A sultry blend of beans that speaks to the romance of a menage a trois, the Date Night coffee now being served at Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant is made by combining three different beans in a match made in heaven.

The strong, dominant Columbian bean is nestled within the softer Papua New Guinea notes and enhanced with the sweetness of an Ethiopian bean.

This magical mix is created by passionate coffee-roaster Dan Shaw who began his journey as a hobby-roaster in Western Australia 15 years ago.

“I am one of those lucky people that have been fortunate enough to turn a hobby into a business and I have so much gratitude to the community and suppliers for supporting us.”

For the past five years Dan has been operating Primal Coffee café and espresso bar in Mackay along with a Barista Training Academy.

He also distributes his coffee to 52 outlets up and down the coast and just last week, had his biggest ever roasting week, producing an impressive 590 kilograms of coffee.

The Date Night Coffee is an award-winning combination, having recently received a bronze award in one of the biggest roasting competitions in Australasia.

You can get this special brew at Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant.

What do you love most about coffee?
With great coffee, comes great conversation

What’s your favourite coffee to make?
The Bee Sting – a single espresso poured on a bed of honey

What’s your favourite coffee to drink?
Cappuccino on oat with our Soul Mate blend

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Master-roatser Dan Shaw supplies Primal Coffee to Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant

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Queensland Day at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre was a huge success last Sunday 2 June.

Mayor Ry Collins was in attendance and conducted a Welcome Speech, followed by live music performances by Luella and Shayne and Skyhigh Juggling.

Food stalls and activities kept everyone busy.

Everyone was in high spirit and enjoyed the wonderful Whitsunday winter weather.

The day was celebrated the Whitsunday way.

A celebration of Queensland’s birthday; it marks its official separation from New South Wales as an independent colony in 1859.

It is an important celebration of our state’s culture, heritage and an opportunity to reflect on what Queensland means to you.

To get a copy of one of these photos head to – mackayandwhitsundaylife.com

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Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Raphaelle Faust
Ses Howard, Ava Howard
Oleina, Amanda and Uthyr
Mahlia, Melissa, Lee and Lidiia
Kendall and Nicole
Isaiah, Nataliya and Zemes
Abigail, Isabelle and Reuben

Melanie Collins and Mayor Ry Collins
Skyhigh Juggling – Dan and Roo
Harison, Nathan, Izzy, Charlie and Lisa
Layla
Jo Green, James Borg and Tracy Staniland
Harry, Maggie-Laurie, Daniel and Lachlan
Craig and Kayla
Jazz and Priscilla
Kirby Clarke and Jordan Hinton

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Hundreds of people flowed through the doors of the inaugural Pre-loved and Vintage Clothing Markets which were held in the large function room at Kipara Rainforest Retreat on Sunday.

Dozens of stalls hosted by enthusiastic fashionistas created an Aladdin’s cave of delights where attendees could explore the racks of colourful clothing and discover hidden gems to add to their own collection.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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June 10 1944 1400 hours

It was a quiet Saturday afternoon in Proserpine. Walter Magnetti was getting ready for his wedding and a young Ivo Botta recalled that many men were away playing bowls.

With the sound of a plane crashing into a cane paddock in the Foxdale/Up River area, locals could be forgiven for thinking the war had arrived at their door.

The plane was a Spitfire (A58-345) on transit from Amberley to Darwin with Flt/Lt Alan Edward Davison 9106931 at the helm. An hour and a half after departure, the plane suffered engine failure. The formation was above 7/10th cloud at the time. Davison headed for the coast and eventually crash landed at 1400 hours.

Newspapers of the day did not report the event.

But unofficially …

Walter Magnetti recalled, “I was getting dressed for the church and, still in my underwear, when I saw the plane hit the ground. There was a large explosion and ball of fire that could be seen eight miles way. I took off to see how the pilot was. When I got there, my cousin, Wilma, who was also in just her underwear, was already there. Luckily, the pilot had been thrown clear. He kept saying, ‘Keep clear of the plane!’ then he passed out.”

Others reported that Livio DeAndrea was first on the scene and when he arrived, the pilot still had the presence of mind to ask him to turn off the controls. There were reports that the plane was loaded with ammunition.

Despite his young age, Ivo Botta had very clear memories of the event. “After the Spitfire crash … I remember the pilot being brought up to the house. (Even though) the men were away … the women were home. They offered him brandy. Neighbour, Walter Dodd, arrived and advised them against this, saying alcohol was dangerous as the pilot was in shock and he told him not to drink any. The pilot had other ideas, grabbed the brandy himself and gulped it down.”

Ivo’s father, Mario Botta, was a partner on Magnetti and Co’s farm where the crash occurred. Years later, Ivo positioned the crash site as 13.5 kms by road or 6.6 air miles WNW from Proserpine Post Office on the northern side of Proserpine River. This farm is now owned by the Orr family. Because people had begun to souvenir parts of the plane, Eddie Maloney stood guard over the wreck with a .303 rifle until the Home Defence Guard arrived. These guards were based in the farm barracks until the wreckage was removed.

Davison was in hospital for some time and after his release he stayed at the Dobbins’ residence until his return home to England. Mrs Arthur Dobbins, who was an aircraft “spotter” during the war, recalled how when she gave him a cup of tea, his hands would shake so violently that he spilt practically all of it.

Families who had befriended the pilot, were saddened to hear that he was killed in a sortie shortly after his return home. However, this was discounted years later when Mrs Joan Clay, whose husband, Phil, also flew Spitfires in the war, provided this information from RAF Personnel Management Agency (Gloucester) “He (Davison) survived the war, and after re-enlisting as an airman, left the service in 1958.”

(Note: While there are discrepancies in these reports, nonetheless their “stories” are interesting.)

Postscript: And what of the wedding? Well, not surprisingly, Walter was late. The bridal car kept driving around town, stopping at the church and asking, “Has he arrived yet?” He eventually did!

Story courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum and “La Mia Vita My Life” by Walter Magnetti.

Photo courtesy of the late Tom Dobbins.

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Queensland Police have issued an appeal to the public for assistance in locating Celeste McGain, a 40-year-old woman reported missing since Saturday 1 June from the Whitsundays area.
Celeste McGain was last seen on Paluma Road in Woodwark around 2pm on Saturday 25 May. Since then, there have been no sightings or communications from her.
Concerns for Celeste's well-being are heightened as her disappearance is considered out of character by family and friends.
Described as Caucasian, approximately 175cm tall, with brown eyes and curly brown hair, Celeste was last seen wearing a blue skirt and a white shirt.
While she was last seen in Woodwark, Celeste is known to have connections to the northern New South Wales area.
Queensland Police are urging Celeste to make contact or for anyone with information regarding her whereabouts to come forward immediately. Assistance from the public in such cases can often prove crucial in locating missing individuals and ensuring their safety.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Celeste McGain

Photo Supplied

The culmination of four years dedicated efforts to bring free local news to the Mackay community has been recognised at the Queensland Country Press Awards, which were held in the Sunshine Coast last Friday night.

Mackay Life was honoured to bring home the award for Best One-off Commercial Feature for its in-depth coverage of the Fergus Builders 40-year celebrations. Sister publication, Burdekin Life also won Best Locally Produced Advertising Campaign and the broader Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper won Best Free Newspaper in Queensland.

Bringing It Home For The Region

Representatives from Life Publishing Group were thrilled to bring home three accolades at the Queensland Country Press Awards on Friday night, the win however was bittersweet, with Mackay Life Editor Amanda Wright unable to attend having recently received a cancer diagnosis.

Despite this, Amanda said it really lifted her spirits to receive the news of the three awards from her hospital bed where she was recovering from bowel surgery to remove colon cancer.

“It was an emotional and uplifting moment during one of the most challenging times of my life,” she expressed.

“My cancer diagnosis has been an incredibly tough journey, filled with fear, uncertainty, and pain.

“But to have a nurse on hand at Mackay Base Hospital to hear with me that our newspaper has been honoured in such a significant way brought tears to my eyes, and she gave me an enormous hug.

“It was a profound reminder that I have so much to live for and many more celebrations are yet to come, as well as recognition of the importance of our work and the impact we have on our community.”

Amanda was diagnosed with Colon Cancer in April and, following a successful operation, she is about to begin intensive life-saving treatment.

Editor of Mackay Life Newspaper since its inception, Amanda’s talent, passion and personality is etched on every page of this newspaper – her stories are renowned for being compassionate, inspiring and engaging.

This was the third year in a row that Mackay and Whitsunday Life had attended the Queensland Country Press Awards, and Amanda was present at the previous two.

As such, it was a real honour for the team to receive the awards in her name, especially the award for Best One-off Commercial Feature which she had personally written.

Amanda said winning an award for the Fergus Builders Special Feature showcases the quality editorial and advertising we deliver right here in Mackay.

Rebecca Douthwaite, owner of Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper and the broader Life Publishing Group, said she understands the value these features bring to the community.

“Big businesses come to us to celebrate big events such as their birthdays, milestones and rebranding, they do that because we involve everybody in their business, and we get everybody excited about it – we are very passionate about running corporate features and obviously very good at it!” she expressed.

Amanda agrees, saying all three awards are a testament to the team's passion and hard work.

“They are a source of immense pride,” she shared.

“They represent in a tangible way our unwavering commitment to delivering quality, free news to our readers and giving businesses a powerful advertising platform.

“And of course, taking out the big state award of Best Free Newspaper of the Year means more to me and the team than words can express, especially those who have been here since Mackay and Whitsunday Life's inception almost four years ago.

“I still remember our very first photo shoot in Queens Park, with the headline PRINT IS BACK! And look at us now.”

Federal Member For Dawson
Andrew Willcox

A huge congratulations to the Mackay and Whitsunday Life & Burdekin Life Team on being awarded the Best Free Newspaper in Queensland. Amanda, Bec, Rachael, Sam and your entire team, this is a testament to the hard work and dedication to provide the news to our communities.

Member For Whitsunday
Amanda Camm

Congratulations Mackay and Whitsunday Life the Best Free Newspaper in Queensland!
An outstanding local publication!

1: Mackay Life Editor Amanda Wright
2: Sales Manager Jess Clarke
3: Cadet Journalist Hannah McNamara
4: Rachael Smith, Editor in Chief of Life Publishing Group, Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli, and Owner/Publisher of Life Publishing Group, Rebecca Douthwaite at the Queensland Country Press Awards in the Sunshine Coast on Friday. Photo credit: Samantha Wantling

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Hi there to our lovely readers,

I don’t think I could ever fill the shoes of Amanda as she does such an amazing job, but rest assured, all going well, she will be back very shortly!

I’d like to start off by introducing myself if we haven’t crossed paths already at recent events.

I’m Hannah the cadet journalist with Mackay Life Newspaper, and what I love most about my job and working with this paper, is that we all have a great love for our community.

I was born in Melbourne but I now call Mackay home after living here for over 16 years. For one…it’s too cold down in Victoria… and two, you just don’t get local community love like you do here in Mackay.

Sure, there’s good and bad people everywhere, but working for this paper has truly shown me how amazing this community is.

Each week we easily find a good deed story to place right next to this editor’s note, we have so many amazing fundraisers happening, like the recent Mayors Charity Ball that raised over $80,000 for the Grapevine Group and Australian Street Aid Project (page 5).

Not to mention the unbelievable local talent that never fails to amaze me and the exciting upcoming events like the Family Fun Day at BB Print Stadium on this Sunday to raise funds for our local hospitals (page 9), as well as a live performance from Pierce Brothers (page 20) and so much more.

Recently we received the ‘Best Free Newspaper Award’ at the 2024 Queensland Country Press Awards, along with two other amazing achievements across our three community papers, and while that’s a remarkable accomplishment, our biggest thanks go to you, our readers, for supporting us and allowing us to share YOUR remarkable stories.

Thank You & Stay Blessed!
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Hannah

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An anonymous member of the local community took to a neighbourhood crime page on Facebook, not to report an incident, but to express her heartfelt gratitude.
The focus of her message was directed towards a family wearing orange hi-vis attire and the manager of the Ooralea McDonald's, both of whom came to her aid when she unexpectedly fell ill around 8:30pm the previous Sunday night.
In her post, the anonymous individual conveyed profound thanks, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused by her sudden illness. She emphasised that her condition was not contagious but rather a reaction to medication following her release from the Mackay Base Hospital.
Her gratitude extended beyond words, with an eagerness to know the names of those who helped her, so she could personally extend her appreciation.
Despite the option to turn away, they chose compassion, a gesture she valued immensely.
Her post radiated with a sense of humility and genuine appreciation, which then lead to an outpouring of positive reactions from readers on the platform.
The anonymous poster said “I can't thank you enough, I had just been released from the Base and unfortunately wasn't as well as they and I had assumed.
“I feel so terrible that the situation even occurred, but I would love to know your names to gift you for your help,” she expressed.

“You didn't have to help me and could have turned away, but you didn't and I appreciate it more than you will ever know.

“Thank you so much for the concerns, I really hope this gets to the people who helped me.”

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The Council's elected members took a firm stand against domestic and family violence last week when Mayor Greg Williamson emphasised the community's rejection of violence, highlighting a commitment to proactive measures for change.
“Not now, not ever” was a pledge that was taken last Wednesday by council’s elected members.
The pledge was signed to highlight Council’s collective stance against domestic and family violence (DFV) within the community.
Mayor Greg Williamson said violence in any form had no place in our region.
“The statistics are alarming, and we don’t want our community to be part of them any longer,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Council has taken this pledge today to highlight the continued commitment to leading through action to create change in our community and workplace,” he said.
“It’s not just a pledge but part of a wider internal campaign to support our employees, which includes reviewing and updating the current DFV policy and e-learning modules.”
Council is also a proud supporter of the Red Rose Foundation which aims to eliminate domestic and family violence related deaths.
One of the key initiatives of the foundation is the Red Bench project that works with Councils across the nation to install red bench seats as a constant reminder of the effects of domestic violence in communities. Council has now supported the installation of eight red benches in the Mackay region.
Each May, Queensland observes Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month (DFVP Month) to raise community awareness of domestic and family violence (DFV).
The goal is to send a clear message that DFV in families and homes will not be tolerated.
This important initiative aims to educate, support, and empower individuals and communities to act against domestic violence.
For more information on domestic and family violence support services and council’s commitment to domestic and family violence prevention, head to mackay.qld.gov.au/dfv

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Mackay Regional Council Councillors (from left) Cr Nathenea Macrae, Cr Heath Paton, Cr Ash-Lee Johnson, Cr Alison Jones, Cr Namarca Corowa, Cr Karen May, Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan, Mayor Greg Williamson and Cr George Christensen signed a pledge
to stand against domestic and family violence at the morning tea. (Absent but also signing, Cr Peter Sheedy.) Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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The 2024 Mayors Ball wasn’t just a glamorous affair but a rallying point for local charities, thanks to the generous support of sponsors and ball-goers. With a resounding spirit of community, the event successfully raised crucial funds to uplift organisations such as the Australian Street Aid Project and Grapevine Group.
Mackay Regional Mayor, Greg Williamson said that “The main goal of the Ball is to support local charities, who are sometimes overlooked by state and federal funding but are in desperate need of funds.
“This year’s funds have been split equally between Australian Street Aid Project and Grapevine Group, with each receiving $40,117.59.
“Grapevine Group will use the funds to help local businesses have their own in-house safeTALK Trainers on staff to train more locals in suicide prevention.
“Australian Street Aid Project will use their funds to help support people experiencing homelessness in the Mackay region.
“This event keeps going from strength to strength each year and that is thanks to our organising committee, which includes representatives of the community, council and the MECC, our generous corporate sponsors, and our community.”
The funds were announced and officially presented to representatives of Australian Street Aid Project and Grapevine Group at a council morning tea on Wednesday, May 22 to thank all sponsors.
Sponsors were also presented with certificates of appreciation for their support.
Platinum partners for the 2024 Mayor’s Charity Ball included long-term sponsor DGH Engineering, Fergus Builders and Daly Bay.
Gold sponsors were Allure Laser and Skin Studio, Key Solutions Group, BMA and Champ Group.
Silver sponsors include Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure, Southern Cross Industrial Group and new sponsors CQ Soil Testing and Pentacon.

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Sponsors for the 2024 event were presented with a thank you certificate at the Mayor’s Charity Ball sponsor’s morning tea. Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Isaac Business Chamber launches to amplify resilient business community.

After three years of planning, the Isaac Business Chamber will officially launch, marking a significant milestone for the Isaac region and its small business community.

The Isaac Business Chamber will launch on Thursday May 30, 2024, at the Moranbah Golf Club, where Brand and Marketing Specialist Jessica Ritchie will deliver her keynote and provide valuable insight.

Isaac Business Chamber President Trudi Liekefett said the chamber has been meticulously planned and developed with the unwavering commitment of various entities, including Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3), the Local Buying Foundation (LBF), and Isaac Regional Council (IRC).

“They have served as driving forces behind the Chamber's establishment, providing a solid framework and strategic vision.

"We are thrilled to unveil the Isaac Business Chamber after years of dedicated planning and collaboration.

"This launch represents a significant step forward for our region, and we are excited to embark on this transformative journey together."

Ms Liekefett said the Isaac Business Chamber’s strategic plan, outlining specific goals, timelines, and metrics for success, will be publicly accessible on the Chamber's website upon launch, providing transparency and a roadmap for future endeavours.

"Our mission is to foster a thriving and resilient business community in the Isaac region.

"By engaging key stakeholders and leveraging our collective expertise, we aim to ignite innovation, promote social well-being, and enhance opportunities for all businesses,” she said.

As the Chamber welcomes prospective members and key stakeholders, local business owners are encouraged to actively participate and contribute to shaping the region's economic future.

"We envision a business ecosystem where every opportunity is leveraged, and our collective voice is amplified.

"Together, we can build a vibrant and prosperous future for the Isaac region,” Ms Liekefett said.

The Chamber invites all businesses, regardless of size or industry, to engage and benefit from its advocacy, support, and collaborative initiatives.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said this new initiative is about helping nearly 1,990 businesses in the region to grow and thrive.

“We see the Isaac Business Chamber as a big support system for our small-to-medium businesses.

“A megaphone that amplifies their voice and stands up for their interests,” Cr Vea Vea said.

“The creation of the chamber, with a lot of backing from the business community, is turning a new page in the region’s economic story. It’s going to make doing business here a whole lot better.

“And the best part? This investment is set to bring a ton of benefits to the small business community in the region,” Cr Vea Vea said.

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What: Isaac Business Chamber Launch
When: Thursday May 30
Where: Moranbah Golf Club, 1 Leichardt Dr Moranbah
Time: 12.00pm to 3.00pm
Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/chamber-launch-2024

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Keynote speaker Jessica Ritchie
Isaac Business Chamber President Trudi Liekefett. Photos supplied

An esteemed line-up of thought-provoking speakers, sustainability leaders, deep tech investors and resource industry professionals shared their experiences and insights at the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit last Thursday.

The summit was held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on May 23 and featured morning and afternoon panel sessions.

Throughout the panel sessions, every panellist contributed invaluable insights and offered practical strategies aimed at guiding businesses toward a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) chief executive officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a unique opportunity for our local businesses to hear about the latest solutions and strategies for a low carbon future.

"We believe that our region has the potential to be a leader in decarbonisation, and this summit is an important step towards achieving that vision.

"We urge local businesses throughout the regions and across all industries to consider spending a day to learn about what is not only in our future but what is here, working in our community today.

Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) Mr Steven Boxall said the initial focus of setting up Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit was about the METS sector and its critical role in supporting the coal sector to decarbonise, this summit is the first step on that journey for many.

"Decarbonisation will impact the entire Australian resources sector and we believe that our local businesses and industries have the potential to thrive.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit opened at 8.30am with featured keynotes throughout the day including change strategist Michael McQueen; ThinkZero founder and Managing director Cle-Anne Gabriel; and Founder of Goterra Olympia Yarger.

In addition to the keynote presentations, the summit featured thought-provoking panel discussions with experts from diverse sectors.

The question, "Why Should We Be Excited About Decarbonisation?" was answered, featuring Charlotte Connell from Climate Zeitgeist, Phil Morle from Main Sequence, and Drristy Nell, a Decarbonisation Specialist, facilitated by Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) CEO Steven Boxall.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit concluded with networking drinks at 4.30pm.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a joint initiative of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) and Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3).

Greater Whitsunday Alliance is the region’s peak, independent economic development body committed to making the Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday region strong for generations.

To find out more information visit the Decarbonisation Accelerated website.

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The Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) hosted panel sessions where each participant shared valuable insights and actionable strategies for businesses to pursue a cleaner, sustainable future
GW3 CEO Kylie Porter
Bestselling author and international trend specialist Michael McQueen. Images Supplied

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The Mackay Hospital Foundation's Family Fun Day, proudly presented by Gardian Real Estate, is returning this year with promises of an even bigger and better experience for all to enjoy.

Save the date for an unforgettable day of family fun on Sunday, June 2nd from 10am to 2pm at BB Print Stadium. This event offers a jam-packed itinerary for just $5 per person. With both cash and card accepted. Entry grants access to a plethora of rides and activities all free once inside the gate.

From thrilling rides to exhilarating jumping castles, creative face painting to an array of food and coffee vendors, there's something for everyone. Plus, there's even more reasons to come along with a petting zoo, live entertainment and various engaging activities lined up throughout the day.

By attending this event, you're not just in for a day of entertainment, you're also directly supporting local hospitals and health care services. It's an affordable day out that promises loads of laughter and cherished family memories.

Mackay Hospital Foundation extends their heartfelt gratitude to all the generous sponsors who have helped to bring this event to fruition.

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WHAT: Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day presented by Gardian Group
WHEN: Sunday, June 2 from 10:00am to 2:00pm
WHERE: BB Print Stadium
TICKETS: $5 entry

Gather your loved ones and join in on a guaranteed family fun day whilst supporting local healthcare services! Photo Credit: Sam Gillespie

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Fresh from the pageantry scene, young Mackay local Emersen Lamb, is stepping her heels onto the Mackay Golf Course this July when she hosts the Business House Corporate Challenge alongside her father Max Lamb Jr from M&P Services.

Having recently been announced the Australia Pageantry People’s Choice Winner, Emersen is thrilled to be presenting the golf day and excited to be raising more money for charity.

So far, this compassionate teen has raised in excess of $20K for charity and her passionate efforts are now set to benefit even more community groups.

Proceeds from the golf challenge will go towards the Australian Street Aid Project, Community Accommodation Support Agency, Starlight Children’s Foundation, Trudy Crowley Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities.

“I’m hoping to raise around $3500,” expressed Emerson.

“Over the last few years, I have raised $23,368 primarily for local charities.”

July’s event is a cameo of the traditional business house event ran at Mackay Golf Club in the 90’s and 2000’s and it will be a 4 person team Ambrose event.

Teams will play for a perpetual trophy and next year the event will run over three to five rounds in the cooler months.

It is a genuine scoring event aimed at avid golfers and will start at 7am, followed by lunch where there will be meat trays and raffles along with standard Ambrose prizes, with the event wrapping up around 1pm.

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WHAT: Business Corporate House Challenge
WHERE: Mackay Golf Course
WHEN: Sunday 28th July from 7am

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Teams playing at a previous charity golf day. Photo credit: Mackay Life Newspaper

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The Northern Beaches Community Hub stage 1B will soon be underway after Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox recently announced a $15m funding boost to kickstart the initiative.
CA Architects for Mackay Regional Council have already completed the Design work for stage 1B, showcasing plans of the dynamic public facility that will include a library, meeting rooms and café.
This funding allocation, made possible through the Australian Government's Growing Regions Program, coincides with the ongoing construction progress of the initial stage of the Northern Beaches Community Hub.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the Northern Beaches Community Hub, located opposite Mackay Northern Beaches State High School, was one of council’s signature projects.
He said Fergus Builders had made good progress on construction work for stage 1A after being awarded a $10.2 million tender for this key piece of infrastructure.
“The first stage, which is under way, includes an undercover multi-purpose court and storeroom, nature play and picnic spaces, as well as landscaping, pedestrian links, and a parking area.”
Mayor Williamson said construction of the first stage started in March and is scheduled for completion in May 2025, weather permitting.
He said council’s project team had been working with CA Architects to progress design work for the next stage so it could be shovel-ready for government funding opportunities.
“This is an extremely important project for the Northern Beaches, which is our region’s fastest growing area in terms of population.
“A lot of community consultation, including community and agency reference groups, have helped shape the vision for this site.”
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox believes the hub is going to be a “vital piece of infrastructure to support the expanding population within the northern suburbs of Mackay.”
“The Northern Beaches Community Hub will provide a local meeting place for the community to connect, and will deliver a range of activities, programs, services, and events tailored to the needs of the Northern Beaches Community,’’ he said.
“Being able to announce funding for stage 1B of this project is a huge win for the area and ensures we see this project continue.”
Stage 1A of the project is partly funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.
The Australian Government committed $6.5 million towards stage 1A, with council contributing the remainder of the cost of the works.
Visit connectingmackay.com.au and subscribe to project update emails to stay informed about this exciting project and to view the latest master plan.

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Mayor Greg Williamson with (from left) Cr Ash-Lee Johnson, Cr Karen May, Deputy Mayor
Belinda Hassan, Cr Alison Jones and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox.

Artist impression of Stage 1B  Northern Beaches Community Hub. Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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