Budget Shifts: A Turning Point for Property, Tax and Family Wealth

Every so often, a Federal Budget signals more than minor adjustments. The 2026 Budget is one of those.

With proposed changes to negative gearing, capital gains tax (CGT), and discretionary family trusts, the Government has targeted three of the most common strategies Australians use to build wealth.

For many locals this is not just a policy update. It’s a shift that could influence decisions for years to come.

Negative Gearing – A Narrower Approach

Negative gearing has long supported property investors by allowing rental losses to reduce taxable income from other sources. That is now being scaled back.

From 1st July 2027, negative gearing will largely be limited to newly built properties, with existing investments continuing under current rules. New purchases of established properties will still allow deductions, but those losses can no longer offset salary income and instead must be carried forward to offset future property income or gains.

The intention is to direct investment toward new housing supply and improve opportunities for first-home buyers.  

However, investors may become more selective, development demand could increase, and the property market may begin to split between those operating under old and new rules.

Capital Gains Tax – A Structural Shift

Alongside this sits a significant change to capital gains tax.

The long-standing 50% CGT discount is proposed to be replaced with inflation indexation, along with a minimum 30% tax rate on gains from 1st July 2027. Rather than applying a blanket discount, the system will focus on taxing gains above inflation, while ensuring a base level of tax is still paid.

While the concept sounds straightforward, the implications are broader. Investment strategies may need to be reassessed. Importantly, gains accumulated before the change are expected to be protected, which may lead to increased planning and restructuring ahead of implementation.

Family Trusts – Reduced Flexibility

The third key change involves discretionary (family) trusts.

From 1st July 2028, a minimum 30% tax rate is proposed on trust income, regardless of how it is distributed. Historically, trusts have allowed income to be distributed across different tax brackets. Under the new rules, that benefit is significantly reduced.

A Shift in Direction

Taken together, these measures reflect a broader shift.

The system is moving towards more consistent taxation of capital, while easing reliance on concessions that have historically favoured investors. The goals—improving housing affordability and fairness—are clear. However, the outcome will ultimately depend on how markets and individuals respond.

What Should You Do?

At this stage, remember these proposals are not yet law.

For now, the focus should be on awareness, not reaction:

• Understand your current structures

• Be mindful of how future investments may be treated

• Review whether your strategy remains appropriate & seek advice before making major decisions

Final Thoughts

Tax rules evolve, and this Budget marks a clear pivot. For some, that will create opportunity. For others, it may require adjustment.

Either way, those who understand the changes early are best placed to respond.

If you’d like an obligation free review of your financial situation, call us for an appointment today.

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On the 13 June I was privileged to be a Guest Speaker along with the remarkable McQuility ‘’Coco’’ Quirke a veteran of many overseas tours to unspeakable War zones. We told our stories at the WHITSUNDAY SUICIDE PREVENTION NETWORK Annual Fundraiser Legends night in Bowen.  

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We both shared our powerful and inspiring messages of ‘’Hope’’ to all those in attendance, encouraging that everyone can recover from ‘’dark days’’ on the journey to physical and mental stability if they reach out and seek help. Both our stories of overcoming diversity, courage, thinking positive, being proactive and not giving up were meant to motivate our guests. By the cheers and claps we both succeeded and at the same time felt humbled!  

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This premier event arranged by the amazing Jen Lowcock of award winning Lowcock Builder exceeded all expectations. Jen’s meticulous planning, marketing and seamless execution was absolutely amazing. There were hours of planning and preparation, what a talent! The work that was put in by Jen and her team for this Gala Event was just incredible. In attendance were the WHO’s WHO of our Region. Ron Peterson the Manager of Wesley LifeForce Suicide Prevention Networks and founding President and Chairman of WSPN was in attendance with his Team from interstate.  

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The remarkable Event was held at the phenomenal venue 360 on the Hill in Bowen, just incredible! The décor was AMAZING, black/white/gold was just stunning. The food and catering was to die for!

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The number of local & regional sponsors for the event was just outstanding! Their generosity covered the categories from Bronze to Platinum. There were 33 in total, the result of some remarkable work of Jen Lowcock. The Event arranged a number of ‘’live auction’’ prizes donated by many local businesses, truly remarkable! All the proceeds to this non for profit community led network.

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All guests had the opportunity to wind down later in the night with live music from Zed Charles and the Band. Many on the dance floor showed rhythm, fluidity and polish. The President of WSPN, Matt Stokes had his dancing shoes on following a standout performance as MC for the night. The recipient of the Whitsunday Regional Council 2025 ‘’Citizen of the Year’’, Matt has dedicated the past decade supporting our community through his work with WSPN. His tireless advocacy for mental health, mentoring of young people and commitment to creating a stronger, more connected community have inspired us all! The community is indebted to this man as he balances a huge and diverse workload. In charge of Plants Whitsunday, he juggles a busy timetable around fitting in time to spend time with his beautiful family, I am so proud to call him a ‘’great friend’’  

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The words of encouragement from myself and McQuility were meant to inspire and the funds raised will greatly support this important cause. Being retired, I am happy to volunteer my time to any employer, sport group or school to speak and provide inspiring stories.

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Feel free to contact Michael Kimpton

0417 717 818

mkmotivationalspeaker@gmail.com

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Last week Council adopted the 2026/27 Whitsunday Regional Council Budget.

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I know most people don't spend their time reading budget papers or financial statements. What they want to know is simple – what's happening to my rates, what am I getting for it, and is Council spending my money wisely?

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They're fair questions, and they were front of mind for Councillors throughout this year's budget process.

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Over the past two years, we've spent a lot of time taking a hard look at the Council's finances. We had identified some challenges that had been building in previous terms of government, including a large deficit in the Council's General Fund. Rather than kicking the can down the road, this Council made a conscious decision to tackle those issues head on.

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It was time to tighten the belt. Before considering any rate increase, Councillors directed management to look inward first. We challenged spending, reviewed services, identified efficiencies and looked for ways to do things better. Costs are rising steeply with high inflation and Like every household and business across the Whitsundays, Council has had to take a close look at where money is being spent and make savings where we can.

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It hasn't been easy but in a relatively short period of time, Council has reduced its General Fund deficit from around $12 million to approximately $3 million. There is still more work to do, but it is a significant step towards building a financially stronger and more sustainable organisation.

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At the same time, we can't lose sight of the fact that the Whitsundays is one of Queensland's fastest-growing regional communities. More people are choosing to live here, more businesses are investing here and that means continued demand for roads, water, sewerage, parks, community facilities and essential services.

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This year's budget invests more than $100 million in infrastructure and services across our region, including roads, footpaths, water and sewerage infrastructure, waste services, parks, pools, libraries and community programs.

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Importantly, we've adopted an average general rate increase of four per cent across all categories, ensuring a fair and balanced approach across residential, business, rural, tourism, mining and island communities.

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If I was to describe this Council's journey so far, I would say our first year was about understanding, our second year was about reform, and this year is about delivery.

Our community expects results, and that's exactly what we're focused on delivering as we continue building a stronger future for the Whitsundays.

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry congratulates local manufacturer Scallywag Fabrication on successfully securing funding through the Queensland Government’s Business Growth Fund program. 

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The funding will support the continued rollout of advanced manufacturing technology within Scallywag Fabrication’s growing Proserpine facility, helping increase local manufacturing capacity, improve production capability, create future employment opportunities and strengthen advanced manufacturing in the Whitsundays region.

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The project includes additional high-end aluminium welding systems and specialised fabrication infrastructure to help the business improve efficiency, increase output, further upskill staff and continue delivering Australian-made products from the region.

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Founded by Jason Weir and Jannah Baker, Scallywag Fabrication has become well known for its innovative approach to aluminium fabrication, manufacturing Ute trays, canopies and 4WD accessories for customers across Australia. The business has also gained recognition for championing advanced technology, regional manufacturing, and workforce development opportunities within the Whitsundays.

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Jannah said many businesses think grants are all about being good at writing, but in reality, most of the hard work happens long before an application is submitted.

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“I’m really passionate about helping more businesses understand that grants are actually achievable, especially in regional areas where many businesses don’t apply simply because they think they won’t be successful,” she said.

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“With AI now available, grant writing itself has become far more accessible for someone that doesn’t consider themselves a good formal writer. The hard part isn’t necessarily writing the application anymore; it’s the strategic thinking, planning, positioning, and groundwork that needs to happen well before a grant opens.”

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When asked what she believes contributes to successful grant applications, Jannah shared the following practical insights:

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• You need a project that already fits the grant. Trying to jam a random idea into a funding program usually doesn’t work.

• Government care about their outcomes first. You need to clearly explain what they get out of funding you — jobs, regional growth, apprenticeships, innovation, exports, productivity or community impact.

• You need proof you’re already doing good things. Be involved in your local Chamber, nominate for awards, invest in future technology and support your local community. 

• You need your Business Plan and numbers ready before grants open. You can’t throw together proper forecasts and strategy in two weeks because you suddenly saw a grant online.

• Connections and visibility genuinely matter. Attend workshops, webinars and Government programs. Ask questions. Businesses that consistently show up become familiar names.

• Don’t undersell your project. Grant assessors are funding future potential, so if your project could create jobs, increase output or expand into new markets, say it clearly and confidently.

• Passion matters more than people realise. Businesses genuinely excited about what they’re building usually write far stronger applications than businesses simply chasing funding.

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“The strongest applications usually come from people who deeply believe in what they’re building, because that passion naturally comes through in the application.”

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The Chamber acknowledges Scallywag Fabrication’s ongoing contribution to regional manufacturing, innovation and local employment pathways, and looks forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have on the Whitsundays business community.

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Beach expert Brad Farmer with Mayor Ry Collins

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Beach expert and conservationist Brad Farmer has spent more than four decades assessing Australia's coastline, but on his latest visit to the Whitsundays, he wasn't focused solely on the region's most famous stretch of sand, Whitehaven.

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Instead, the Tourism Australia Beach Ambassador set out to explore lesser-known beaches across the mainland and islands, asking local figures such as Tourism Whitsunday Chairperson Katelyn Aslett and Mayor Ry Collins, in search for destinations that also capture the great Australian beach experience.  

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“70% of international tourist arrivals in Australia are seeking a beach, aquatic or coastal experience and that leads them to places like Bondi, Gold Coast, South East Queensland and Whitehaven,” Brad said.  

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“But they have become almost overexposed or overloved.  

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“I would personally like to see a greater diversity of product offerings."  

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During his visit, Brad explored several beaches across the Whitsundays, including Gloucester Beach, Hideaway Bay, Dingo Beach and Honeymoon Beach on Haslewood Island. While Whitehaven remains the region's best-known destination, he said these number of lesser-known locations deserved greater attention from visitors.

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“Airlie Beach in Whitsundays is synonymous with Whitehaven,” Brad said.

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“But like everywhere, if you point people in the right direction, they're going to find out-of-the-box places around the area.”

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Farmers criteria for rating a beach is an extensive 130 points but they can really be boiled down to three. Affordable, accessible and authentically Australian.  

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He stressed the importance of balancing tourism growth with environmental protection, warning that the natural beauty attracting visitors today cannot be taken for granted, as he mentions with our Asian counterparts.  

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“In places like Bali and Thailand, the over-commercialisation of a site is not a desirable thing,” Brad said.  

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“People are increasingly looking for green as our gold.

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"Environmental protection and tourism guardianship, stewardship must go hand in hand.”  

Earlier this month, Tourism Whitsundays, along with 14 of its members, took The Whitsundays East Coast Roadshow to Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, connecting with the travel agents and trade partners who promote and sell Whitsundays holidays to travellers across the country. 

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In Brisbane, operators gathered at Lina Rooftop to share what's new and what's next for the region. Sydney's Ivy Sunroom followed, before the roadshow wrapped up at The Boatbuilders Yard in South Wharf, Melbourne. 

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Tourism Whitsundays said that at each stop, members were outstanding ambassadors for the destination, bringing genuine enthusiasm for The Whitsundays and showcasing the strength and diversity of their products.  

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Through face-to-face conversations and product updates, almost 300 agents left the events better equipped to recommend The Whitsundays with confidence. 

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Alongside the networking events, the group also met with Tourism Australia and Tourism and Events Queensland to share the latest developments across the region and updates on attending operators' products.  

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“Keeping our state and national tourism bodies informed ensures The Whitsundays continues to be well represented in key domestic and international markets.”

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“A huge thank you to sponsors Palm Bay Resort, Hamilton Island and Whitsunday Coast Airport for making it all possible. And to our 14 members who made the trip south and represented our region so well: thank you for making the week such a great one.” 

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Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays   

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Whitsunday Coast Airport's new Kerbside Assistance Service will commence on 29th June as part of a three-month trial. Photo Source: Whitsunday Regional Council

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Travellers requiring additional assistance at Whitsunday Coast Airport will soon have access to a new support service designed to make their journey through the airport easier.

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A new Kerbside Assistance Service is set to commence on 29th June as part of a three-month trial that will provide pre-booked assistance from the airport car park or designated drop-off areas through to the terminal check-in area.

The initiative is part of a broader goal of making the airport a more enjoyable, easier and safer experience for all travellers. This will include several new accessibility improvements also being introduced, including dedicated spaces at baggage claim and reserved priority seating at boarding gates.

"Whitsunday Coast Airport has experienced extraordinary growth over recent years, with passenger numbers reaching record levels and more people than ever choosing to travel through our region," Mayor Collins said.

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"As our airport continues to grow, so too does our responsibility to ensure every passenger enjoys a positive experience from the moment they arrive.

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"We want every visitor and resident to feel confident, comfortable and cared for when travelling through Whitsunday Coast Airport."

Director Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said accessibility and customer service were becoming increasingly important considerations for airports across Australia.

"Passenger expectations continue to evolve and accessibility is now a critical part of delivering a modern airport experience," Mr Turner said.

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"This pilot program has been developed to provide practical assistance for passengers who may benefit from a little extra support between their vehicle and the terminal.

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"Importantly, this service complements the assistance already available through airlines and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement across all aspects of the passenger journey.

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"We've taken inspiration from leading airports around the country and tailored a solution that suits the needs of our community while remaining practical and sustainable for a regional airport."

Mr Turner said the airport would monitor demand, passenger feedback and operational performance throughout the three-month trial period.

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"Whether it's new airline routes, terminal upgrades or improved passenger services, our focus remains on ensuring Whitsunday Coast Airport delivers an exceptional experience for every traveller,” Mr Turner said.  

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The Kerbside Assistance Service will operate Monday to Friday from 8:00am to 4:00pm (excluding public holidays) and must be booked at least 72 hours in advance.

Airport staff can provide luggage trolleys, wheelchairs and general assistance to the terminal check-in area. The service does not replace airline assistance and airport staff are not trained carers or medical support personnel. Full terms and conditions apply.

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Passengers can make a booking by emailing wca@wrc.qld.gov.au

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Makayla Groves and Bianca O'Brien are part of the commercial property team at Blacks Real Estate, supporting landlords, tenants and business owners across the Mackay region.

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Working as Commercial Property Managers, Makayla and Bianca assist with the day-to-day management of commercial properties, helping clients navigate leasing and property management requirements across retail, office and industrial spaces.

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Based at the agency’s Wood Street office, the pair work closely with business clients throughout the region as part of Blacks Real Estate’s commercial division.

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Makayla Groves can be contacted on 07 4963 2522, while Bianca O’Brien can be contacted on 07 4963 2525.

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Major upgrades at Gooseponds Park, including a new pedestrian bridge, widened shared pathway, fencing and tree planting, are set to improve access and connectivity, with works expected to run from mid-June to late September. Illustrative image supplied.

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Visitors to Gooseponds Park can expect improved access and connectivity, with major upgrade works set to begin on a replacement pedestrian bridge, new fencing and a renewed shared pathway.

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The project, to be delivered by D&M Composites Pty Ltd, will include replacing the existing footpath between Valley and Hicks streets with a widened 2.5-metre shared pathway, enhancing links to the popular Gooseponds circuit.

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the project is another example of the Queensland Government delivering for the state and supporting important upgrades for the community.

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“That’s why we made Works for Queensland funding permanent, to back local councils with the funding they need to deliver vital projects like this for their communities.”

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A new bridge, parallel to Malcomson Street, will be constructed one-metre higher than the existing bridge to provide increased flood immunity.

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The existing bridge will remain in place while the new one is constructed directly behind it. Some short traffic delays are expected on Malcomson Street. Traffic control will be in place.

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Pedestrians can detour via Glenpark and Meadow streets while the work is completed.

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New fencing will be installed and 23 new trees will be planted along Hicks Street.

Work is due to take place between mid-June and late September, weather permitting.

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Mackay Regional Council have said they apologise for any inconvenience caused by the works and appreciate the community’s patience and understanding.

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Jointly funded by Mackay Regional Council and the Queensland Government. For more information visit www.connectingmackay.gooseponds-park-upgrades

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Bruce Highway upgrades at Bakers Creek and Sarina will boost safety and strengthen a key transport link for Central Queensland motorists. Photo supplied

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Improved safety, stronger infrastructure and greater resilience are on the horizon for motorists travelling between Mackay and Sarina, with the latest round of Bruce Highway upgrades welcomed as a significant investment in the region's transport network.

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Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly, said the upgrades form part of the historic $9 billion Bruce Highway funding agreement between the Queensland and Federal governments and will deliver lasting benefits for road users across Central Queensland.

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Mr Kelly said the Bruce Highway remains one of the most vital transport routes within the Mirani electorate, supporting thousands of vehicle movements each day, including freight transport, daily commuters, tourists, school buses and emergency services.

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“Roads are consistently the number one issue raised with me by local residents, and that's not surprising when the Mirani electorate contains over 400 kilometres of the Bruce Highway stretching from the Mackay city gates right through to Raglan Creek,” Mr Kellysaid.

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“These upgrades are about improving safety, reducing road trauma and ensuring Queenslanders can get where they need to go safely and reliably.”

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Mr Kelly highlighted the importance of the Mackay to Sarina section of the Bruce Highway, particularly its role in connecting local communities, industry and freight movements throughout the district.

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“The Mackay to Sarina corridor is one of the busiest sections of highway in regional Queensland. It supports our agricultural sector, our mining industry via the Port of Hay Point, and the thousands of people who travel this route every week for work and familycommitments.”

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“That's why it is fantastic to see significant investment being directed towards projects such as pavement strengthening at both the northern and southern entrances to Sarina, along with ongoing works at Bakers Creek.”

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Works at Bakers Creek include bridge resurfacing and repairs to expansion joints, helping improve skid resistance and road performance during wet weather.

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Mr Kelly said, “Many locals were concerned about the significant deformation that had developed in the road surface at Spider Creek.  

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“The upgrades delivered there, including road widening, wide centre-line treatments and audio tactile line marking, will provide a much safer journey for motorists.”

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While the investment is a welcome boost for the region, Mr Kelly acknowledged that additional improvements are still required.

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“For too long, Queenslanders have had to accepted that travelling on the Bruce Highway means dealing with potholes, narrow sections and safety concerns.”

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“These upgrades are a major step forward, but nobody is pretending the job is finished.”

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“We will continue advocating for further investment because regional Queensland deserves a Bruce Highway that is safe, resilient and fit for the growing freight and passenger task it carries every day.”

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“Every upgrade matters. Whether it's a major highway project, a bridge repair or pavement strengthening, these investments help keep people safe and keep our regional economy moving.”

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For more information on the Bruce Highway Targeted Safety Program and Bruce Highway Upgrade Program projects, visit www.yoursay-projects.tmr.qld.gov.au/bruce-highway-priority-projects

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The Sugar Industry Code of Conduct protects growers’ ability to choose who markets their Grower Economic Interest sugar. Photo supplied

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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A decade ago, Queensland Canegrowers was in the throes of a fierce defence of growers’ right to choice of sugar marketer. Now, the industry has been called to consider the future of the Code of Conduct that emerged from that industry debate.

Growers retain an interest in the sugar produced from their sugarcane, and in the 2010’s, the industry moved away from a single desk marketer model with new marketers emerging.  Some industry players wanted growers to market only through their miller.

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The situation was resolved through good support from some key politicians of the day – and particularly the then member for Dawson George Christensen – and through some strong and important industry tools including the 2015 “Real Marketing Choice” amendments to Queensland  Sugar Industry Act, then at a Federal level in 2017 with the introduction of the Sugar Industry Code of Conduct.

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The Code of Conduct requires parties to negotiate in good faith, and protects growers’ ability to choose who markets their Grower Economic Interest sugar, and provides access to pre-contract arbitration if negotiations break down.  

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This week, submissions closed in the review of the Code of Conduct, with the Australian Government to consider these and consider whether the Code be allowed to sunset as scheduled on 1 October 2027, or be retained as is, or with changes made.

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CANEGROWERS is committed to the Code being retained in its current form.

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In our view, the current Code continues to provide an essential and balanced framework that promotes fair dealing, transparency and workable commercial discipline across the sugar supply chain. The review is intended to examine whether the Code is meeting industry needs and objectives.  

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The Australian Government has described the Code as supporting fairness and transparency in commercial arrangements, and that objective remains as important today as when the Code was introduced in 2017.  

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The underlying market conditions that justified its introduction have not disappeared. In most cane-growing regions, growers cannot simply switch counterparties if negotiations fail. Cane is perishable, harvest windows are tight, and freight economics limit alternatives.  

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In that setting, the Code performs an important public policy function by establishing minimum rules of conduct and a framework for resolving bargaining impasses. Those protections are not redundant; they are fundamental to a fair negotiating environment.  

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Importantly, the current Code is not an excessive or unworkable intervention. It does not remove commercial risk, guarantee outcomes, or prevent parties from pursuing their legitimate commercial interests. Rather, it sets baseline expectations for conduct, transparency and process in circumstances where bargaining power is uneven. In our experience, that balance remains appropriate.  

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The Code provides a disciplined structure for negotiation while still allowing commercial parties to reach outcomes that reflect local conditions and business realities.  

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It is critical that the Federal Government upholds this important industry tool, allowing us to retain the Australian sugar industry’s good reputation as an equitable, stable player in global sugar trade.

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What began with a simple community pantry and Friday morning pies outside the George Street Centre has grown into one of the Mackay region’s leading examples of sustainability in action. Recognised for turning surplus food into community support while keeping waste out of landfill, The Neighbourhood Hub recently received the Best in Business – It’s Not Easy Being Green award at the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Awards on 29^th May 2026.

The Neighbourhood Hub General Manager Nicolette Ffrost said the recognition carries great significance, particularly for the volunteers who have underpinned the program’s success.

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“It means a great deal, because the work behind it is everyday work. Sorting, packing, collecting and carrying, week after week, almost entirely by our volunteers,” she said.

“This award belongs to them. The Program does not run without them, and seeing their work recognised at the Best in Business Awards was the best part of the night.”

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At the centre of The Neighbourhood Hub’s environmental achievement is a streamlined and highly effective Food Diversion Program, delivered in partnership with SecondBite, local supermarkets, schools and producers. The initiative redirects surplus food that would otherwise go to waste, ensuring it reaches families and individuals in need across the Mackay region instead.

Since 2020, more than 150 tonnes of food have been diverted from landfill, which is equivalent to over 200,000 loaves of bread, or approximately 1.25 million bananas. Using Foodbank’s social return on investment methodology, the program has delivered more than $6 million in community value back into the region.

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At The Neighbourhood Hub, environmental responsibility is not a standalone initiative, but an embedded part of daily operations.

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“For us it is not a separate project, it is built into how we operate. Food rescue happens five days a week across our two centres, and we have an Environmental Ambassador at each centre,” she said.

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“The two things go hand in hand naturally. Reducing waste and meeting community need turn out to be the same job.”

“The benefit runs both ways. Every tonne of food we divert stays out of landfill, and it also becomes a meal on a table for a family doing it tough,” Ms Ffrost said.

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“Our Mid-Week Meal brings people together over food that would otherwise have been wasted, so the same program is cutting waste, easing pressure on household budgets, and connecting people to each other and to support at the same time.”

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Looking ahead, The Neighbourhood Hub is focused on expanding the reach of its Food Diversion Program, strengthening partnerships and increasing the volume of food rescued across the region.  

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“We want to keep growing the Food Diversion Program: more partners, more food rescued, and more families reached,” Ms Ffrost said.

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From those humble beginnings, The Neighbourhood Hub’s Food Diversion Program has grown into a far-reaching initiative now supporting a steadily increasing number of families across the region.

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“The most rewarding part has been watching it come this far,” she said.

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For more information, visit tnhub.org.au

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For many families, the journey to senior schooling can feel overwhelming—but one upcoming event aims to make those important decisions clearer and more confident.

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St Patrick's College is inviting Year 10 students and their families to attend its Subject Selection Evening on Tuesday, 23 June, at the Senior Campus Hall on River Street. The event marks the final step before students select their Year 11 subjects for 2027 and is designed to help families make informed decisions about future study and career pathways.

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The interactive evening will provide students and parents with the opportunity to explore the College's wide range of senior subjects, speak directly with teaching staff and current students, and gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities available at the Senior Campus.

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College staff will be available throughout the evening to answer questions, explain subject requirements and help families navigate the subject selection process.

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The event follows the College's recent Senior Schooling Information Evening and builds on the message that there is no single pathway to success. Instead, students are encouraged to choose a program that aligns with their interests, strengths and aspirations.

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Families whose children remain uncertain about their Year 11 subject choices are encouraged to seek additional support from the College. Personalised guidance is available through the Careers Counsellor to help students identify the pathway best suited to their goals.

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Enrolments for 2027 Year 11 students at St Patrick’s College Senior Campus are now open.

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Alice Evans has been appointed as MADEC’s new Chief Executive Officer, bringing more than 20 years of leadership experience to the role. Photo supplied

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MADEC has announced the appointment of Alice Evans as its new Chief Executive Officer.

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Ms Evans brings more than two decades of executive leadership experience across the disability, youth, community and health sectors. She has held CEO and senior executive positions within statewide and national organisations and is recognised for her commitment to person-centred, rights-based practice, strong safeguarding and quality systems, workforce capability, and sustainable organisational growth.

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MADEC Chair, Patrick Wilsmore, said the Board was delighted to welcome Alice to the organisation.

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“Alice brings deep sector experience, strong values alignment and a proven record of leading organisations through growth, reform and transformation. Her commitment to dignity, inclusion and community connection reflects MADEC’s purpose and the expectations of the communities we serve.”

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Alice will work closely with outgoing CEO Jasmine Lowry and the Senior Leadership Team during her induction and was able to participate in MADEC’s recent strategic planning review.

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Alice said she was honoured to join MADEC at such an important time.

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“MADEC has a proud 50-year history in the Mackay and Whitsunday regions. I am looking forward to listening, learning and working alongside staff, clients, families and partners to build on this strong foundation and ensure MADEC continues to deliver safe, high-quality, person-centred services.”

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FIGHTING FOR THE NORTH: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP outside Parliament House in Canberra, condemning the Albanese Federal Government's plan to slash scalable disaster recovery funding for regional councils. Photo supplied

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Opinion Piece from Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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The Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has slammed the Albanese Government for an unacceptable ambush on regional communities, accusing the Commonwealth of abandoning disaster-prone areas to balance its own budget.

The Federal Minister for Emergency Management, Kristy McBain, used a late Friday afternoon media release to quietly flag sweeping alterations to the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).

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The proposed changes dismantle the long-standing, scalable framework, which historically provided an average of 64 per cent federal coverage and capped support at 75 per cent for catastrophic events. In its place, Canberra intends to implement a rigid 50-50 funding model.

This policy shift arrives at the worst possible time for the state; it follows a volatile severe weather season that caused widespread damage across 71 of Queensland’s 77 local government areas.

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, is warning that the sudden funding shortfall threatens the future viability of essential infrastructure, local water treatment facilities, and emergency evacuation operations.

Mr Willcox, drawing on his extensive experience as the former Mayor of the Whitsunday Regional Council, stated that the Federal Government is completely detached from the realities of regional recovery.

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"This decision is a direct hit to the heart of North Queensland," Mr Willcox said.

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"Canberra is treating natural disasters like a corporate budgeting exercise; however, out here, it is a matter of community survival. To penalise the very regions that drive the nation’s agricultural wealth and mining export revenues is a profound betrayal.

"During my time steering the Whitsunday community through the wreckage of Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017, I learned exactly what it takes to rebuild. We relied heavily on scalable federal assistance to restore our shattered rural road networks.

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Under a flat 50-50 split, local councils across Dawson would be forced to find millions of dollars in matching revenue; that is a financial burden our regional ratepayer base simply cannot sustain."

Mr Willcox emphasised that major historical recovery operations would have been completely unviable under the newly proposed guidelines.

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"The total reconstruction of the Shute Harbour marine terminal and the $5 million federal package required to replace the decimated Proserpine Entertainment Centre occurred because the previous framework allowed for exceptional circumstances," Mr Willcox said.

"Small regional councils do not possess the independent asset base to fund multi-million-dollar rebuilds alone. Furthermore, the historical system guaranteed that funding flowed directly into local economies, ensuring that regional earthmoving businesses and contractors were awarded the repair work.

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By lowering the funding floor, the Commonwealth is forcing cash-strapped councils to delay vital resilience works; this leaves our communities dangerously exposed before successive wet seasons.

"It is a coward’s tactic for the Minister to leave this announcement until the day after the parliamentary sitting concluded, ensuring they avoided any real scrutiny or accountability in Question Time.

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“This is yet another calculated deception from a government that knows exactly how damaging these cuts are; this is absolutely not what the Australian people voted for, and I truly hope this betrayal is remembered at the next election.

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"This is yet another chapter in the ongoing federal neglect of regional Australia. The government is hiding behind the cover of an independent review to justify cutting essential frontline services. I call on the Emergency Management Minister to reverse this decision immediately; regional Queenslanders refuse to be treated as second-class citizens.”

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Supplied by the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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