayleigh Brewster
   • Cassandra Reeves
   • Danielle O’Carroll
   • Belinda Hassan
   • Jameela Walker
   • Tracey Mulligan
   • Alicia Cashen
   • Caitlin Ramsay
   • Cheryl-Ann Marshall
   • Amanda Grobbelaar
   • Georgie Grace Carter
Sponsored by Gardian

The Mother of All Mothers

   • Melanie Kemp
   • Claire Grandcourt
   • Terri Leotta
   • Allisha De Grit
   • Terri Lee Reedman
   • Teanna Ramsamy
   • Toni Moore
   • Carly Nicholas
   • Danielle O’Carroll
   • Lauren Pattie
   • Anita Camilleri
   • Tanya Williams
   • Jessica Majid
   • Angela Wilkins
   • Erica Moloney
   • Teaneale English
   • Nana Stevens
   • Kayleigh Brewster
   • Jacquie Camilleri
   • Jessica Christie
   • Lisa Thompson
   • Annerie Tomkinson
   • Jules Thompson
   • Barb Hill
Sponsored by First National 360 Mackay, Sarina & Nebo

The Magic Muse 

   • Liz Russell
   • Venita Mooney
   • Elena Grant
   • Jeanette Mundy
   • Sammy Cole
   • Kim Kleidon
   • Sarah Brown
   • Bri Brett
   • Karen Jacobson
   • Melanie Laas
   • Kristy Purdon
   • Tonia Beckman
   • Shirlz Russell
   • Tina Ramsland
   • Vassie Comino
   • Terri Lee Reedman
   • Leonie Wood
   • Lian Meaney
   • Leisa Watkin
   • Leigh Cairns
Sponsored by  Tina's Bows and Accessories

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A new Men’s Grief Support Group has been launched in Mackay, offering a safe, confidential space for men who have experienced the loss of someone close to them.

The group is being facilitated by Rod Francisco, Joshua Hart and Nick Bennett, and is designed as a peer support group rather than a counselling or clinical service.

Rod Francisco said the group was created after repeated requests from men in the community looking for a dedicated space to process grief.

“We anticipated that it’s going to take a while to get some traction going, so we’re planning to run it for at least 12 weeks,” Mr Francisco said.

Mr Francisco said to their knowledge, it is the first men’s grief-specific support group of its kind in the region.

“We’re aware there’s been other support groups for things like suicide, but not particularly one for men that are grieving the loss of someone close to them, particularly a partner,” he said.

The group is open to men aged 18 years and over, or younger with an accompanying male adult. Attendance is voluntary, and participants are not required to speak if they are not comfortable.

“It’s a safe space… and it’s a confidential space,” Mr Francisco said.

“It’s an opportunity for them to be in a space where they can express themselves freely through their grieving process.”

Sessions include discussion around what grief is, common and less common responses to grief, and providing a supportive environment where men can listen, share, or simply sit with others who understand.

“Grief for one person is going to be completely different to grief for another person,” Mr Francisco said.

“But there might be some common themes, and sometimes just hearing someone else say something and thinking, ‘Yeah, that’s me too,’ can be really powerful.”

All facilitators are donating their time, and Minds Aligned is providing the venue free of charge.

“The three of us are donating our time, Minds Aligned is donating the space, and it’s free for anybody that wants to come along,” Mr Francisco said.

Mr Francisco said personal experiences with loss also played a role in motivating the group’s creation.

“I’ve recently lost a brother, a mother and a father in the last five years,” he said.

“We’ve all been through that in our lives, and we’re also aware of blokes we interact with socially who’ve lost people close to them and say, ‘I just wish I had someone to talk to. We think that’s incredibly important.”

He encouraged men to attend without fear of judgement.

“There’s no shame here, and there’s nothing worse than bottling up your emotions.”

While not a clinical service, Mr Francisco said facilitators can provide information on professional support services if required.

“It’s not a clinical support service that we provide. It’s a non-clinical support space,” he said.

“But we do have the resources of other clinical services that we can suggest people might want to access if they wish.”

The group aims to break down common stigmas around men’s grief, providing a space where local men can work through the ups and downs of loss alongside others who truly understand.

The next session will be held on Sunday, February 22nd from 3.00pm to 4.30pm at the offices of Minds Aligned at 15 Peel Street, Mackay CBD.

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The 131 Army Cadet Unit held its first parade of 2026 on 1 February, welcoming new recruits to experience life as an Army Cadet. The recruits were introduced to a variety of activities, including RATEL, navigation, first aid, drums, drill, public affairs, and drone operations, giving them a hands-on insight into cadet life.

Earlier this month, cadets also held a fundraising BBQ and recruitment stand at Goode’s Butchery, creating opportunities to connect with the local community and showcase the skills and values of the unit.

Those interested in joining the 131 Army Cadet Unit are encouraged to apply online by visiting www.armycadets.gov.au/find-a-unit/. Applicants should search for postcode 4737, select 131 ACU, and click “Apply to join this Unit.” To be eligible, recruits must be turning 13 by the end of 2026 and younger than 17 at the time of enrolment.

For more information, prospective cadets and families can contact the Officer Commanding 131 ACU via phone or text on 0439 733 845, or email OC.131acu@armycadets.gov.au.

The 131 Army Cadet Unit has kicked off its 2026 season, welcoming new recruits to experience cadet life and encouraging local youth aged 13‑16 to join. Photo source: 131 Army Cadet Unit - Sarina

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At Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, we believe our success is measured not just by business outcomes, but by the long-term, positive impact we are making in our community – thanks to our customers.

As Chair of Business & Community Engagement for Community Bank Sarina, I would like to invite representatives from local community and not-for-profit organisations to attend our Community Engagement Program Information Session, where essential details about the next round of community grants and sponsorship opportunities will be shared.

The session will provide an overview of the 2026 Community Engagement Program, including eligibility criteria, the types of projects supported and the application process and timelines.

Attendance at the information session is essential for any organisation intending to apply for projects and initiatives planned for 2026 through to June 2027, and it’s recommended that at least two representatives from each group attend.

We’ve seen firsthand how these community grants and sponsorships assist local groups to deliver projects that benefit everyone, from youth programs and sporting initiatives to cultural and environmental projects.

Community Bank Sarina is proud to operate as a profit-for-purpose business, which means a percentage of our local profits are returned to the community. Supporting local organisations is at the heart of what we do – assisting our community to achieve their goals and making a lasting impact across the greater Sarina district.

In FY2025 alone, we invested over $1 million in our local community, supporting more than 100 local projects and initiatives. Since opening in 2005, Community Bank Sarina has invested over $5 million to support our community.

This Community Engagement round is the only one scheduled for 2026, and we invite organisations to attend to learn how we can develop genuine, mutually beneficial partnerships. We’re focused on supporting initiatives that align with shared values and deliver positive impact for our region.

This is a free event, but registration is required via the Humanitix website (search Community Bank Sarina).

When: Monday 23 February, 5:30pm-7pm
Where: Sarina Bowls Club

We look forward to seeing you there.

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Maree Franettovich
Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair and Chair - Business and Community Engagement

Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich (L) with 2024-2025 Community Grant and Sponsorship recipients at the 2025 Community Bank Sarina AGM. Photo supplied

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Small businesses are the heartbeat of our community and for me, that’s not just a phrase. It’s personal.
 
I grew up surrounded by small business. I watched my Nanna Hopey run her electronics business in West Mackay, working tirelessly from home long before it was common. I saw the dedication, late nights and resilience it takes to build something from the ground up.
 
My Dad still runs his business today, and I proudly help manage it alongside him. I’ve seen firsthand the pressures small business owners face, balancing cashflow, staff, compliance, customers and family life, often all at once.
 
As an adult, I stepped into business ownership myself. From running Angels for Kidz to co-operating a fire and security business, I understand what it feels like to take the risk, employ locals and back yourself. That’s why supporting small business matters so deeply to me as a Councillor.
 
Mackay Regional Council is proud to be one of the 51 of 77 Queensland councils to sign the Small Business Friendly Charter. This Queensland Government initiative strengthens relationships between councils and the small business sector, with clear commitments around faster payments, improved regulation and active engagement with local operators.
 
Participating councils must meet or exceed commitments to small business needs and report annually on their progress and that accountability matters.
 
We are working alongside the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce and industry stakeholders to develop a Small Business Action Plan. A first draft will soon come before council for consideration and feedback.
 
Small businesses create jobs, sponsor local sport, support community events and shape the character of our region. When small businesses thrive, our whole community thrives. And as always, I welcome your thoughts and ideas, please reach out anytime and follow my Facebook page for updates.

Nathenea MacRae, Councillor, Mackay Regional Council

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The Mackay Base Hospital Auxiliary celebrated 45 years of service this week, recognising decades of generosity, dedication, and community support since its founding in 1981.

What began as a small group of locals helping where needed has grown into an enduring organisation that has raised $900,000 for the hospital. Funds have supported wheelchairs, furniture, vital equipment, blanket warmers, nursing awards, bursaries, and the recent Mortuary Garden upgrade.

Tuesday’s celebration in the hospital courtyard honoured past and present members, founding leaders Rob and May McFadzen and Bill and Greta Thomas, and recognised the continuing legacy of service, compassion, and impact on staff and patients alike.

Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Across the country, families are rethinking how they use their outdoor spaces, turning ordinary backyards into hubs of activity, creativity, and family fun. What was once just a patch of grass is now becoming a place where kids can play, adults can relax, and everyone can make memories together. Transforming your garden into a play space doesn’t have to be complicated or costly, sometimes a little imagination is all it takes.

Start with the basics: safety and accessibility. Make sure paths are clear, play equipment is sturdy, and surfaces are suitable for children to run, jump, and explore. Even a simple grassy area can become a haven for imaginative play. Consider adding a sandpit, a swing set, or a small climbing structure. For families with toddlers, low climbing platforms or balance beams can encourage coordination and confidence.

Next, think about multi-purpose spaces. Adults often want relaxation alongside activity, so why not add seating or a shaded deck? A picnic table, hammock, or outdoor lounge area allows parents to keep an eye on the kids while enjoying a coffee, a good book, or a casual catch-up with friends.

Gardens can also double as learning spaces. Planting a small vegetable patch or herb garden gives children a hands-on experience with nature, while offering adults the satisfaction of growing fresh produce. Bright flowers, stepping stones, or painted rocks can create whimsical paths and encourage exploration.

Finally, incorporate elements that invite everyone to participate. Lawn games, a small trampoline, or a DIY obstacle course can entertain kids and adults alike. Even simple additions, like fairy lights or wind chimes, add charm and atmosphere.

The key is balance – combining play, relaxation, and creativity ensures the backyard becomes a hub for family bonding and outdoor fun. With a little planning and imagination, your garden can transform into an adventure playground that the entire family will love, creating memories that last long after the sun sets.

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If you’ve been feeling forgetful, foggy or simply struggling to stay focused, poor sleep may be playing a bigger role than you think. Sleep is where the magic happens that allows for building, strengthening and protecting your memory.

Memory works in three key parts: learning, storing and recalling, and sleep supports each one. Deep non-REM sleep acts like the brain’s filing system. During this stage, new information from the day is organised and stabilised so it can be remembered later. It also clears out unimportant details so your brain can focus on what matters.

REM sleep plays a different but equally vital role. In this dream-heavy stage, the brain connects ideas, processes emotions and creatively reorganises information. This is why “sleeping on it” often brings clarity the next morning. REM sleep helps you better understand, integrate and apply what you’ve learned.

When sleep quality is disturbed, we lose the ability to store new information or recall it. The first night of sleep after any learning is vital for locking in those memories properly. Common disrupters of sleep quality that can lead to brain fog and the inability to learn and remember important information are alcohol, caffeine and untreated sleep apnea.

The good news is that improving sleep quality can have a powerful impact on memory, focus and overall wellbeing. If you snore or think you may have sleep apnea, CPAP Direct is ready to help.

Visit cpap.com.au or drop into your nearest store to talk to our experts about what you can do to sleep better and wake up feeling refreshed.

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We live in a time where property information is everywhere. With a few clicks, you can access sales data, suburb profiles and price estimates and while those tools certainly have their place, they don't always tell the full story.
What they can't capture is what's happening on the ground. Local knowledge is built over years of conversations, inspections and negotiations. It's understanding which streets buyers consistently ask for, which homes attract competition, and why two seemingly similar properties can perform very differently. It's knowing how seasonal demand behaves here in Mackay, how local projects influence confidence, and how buyer sentiment shifts long before it shows up in statistics.
One of the most common things I hear is, "I thought my property would sell for more based on what I saw online."
Sometimes that's true- and sometimes expectations need refining. The difference usually comes down to positioning, timing and a clear understanding of the local market.
Technology gives us information. Experience gives us context.
Whether you're actively considering your next move or simply curious about where the market is heading, having a local conversation can often provide clarity that no online estimate can.
Sometimes it's not about making a decision today - it's about being informed for tomorrow.
Sometimes a simple chat is the best place to start.
Josey Comerford
Managing Director Hugh Reilly Real Estate Local experience. Trusted advice. Always happy to chat. Happy Valentines Day

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The North Queensland Games are back for 2026, celebrating their 42nd year from May 1–4 with more than 40 sports across Mackay, The Whitsundays, and Isaac regions. Athletes of all ages will compete in what has become one of the region’s premier sporting events.

Presented by the North Queensland Sports Foundation (NQSF) in collaboration with Mackay Regional Council, local businesses, and sporting organisations, the Games provide accessible pathways for athletes of every age and ability.

Excitement was building ahead of the opening event, according to NQSF CEO Alexander Fisher.

“The North Queensland Sports Foundation is very excited to be less than 100 days away from the Opening Ceremony for the 2026 Mackay North Queensland Games,” he said.

“We all know that our region punches above its weight in sporting competition – and I’m proud to be launching our Games alongside Mackay’s own World Champion Boxer Liam Paro and Olympic Gold Medallist Natalie Cook, who competed in our Games in the year 2000, just months before securing that Gold Medal.”

Mayor Greg Williamson highlighted the Games’ role in supporting regional athletes.

“It’s a fantastic event to have back here in Mackay. It’s just wonderful to have Natalie Cook on board as one of the ambassadors, and Liam Paro, a major sporting figure and world champion boxer who grew up in Mackay, as the champion of the games. You really can’t get a better person to lead the event.”

He added, “One of the problems in regional Australia has always been building pathways for young superstars. If we don’t have the right facilities or coaching, young athletes often have to move to Brisbane to get a chance. These Games allow a competitive environment regionally, so our young people don’t have to leave. We try to bring elite-level support here so they can develop at home.”

Mayor Williamson also presented Liam Paro with the Pride of the Region Award.

Mackay Region Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson said the Games offered a big boost for the city. “Not only will it bring thousands of visitors to our city, but it will also highlight Mackay as a premier sporting destination in North Queensland,” she said.

Supported by the Queensland Government, the North Queensland Games continue to promote regional sport, athlete development, and community participation, offering a home-grown stage for rising stars to follow in the footsteps of champions.

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North Queensland Games ambassadors Liam Paro and Natalie Cook joined local athletes and officials at the official launch on February 2 at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
The year just seems to be flying already and January is long in our rear vision mirror.  
This time of year also marks the beginning of the school year and with students returning, it is timely to give an update on the Sweetest Schools competition.  The Sweetest Schools competition was launched last year and involves 13 public and private schools spread across the wider Mackay District.  
Alongside Mackay Canegrowers fellow sugarcane organisations Mackay Area Productivity Services, Sugar Research Australia, and the Mackay Show Sugarcane sub-committee have been a massive support in giving the comp legs and helping out schools and grower mentors. Thanks also to the sponsors that have helped out with prize money.
The schools all have small plots of sugarcane growing in their grounds and a grower mentor – also a CANEGROWERS member—visits periodically to assist the students in the growing process. A couple of the grower mentors have reported some lodging of cane during the wet and windy passing of TC Koji, but they are working on tidying up any plot damage and getting the cane back to straight!
In June, all schools involved will be able to enter their cane in a specific competition in the sugarcane section of the regional Mackay Show.  The aim of the program is to allow the sugar industry to engage with students and inform them of the environmental and land management practices and economical credentials of this incredibly diverse and evolving industry.
Our local comp joins similar Sweetest Schools comps across Queensland, including the one run by our neighbour district, CANEGROWERS Proserpine, and also going great guns by all accounts. The comp is a great platform for local schools to connect with our Ag Shows, and with sugarcane growing and agriculture in general.
Also, for teachers out there interested in connecting with the comp for the 2027 show, or with learning materials, we are happy to assist. You can reach our office on 4944 2600, or email mackay@canegrowers.com.au . CANEGROWERS has developed some outstanding teaching resources for primary and secondary students with the Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA).
Finally, it would be remiss of me to not remind the wider Mackay community, that even though the crushing season has finished, dangers around farms and rail lines remain.  There are cane trains still moving around assisting the milling sector as part of their rolling stock and track line maintenance program. They can appear anywhere along the vast track system that winds its way to every sugar-producing corner of the Mackay-Plane Creek area.  Farms are also still busy workplaces, with a variety of dangers and heavy machinery operating and moving around.  
It must also be remembered that farms are people’s back yards not public play grounds and should not be considered peoples own private motorbike or scrub bashing tracks.  Nor is it safe to be swimming in swollen creeks and drains without knowing what dangers lurk below the surface or how fast the current is.  Even the best swimmers can be washed away by a raging current or a log coming down at a great rate of knots.   I am sure that all the wider community wants is for everyone to make it home to their loved ones at the end of every day.  Please stay safe everyone.  All the best.

While cane at one of our entering schools has recovered quite well, it did suffer a little on its windward side during TC Koji.  Pictures: Contributed.

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Community organisations across the Mirani electorate are being encouraged to apply
for the latest round of the Community Gambling Benefit Fund, with applications open until 28 February.

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, said Round 126 presents a valuable opportunity for local clubs and not-for-profit groups, highlighting recent success stories such as the Rockhampton Water Ski Club.

The club received $82,186.50 in Round 124 to construct a new floating pontoon, improving access and safety for members and the wider community.

“Our volunteer organisations are the heart and soul of our communities, often running on the smell of an oily rag, so having these sorts of opportunities to get this sort of funding to make improvements to their facilities, buy equipment, or help fund events is a big thing,” Mr Kelly said.

“The Mirani electorate has done really well out of the last few rounds, and that’s really good to see our community clubs and organisations benefiting from these grants.”

Rockhampton Water Ski Club President Peter Darby said the funding was significant for the club.

“Our dock has suffered dilapidation over many years,” Mr Darby said.

“We’re extremely pleased to have received the funds and will hopefully have the new dock commissioned and ready for next summer.”

Round 126 offers grants of up to $35,000. The Community Gambling Benefit Fund distributes $60 million annually to support not-for-profit groups through funding for equipment, facilities, events and other community initiatives.

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Photos supplied

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