Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Whitsunday Game Fish Club (WGFC), together with its junior arm “Reefies,” is set to host its popular Sweeties & Squires Ladies and Kids Fun Fishing Weekend — a celebration of family, fishing, and fun on the water. Festivities begin on Thursday, April 9, with registration and briefing from 4 pm at the club. The afternoon opens with an important presentation from Maritime Safety Queensland, followed by a weekend overview, registration, pizza, and family activities. Fishing will take place at anglers’ leisure from Saturday morning (April 11) through to lines out at 2 pm on Sunday, April 12. The final weigh-in will be held at 3 pm Sunday, with fish either weighed or measured. Photos of released catches are encouraged and will count toward results. All Queensland size and bag limits apply, and fishing is restricted to rod and reel only. Sunday afternoon will feature presentations and a wide range of prizes awarded on merit — not just size or quantity — ensuring everyone has a chance to win. Highlights include a mystery prize, lucky door prize, raffles, fun activities, great food, and a prize for the best-dressed team. The event is free for WGFC members, with memberships available at the briefing. WGFC and Reefies are also official Play On providers, offering sports vouchers for juniors aged 5–17, covering membership and event entry through to July 2027. What: Sweeties & Squires Ladies and Kids Fun Fishing Weekend When: April 9th–12th (briefing April 9th from 4pm; fishing April 11th–12th) Where: Whitsunday Game Fish Club, Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale Captions Photo source: Facebook
Read the full story
Gentle, sensitive, and incredibly loyal — Maisie is a beautiful girl who just needs the right home to help her continue building confidence. • Age: Approx. 2–3 years • Breed: Dalmatian x • Sex: Female • Size: Approx. 25kg • Energy Level: Medium Good With: Children: Yes Dogs: Yes Cats: No Livestock: Yes Chooks: OK under supervision Personality: Gentle Loyal Affectionate Sensitive Bonds closely to her people Ideal Home: Secure fencing required Calm, patient household Someone willing to build trust and continue her confidence Family environment preferred Health: Desexed Vaccinated Microchipped Up to date with vet care Adoption Fee: $400 To apply, please message us Bowen Collinsville Pet Resuce Inc.
Read the full story
Immediately prior to 1930, Long Island was held by Mrs Frances Altmann under a special lease but following her death in 1930, the island was subdivided into three sections and offered for sale. The central section (240 acres) was bought by William Lewis Grant who eventually sold it in 1935 to Mr Timothy Croft. The following is an extract from “The Queensland Annual” (November 6 1934) On the western boundary of glorious Whitsunday Passage is a dot on the map which close at hand becomes an island five miles long running almost due north and south, separated from the coast by a stretch of water about a mile wide for the most part and as calm as broad river – Long Island and its Sound. Early in October 1931, a steamer called at the island, and from it disembarked W.L. Grant and the folk he had chosen to help him. A motor launch, a flattie, building materials, tools and provisions were unloaded also, and the steamer went on her way. Grant often smiles now when he looks back on the seriousness with which he tackled the problems of those few first weeks. He had got himself a long lease of a rich scrub area on Clear View Bay, and now faced the job of building an island home. In those first few months, he lived some of the chapters of the Swiss Family Robinson. They chopped a clearing in the scrub; built a temporary shack; planted paw paws, tomatoes and vegetables and they started to grow prolifically. Grant decided that was one department that would run itself. But he was no vegetarian, and days of more hand blistering and muscle wearying toil followed in the scrub, as young saplings were cut and hauled to the beach. They were to be part of the fish-trap and had to be sturdy to carry the heavy gauge wire netting. “It’s a lot of work and expense,” Mr. Grant says, “but a trap is a good investment, for we have had plenty of fish of great variety, and we always keep a stack of smoked fish which is our standby when spring tides prevent our getting fish.” Days slid into weeks, weeks into months. Each day had its problems, each its discoveries, each its triumphs. The man whose life had been lived at the grueling pace set by modern business slowed his gait. The pocket handkerchief of a clearing expanded to a green tablecloth upon which stood all manner of trees and scrubs and vines – bananas, custard apples, figs, mulberries, jackfruit, pomegranates, avocados, Queensland nuts, lychee nuts and citrus; sweet and English potatoes and a dozen other vegetables, maize and kaffir corn. Another clearing was made, and netted, a thatched shelter was built, and one day from opened crates two score Leghorns and Orrington emerged. In the beginning, all effort had to be concentrated on food and shelter, but once assured, attention was turned to flowers. The story of the orchard was repeated and Clear View Bay became Clear View Gardens. Roses, hardy annuals, ferns, coleus, hibiscus, frangipani, aralia, asparagus, poincianas, crotons, regia, bougainvillea and scores of others flourished side by side. In time, the island home began to pay its way as cultivated acres yielded ever increasing surpluses which the coast would buy. The idealist in W.L. Grant was strong enough to sever the bonds of humdrum life – the businessman in him organised his own romance. Some of that camping party on Nor-West Island had shaken their heads in doubt, but Grant knew that it could be done – and he did it! Story sourced from “The Queensland Annual” (November 6 1934) and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum Society. Captions Mrs Croft holding Keith Holmes and Pam Holmes at Clear View Gardens Long Island in the late 1930s
Read the full story
Sophia Cross of Shute Harbour Marina Sales is bringing energy, expertise and a genuine passion for the region to the Whitsundays property market. Originally from Perth, Sophia and her family relocated from New Zealand, where they managed a large-scale sheep and beef farm, to embrace the tropical lifestyle and opportunities of the Whitsundays. Alongside her two energetic young boys, she has quickly immersed herself in the local community. Before entering real estate, Sophia built a strong professional foundation in civil and structural drafting and electrical estimating. Her experience spans a range of projects in Perth, from smaller developments through to major landmarks such as Fiona Stanley Hospital and Perth Arena. This technical background has given her a keen eye for detail and a solid understanding of construction and development. In early 2020, Sophia made the move into real estate and hasn’t looked back. Combining her engineering knowledge with her growing industry experience, she has found her niche in project sales, playing a key role in the Shute Harbour Marina Resort development. The position has proven to be a natural fit, allowing her to guide clients with confidence and insight. Sophia is passionate about contributing to the continued growth and revitalisation of the Whitsundays. She is committed to delivering the high level of service the Taylors name is known for, while helping both locals and newcomers find their place in this vibrant coastal community. Captions Photo sourced
Read the full story
Pioneer Nursing Services exists to make quality care feel personal. From its beginnings supporting individuals through the NDIS, the organisation has grown to offer aged care, Department of Veterans’ Affairs services, and private in-home support, helping people live safely, independently, and with dignity, right where they belong.
The services cover a broad spectrum of needs. NDIS support delivers compassionate care for individuals living with disability, including personal care, nursing, and support coordination, all provided with respect and understanding. Through My Aged Care, older Australians can access government-funded in-home support tailored to their requirements, allowing them to live comfortably and safely at home.
Eligible veterans and their families receive specialised care through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, including community nursing and in-home support that honours their service. Private in-home care is also available, offering the same trusted services on a private-pay basis, with flexibility to suit individual circumstances.
Pioneer Nursing Services also provides professional nursing care, covering wound care, PEG feeds, continence support, and palliative care. Support workers assist with daily living tasks, from meal preparation and medication management to transport and more, ensuring clients receive holistic care every day.
The organisation has recently expanded with a new office in Cannonvale at 2/1 Carlo Drive, extending services as far as Bowen and increasing accessibility for the wider region.
Founder and Director Simon McMahon brings a wealth of experience and compassion to the role. From serving with the Royal Navy during the Iraq War to nursing patients in their homes, Simon’s career combines skill with a deep commitment to community care. The idea for Pioneer Nursing Services came during his time as a Nurse Unit Manager at the height of COVID.
“I saw how many patients were unable to go home because community services couldn’t provide the staff needed to support them,” Simon recalls.
“We’re all about experience with heart. Our team of support workers, nurses, and coordinators know their stuff and genuinely care.
“That mix of skill and compassion helps people live better, brighter lives.”
Determined to make a difference, Simon launched Pioneer Nursing Services to ensure people can remain at home, safe, supported, and surrounded by family. Whether it is hospital discharge support, end-of-life care, or daily assistance, the team offers families peace of mind and reliable care tailored to individual needs.
For enquiries, Pioneer Nursing Services can be contacted on 4957 0368.
Council has formally progressed amendments to the Seaforth Esplanade Master Plan to establish a dedicated Place of Remembrance on the Seaforth beachfront, following a proposal from the Seaforth Sub-Branch of the RSL. The new memorial will be located within Seaforth Esplanade Park, adjacent to the recreational hub, providing a respectful space to honour service and sacrifice.
Mayor Greg Williamson said community feedback had been overwhelmingly supportive, with 109 comments received during consultation, 98 per cent backing the RSL’s proposal.
“Around 700 people attend the Seaforth Anzac Day service, and they have outgrown the current memorial space,” he said, acknowledging the advocacy of the RSL sub-branch in bringing the project forward.
Other master plan changes include enhancing the outdoor community area in front of the Post Office to allow flexible use for dining and events, and optimising the camping grounds to attract visitors.
Seaforth RSL Sub-Branch Treasurer Peter Morris said the memorial will feature all-abilities access, commemorate veterans and war animals, and offer a symbolic view of the sunrise during the Dawn Service. The sub-branch now aims to secure funding through grants, local businesses, and community contributions.
Council has adopted the revised 2025 Master Plan and will undertake preparatory works, including installing a new flagpole ahead of Anzac Day.
For more information, visit connectingmackay.com.au.
The Queensland Parliament's Primary Industries and Resources Committee has handed down its report into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities in Queensland, outlining 12 recommendations aimed at unlocking biofuels and bioenergy from sugarcane across the state.
Industry leaders gathered at Racecourse Sugar Mill on Tuesday 31st March to announce the report, including Stephen Bennet MP – Chair, Primary Industries and Resources Committee; Glen Kelly MP – Member for Mirani; Nigel Dalton MP – Member for Mackay; Ash Salardini – Chief Executive Officer, Australian Sugar Manufacturers; Josip Vidakovic – Government, Industry & External Engagement Manager, Australian Sugar Manufacturers; Carl Morton – Chief Executive Officer, Mackay Sugar; and Kylie Porter – Chief Executive Officer – Greater Whitsunday Alliance.
The inquiry has been underway since June last year, with the committee hearing from industry stakeholders in Mackay, Townsville and Brisbane about the potential of bioenergy and biofuels derived from sugarcane.
Member for Burnett and Chair of the committee, Stephen Bennett MP, said there was “a real pathway forward” for the industry.
“It’s really important when we look at some of the recommendations around diversification for the industry, particularly for millers, and the issues around protecting cane growers.”
“My number one priority is making sure we can expand the sugar industry for future generations, give them the confidence to invest, and create opportunities around biofuels.”
“It’s the best feedstock we have to provide bioenergy. It’s grown across our regions, it’s sustainable, and there are real opportunities when we look at what the sugar industry could become.”
“If implemented, the committee's recommendations will pave the way for a resilient, future-focused and globally competitive sugarcane-based bioenergy industry in Queensland.”
Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, said the report was about ensuring the future of the sugar industry for the next generation.
“Industries like coal and cane are incredibly important to the electorate of Mirani and to Queensland as a whole.”
“It has been a privilege to be part of this report. We’ve worked very hard to get it right for the people of Queensland and the stakeholders involved.”
“What the agricultural industry needs is confidence. This report helps deliver that confidence for the future.”
“I stand for the next generation. I stand for agriculture and giving agriculture hope that we mean business.”
“For young farmers out there, this report gives confidence in the industry and in what we have behind us, including the mills and the cane growers across Queensland.”
Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, said the recommendations aim to strengthen the industry well into the future.
“We needed to make sure that what happens in a mill is sustainable and that we can progress the industry into the next century.”
“This is a fantastic opportunity to present these 12 recommendations to government and ensure agriculture, particularly cane, continues to be a driving force in our economy.”
The recommendations include targeted investment opportunities, regulatory reforms and greater national coordination to support the development of biofuels and bioenergy from sugarcane.
The committee’s full report is available on the inquiry’s webpage, with the Queensland Government given three months to table its response to the report and its recommendations in Parliament.
Mr Bennett said, “We’re really proud of this report and the work that has gone into it, particularly from stakeholders here in Mackay and across the state who contributed to making it what it is.”
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP, and Member for Burnett and Chair of the committee, Stephen Bennett MP
Industry leaders including MPs and sugar industry executives gathered at Racecourse Sugar Mill on 31 March to announce the new sugarcane bioenergy report. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
More than $21,300 was raised on Friday night as local leaders swapped comfort for concrete during Safe Sleep Mackay’s inaugural Bosses on Buses event.
Eleven community leaders took part in the initiative, sleeping rough for the night to help raise funds to operationalise the Safe Sleep Buses, which aim to support people experiencing homelessness in Mackay.
Participants included:
The leaders spent the night sleeping rough, some on the bus and others on the concrete, before all making it to breakfast the following morning.
Founder of Chances House, Kayleigh Brewster, said the initiative was inspired by the difficult reality frontline workers often face when supporting people without shelter, with the aim of creating a temporary solution while supporting people’s wellbeing.
“When you're working in those really on-the-ground frontline services, you see a lot of people who are homeless,” she said.
“Quite often you're having to tell somebody there’s no more we can do for you, you’re going to have to sleep outside tonight. It’s a terrifying thought.
“We wanted a solution that would alleviate that.
“I think this is going to be fantastic. I think it’s going to really make a difference in the physical, the mental and the emotional well-being of many people.”
Safe Sleep Mackay spokesperson and key advocate for those sleeping rough, Lisa Jamieson, said strong community backing would be essential for the service to succeed.
“This is just wonderful to have so much support from our community and local businesses here,” she said.
“We’re still going to need ongoing support and we definitely need volunteers but we’re going to give it 100 per cent to help those who need it.”
Dave Fisher from Gardian said he was proud to be involved in the community effort.
“Having to be part of a community movement to raise money and to be aware of what is a real issue… I’m just really happy to support that really important initiative,” he said.
Fallon Drewett from The Just Saying Project said conversations with her family motivated her to get involved.
“It’s about awareness. If we don’t tell the stories of people, the most vulnerable people in our community, how else are we going to improve that?” she said.
Organisers thanked the Mackay West Rotary group for cooking breakfast and Harrup Park for supplying dinner, along with the many community members who donated to support the cause.
Eleven Mackay community leaders slept rough during the inaugural Bosses on Buses event, raising more than $21,300 to help operationalise Safe Sleep Buses supporting people experiencing homelessness. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
On Monday 30th March, the Whitsunday Regional Council hosted the opening of the Daydream Island Guest Lounge at Whitsunday Coast Airport. Members of the Whitsunday Regional Council, Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry were present. This marks an exciting opportunity for the airport.
Whitsunday Regional Mayor Ry Collins said the initiative highlights the important role Whitsunday Coast Airport plays in supporting the region’s visitor economy.
“Whitsunday Coast Airport is the front door to the Whitsunday Islands, and initiatives like this help ensure the experience for visitors arriving in our region reflects the premium destination we are proud to offer,” Mayor Collins said.
Director of Commercial Business Craig Turner said the partnership demonstrates the airport’s growing collaboration with tourism operators and airlines to create a more connected visitor experience.
“Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to evolve as a key gateway to the islands, and working with tourism partners like Daydream Island Resort helps create a seamless journey for visitors from aircraft to island,” Mr Turner said.
These improvements further position Whitsunday Coast Airport as a high-quality regional gateway and support the continued growth of the Whitsundays as one of Australia’s most iconic tourism destinations.
The Proserpine RV Rest Stop officially reopened on Tuesday 31st March, delivering a timely boost for local tourism and business. Mayor Ry Collins, Deputy Mayor John Finlay and Councillors John Collins and Jan Clifford marked the milestone at a 10am opening.
Located behind St Catherine’s Church on Main Street, the free 48-hour stopover is now welcoming fully self-contained vehicles for the dry season (April to November), reinforcing Proserpine’s role as a key gateway to the Whitsundays.
Mayor Ry Collins said the reopening delivers on Council’s commitment to supporting local business and driving regional tourism.
“This is a great outcome for Proserpine and for the broader Whitsundays,” Mayor Collins said.
“We know this site delivers real economic benefit, bringing travellers into town to support our local shops, cafes and service providers. It’s a simple initiative that encourages visitors to stop, stay a little longer and experience what Proserpine has to offer.”
Division 3 Councillor John Collins said the reopening reflects strong community support and Council’s united backing of the project.
“The community has been clear that this rest stop works, and it’s fantastic to see it officially open again today,” Cr Collins said.
“This is a win for local businesses, tourism operators and the many volunteers who help make Proserpine such a welcoming place.
“It’s about creating opportunities for our town and making sure we continue to capture the benefits of travellers passing through our region.”
Economic modelling indicates the rest stop could inject between $860,000 and $1.7 million annually into the Proserpine economy through visitor spending on local goods and services.
The site will operate seasonally each year, with minor upgrades and improved signage completed ahead of reopening to support a positive visitor experience while managing maintenance requirements during the wet season.
Captions
Mayor Ry Collins, Deputy Mayor John Finlay, Cr John Collins and Cr Jan Clifford at the re-opening
Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Despite a series of delays due to inclement weather, the Proserpine RSL was finally able to host its International Women’s Day celebration on March 28th. The event was supported by the Proserpine Lion’s Club, the Whitsunday Leos Club and State Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm.
Over 100 women attended, raising much-needed funds for Meals On Wheels and The Food Bank. Speakers included 13- year-old Savannah, Leo’s President Daphne, Donna Rodgers and Jan Clifford. Over 45 prizes were handed out, including a beautiful door prize provided by Ms Camm.
“A huge thank you to Lyn Burke, the Proserpine Lions and Leo’s, as well as the RSL for delivering a wonderful International Women’s Day event for our community”, Ms Camm said.
Captions
Photo source: Facebook
Whitsunday Regional Council has taken a strategic step forward with the launch of Whitsunday Event Centres, bringing together three of the region’s leading venues under one unified platform.
The initiative connects the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and Flagstaff Hill Convention Centre, positioning the Whitsundays as a competitive destination for conferences, corporate events and major celebrations.
Rather than a simple rebrand, the program is designed to actively take the region to market through industry networks, trade events and business tourism channels. Led by Council’s Commercial Business Directorate, the approach aims to secure new events that drive visitation beyond peak tourism periods.
Mayor Ry Collins said the launch reflects a deliberate focus on economic growth.
“This is not just about a new logo, it is about how we actively take our region to market and create real opportunities for local businesses,” Mayor Collins said.
By presenting the venues under one coordinated identity, Council is offering event organisers a clearer, more professional pathway to host events in the region. An integrated online booking system further streamlines the process, allowing users to explore venues, review layouts and submit enquiries with ease.
The move is expected to support local accommodation providers, hospitality venues and suppliers, while strengthening the Whitsundays’ reputation as a destination capable of delivering high-quality events year-round.
Event organisers and businesses can explore the new platform at www.whitsundayeventcentres.com.au.
Captions
Photo supplied
News this week that the Government has cut the fuel levy by half for the next three months provides welcome relief to motorists ahead of the Easter long weekend.
The reduction kicked in this Wednesday and is expected to filter through to fuel stations quickly, reducing the price of fuel on average by 26 cents per litre.
In addition, the heavy vehicle road user charge will also be reduced to zero, a welcome move that will make logistical transport more affordable and help regional communities get their commodities moving again.
The measures will cost taxpayers $2.55 billion and are expected to reduce the price of a 65-litre tank of petrol by $19.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said that he has been fighting hard for the region.
"We have heard you loud and clear,” Mr Willcox said.
“My office has been flooded with emails, my Facebook page has been filled with your comments, and I have seen the stress on the faces of families at the bowser across Dawson.”
He does, however, add that the battle is still not won, as the relief needs to be seen at the bowser.
"We remember what happened during the COVID-era excise reduction; the relief was not always fully passed on to the consumer. We cannot allow that to happen again. The task now is to ensure this 26-cent saving is felt immediately at the pumps,” he said.
Caption: The price at the pump has been reduced by 26 cents a litre as of this Wednesday. Photo Victoria Velton
Kids across the region have been carefully crafting their Easter bonnets, and enjoying Easter parades and festive end-of-term fun. Classrooms have been filled with colour, creativity and plenty of laughter as students celebrated the renewal and fun that Easter brings.
From floppy bunny ears to grazing pom-pom sheep, each bonnet was a unique reflection of the personality and creativity of the little ones who wore them proudly during their schools’ Easter parades.
As Term 1 wraps up, these celebrations provide a joyful send-off into the Easter break, with families across the Whitsundays looking forward to a well-earned holiday filled with relaxation, adventures, and cherished time together.
Mackay is set to make history as the first Australian city to host the global blockbuster Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, a world-renowned celebration of 100 years of storytelling.
Previously showcased in major international cities including Munich, London, Chicago, Seoul, Paris and Madrid, the exhibition will arrive in Mackay on December 4th and run for five months at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.
The immersive exhibition will feature rare artefacts from The Walt Disney Company, iconic costumes, behind the scenes insights and interactive displays that trace a century of beloved characters and films.
Mayor Greg Williamson of Mackay Regional Council said the announcement marked a landmark moment for the region.
“This is a magical day for Mackay, for Queensland and for Australia,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Mackay will be the first city in Australia to host Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic. The exhibition will open on December 4 and run for five months.
“It has travelled to major cities around the world, including Philadelphia, Paris, London and Madrid, and now it is coming to Mackay.”
Mayor Williamson said securing the exhibition was the result of a strategic pitch by the council’s events team, and would help place Mackay firmly on the international tourism map.
“We are expecting at least 100,000 visitors over the five months,” he said.
“This is about introducing Mackay to the world and giving people the Disney experience they have been waiting for.”
Mayor Williamson said he hoped the announcement would spark curiosity across the country.
“I hope people in cities like Melbourne and Sydney are asking, ‘why Mackay’,” he said.
“The answer to that is simple. Come and see it for yourself and you will understand why it’s here.”
The exhibition will be staged at the MECC, with international crews working alongside local staff to deliver the event.
“Our team at the MECC is ready to deliver a world class event at a world class entertainment centre,” Mayor Williamson said.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the announcement represented a major milestone for the city and the state.
“This is a wonderful and exciting moment for our region,” Mr Dalton said.
“From December through to May, Mackay will become the centre of Disney in Australia,” he said.
“That means increased visitors, more activity for local businesses and a boost for cafes, accommodation providers and tourism operators.”
He said the event aligned with Queensland’s vision of strengthening its major events calendar.
“We are incredibly excited about the magic that will unfold here in Mackay,” he said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for locals, for Queenslanders and for visitors from across Australia and overseas to experience something truly special.”
With tens of thousands of Disney fans expected to travel to the region, the exhibition is poised to deliver a magical boost to tourism, business and community pride while placing Mackay firmly in the global spotlight.
A simple act of service is leaving a lasting imprint on patients at Mater Private Hospital Mackay, where 80-year-old Alison Fenech has quietly transformed her time, talent and compassion into something extraordinary.
Since July 2025, Ms Fenech has sewn an astonishing 562 tote bags by hand, repurposing surgical equipment packaging that would otherwise go to waste. What was once discarded is now reimagined into sturdy, reusable bags, placed into the hands of patients during some of their most vulnerable moments.
Hospital representatives highlighted the significance of her contribution, stating, “These bags aren’t just sustainable and practical… they’re a beautiful reminder of the kindness, talent and generosity of volunteers like Alison.”
Each bag carries more than belongings. It carries care and a sense of connection that extends beyond the clinical setting.
For Ms Fenech, the journey began with a desire to find purpose in her time. Speaking candidly about her motivation, she said, “I was aware of having too much free time and how that could lead to depression, so checked out a couple of other options but didn’t settle to them.
“I am happy to work on my own in my own time at my own speed and this suited me perfectly.”
That decision has grown into a deeply meaningful contribution to the hospital community. Working independently and at her own pace, she has dedicated countless hours to carefully crafting each bag, ensuring they are both practical and made to last.
The initiative has also drawn heartfelt appreciation from the hospital, which shared, “Thank you, Alison, for making a meaningful difference to our patients and our community.”
Many have praised Ms Fenech, calling her work “brilliant”, a reflection of both her skill and her quiet determination.
One community member said, “That’s amazing Alison, such beautiful work from a beautiful person.”
An 80-year-old Mackay woman has sewn more than 560 reusable bags from discarded hospital materials, offering comfort and care to patients during vulnerable moments.
Specialists put the focus on endometriosis and pelvic pain this week for EndoMarch, an awareness campaign bringing attention to the often-overlooked condition endometriosis, which according to studies affects approximately 1 in 7 Australian women.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service hosted an EndoMarch information evening on Tuesday 24th to raise awareness and understanding of the condition.
The event was led by Mackay HHS specialist clinicians and was supported by local women sharing their personal stories of living with endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain.
Obstetrics & gynaecology specialist Dr Wojciech Szubert began the evening with an overview of the disease and an update on the work going on at Mackay Base Hospital to improve treatment and care options.
“Endometriosis is a chronic disease affecting women and girls,” Dr Szubert said.
“It is associated with pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, painful urination or defecation, heavy and painful periods, and infertility.
“It can have a significant impact on women’s health and lives, and it has been estimated that it can take six years to get a confirmed diagnosis.
“At this event, we want to provide an update on the work we are doing to improve treatment options.
“We will also have presentations from women who have been brave enough to step forward and share their own personal stories of living with endometriosis.”
Other presenters included director of psychology Rachel Bega who spoke on the role of the psychologist in the management of these conditions, and director of nursing and midwifery Susan Sweeney who shared future plans to advance treatment and care.
It was a relaxed and informal event that gave opportunity for those attending to ask any questions they have about endometriosis and treatment options.
Regarding the event, one local said: “My daughter suffers Endo and also has Andomentriosis which is rare and not many know about it. Glad to see you’re doing this.”
Another expressed frustration surrounding long waitlists for treatment for the condition, appealing for improvement in women’s healthcare across the region.
In 2024, Mackay Hospital and Health Service received new imaging technology that boosted diagnosis and treatment for local women, removing the need for surgery confirm presence for endometriosis.
Following the innovation, the team has been committed to continuing to champion women’s health services and improve treatment options and timelines for women across Mackay.
Drew McGilchrist
Sales Agronomist, Wilmar AgServices
Soil testing has become one of the most valuable tools available to modern agriculture because it enables farmers to make better decisions around crop management.
Soil sampling provides a clear picture of nutrient availability, soil condition and emerging constraints.
With this information, growers can optimise their fertiliser management plan to target specific deficiencies, improving crop performance while avoiding inputs that deliver little return.
In many cases, this leads to more efficient fertiliser use and reduced costs through the removal of unnecessary nutrient applications.
Another key advantage of soil testing is the ability to move away from a one-size-fits-all approach. Results are specific to individual paddocks, so you can design a management plan specific to your farm and local conditions.
Soil sampling also plays an important role in managing soil health over time. Regular testing allows growers to track changes, identify trends and respond early to issues that may affect productivity in future seasons.
Just as importantly, laboratory-based results are a reliable foundation for making sensible decisions about farm management, rather than the status quo of historical fertiliser application.
Finally, soil testing helps ensure your nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium budgets are aligned with current regulations.
Wilmar AgServices offers a soil sampling service for selected paddocks, with a fee applied to cover the soil analysis. Results are provided in a timely manner, highlighting any deficiencies and potential solutions for your farm management.
Agronomy staff can provide additional advice and recommendations on fertiliser selection, as well as costing and application rates.
Contact us on 1800 881 957 to find out more.
Wilmar AgServices Sales Agronomist Drew McGilchrist can provide a soil testing service,
enabling growers to make more informed decisions about their fertiliser management plan.
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
CANEGROWERS’ centenary celebrations continue to roll on and, over the past couple of weeks, all roads have led to our wonderful central region of Mackay.
Mackay is, of course, the birthplace of CANEGROWERS. It was here, on 21 January 1926, that the organisation was formed and first met at Mackay Boys' School. Over the past century, the industry has faced many challenges and seen significant advancements. Through it all, the organisation has evolved alongside these changes to ensure its heart and soul – its members – are represented as strongly as possible.
For the first time in almost a decade, the CANEGROWERS Policy Council gathered in Mackay for one of its three annual meetings. The Council includes representatives from all Queensland sugarcane-growing districts, with one representative per mill area. To put that into perspective, Mackay has four representatives advocating for growers supplying the Plane Creek, Racecourse, Farleigh and Marian mills.
The meetings also bring together district managers and staff from across the state, creating a real mix of views and discussion. The primary role of the Policy Council is exactly what the name suggests – to set the policies that guide the organisation. Key topics this time included environmental policy, trade, transport, the future of harvesting, and water and electricity. Navigating fuel and fertiliser supply chains following the conflict in the Middle East has also quickly moved up the priority list.
On the final night of the Policy Council, the centenary gala dinner was held at the Mackay Turf Club. Policy Council members and visiting staff joined a sold-out crowd of 240 guests, including business partners and industry representatives.
CANEGROWERS Mackay would also like to thank Glenn Kelly, Member for Mirani, along with several Mackay Regional Councillors, for attending. A special thank you goes to all our sponsors – their support helped make the evening a memorable one.
The event was MC’d by Meecham Philpot, with music from Mackay’s own Mango Junction and a special appearance by Nikki Vella Power, well known locally and the daughter of a cane-farming family. Guests also heard an inspiring address from CANEGROWERS Chairman and World Beet and Sugarcane Growers Chairman Owen Menkens, along with some entertaining reflections from former CANEGROWERS and CANEGROWERS Mackay Chairman Paul Schembri, who shared a few of the lighter moments he’s seen over the past 40 years.
Most importantly, the night provided a chance to reflect on the past, consider the present, and look ahead to the future of our historic and ever-evolving industry.
All the best.
Burn Ashburner, Matt Kealley, Justin Blair, Chris Gillitt, Glenn Clarke, Sam Orr and Brendon Nothard
FAR - Former Queensland and Mackay Canegrowers Chairman, Paul Schembrii. Photo credit: Michaela Harlow
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
