North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is offering young people and job seekers the chance to kickstart a trade career by the water, with applications now open for its 2026 apprenticeship program.

Based at the Port of Mackay, successful applicants will earn while they learn by the waterfront, gaining valuable hands-on experience, nationally recognised qualifications and direct employment as part of NQBP’s maintenance team.

NQBP General Manager People, Safety, Environment and Sustainability Carissa Mansfield said the program is part of developing regional talent and building a strong, skilled workforce.

“We’re proud to offer trade pathways that not only launch individual careers but also support our regional workforce and local economy,” Ms Mansfield said.

“Apprentices will work as part of a close-knit team on real-world infrastructure that keeps essential trade moving and supports Queensland communities.”

More than half of Queensland’s trade, valued at over $53 billion annually, passes through NQBP’s ports of Mackay, Hay Point, Abbot Point and Weipa.

“Ports are critical to the success of our mining, agriculture and energy sectors,” Ms Mansfield added.

“By developing local talent, we’re investing in the future capability of the industry and our region.”

Four apprenticeship positions are available in the 2026 intake:

·         Plumbing

·         Electrical

·         Two Parks and Gardens (horticulture)

Apprentices will join experienced teams focused on maintaining vital port infrastructure and community spaces, while benefiting from strong mentoring, real-world learning and additional training opportunities.

Employment conditions include a nine-day fortnight, paid study leave, 12.75% employer-paid superannuation, and access to health and wellness initiatives such as Fitness Passport and on-site amenities. Interested applicants can also meet the NQBP team in person at the Mackay Careers Expo on Thursday 7 August at the Mackay Showgrounds.

Applications close 6pm Sunday 17 August 2025.

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NQBP Team Leader Operations and Maintenance Leigh Thayer provides mentoring and support for apprentices like Seumus Andrews, Zoey Tonga and Amber Winbank. Photos supplied

NQBP Apprentice Horticulturalist Amber Winbank helps maintain NQBP’s community facilities that locals love like Old Mulherin Park

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Channelling more students into apprenticeships would not only help reduce juvenile crime but meet the future skills shortage, according to the owner of a leading RTO.

Civil Safety’s Founder Robert Kerridge has doubled down on his commitment to the Mackay region: re-opening an expanded and upgraded Mackay facility, increasing its training capacity to accommodate more students.

MP Nigel Dalton officially opened the facility together with Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson.

Mr Kerridge also opened a brand-new facility in Moranbah last month. He said as baby boomers set to retire, it was more important than ever to target school students.

“Demographers have described it as the “retirement cliff’,” he said.

“There’s a wave of opinion that increasing quotas for foreign workers is a solution, but most of them will need to undertake some training and upskilling to meet Australian workplace standards and operations.

“I know what it’s like to struggle at school, I wasn’t a good scholar so when you find yourself in an apprenticeship that interests you it can be life changing and change a whole family’s life with someone getting a job or upskilling to get a better job. It's second chance stuff.

“Over the last two decades there has been a real push in students finishing year 12, instead of leaving at year 10 to undertake a trade. The Universities have done a great job in promoting their courses, but at the end of the day there will be students struggling to find employment with a huge (HECs) tuition bill.

“If we can channel some of these kids who are just kicking dirt, to finish school, into training that piques their interest, we can make a difference. It’s finding that hook of ‘earn and learn’ and ‘no time for crime’.

“With our work with Queensland Corrections we have prisoners who have turned their life around through training and not only have jobs but keep those jobs.

“If they can work out how to open an electric door to steal the keys to steal a car, then they could channel that into becoming an electrician. It’s finding out what pushes their buttons beyond the thrill of crime.”

Mayor Williamson said the Civil Safety facility was a boon to Mackay with training opportunities in the region critical to ongoing regional success.

“We know the way civil construction, mining services and all the support industries that support the resources sector are going that training is absolutely essential,” he said.

“To have this facility here providing across the board training is a pathway programme that is really important particularly for young people, but also for anybody who wants to get into resources sector or the agriculture sector - or any of the industries that require a level of training that didn’t exist a few years ago, this is fantastic for Mackay.”

In the Mackay region, Civil Safety’s most in-demand course is the Standard 11—a mandatory mining induction program that’s a legal requirement to work on surface coal and metalliferous mines in Queensland.

Other popular high-risk training programs include forklift operation, working safely at heights, operating elevated work platforms, and dogging (working with cranes), which continue to rank among the top courses chosen by local workers looking to build their skills and improve job prospects.

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Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson (left) and Civil Safety’s Founder Robert Kerridge. Photo supplied

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Future Finder Launches Across Greater Whitsunday

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) is excited to announce the official launch of Greater Whitsunday Future Finder, an innovative digital platform designed to support young people in exploring real, local career opportunities across the Greater Whitsundays.

Developed through collaboration with regional schools, industry experts, and workforce development leaders, Greater Whitsunday Future Finder is a free and accessible tool that empowers students, educators, parents, and career changers to connect with the jobs of the future — right in their own backyard.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter described the platform as a bold and future-focused step towards building a stronger regional workforce and keeping talent local.

“Future Finder is designed to inspire and inform. It connects young people in the Greater Whitsunday region with real, local opportunities in a way that’s engaging, accessible, and relevant.

“This platform positions Greater Whitsunday as a place of opportunity. It helps us retain our talent, support career exploration in our schools, and strengthen our regional identity as a destination to live, work and grow.”

Future Finder offers an intuitive and interactive interface, enabling users to:
• Explore emerging career pathways across key regional industries
• Connect personal interests and values to meaningful jobs
• Learn from real local voices through video stories and career insights
• Discover the subjects, training, or study that link to those roles

More than 112 careers and industries are featured on the platform including health, mining, trades, engineering, education, digital technology, renewables, tourism, and agriculture. These industries represent the future of the Greater Whitsunday economy and are actively seeking new talent.

“It supports future-ready education and workforce development. The platform links directly to the skills, industries, and impact areas shaping our economy,” Ms Porter said.

“We’re excited to help educators and employers plan — and to help young people see that their future doesn’t have to begin somewhere else. It can start right here.”

Ms Porter said every aspect of the site has been informed by input from the people who understand the region best — its teachers, industry leaders, career advisors, and youth.

“It’s a collaborative effort. Future Finder reflects the voices of our region — and that’s what gives it real power,” Ms Porter said.

“When local students can hear directly from local professionals who have built careers right here, it makes the future feel real and achievable.”

Greater Whitsunday Future Finder will continue evolving the platform over time, adding more stories, resources, and industry spotlights to ensure it remains a vibrant and useful tool for years to come.

Whether you're a Year 10 student considering subject selections, a parent trying to guide career decisions, or an educator planning a unit on workforce skills — Future Finder is a simple, impactful, and locally grounded resource ready to support you.

The Future Finder platform is live and open to everyone across the Greater Whitsunday region.

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Last Saturday, representatives from multicultural community groups across Mackay gathered at the Ocean International Hotel for a free, hands-on workshop aimed at boosting their confidence and capacity in project planning, grant writing, and grant management.

The session was delivered in partnership between the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) and The Neighbourhood Hub Mackay, providing attendees with practical tools and strategies to turn their ideas into well-planned, fundable projects.

Running from 9am to 3pm, the workshop covered everything from developing logical, goal-driven project plans to writing compelling, succinct grant applications. Participants also learned how to manage grants effectively to ensure both compliance and long-term project success.

Attendees came from a wide range of cultural backgrounds and organisational roles, but all shared a common goal, to make a meaningful impact in the Mackay community through well-supported projects. The atmosphere was one of collaboration and curiosity, with lively discussions, group activities, and opportunities to connect with like-minded leaders.

Whether they were new to grant writing or looking to sharpen their skills, participants walked away with renewed confidence, practical knowledge, and a greater understanding of how to navigate the often-complex world of funding.

ECCQ and The Neighbourhood Hub say they’re proud to support multicultural communities through initiatives like this one, which empower grassroots organisations to thrive and grow.

For more information or to stay connected with future opportunities, email: advocacy@eccq.com.au.

A new parenting program launching in August is set to provide vital support for Mackay mothers with babies under six months, helping them connect with others in the same season of life, right in their own neighbourhood.

The Early Parenting Program, delivered by Queensland Community Health, will run each Tuesday morning in August at the Northern Beaches Community Hall. Previously only offered in Mackay’s city area, the program’s move north marks a significant milestone in local efforts to bring services closer to families.

“This initiative is to make sure no mum gets left behind,” said Northern Beaches community advocate and playgroup coordinator Rebecca Cooper.

“We want every parent to feel they belong and to find their support network within their own community.”

Rebecca speaks from personal experience.

“I didn’t really have that village,” she shared.

“That’s part of why I’m really passionate. I joined a parenting program nine years ago with my first child, and I was lucky to meet like-minded women who became my village.”

The four-week program focuses on early parenting support, covering topics like sleep, settling, baby massage and nutrition. But more importantly, it fosters friendships that often grow into lasting mother’s groups.

“You’re not just learning,” Rebecca said.

“You’re sharing the journey with people going through the exact same thing.”

At the Northern Beaches Playgroup, many local mums say they value the weekly sessions, but those with newborns can sometimes feel on the outer.

“When you’ve got a baby under six months, you’re in a totally different phase,” Rebecca explained.

“You’re not chasing toddlers, and you often need a space where you can connect with other parents in that moment.”

For many mums, the benefits of playgroups go beyond the children.

“It’s just good to get out of the house for a bit,” one mum said.

“There’s different scenery, lots of activities, and you meet other people going through the same thing.”

Another added, “I’ve actually made friends with other mums I wouldn’t have met otherwise. So that really helps.”

To register for the free program, contact Community Health on 4885 7750.

What: Northern Beaches Early Parenting Program Outreach
When: 9:30am to 11:30am on Tuesdays – August 5, 12, 19 and 26
Where: Northern Beaches Community Hall, 24 Wallace Street, Bucasia
Cost: Free – registration essential
To book: Phone Community Health on 4885 7750

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A new free parenting program launching in August at the Northern Beaches Community Hall will support local mums with babies under six months, helping them connect, learn, and build lasting friendships close to home. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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The Mackay Vintage Motor Club celebrated its 60th anniversary with a special pizza lunch on Sunday, July 13, at the Walkerston residence of two long-time members. Thirty-eight members attended the event, ranging from new faces who joined just weeks ago to those with over 50 years of club involvement.

All attendees received a commemorative 60-year badge, pen, and a certificate featuring a copy of their original membership application. A highlight of the celebration was the return of a signboard first used at the 1992 Hub Rally. The anniversary cake was cut by Glen and Cheryl Gibson, both members for half a century.

The club began with a newspaper article published on March 31, 1965, titled “Veteran Car Club May Be Formed”. That first meeting at the Ambassador Hotel led to the creation of the Mackay Vintage Car Club, renamed in 1967 to Mackay Vintage Motor Club to include utilities and motorcycles.

The first membership fees were paid on May 18, 1965. Founding members included Wally Albrecht, Ken Tandridge, Frank Ohl, John Jewell, Les Loney and John Granzella. Early outings featured classic cars such as a 1934 Lagonda, a 1926 Chrysler, and a 1929 Dodge.

Over the years, meetings were held in various locations before settling at the CWA Hall on Gordon Street. The club’s first magazine was produced in 1973 by Philip Pace and Brenda Murray.

Membership rules changed over time. In 1975, a decision was made not to badge vehicles manufactured after 1934. By 1983, the club began accepting cars up to 1942 to encourage growth. Early fundraising included 50-cent outing fees, $1 casket tickets, car washes, and parade participation.

In 1984, members restored the Model T Ford at Greenmount, which debuted at the 1990 Heritage Day Fair. That same year, a club shed was built in Balnagowan. In 1985, a trophy for most events attended was introduced and is still awarded annually.

Hub Rallies between Mackay, Townsville and Cairns clubs were introduced over the May Day weekend and later held at Easter. The 50th rally was held in Cairns in 2024.

In 1989, the “Cyclone Run” was created to honour the late Willie Morris. Still held every February, it commemorates members who have passed. The club’s first banner was purchased in 1994 and replaced in 2024, still proudly displayed today.

Monthly Friday lunch drives were introduced to include members who couldn’t attend weekend runs. A “Short Run” on the last Sunday of each month allows older vehicles to participate in local outings.

Club patrons have included Dr Ian Chenoweth, Eric Gibson, Dale Murray, and current patron Paul Scriha. Life Members include Wally and Marion Albrecht, Peter and Hazel Hansen, Harvey and Pat Morris, Eric and Alice Gibson, Dale and Brenda Murray, and current Life Member Tony Ciantar.

Now with 35 family memberships, the club continues to grow, and welcomes vehicles of any age or make.

For enthusiasts keen to join, the club offers camaraderie, nostalgia, and a shared passion for keeping motoring history alive.

Contributed by Jenny Boswood

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The Mackay Vintage Motor Club marked its 60th anniversary with a celebratory lunch in Walkerston, uniting members past and present to honour decades of motoring history, camaraderie, and community. Photos supplied

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Simon Hood – Wilmar Manager, Grower Marketing

Every grower has a different way of handling their GEI sugar price exposure, which affects their final cane price. Some like to keep a close eye on the market, while others prefer a hands-off approach.

We offer a range of pricing options so growers can choose what suits their level of interest and their risk appetite.

We recommend thinking about sugar pricing as a form of risk management. If you're using Target Pricing, it means selling in small steps as the price improves, with the aim of locking in a solid average price over time.

Another pricing option we recently introduced is our Managed Pool Plus. This is an actively managed pool that includes both miller and grower sugar price exposure. Our goal is to outperform the market across the life of the pool. Despite a tough market, the 2025 pool is holding up well.

Due to increased enquiry from growers, we have extended the nomination deadline for the 2026 Season Managed Pool Plus until 31 July. That means there’s still time to allocate some of your 2026 GEI sugar exposure.

We created this pool to help reduce some of the stress around pricing decisions. Some growers dip their toe in by allocating just 10% to see how we perform. Others have put a greater share into the pool. A popular strategy is to split your exposure into thirds – one third into MPP, another third managed through Target Pricing, and the final third left until April to decide between the Production Risk Pool or our Grower Managed Production Risk Scheme.

If you’re not sure how the Managed Pool Plus could work for you, we can help. Our Grower Marketing team can compare different approaches, show how prices have moved, and talk you through possible outcomes under various market conditions. We can also check on any active orders you have and share the latest updates from our global market analysts.

Right now, the market is sitting tight, waiting on more solid data before making any big shifts. Brazil is still the country to watch. Its sugarcane crush is running 15% behind last year. They’re pushing hard on sugar production (over 53% of the crush), but the quality of cane – particularly the sugar content (ATR) – is down more than 5% on last year. That’s a big deal, and something the market is watching closely.

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Our Grower Marketing consultants can compare different pricing approaches and talk you through
different possible outcomes

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The Australian Government is seeking input from community and industry stakeholders on the popular On Farm Connectivity Program to ensure it is delivering the best possible outcomes for primary producers through the upcoming third round.

Through over $30 million in rebates provided over the first two rounds, thousands of primary producers have been able to extend connectivity and take advantage of connected machinery and sensor technology.

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts has commenced public consultation on design aspects of Round 3, ahead of opening applications later this year.

The department is requesting feedback on options to adjust the Program to ensure opportunities are optimised for primary producers to address connectivity gaps, particularly in light of the unprecedented demand in Round 2.

Proposed changes to the Program including refining the scope of equipment eligible for rebate, and streamlining processes by providing rebates directly to primary producers.

The public consultation builds on discussions already underway with state and Commonwealth government agencies and industry representatives, including the National Farmers’ Federation, as well as feedback already received following delivery of the first two rounds.

The Government has allocated $53 million across all three rounds of the Program over 2023-24 to 2025-26, as part of the Government’s Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.

For more information and to have your say on the proposed changes for Round 3, visit the On Farm Connectivity Program Round 3 consultation page. Consultation closes on Tuesday 26 August 2025.

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By CANEGROWERS Chair Owen Menkens

The Queensland Government’s announcement to extend the 15 per cent rural irrigation price discount for another two years is a long-awaited and welcome move—and I reckon most of the farmers I know would say it’s about time.

This is a common-sense decision and one we’ve been calling for loud and clear.

It’s great to see the Crisafulli Government listening to what the agriculture sector has been saying and acting on it. For irrigators like us—especially in high-cost regions such as the Burdekin where I farm—this decision brings a bit of much-needed relief. Water and electricity costs are already through the roof, and they just keep climbing. Having this discount locked in will give growers some breathing room and help us keep water flowing onto crops instead of letting fields dry out because it’s too expensive to pump.

Many farmers have already made significant investments in more efficient irrigation systems to manage rising input costs. But when the price of water keeps going up, even the best systems won’t save a crop if growers can’t afford to use them.

In some areas, people are using less water just to save money, which then hits productivity hard. That’s not good for the farm, the industry, or our regional communities.

More than half of Queensland’s cane crop depends on irrigation, so getting the price settings right isn’t just important—it’s essential. This discount follows the Queensland Competition Authority’s advice and will be available across all 35 irrigation schemes in the state, which is good to see.

From 2025–26, farmers will need to apply to access the discount. It’ll only be available to certified owner-operated irrigating farm businesses, with the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) handling the applications. If you’re not sure what you need to qualify, check the Business Queensland website. The scheme kicks off in September 2025, and if you’ve got questions, shoot an email to irrigationpricing@rdmw.qld.gov.au.

Let’s keep the water flowing and our farms growing.

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A 29m crocodile-shaped multi-use amphitheatre is a standout feature in the newly opened Northern Beaches Community Hub.

Stage 1A of the project, which opened to the public today, also includes an undercover multi-purpose court, adjoining kitchenette and storeroom, nature play and picnic spaces.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to have this community facility open in the heart of the Northern Beaches.

“The Northern Beaches is our region’s fastest growing community, and this project will provide residents with access to a range of facilities they have been asking for,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The undercover multi-purpose court is line marked for basketball, netball, futsal and pickleball,” he said.

“In the coming weeks it will be made available for community use via a booking system on council’s website (mackay.qld.gov.au).

“The giant crocodile-shaped amphitheatre – which is a colourful, formed concrete, multi-level design – will offer a performance space for small scale events and learning activities.

“As well as the crocodile amphitheatre, there are climbing nets, picnic areas, balance beams, swings, adventure paths and a slide that traverses the embankment at the edge of the amphitheatre.

“This will be a tremendous family space for Northern Beaches residents and will only be enhanced by works in Stage 1B, which will include a library, flexible community rooms and a space for a café.”

The grassed area around the adventure paths is fresh turf and will be roped off for several weeks to allow it to establish properly.  Residents are asked to obey signage and avoid the roped off areas.

Council awarded a $21 million tender for stage 1B to T.F. Woollam & Son Pty Ltd at the June 18 ordinary meeting of council.

Residents can view the latest master plan and subscribe to project update emails at connectingmackay.com.au.

The Northern Beaches Community Hub is located opposite Mackay Northern Beaches State High School between Rosewood Drive and Eimeo Road.

The Australian Government has committed $6.5 million of the estimated $10 million cost to establish Stage 1A and has committed $15 million in funding for Stage 1B of the Northern Beaches Community Hub.

The Northern Beaches Community Hub Stages 1A and 1B are funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.

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The Northern Beaches Community Hub Stage 1A is now open to the public. Photo credit: Fergus Builders

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I started in local government as a Divisional Councillor and much of my role was acting as a link between residents and council departments.

That connection to the community was something that I prioritised, but over the years local government and the role of councillors has certainly changed.

In the past, I was able to work much closer with staff around specific community issues, but now a councillor’s role is much more strategic and is far less operational.

Yes, we still want to work with the community and we still need to know about the issues that impact you as ratepayers, but if you have something you need attended to quickly, then a councillor may not be your best first point of contact.

Many residents think that if they call a councillor, we can push their issue to the front of the queue, but that’s not the case.

The best way to get your issue to the front of the queue is to use the amazing Snap Send Solve application.

Snap Send Solve enables residents to take photos of any issue they see, such as a pothole, graffiti or dumped rubbish, and submit a report to council.

Council will also be able to utilise data and submitted cases to review our general services and consider proactive measures by addressing hot spots or reoccurring issues, such as illegal dumping

Of course, you can still lodge a customer request by phone or online, and by doing so you are getting a direct line to Customer Service who log your issue there and then with all the correct information. You will be asked a number of questions in relation to your request and the process immediately begins. There are service levels that are set and time frames by which a customer request has to be met by. Ask for that timeframe as well as your customer request number so you can track it.

We as Mackay Regional Council Councillors are committed to representing you and working to make sure your voice is heard in our region. We can and will advocate for you around issues that impact your community, your infrastructure needs and the strategic direction of our region.

Our numbers are listed on the council website and we are only too happy to have a chat, however, when it comes to timeframes for operational issues, we can’t compete with Snap Send Solve or our Customer Service team.

By Cr Alison Jones

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Step Into Your Future At Mackay Careers Expo 2025

A new chapter is being written for the Mackay Careers Expo, and it’s turning the page with purpose. On Thursday, August 7, the region’s most anticipated education and employment showcase is relocating to the Mackay Showgrounds, making room for more opportunity, more innovation, and more futures forged.

More than 60 major exhibitors from across the nation are confirmed to attend, offering insights into everything from university pathways and apprenticeships to defence careers and the ever-evolving world of tech and trades.

Now in its third year, this year’s event is on track to break records, not just in size, but in the doors it opens. Entry is free — but the opportunities inside could be life-changing. Don’t miss your chance to explore, connect, and take the next step in your career journey.

Are you ready to unlock a world of opportunity?

Read more on pages 20-21…

Continued from Cover…

Mackay Careers Expo
Bigger, Better, And Full Of Opportunity

The Mackay Careers Expo is back for 2025 – and this year, it’s shaping up to be the most expansive and inspiring one yet. Relocating to a brand-new venue at the Mackay Showgrounds, the region’s premier career, training and employment showcase will be held on Thursday, 7th August 2025, from 9:00am to 2:30pm, and entry is completely free.

Now in its third year, the Mackay Careers Expo has fast become a flagship event in the region’s education and workforce development calendar. The event has grown in both scale and reputation, earning recognition as one of the most comprehensive career, education and training expos in Australia.

Whether you’re a high school student weighing your post-graduation options, a parent looking to support your child’s next steps, or an adult exploring upskilling or career change opportunities — this event is for you.

Why Attend?

The 2025 expo promises face-to-face engagement with some of the most respected employers, educational institutions, and industry leaders from around the country. This is a rare chance to access real-time information, ask questions, make connections, and gather resources to make informed decisions about your next steps.

In a rapidly evolving job market, being proactive about your future is more important than ever. The Mackay Careers Expo offers a practical and inspiring way to explore a wide range of pathways, from university and vocational education to apprenticeships, defence careers, trades, and more.

Who Will Be There?

With more than 60 exhibitors confirmed, visitors can expect to see familiar names and national leaders in education, training, and employment, including: ADF Careers, Aurizon, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, Thiess Pty Ltd, CQUniversity Australia, James Cook University, Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton, Proserpine State High School, Griffith University, University of Queensland, QUT, University of Southern Queensland, and Bond University.

Government departments such as the Department of Education, Department of Transport and Main Roads, and Queensland Police Service will also be represented.

Key industry players like Motor Trades Association of QLD, Master Plumbers’ Association, Wilmar Sugar and Renewables, and the Boating Industry Association will be on hand to talk about future job needs and apprenticeships.

Local employers and organisations including the Mackay Regional Council, Gardian, Whitson Dawson, Alman Partners, Mackay Sugar, Mackay Airport, Mackay Hospital and Health Services, and North Queensland Bulk Ports will also be there, giving attendees a clear insight into the jobs of tomorrow right here in our own backyard.

More Than Just a Browse

This isn’t your average brochure grab. There’ll be interactive exhibits, seminars, and networking opportunities. It’s a rare chance to connect directly with decision-makers, advisors and recruiters — all in one place. Exhibitors will also benefit from branding exposure, database building, and valuable one-on-one interaction with students and career-seekers from across the region.

Many attendees walk away with not just ideas, but actual career plans, contacts, and clear next steps. The event also gives parents a chance to better understand the breadth of options available for their children, helping them become more informed guides through their educational and career journeys.

Plan Your Visit

With a move to the spacious Mackay Showgrounds this year, the event is poised to welcome an even larger crowd and a wider range of displays. The venue allows for a relaxed, open setting where attendees can take their time, engage fully, and explore what’s on offer at their own pace.

So mark your calendars for Thursday, 7th August 2025, and head to the Mackay Showgrounds to discover what’s possible. Whether your dream lies in engineering, early childhood education, the military, or marine biology — the Mackay Careers Expo is your launchpad.

Entry is free, enthusiasm is encouraged, and your future is waiting!

For more details and the full list of exhibitors, visit careersevent.com and click on the Mackay Careers Expo.

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Through The Whitson Dawson Accountants School Leaver Initiative

In an era where the transition from education to employment is increasingly complex, Whitson Dawson Accountants stands out as a firm committed to nurturing young talent and shaping the future of professional services. Whitson Dawson Accountants is not only opening doors for recent graduates but also redefining what it means to build a career from the ground up.

The school leaver initiative offers a structured pathway for school leavers to enter the workforce with purpose, support, and opportunity. It reflects the firm’s belief that potential should not be measured solely by academic credentials, but by ambition, curiosity, and a willingness to learn.

At the heart of the program is a commitment to mentorship and growth. School leavers are welcomed into a dynamic environment where they are paired with experienced professionals who guide them through the nuances of accounting, business advisory, and client engagement.

This hands-on approach ensures that participants gain real-world experience from day one, while also developing the soft skills essential for long-term success.

What sets Whitson Dawson Accountants apart is its emphasis on community and culture. The firm fosters a workplace where collaboration is key, and every voice is valued. School leavers are not treated as temporary interns but as integral members of the team, encouraged to contribute ideas and take ownership of their development.

Whitson Dawson Accountants allows participants to explore different areas of the business before choosing a specialisation. Whether it's tax, audit, or superannuation services, school leavers are given the freedom to discover their strengths and passions. This exploratory model not only benefits the individual but also ensures that Whitson Dawson Accountants cultivates well-rounded professionals who can adapt to the evolving needs of clients.

Moreover, the initiative is designed with long-term career progression in mind. Participants are supported through formal training, professional qualifications, and regular performance reviews. The goal is not just to provide a job, but to lay the foundation for a fulfilling career. It’s a testament to Whitson Dawson’s belief in investing in people – not just for today, but for the future.

In a competitive job market, initiatives like this are more than just recruitment strategies; they are statements of intent. Whitson Dawson Accountants is signalling to young people that their aspirations matter and that there is a place for them in the professional world. By bridging the gap between education and employment, the firm is helping to build a more inclusive and resilient workforce.

As the 2025 cohort prepares to take its first steps into the business world, Whitson Dawson’s School Leaver Initiative stands as a beacon of opportunity. It’s a program rooted in values, driven by purpose, and poised to make a lasting impact, not just on the lives of its participants, but on the industry as a whole.

With study leave, hands-on experience, discounted accommodation, and tailored career support, Whitson Dawson Accountants invites school leavers to take the next step toward a rewarding career in accounting.

Ready to launch your future?

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With Mackay And The Whitsundays Link And Launch Program

Research tells us that every year a number of young people who complete Year 12 are not engaged in education, employment or training in the year after they leave school. While there are numerous programs and services available to students completing Year 12 to help them transition from school, data indicates that some of the young people who need this help the most, do not access it.

The Queensland Government is funding Link and Launch to support these young people to navigate their post-school options and to choose a pathway that will equip them to make a successful transition to study, training or work.

How The Program Works

Link and Launch officers are based at participating schools to connect with young people who have completed Year 12 but not yet transitioned to further study, training or work.

These officers can assist young people to navigate a range of post-school study, training and work options in line with their individual goals, aspirations, skills and strengths and support them to make independent choices that will equip them to make a successful transition.

Participating Schools

The Link and Launch Program is delivered in 36 schools located in areas where there are high numbers of school leavers who are not in education, employment or training. I am pleased to announce that Proserpine State High School and Mackay North State High School support the Link and Launch services with Coordinators Shelley Simpson and Jodie Ballard based at  their schools whilst supporting Mackay and the Whitsunday region.

Eligible Young People

Young people who are not in education, employment or training and also completed Year 12 in the previous two years are eligible to join the program. All young people who have completed their senior studies can join the program irrespective of where they went to school.

Participation in the program is voluntary. Young people enrolled at school are not eligible to join the program as career guidance and planning support is already provided by schools.

For more information, visit www.qld.gov.au/linkandlaunch or contact Shelley on 0467 858 781 or Jodie on 0491 222 714.

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Roll Up Your Sleeves For National Tree Day

Spending time in nature is one of the best things we can do for our physical and mental wellbeing – and what better way to do it than by planting trees?

Mackay residents are invited to roll up their sleeves, breathe in the fresh air, and help green up Glenella at council’s National Tree Day planting event on Sunday, July 27.

Held at Glenfields Park, on Wheeler Drive, the event runs from 8am to 11am and will build on years of community planting work along Goosepond Creek.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the initiative not only improved the health of the local environment, but also encouraged residents to connect with nature and each other.

He said this year’s planting continues a multi-year greening initiative.

“It’s been fantastic to see how plants we planted last year along Goosepond Creek have thrived in the last 12 months,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The plant species have been specifically chosen to reflect the types of vegetation that would have grown along Goosepond Creek prior to clearing, including grasses, groundcovers, shrubs and trees,” he said.

“As well as increasing canopy cover over the urban footprint, it also expands the width of riparian vegetation, which assists with improving waterway health.

“This not only supports our natural environment, but also creates a greener, healthier future for the region by encouraging people to enjoy the great outdoors.”

Mayor Williamson said National Tree Day was an easy way for residents to be part of Australia’s largest community tree planting and nature care event.

“These types of events bring the community together and help create a shared sense of ownership and responsibility for these environments,” he said.

“Anyone from those with the greenest thumb to the novice gardener can make a meaningful difference to our community and environment.”

Getting involved is easy; just register on the Volunteer - National Tree Day website.

Please wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and bring a water bottle. If you have your own gardening gloves, bring them along too. A free barbecue will be provided to everyone who participates in this event.

National Tree Day and School’s Tree Day in Mackay is supported by Mackay Regional Council.

Stay up to date on all the latest urban greening events and initiatives by subscribing to council’s urban greening eNewsletter at connectingmackay.com.au/urban-greening.

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Residents are invited to join Mackay Regional Council’s National Tree Day planting event at Glenfields Park on July 27, helping to enhance local green spaces and improve waterway health. Photo supplied

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