Hi lovely readers!

It’s officially December, can you believe it?

Last Friday, I attended the Mackay Regional Council Wonkley Awards, where local media representatives gathered with Mayor Greg Williamson for a night of laughs and celebration.

The Wonkleys are Mackay’s light-hearted take on the Walkley Awards, playfully celebrating the region’s journalists and media teams.

The evening was full of laughs, good company, drinks, and snacks, which gave us journos a chance to unwind and reflect on a year of local reporting.

It was great catching up with fellow journalists who share the same passion for telling local stories, and I was so honoured to receive my very first Wonkley award!

I got the ‘Rising to the Challenge Award,’ recognising my journey from cadet journalist to this role as the main on-the-ground journo over the past year.

While the event is light-hearted and funny, being acknowledged for this is something I’m pretty proud of. I even received a box of goodies from the Sugar Shed, which has been a great addition to my pantry!

I’m so blessed to be a part of this community.

Thanks to Mackay Regional Council and the Mayor for putting on such a great night, and thank you readers, for sticking with us and supporting local journalism that keeps our community informed and connected

Scripture of the week: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” - Romans‬ 15‬:13

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Whitsunday Anglican School students demonstrated the power of service in action this week, raising more than $29,000 for national charities through two inspiring, student-led initiatives.

The Ponytail Project saw a group of courageous students cut their hair to support cancer services across Australia. Participants Matilda, Tilly, Joannah, Chayvae, Senara, Arhamah, Sophie, Jade, Jamaica, Amreen, Emma, Darci, Aarna, Lydia, and Saskia collectively raised over $17,000. The initiative also drew support from staff, including Alice from Boarding, who joined the hair-cutting efforts, and teacher Sophie, who donated over 50 centimetres of her hair.

At the same time, the Year 11 cohort embraced Mullets for Mental Health, raising awareness and funds for early intervention, education, and wellbeing programs for young Australians. Students Rohan, Soham, Josh, Reuben, Kieran, Akshaj, Bodie, Nicholas, Ishan, and Nate helped raise more than $12,000, with the support of Principal Mr Wheaton, Head of Senior School Mr Novosel, and teacher Mr Harris, who proudly donned their own mullets for the cause.

The school community came together on Friday, 28 November, to celebrate the students’ efforts, recognising the courage, creativity, and generosity displayed by both students and staff. Through these initiatives, Whitsunday Anglican School reinforced its commitment to fostering empathy, leadership, and community-mindedness, showing that even small acts of service can have a powerful impact.

By combining energy, teamwork, and compassion, the students at Whitsunday Anglican School left a lasting mark, proving that giving back is a core part of their school’s culture, and a reminder that helping others can be both meaningful and fun.

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Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School

The Mayor’s Charity Ball committee have announced the beneficiaries for the 2026 event during a tour of one of the charity’s facilities.

While speaking at The Neighbourhood Hub on Thursday, Mayor Greg Williamson said the aim of the red-carpet event was to support two charities for two years to enable significant funds to be raised for each group and to make a real impact in our community.

“Proceeds from the 2026 event will be split 50-50 between The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service and new beneficiary The Neighbourhood Hub,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Grapevine Group drops off this year after completing their two-year tenure, but it’s great to see the positive impact of funds they received from 2024 and 2025, helping local organisations to establish safeTALK trainers within their workplace,” he said.

“The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service is continuing for their second year, which is timely, as the demand for their services has increased significantly.”

Nicolette Ffrost, The Neighbourhood Hub General Manager, said they were honoured to be selected as a charity partner for the Mayor's Charity Ball.

“This partnership changes everything – enabling us to build the staff capacity needed to turn our volunteer-dependent Food Diversion Program into a sustainable, coordinated service,” Ms Ffrost said.

“Our Food Diversion Program alone supported more than 9000 people in 2024/2025 – a nine percent increase from the previous year.

“The Mayor's Charity Ball partnership will help us meet this growing demand while continuing to create powerful environmental and social impact for our region.”

Sponsors are still being confirmed for the 2026 event and the event committee encourages any local business who are interested in getting involved to email communications@mackay.qld.gov.au.

Platinum partners for the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball include long term sponsors Fergus Builders, Daly Bay and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).

Pentacon have come on board again as a Gold sponsor and North Queensland Bulk Ports and CQ Soil Testing have returned as Silver sponsors.

Media partners for the Ball are 7 News Mackay, Hit 100.3, Triple M and Tropical Exposure.

In-kind sponsors include Signarama and Twilight Mackay.

More details and the event history can be found on the council website

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The 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball will split its funds between The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Hub, supporting both organisations to expand their vital community programs. Photo supplied

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Police have declared two crime scenes in Mackay as investigations intensify into the suspicious disappearance of 71-year-old Wayne Pedro Morseu.

Morseu, a First Nations man with a slim build, grey hair, and brown eyes, was reported missing on 10 November after failing to contact family or friends. His loved ones describe this as highly out of character.

Detective Superintendent Darrin Shadlow said Morseu generally remained in touch with relatives every couple of weeks and was known to be family-oriented with a large network of friends in the Mackay community.

Concerns escalated on 27 November when detectives formally labelled the disappearance suspicious. On Thursday, investigators declared crime scenes at two properties — Morseu’s Griffin Street home and a River Street address.

“A person we spoke to, who had been staying at the Griffin St residence, later moved to the River St address,” Superintendent Shadlow said.

“That prompted us to declare a crime scene there, which has since been released.

Police continue examining the property as part of ongoing inquiries.

Authorities and Morseu’s family are urging anyone with information, no matter how minor it may seem, to come forward immediately.

Reference number: QP2502035864

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Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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Opinion Piece by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

Most Australians will eventually be touched by the reality of old age. Many of us will one day, if not already, require assistance in our later years. Older Australians have done their fair share and deserve the dignity of reasonable, affordable aged care, should they require it.

Older Australians have paid their taxes, fought in wars, raised generations, built and run businesses, farmed our lands and pushed this country forward. They’ve contributed for decades, and now that it is their turn to be looked after, the current Labor government has abandoned them.

Australia is facing an aged care crisis that cannot be ignored. Since Labor came to office in 2022, pressures across the sector have severely worsened. Staffing levels are not keeping up with the growing number of older Australians, and aged care beds are simply not being made available. This past financial year, only 578 new beds came online nationally. That is only around 5% of the at least 10,600 required just to keep pace with growing demand.

In Queensland, just 26 new operational aged care beds were made available in 2024–25. Twenty-six! There are more beds on display at Harvey Norman. At this rate, the “No Vacancy” sign will be switched on at aged care facilities right across the country in the blink of an
eye. Recent reports show that, at current rates, full occupancy will be reached in under three years.
When this government came to office, Anthony Albanese promised to put the “care” back into aged care. Yet its priorities seem more focused on climate change posters than on people. The Prime Minister was willing to spend at least $1 billion to host COP31, but won’t invest meaningfully in aged care.

Turkey will now host the summit, but the fact that the government chased the event while crying poor over aged care funding says it all. Health leaders and state governments are calling for about $1 billion just to stabilise the sector. Here’s an idea: redirect the COP31 money to aged care.

Anthony Albanese also promised 24/7 nursing care for aged care residents. Where are the extra nurses? Even with high immigration levels, this government can’t find enough skilled workers to support our older Australians. Understaffed and under-resourced facilities are at breaking point. Workers are expected to do more with less, and the pressure only shifts to our already strained hospitals. Elderly Australians remain stuck in hospital beds far too long, waiting for aged care spots to open up.

This crisis is not only about older Australians. It also impacts their families, their carers, and the decisions they face. Entering aged care is hard enough without government incompetence making it harder.

With our population ageing faster than ever, we need a government focused on ensuring the right facilities, staff, and plans are in place to meet this rapid increase in need.

If Labor truly believes in “putting the care back into aged care,” then it’s time to prove it. Australia’s seniors deserve more than excuses. They deserve action, and they deserve the funds to flow to the right areas. I call on the government to re-evaluate its funding priorities and put older Australians at the front of the care line.

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Six streets carrying local history and cultural significance were officially unveiled last Wednesday at Mackay Airport’s Milton Precinct, marking a landmark moment in the precinct’s rapidly advancing development.

The ceremony coincided with the completion of the first stage of the major infrastructure project, featuring extensive civil works and the construction of new roads. The precinct’s first tenancies are set to open in 2026, promising to bring new opportunities and activity to the region.
Mackay Airport Chief Executive Officer Richard Barker said the new street names were selected following thorough consultations with community representatives and Traditional Owners.

“We wanted this process to be inclusive and meaningful for the Mackay community,” he said.

“Three of the new streets honour key Mackay figures who have been instrumental contributors to our local aviation industry. Two of the names have been selected by the Yuwi people, representing their connection to this land and the airport. Another name recognises the first aircraft to ever touch down in Mackay.”

The street signs will be erected progressively as the development continues. The names are:
• Barry Dean Street
• Bandala Street
• Bert Sadleir Street
• Guwari Street
• Avro Avenue
• Ron Adair Street

A humble Dr Bert Sadleir said he was “shocked” but also proud when told one of the streets would be named after him.

Dr Sadleir was the first CQ Rescue doctor and has worked tirelessly for many years to support the Mackay community with a world-class aeromedical service.

“CQ Rescue has become quite an iconic organisation in the district, and is a major contributor to aviation in Mackay,” he said.

“There were many other contributors to the service over the years; it was quite a journey with a lot of hard work, and a lot of people involved. I see my name up there as a representation of all those people who contributed, and the community’s efforts to keep it going.”

Milton Precinct is estimated to provide $134.1 million to the local economy in the first 10 years of operation and new businesses at the site are expected to generate $42.5 million in output per year. The development is supported by a loan from the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF).

A range of businesses are expected to operate from Milton Precinct when construction is complete, including retail, food and beverage offerings, short-term worker accommodation, health care and other service providers and light industrial.

Mr Barker said Milton Precinct would drive long-term supply and demand opportunities.

“Milton Precinct is strategically located near existing and emerging growth areas and we expect it will be a catalyst for new industry and employment,” he said.

Visit miltonprecinct.com.au for more information about the development and Expressions of Interest.

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Six new streets with locally significant names were unveiled at Mackay Airport’s Milton Precinct, marking a key milestone in the precinct’s development ahead of its first tenancies opening in 2026. Photos supplied

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Council is inviting the community to have their say on a draft activation plan for the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct.

The precinct, located at the southern entrance to Sarina, is a gateway to the Mackay region.

It is home to a collection of historical buildings and attractions, including the Mackay Region Visitor Information Centre, Sarina Art Gallery, Sarina Arts and Craft Centre and Sarina Sugar Shed.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the precinct was a fantastic place for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy, with its open green spaces, shade trees, barbecue facilities and playground.

“Community input is vital to shaping the future of the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct,” Mayor Williamson said.

The draft activation plan was co-created with key stakeholders and consultants during an Enquiry by Design workshop held in September.

The Sarina Museum, which has been closed while a museums collection rationalisation project was undertaken, will re-open in its previous location.

The draft activation plan includes the option of re-opening it and operating it via an incorporated Sarina District Historical Centre.

There is also the option to re-open it as a volunteer-run council museum.

Some other draft activation plan actions include:

• Refreshing branding for the Sarina Field of Dreams precinct.
• Investigating feasibility of improvements to the old convent building (used by the museum).
• Enhancing wayfinding to improve navigation through the precinct.
• Better activation of the arrival building (Visitor Information Centre).
• Encouraging outdoor exhibitions and events.

Council has considered resources and feasibility in developing these actions and now seeks feedback from the broader community.

Consultation is open now and will close at 11.59pm on Sunday, January 18, 2026.

To view the draft activation plan, provide feedback and subscribe to project update emails, visit connectingmackay.com.au/sarina-field-of-dreams.

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Council representatives, key stakeholders and consultants worked together to create the draft activation plan, which is now open for community feedback. Photo supplied

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Dangerous Bin Mistake Triggers Urgent Council Warning

A reminder about battery safety has taken centre stage this week after a waste truck in North Mackay was forced to dump its load when a fire ignited inside the vehicle. According to Mackay Regional Council, the blaze was sparked by a large lithium battery that had been incorrectly placed in a household bin. Several other batteries, including a taped bundle and a power tool battery, were also found in the discarded load.

Council said the incident highlighted the serious risk batteries pose when thrown into general waste. Once crushed in a truck or at a waste facility, batteries can spark, explode and cause dangerous fires, putting drivers, machinery and the wider community at risk.

Residents are urged to dispose of batteries safely by taping the terminals, storing them in a glass or plastic container, and delivering them to a free collection point. Battery recycling drop-offs are available at Woolworths, Coles, Aldi, Bunnings, Big W, Battery World, Total Tools, The Good Guys and several other locations across the region.

Local households can find their nearest battery recycling point by visiting bcycle.com.au.

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Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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Council Recently Held A Morning Tea To Recognise The Efforts Of Lee Jensen, Who’s Managed The Slade Point Community Hall For An Amazing 26 Years!

The Mayor, Ceo, Executive Manager Of Community Lifestyles, Maurie Fatnowna, Councillors And Members Of The Recently-Formed Slade Point Progress Association Gathered At The Jcc To Acknowledge Lee’s Commitment To Her Community.

Mr Fatnowna Said It Was An Incredible Achievement.

“It’s An Extraordinary Milestone, That’s Been Far More Than Just Overseeing Bookings And Maintenance.  It’s About A Deep Understanding Of What The Community Needs And The Ability To Foster A Welcoming Environment For All Who Walk Through The Doors,” Mr Fatnowna Said.

“And Lee Has Done This With Grace, Consistency And Care.

“In Two-And-A-Half Decades We’ve Seen Enormous Change…Yet Through All Of This, One Constant Has Remained And That’s Lee’s Presence As The Face Of The Slade Point Community Hall,” He Said.

Also At The Morning Tea Were Well-Known Local Artists, Including Leonie Wood, Who Has Used The Hall To Develop Residents’ Creative Endeavours And Attended Playgroups There With Her Grandchildren.

“That Generational Impact Is Rare And Lee’s Unwavering Dedication To The Role Is Something I Believe May Never Be Seen Again In Today’s Fast-Paced And Ever-Changing Workforce,” Maurie Said.

Mayor Greg Williamson Said Lee’s Commitment To The Community Can’t Be Overstated.

“You’ve Created An Environment That People Just Want To Be A Part Of And It’s Incredible To See That Someone In Our Community Wanting To Put In As Much Passion, Drive And Energy As You Have Done,” Mayor Williamson Said.

“So Thank You On Behalf Of Council, We’re Really, Really Proud Of The Fact That You’ve Been Able To Deliver That Community Service For So Long.”

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Executive manager of Community Lifestyles, Maurie Fatnowna with Lee Jensen

Mayor Greg Williamson presenting Lee Jensen with her award

Executive manager of Community Lifestyles, Maurie Fatnowna, Lee Jensen and Mayor Greg Williamson. Photos supplied

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As we wrap up another busy and productive month here in Mackay, I want to share some of the work I’ve been undertaking on your behalf both locally and in the Queensland Parliament. Every meeting, every conversation, and every contribution I make in Parliament is driven by one goal: delivering real outcomes for the people of Mackay.

Standing Up for Mackay in Parliament

It has been a significant sitting period in the Queensland Parliament, with one of the most impactful pieces of legislation passed being the Community Protection and Public Child Sex Offender Register (Daniel’s Law) Act 2025.

This landmark legislation establishes Australia’s first public child sex offender register. As someone who is deeply committed to the safety of our community, I strongly welcome this reform. Families deserve transparent, accurate information so they can make informed decisions to protect their children.

I spoke in Parliament about the urgent need for tougher safeguards, and I will continue to be a strong voice advocating for safer communities something I know is a top priority for so many families across Mackay.

Delivering for Mackay

My focus has always been on ensuring that Mackay receives its fair share whether that’s through stronger laws, improved services, or meaningful investment in our region.

Earlier this month, Mackay proudly hosted the Queensland Community Cabinet. It was an excellent opportunity for all ministers to hear directly from our local businesses, community groups, and residents. Following these meetings, I was pleased to join the Housing Minister, Sam O’Connor, in announcing that construction has begun on 18 new social homes for our community. These will deliver 15 one-bedroom and 3 two-bedroom units by the end of 2026.

This is in addition to the 33 new homes delivered in Mackay over the past 12 months, this is real progress for those who need it most.

I was also fortunate to attend Mackay’s very first Veterans’ Forum, where local veterans, service organisations, and support advocates came together to discuss the challenges faced by those who have served our nation. It was a powerful and constructive forum, and I am committed to continuing this important conversation to ensure our veterans receive the respect, support, and services they deserve.

Looking Ahead

As we head into the festive season, my priorities remain clear:

• Strengthening community safety as new laws take effect
• Advocating strongly for local infrastructure, housing, and community programs
• Ensuring Mackay’s voice continues to be heard loud and clear in Parliament

A Christmas Holiday Message

With school holidays approaching, I encourage everyone to take extra care on the roads. Whether you’re travelling, heading to local events, or simply doing school holiday drop-offs, please slow down, stay alert, and make safe choices behind the wheel.

I’ll be out and about across Mackay throughout December visiting local markets, supporting community events, catching up with small businesses, and stopping in at end-of-year celebrations. If you see me around town, whether I’m grabbing a coffee, attending a community gathering, or chatting with locals on the street, please don’t hesitate to say hello. I always enjoy hearing your ideas, concerns, and stories, and these conversations help guide the work I do on your behalf.

An Office Update

A quick note to let you know that my Electorate Office will be closed from Monday 22nd December 2025 to Sunday 4th January 2026 for the Christmas break. We won’t be able to take phone calls or drop-ins during this time, but you can always reach us by email at Mackay@parliament.qld.gov.au, and we’ll respond as soon as we’re back on deck.

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Fitness Cartel’s long-awaited Mackay launch drew a huge crowd last week, transforming an ordinary Thursday into a high-octane community celebration. Mayor Greg Williamson cut the ceremonial rope as hundreds of locals cheered, ushering in what many are already calling Mackay’s most impressive fitness and wellness hub.

The atmosphere buzzed with food trucks, live beats, and eager new members pouring through the doors the moment they opened. Founder and CEO Nathan James praised the overwhelming response, noting the club’s scale, premium design, and standout Wellness Centre as major drawcards.

Purpose-built for everyone, from first-timers to seasoned athletes, the centre blends world-class training zones with cutting-edge recovery options, quickly establishing itself as a new social and lifestyle destination. With thousands joining before opening day and crowds still rolling in, Mackay appears ready to embrace a new era of health, connection, and community.

Fitness Cartel Is Officially Open!

Fitness Cartel officially opened its doors last Thursday, and the launch was nothing short of epic. As the final seconds of the countdown echoed through the crowd, Mayor Greg Williamson stepped forward and cut the rope, marking the official opening of Mackay’s newest, most luxurious fitness destination.

Hundreds of locals gathered to witness the moment, creating an atmosphere that felt more like a festival than a gym opening. Food trucks lined the entrance, a live DJ kept the energy high with crowd-pleasing hits, and eager gym-goers wasted no time diving straight into training the moment the doors swung open.

The excitement was shared by Founder and CEO of Fitness Cartel Health Clubs, Nathan James, who not only celebrated the grand opening of what he described as one of the group’s most impressive clubs, but also marked his birthday right here in Mackay.

“Today is very special. This is probably one of the most successful clubs out of the 18 Fitness Cartels in our group.”

The Mackay facility had been highly anticipated in the lead-up to launch, receiving attention for its sheer scale, premium finishes, and one-of-a-kind Wellness Centre, an addition Nathan said had resonated strongly with locals.

The club was designed to provide every member, from beginners, to athletes, families, and working professionals, with a space that encouraged growth, progress, and connection. From the spacious heavy-lifting zone and high-intensity training areas to reformer Pilates rooms, cycle studios, kids’ facilities, and the comfort zone for newcomers, the layout was intentionally crafted to make fitness feel accessible and inspiring for everyone.

But the heart of the facility, Nathan said, is community.

“I feel like we’ve nailed the offering, and people really deserve something like this. It’s truly cool to see so many people coming to use it.”

He added that the club had quickly become a social hub, as much as a fitness one.

“This is a really comfortable place where people can come - husbands, wives, families. A lot of people even meet their future partners here because it’s become a new social space.”

The Wellness Centre, opening the morning after launch, introduced Mackay to premium recovery options rarely seen in regional areas – ice baths, cold plunge pools, hot rock saunas, compression therapy, red light therapy, and hot spas set at staggered temperatures. Together with the basketball court, pickleball court and expansive functional zones, the space delivered what many in the community had been waiting for.

“That’s why we made it so big, with the pickleball court, basketball court, and all the cool features.”

The turnout exceeded expectations, something Nathan didn’t take lightly.

“The turnout has been sensational. We knew the area was missing something, and now it’s paid off.”

“We’re very lucky and very grateful for the support from the community.”

“Thank you to Mackay, and to the Mayor for coming to support us. It’s so great to see everyone here.”

Mackay Co-Franchisee Cliff Forster said the response from the public had been extremely positive, with an excellent number of members already signed up before the doors even opened.

"We've had a tremendous pre-sale period with a strong number of foundation memberships already signed up before the doors even opened."

With its world-class equipment, dedicated recovery facilities, group fitness offerings, childcare, café, and inclusive community atmosphere, Fitness Cartel has set a new standard for health and wellness in the region.

The highly anticipated centre promised a fitness revolution, and judging by opening day, Mackay has embraced it wholeheartedly!

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Learn The 16 Warning Signs

The festive season is generally a time of joy, but for many in our community, it can be one of the hardest times of the year. Relationship breakdowns, child custody issues, financial pressure, loneliness, and grief can all contribute to feelings of distress and isolation.

Checking in on those around us is the first step, says Grapevine Group President Debbie Knight.

“When we do a check in, we can observe any changes in behaviour or learn if they’re talking about suicide, death, or having no reason to live.

“They may also withdraw from friends and/or social activities,” Ms Knight said.

Learning the 16 signs means the community is suicide alert and can make a difference because awareness is proven to save lives.

Mayor Greg Williamson of Mackay Regional Council agrees that knowing the signs is vital.

“Christmas for most of us is a wonderful time of the year but there are people in our community who really struggle at this time.

“Knowing what signs to look for is really important so that everyone is able to reach out and help someone in need at Christmas,” Mayor Williamson said.

Businesses can also play a role too, says Geoff O’Connor, President of Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce.

“Individuals and local businesses can lend their support by downloading the campaign toolkit from the Grapevine Group website. It contains graphics that can be used to promote this vital message on social media,” Mr O’Connor said.

Dean Kirkwood, General Manager of Resource Industry Network, encourages workplaces to take action and skill up their workforce.

“Grapevine has trained over 7,000 locals to date but more needs to be done - each of us should know the signs and where to connect people to help,” Mr Kirkwood said.

The Be Suicide Alert this Christmas campaign, now in its 15th year, is supported by Mackay Regional Council, Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, Resource Industry Network, Queensland Police Service, and major sponsors Daly Bay and North Queensland Bulk Ports.

The community is urged to download the free Grapevine Group app or visit grapevinegroup.org.au to learn the signs, find local suicide prevention services in Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday, and book free public or private group training.

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St. Patrick’s Class Of 1975 Celebrates 50 Years

Reminiscing and reflecting on their school days from over 50 years ago was at the heart of a recent School Reunion in Mackay. The event celebrated the 50-year milestone of the Grade 12 Class of 1975 from the then St. Patrick’s Christian Brothers College, now St. Patrick’s College on River Street.

Of the 23 students who graduated in 1975, 16 travelled from across Australia to attend the reunion. A highlight was a “back to school” event hosted by current Principal Janelle Agius. Reunion organiser Andrew Gibbs said it was special to revisit their classrooms, sharing memories and stories, both good and bad, from their school days through to graduation.

“Today’s education facilities and curriculum are certainly a big step ahead of what we had back then,” he said.

The reunion concluded with a formal dinner on Friday, 21 November. School Captain Bill Martin welcomed classmates and their partners to a memorable evening of catching up and reminiscing. Fellow organiser Paul Schembri said that while a 100-year reunion might be a stretch, the hope is to plan a 60-year celebration, or possibly sooner.

Contributed by Andrew Gibbs

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The 1975 classmates sitting in their old classroom, listening attentively to current Principal Janelle Agius
Group photo, taken at the formal dinner on Friday night

1975 classmates: Back row – Paul Stanbrough, David Power, Paul Schembri, Allan Ruming, Bill Martin, Ian Muller, Shane Regan, Stephen Robinson, Terry Murphy, Gerald Ritchie, Michael Delaney. Front row – Andrew Gibbs, Paul Patteson, Phillip Deane, Michael Power, Wayne Cassidy. Photos supplied

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131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina has been honoured with the 2025 Community Impact Award from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, acknowledging the Cadet Unit’s positive influence on the next generation that reflects the core of our youth engagement and education pillar.

Accompanied by a $1,000 donation, the Community Impact Award is presented to an organisation that inspires positive change, is dedicated to community, displays integrity in service, shows leadership and fosters inclusivity.

131 Army Cadet Unit provides the greater Sarina youth community with challenging opportunities to develop their abilities and lead their peers in a safe manner that also encourages fun and friendship.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May praised the Unit’s dedication to service and creating connections through their presence at commemorative events and support for local activities.

“Our Community Impact Award acknowledges a group that has gone above and beyond for the benefit of others, and 131 Amy Cadet Unit Sarina has continued to demonstrate this through their community efforts,” Ms May said.

“Community organisations like 131 Army Cadet Unit Sarina play an essential role in the greater Sarina region, shaping a welcoming space where lasting friendships are created and community connections are deepened.”

131 Amy Cadet Unit Officer Commanding Captain (AAC) Amy Bradford expressed gratitude on behalf of the organisation for the award, thanking Community Bank Sarina for their ongoing support.

“Thank you to the Board of Community Bank Sarina for recognising our organisation with the Community Impact Award for 2025 – it warms my heart that we are seen as such a vital part of the Sarina community,” Captain Bradford said.

“This award is testament to the dedication and camaraderie of our members, and we are grateful to Community Bank Sarina for recognising our commitment to supporting locals.

“As we are a locally run organisation led by committed volunteers, support like this strengthens our purpose – to guide aspiring young adults and equip them with confidence, discipline and leadership skills that stay with them long after their time in uniform.”

Other support for the 131 Army Cadet Unit from Community Bank Sarina includes marquee, flags and signage to showcase the Unit’s activities to the wider community. Additionally, the Cadet Unit recently received a Community Bank Sarina community grant to acquire defence-approved drones and other technology, providing cadets with practical training and skills to support future career pathways.

131 Army Cadet Unit’s recruitment information will be released via Facebook in early January at  https://www.facebook.com/131ArmyCadetUnitSarina.

To find out more about how Community Bank Sarina supports our community, visit their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/communitybanksarina.

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LT (AAC) Sam Trapp, CUO Rolly Lisle, CAPT (AAC) Amy Bradford, CDTW02 Sarah Bradford and CDTSGT Laila Box.

LT (AAC) Sam Trapp, CDTSGT Laila Box, CDTW02 Sarah Bradford, CUO Rolly Lisle and CAPT (AAC) Amy Bradford.

CUO Rolly Lisle and CDTW02 Sarah Bradford.

Director Maree Franettovich, Manager Erin Ryley, LT (AAC) Sam Trapp, CDTSGT Laila Box, CDTW02 Sarah Bradford, CUO Rolly Lisle, CAPT (AAC) Amy Bradford and Director Ann. Photos supplied

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As we move toward the end of the year, it has been a valuable time to reconnect with growers across the region.

Our market update sessions this week were well attended, and we appreciated the opportunity to sit down with growers, discuss the current price environment, and talk through the options available to help manage risk. These sessions are also an important way for us to understand what is happening on farm and to make sure we are providing the right support at the right time.

In response to the significant fall in sugar prices this year, and the impact this has had on monthly advance payments, we know many growers are navigating tighter cash flow heading into Christmas. To help ease some of that pressure, we have opened the 2026 Pre-Season Payment earlier than usual.

From 1 December 2025, eligible growers can access a $5 per tonne payment on their 2026 nominated cane with Wilmar Grower Marketing. Repayments will not begin until the 2026 crush starts, and the current interest rate is 5.00%. This early access option is designed to provide additional flexibility at a time when growers are managing input costs, planning for the New Year, and juggling the financial demands that come with the Christmas period.

The end of season finalisation is now under way for Proserpine growers and will begin soon for Plane Creek. For those who market with Wilmar, our team will be in touch to outline your final position and answer any questions you may have. This process often provides a timely checkpoint to reassess your pricing for 2025 and beyond. With continued volatility in global sugar markets, understanding your position now can help guide forward pricing decisions and strengthen your risk management settings for the seasons ahead.

As we wrap up another year, we want to acknowledge the resilience and hard work shown by growers throughout a challenging season.

On behalf of the Grower Marketing team, we wish all growers and their families a safe and Merry Christmas. We hope you are able to enjoy some well-deserved time with loved ones, and we look forward to working with you again in 2026.

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Our market update sessions are a valuable opportunity to connect with growers and share insights on how the global market is tracking. Photo supplied

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