By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

In the current economy, one of the major challenges facing all industries is finding suitably skilled workforce to complete the required tasks for day-to-day operations.

The sugar industry is, likewise, not immune to this scenario. All sectors of the supply chain must work extremely hard - and think outside the square- to compete with other Industries to find the human resources required to operate and function, particularly in the crush season.

The factories require operational and maintenance staff, cane train operators as well as numerous other positions.  On top of this are associated supply chain sectors servicing the sugarcane growing industry. For example: mechanics, repairs and maintenance contractors, tyre fitters, fuel suppliers, trucking companies, agronomic and a multitude of other businesses which require extra staffing across the busy harvest season.

Of course, it then goes without saying that the growing and harvesting sector also require large numbers of extra and seasonal staff during this period, which presents its own challenges.  Haulout and harvester operators, as well as general farm workers are in high demand throughout the crush season.  We are fortunate that there are many employees who love their jobs in the sugar industry and continue to come back year after year, to complete the various tasks required of them but new people are always required to fill all available positions.

We see grey nomads, backpackers as well as locals who seasonally will climb into a haul out and experience the harvesting season.  To help facilitate this filling of vacancies in the harvesting sector, CANEGROWERS Mackay conduct two fully funded Cane Haul-out driver training courses in May every year. In the past, it had been one course, but thanks to support from Queensland Agricultural Workforce Network (QAWN) CQ Officer funding for a second course and demonstrating the need for more places, it has since been two courses delivering 20 workers to industry. The course is funded through the Queensland Government Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative. CANEGROWERS is proud to be recognised and funded under the program as a community-based organisation delivering quality training.

These courses have been fully-subscribed for many years: putting forward a new injection of talent in the sector and is invaluable in providing the required skills to new employees to the sector.  As well as this, CANEGROWERS Mackay have advertised for workers nationally and internationally across digital platforms to help mitigate the shortfall in these areas with a varying degree of success. There is competition not just across all ag sectors, but across all industries.

And we need to see full employment across the entire supply chain, from paddock to port, to see our product successfully off to market. It’s also important for our regional economy, with every one dollar spent in the sugar industry multiplying to $6.10 across the Mackay-Isaac regional economy.

As this goes to print and all things going well, all four factories across Mackay/Plane Creek milling areas will have begun crushing for the 2025 crush season.  Sarina’s Plane Creek Mill was the first to kick off. However, it was delayed a few days by an unpredicted rainfall event across the mill area. Falls of up to 40mm across already moist paddocks resulted in a Saturday commencement of crushing, then experiencing a shaky start with limited cane supply owing to continued wet paddock conditions and some start-up issues.  In Mackay area, Farleigh was first to fire up, with first cane through the rollers at 10 am on 10 June.

Let us hope that the weather is kind to us throughout the harvest season to attempt to maximise the prime harvesting period and combined with hopefully improved and more consistent factory performance to help make the most out of the harvest season for all areas of our industry.

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2025 Haulout driver training, Course Two. Photo credit: Chris Finlay.

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RUNNING

Over 30 Mackay Road Runners embraced a frosty start for the Club Championship 5km, 15km, and 30km event at Northview Park on Sunday morning.

Club President Paul Tilse extended his thanks to the ever-reliable Andrew Short, who not only set the technically challenging course in the cold and dark but also completed the 15km run before collecting all signage and hydration stations from the route. His herculean efforts were supported by Vice President Len Howarth, Andrew Wallace, registrar and BBQ chef Julie Whibley, and the ever-efficient timekeeper Rohan Miles. Rohan’s calm, consistent dedication throughout the season continues to be greatly appreciated, with results posted online.

In the 5km race, Teresa Hackney claimed victory ahead of Millie Bishop, Judy Zahn and Kayla Waugh. The 15km event saw John Rae lead from the front, finishing ahead of Roscoe McDonnell, Alan Zamparutti, Andrew Wallace, Andrew Short and Len Howarth.

The 30km runners started 15 minutes early to tackle the endurance test. Mick Vivian dominated the field, setting a blistering pace and securing a comfortable win by more than 20 minutes, collecting maximum championship points. Joe Grech narrowly edged out a charging Hamish Donnollan by just five seconds to secure second place.

In the women’s 30km, Rhian Massey’s impressive run earned her top honours, finishing four minutes ahead of Jose Short. Emily Hayles took third place, followed closely by Carmel Mahon in fourth.
Gratitude was extended to course marshals Jo Hughes and Stuart Sprott for manning the water stops, ensuring a smooth and safe event.

Looking ahead, this Sunday marks the prestigious Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial Shield and 10km Club Championship event at Queens Park. The race, which honours the late Shawn Claydon – a champion athlete and respected colleague – also serves as a fundraiser for Pancare, supporting pancreatic cancer awareness and research. Entry is $10 for all runners, with 100% of fees donated.

The event will feature a 100-number raffle board with prizes from Bottletops & Brushes, Officeworks, Sabai Kaya Massage, local cafés, and Harrup Park. A coffee van, sausage sizzle, and birthday cake will also be on site to celebrate Shawn’s May birthday.

The 5km and 10km races start at 7am sharp; all participants must register by 6:50am. Everyone is welcome.

Also, don't forget Wednesday track training at the ARC from 5:30pm with Club Captain Jim Ford – entry $4.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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It’s Not About Doing More – It’s About Doing What Works

We almost did a big thing recently.

My partner and I were tossing up whether to buy the block next to the one we’d already bought – combining the two, building a big “home” for Rebel (and ourselves), and moving the business there. It would’ve been a huge project (and a huge investment). But after a lot of consideration – and insight from some very trusted peeps – we’ve decided to stick with just one block, and keep it as our home, not home and business.

It doesn’t happen often, but for once – not taking the big leap feels right.

It sounded bold. Ambitious. Scary in that “but what if it’s brilliant” kind of way. And honestly, saying no to something that looks like a golden opportunity can be harder than jumping in. Especially in business, where the unspoken rule seems to be: bigger = better.

Which got me thinking about how often we treat marketing the same way. There’s so much pressure to do all the things – more content, more platforms, more ads, more trends. You should be on XYZ. Have you tried ABC? I know I should be doing blah blah… There’s a lot of “shoulding” – and I see it stop people from doing anything at all.

But sometimes your biggest win isn’t doing more – it’s doing less, with intention. Cutting the fluff. Focusing on what actually works. Saying no to campaigns that sound exciting but don’t fit your goals. Choosing one or two platforms strategically and doing them really well, rather than half-committing to five.

You don’t have to master every element of marketing all at once. You just have to start with what fits you – your business, your season, your goals. Even the most well-meaning supporters don’t know your business like you do. No one does.

Which is why I’m keeping Rebel put, for now. In business, usually the goal is to grow out of the backyard. Our “big opportunity” actually felt like it would be a step backwards. Turns out, saying no is still moving forward.

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A $174,902 funding boost is fuelling fresh momentum for ten Mackay charities and community groups, following the Mackay Community Foundation’s 2025 grant round. The funding supports a wide range of grassroots initiatives aimed at strengthening health, safety, resilience and social connection across the region. Several recipients received grants to purchase vehicles, helping frontline teams reach more people in need. From youth support and homelessness outreach to disability arts and community gardens, the projects reflect the region’s diverse needs. With a generous donor now matching future contributions dollar-for-dollar, the long-term impact of this support is set to grow even further.

Foundation Grants Drive Regional Support

Ten local charities and community groups are moving forward with renewed momentum thanks to $174,902 in funding delivered through the Mackay Community Foundation’s 2025 grant round.

The funding will support a diverse range of projects aimed at enhancing community health, resilience, social connection and safety, with three of the ten recipients receiving grants to purchase much-needed vehicles.

Mackay Community Foundation Chair Frances Easton said the funding would go a long way in strengthening grassroots support services across the region.

“Every grant is meaningful but funding three cars for this round was additionally exciting,” Ms Easton said.

“The outreach that these organisations will be able to achieve thanks to having these vehicles on hand will create a broader impact.”

Among the recipients was the Australian Street Aid Project (ASAP), which supports people experiencing homelessness with services that go beyond a warm meal. The vehicle will help ASAP transport clients to vital medical, Centrelink and housing appointments.

“This grant means more than just a vehicle – it means dignity, connection and support,” said ASAP Director Kayleigh Brewster.

Mackay Women’s Services also received vehicle funding to replace an ageing car and extend their reach across the region.

CEO Belinda Berg said, “The new vehicle will keep our team mobile – supporting survivors of domestic and family violence, attending court, meeting agencies, and maintaining a strong presence in the community.”

Other recipients included Crossroads Arts, Kidney Support Network, Orange Sky, Clontarf Foundation, and Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia.

A new anonymous donor has also committed to continue the foundation’s matching donations program for 2025/26. For every $5,000 donated, the donor will match it – doubling the impact for grassroots programs.

To support local organisations, visit www.mackaycommunityfoundation.com.

2025 Mackay Community Foundation Grant Recipients:

• Clontarf Foundation – $8,522 for the Mackay L2P's Initiative
• Engedi – $18,655 for an Accessible Community Garden
• Australian Street Aid Project – $19,685 for Medical Appointment Transport for People Experiencing Homelessness
• One Life NQ – $9,836 for Myrtles Place Furniture Replacement
• Orange Sky – $10,000 for Mackay Laundry Pod Relocation
• Crossroads Arts – $18,000 for SCOPE – I can – I dream – I uncover
• Mackay Women’s Services – $44,031 for Mobilising Mackay Women's Services & Technical Surveillance Counter Measures
• Kidney Support Network – $29,133 for Renal Patient Transport Service
• Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia – $14,000 for the Ronald McDonald Learning Program
• One Stop Youth Shop Inc – $3,040 for Strength 2 Strength & Free 2 Be Me Youth Development Programs

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Ten local charities have received $174,902 in grants to boost services, including three vehicles to expand community outreach. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

A $174,902 funding boost is driving vital change across Mackay, with ten local charities receiving support to expand their impact and reach more people in need. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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While locals have long voiced concerns over parking challenges at Mackay Base Hospital, the wait for a solution has reached a new turning point — with the community now invited to have their say on plans for a multi-storey car park and helipad.

The proposed development marks a major milestone in the Mackay Hospital Expansion Project (MHEP), and the start of a formal public consultation process offers residents the opportunity to help shape a project that aims to improve access, patient transfer, and overall hospital experience.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon said the month-long consultation phase was a significant step forward.

“Visitors to Mackay Base Hospital may notice signage around the campus which explains that we are now in a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) consultation process,” Ms Gannon said.

“This process is managed by the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and it enables anyone with an interest in the development to provide feedback.

“Our staff, patients and visitors are aware of the parking pressures we face at Mackay Base Hospital during peak periods, and I know that we are all looking forward to the new multi-storey car park which will provide a total of about 1100 parking spaces, which is an additional 550 spaces on our current capacity.

“The car park will also feature a rooftop helipad which will allow for smoother transfer of patients into the emergency department.

“Work is also progressing well on the other components of MHEP; site preparation for a new wing of the hospital, and on determining a location for an off-site birth centre.”

Temporary carparking arrangements will be put in place during the car park construction period, and work is underway to determine a preferred location.

The MID consultation process is in place from 13 June to 14 July 2025.

Submissions can be made on or before 14 July 2025 to the Infrastructure Designation team via www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/mid-consultations, by email to infrastructuredesignation@dsdilgp.qld.gov.au or via post to PO Box 15009, City East, QLD 4002

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After years of frustration, Mackay Base Hospital opens public consultation on a new multi-storey car park and helipad to ease parking complications. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay State High School is set to receive $1.8 million in upgrades under the Crisafulli Government, with works to improve disability access, redesign pathways, and construct a new car park to create a safer and more accessible learning environment.

The improvements will ensure students with disability can easily navigate their school grounds, with safer pathways connecting seven school blocks and a junior school covered area.

As part of the significant works new ramps and handrails were installed, along with a new elevator, yellow pedestrian crossing lines, and wider doorways.

Mackay State High School, one of Queensland’s oldest state high schools, first opened its doors in 1912.

Mackay State High School Principal Felicity Roberts welcomed the upgrades, which will benefit students, staff and the school community.

“The accessibility projects are necessary for students and community members who require additional accessibility around the school grounds,” Ms Roberts said.

Vice Captain Kayla Woods said the opportunity for students to be heard was crucial.

“We’ve been invited to the state budget meeting in Brisbane to see how parliament works and to share our opinions,” she said.

“It’s important to have people our age listened to because it really does affect us.

“Accessibility, like elevators, is important so everyone can feel included and take pride in our school.”

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Mackay State High School will undergo $1.8 million in upgrades to improve accessibility, safety, and infrastructure, enhancing the school experience for all students, especially those with disability. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Two CQUniversity TAFE-trained apprentices have been recognised among the nation’s top emerging tradespeople, earning Medallions of Excellence at the 2025 WorldSkills National Championships in Brisbane.

Layth McGee and Ashley Cassar showcased their talents during the prestigious event, held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from June 12 to 15, where Australia’s best apprentices competed in a series of rigorous skill-based challenges.

Layth and Ashley were part of a group of six CQU TAFE-trained apprentices who represented Central Queensland in the categories of Construction Steel Work, Electrical Control, Electrical Installation, Heavy Vehicle Mechanics, Plumbing, and Welding.

Layth, of Reed Plumbing in Mackay received a medallion of excellence in the category of Plumbing & Heating.

“It’s a pretty good feeling – it’s definitely something to be proud of,” he said.

Layth said he found the tasks challenging.

“It definitely tested me,” he said.

“I want to give a big appreciation to my trainers for going out of their way to help me prepare.”

Ashley of Gladstone Ports Corporation was awarded the medallion of excellence in the Electrical Control category.

“Competing at a national level was tricky for sure, but I really enjoyed the challenge, as well as meeting new people,” he said.

“It tested my knowledge and determination to get my project done in a high quality and timely manner. I could not have made it this far without the support of GPC, my workplace, as well as Colin Sandland’s mentoring.

“Winning a medallion of excellence really makes me feel like everyone’s support paid off and I couldn’t be happier to bring it home to my family and workplace.”

CQU Peter Heilbuth congratulated Layth and Ashley on their awards and highlighted the efforts of their fellow competitors Sean Keetch (Construction Steel Work), Saxon Smith (Electrical Installation), Corey Burfield (Heavy Vehicle Mechanics) and Billy Vale (Welding).

“We are extremely proud of Ashley and Layth’s achievements. To come out of such a strong competition – against the best in Australia – with medallions is testament to their dedication and skills,” Mr Heilbuth said.

“Their success is also testament to CQU TAFE’s trainers and their partnerships with Ashley and Layth’s employers, Gladstone Ports Corporation and Reed Plumbing.

“All the competitors should feel proud to have made it to the WorldSkills Nationals.”

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Layth McGee from Reed Plumbing in Mackay

Ashley Cassar of Gladstone Ports Corporation. Photos supplied

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As Queenslanders edge closer to the new financial year, it’s the perfect time to take stock of money matters and map out a clearer financial direction for the months ahead.

Whether the aim is to pay off debt, grow savings, or plan for a significant purchase, financial advisers say even small, consistent changes can lead to stronger financial health.

Here are a few practical steps to get started:

Reflect on the past year
Take a close look at where your money went — which habits helped, and which ones hurt. Understanding past spending patterns is key to setting realistic goals.

Set SMART goals
Make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of “save more,” aim to “save $5,000 by next June for a home deposit or holiday.”

Break down big goals
Large amounts can feel daunting. Convert them into weekly or monthly targets — such as $100 per week — to make progress feel more achievable.

Prioritise what matters
Decide which goals are most urgent. Clearing high-interest debt often takes priority over discretionary spending or long-term investments.

Track progress regularly
Whether through apps, spreadsheets, or pen and paper, keeping tabs on your goals helps you stay accountable and adjust when needed.

Build an emergency buffer
Life is unpredictable. Even saving $10–$20 a week into an emergency fund can safeguard your broader goals.

Celebrate milestones
Progress — even small wins — deserves recognition. Hitting savings targets or paying off a credit card can be a powerful motivator to keep going.

Financial planning experts say the EOFY is more than a tax deadline — it’s an ideal opportunity to reset, refocus, and build toward a more confident financial future.

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The recent Super Story Time event at Mackay Regional Council Libraries brought together local families for a morning of storytelling, imagination, and fun, celebrating young readers and their grown-ups alike.

The library remains a welcoming space where knowledge thrives and all individuals are encouraged to explore, learn, and grow together.

With a diverse calendar of activities and programs on offer, residents are invited to visit the library website or download the Mackay Libraries app to discover upcoming events and make the most of these valuable community resources.

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If you’re old enough to remember the jingle about the Mackay City Heart, you probably remember Centrepoint Arcade too. Maybe you blew your cash on a Walk Like an Egyptian cassette from the record store in there. Before the mega extension at Caneland, the City Heart was full and buzzing. But that wasn’t the only change that shifted the scene. The rise of online shopping transformed how we buy, the pandemic kept many of us home more than ever, and those shifts all took their toll on the heart of the city.

We got the heart of the city (clap, clap)

Nostalgic Facebook groups overflow with black-and-white photos—ladies in gloves, strolling the footpaths in their Sunday best. Folks fondly remember cafés with plastic curtains, dances in Catholic halls, the bands that played them, and department stores with chocolate escalators (OK, maybe that one’s just me).

But while we’re busy reminiscing, the City Heart is still here. And it’s changing.

CBDs across Australia are shifting. The main drag is no longer the automatic centre of gravity. We see boarded up shops, and “for lease” signs. Online shopping has exploded. International chains have arrived. And then there’s parking.

But here’s the thing — parking is not the real problem. It is just the easiest to complain about.

The “parking problem” isn’t just the thing Mackay people like to complain about... Walk down any main street in regional Australia and someone will tell you parking is killing their CBD. But we’ll all happily trek the length of a shopping centre carpark without a second thought. If you park a couple of blocks away in the City Heart, you might run into someone you know, discover a new business, or just enjoy being part of a living street. That’s how community happens—by being in it.

What stings is this: we mourn the empty buildings but forget to cheer for the new businesses having a go. We scroll through memories of old floats and parades, but don’t turn up for the events happening now.

We all miss the buzz of the City Heart.

There’s plenty of love for how it used to be—but bringing that energy back means more than a walk down memory lane.

At the Chamber, we do everything we can to get the word out: socials, emails, posters, word of mouth. And still, we hear it— “I didn’t know it was on.”

But the truth is people are trying. New businesses are opening, events are happening, and there’s real passion to keep the City Heart alive. What it needs now is more of us showing up.

So here’s how you can help:

Like. Share. Tag a friend. Talk about it. Show up.

The City Heart doesn’t need more commentary—it needs community. You are not making an impact on the CBD in the comments section—real progress needs real people showing up.

If you want to see it thrive, be part of the change.

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Working to your strengths is personally empowering and enables you to present your best self, whether in your work or personal life.

We each have a combination of qualities, talent and skills that are unique to us. To work to your strengths, you first have to identify them. For some this is an easy list; for others this focus on self is more challenging. Here are some ways to identify your strengths.

Check in with your colleagues and trusted advisors/friends, and ask them what they see as your top 3 strengths (you can ask for more – 3 seems a good number).
Spend some time personally reflecting on those activities and tasks that you are drawn to and enjoy, then write up the list – what may be a natural tendency for you may be more difficult for others.
Cross check these lists for common themes on your strengths.
There are also professional tools available to assist you in identifying your strengths.

When you focus on and work to your strengths, it builds confidence and reinforces self-belief. You will feel more engaged and make the most of opportunities to show your best self. When you do something you enjoy, you will be more productive and overall add more value in your work or organisational context. You benefit, and so do others.

In a career context, when you are working to your strengths, you will look for opportunities that align to your suite of strengths. You are more likely to be successful and success builds confidence, and improves your performance. This in turn will allow you to leverage your strengths for further growth and personal development, as well as build your skills base.

Strengths are not stagnant. You can expand and refine your strengths and become even more effective. We also need to know when to ‘regulate’ our strengths with a good dose of self-awareness. Knowing when and how to best use our strengths takes it to another level. A strength used inappropriately or overused can be a ‘weakness’ – e.g. being an effective organiser versus taking over/bossy and not letting others develop.

Knowing and working to your strengths also feeds into self-worth and truly knowing your value – the unique combination that you contribute - to enable you to flourish and inspire.

For personal and dedicated assistance with identifying your strengths and using this to further your career - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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Australians today are navigating increasingly complex financial terrain. From managing mortgages, superannuation, and insurance, to preparing for retirement and developing effective tax strategies.

The financial decisions most people face is significant and often overwhelming. Add the weight of a cost-of-living crisis and it’s no surprise that many people feel stretched, uncertain and unsure where to start.

Yet, financial advice is still widely seen as a luxury, something reserved for the wealthy or retired, something that is left to deal with later in life. But the truth is, the greatest cost may come from not seeking advice at all.

At its core, financial advice is about helping you make informed, strategic decisions that support your goals and improve your long-term wellbeing. This may involve setting clear priorities, structuring your cash flow and debt, building investment portfolios, optimising superannuation and tax strategies, protecting your income through insurance, and planning for life’s transitions, whether that’s buying a home, changing careers, or retiring.

But the technical side is just the beginning. Where quality financial advice really proves its worth is helping people stay on track when emotions rise. Because let’s face it, we’re not always rational with money. We tend to panic in downturns, overspend when confidence is high, delay important decisions out of fear and underestimate the future costs of inaction.

An adviser’s real value often reveals itself not in calm times, but in moments of uncertainty, when clarity, structure, and an unbiased view are most needed.

Research by Vanguard and Russell Investments shows financial advisers can add around 3–4% in annual value, not by picking the perfect stock, but by helping clients avoid emotionally driven decisions.

That value compounds significantly over time.

Financial Advisers are here to ask the right questions, challenge knee-jerk reactions and help you stay focused on the big picture, not the headlines or hype.

Still, many Australians attempt to manage their finances alone and understandably so, we’ve all tried a bit of DIY in the hope of saving some money. But much like fixing plumbing or rewiring a house, what seems simple on the surface often reveals unexpected complexity.

In hindsight, many realise the time, risk, and stress would have been avoided by engaging a professional from the outset.

Financial advice isn’t about complexity. It’s about creating a strategy tailored to your life, with someone in your corner to keep you accountable and confident, especially when life throws you off track.

In a world full of noise and competing priorities, advice offers something rare: clarity, control, and peace of mind.

And when you consider what’s really at stake, your lifestyle, your security, your future — the real question isn’t can you afford to get advice?

It’s... can you afford not to?

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Friday 20th June

Crochet & Conversation
9am
Join a welcoming morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation with Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. All skill levels welcome—just look for the yarn to find the table. Connection and creativity guaranteed.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant

Free Friday Guided Walks
10am
Join a Friday Guided Walk at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and discover the unique plants and features of this beautiful space. Led by experienced Gardens Guides, the walks run every Friday (excluding public holidays) from 10am to 11am at a relaxed pace. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre opposite the café. Don’t forget your hat, water bottle and comfy shoes. A free and informative outing for nature lovers.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy LIVE music every Friday at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Bob’s Your Auntie
7.30pm – 20-21 June
Bob’s Your Auntie” is a cheeky cross-dressing comedy where secrets, stilettos, and a suspicious lotto ticket collide. When Bob lands in a tight spot, a pair of heels and a hastily invented ‘auntie’ become his only way out. Expect laughs, lashes, and plenty of leg.
Kucom Theatre

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
7.30pm - 20-22 June
Get ready for a hilarious, heartwarming, and high-energy musical that’s taken audiences by storm! Join six quirky kids as they compete for the spelling championship of a lifetime—sharing laugh-out-loud stories, facing made-up words, and hoping to avoid the dreaded "ding" of elimination. With catchy songs, witty dialogue, and a touch of audience participation, this award-winning show is one unforgettable ride! Winner of the Tony & Drama Desk Awards for Best Book Directed by Emma Goding Don't miss the fun, spelling has never been this entertaining! Book your tickets via  cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com
Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music, Ooralea

Saturday 21st June

High Tide Festival - Mackay
1pm
High Tide Festival returns to Bluewater Quay for a celebration of beer, food, and live music on the banks of the Pioneer River. This free, all-ages event features performances by Brad Butcher, Heath and Leyon Milner, Brendan Radford and more, alongside a line-up of local and international brewers.
Bluewater Quay

The Harbour Moon Market
3.30pm
Soak up the sunset at the Harbour Moon Markets on 21 June, set on the grass in front of the surf lifesaving club. Enjoy handmade local goods, face painting, meat raffles and more. Book a table at the restaurant or bring a blanket for a relaxed family afternoon by the sea.
Mackay Harbour

Family Boogie Night
5.30pm
Get ready to hit the dance floor at Family Boogie Night on Saturday 21 June. This all-ages, drug and alcohol-free event offers a fun evening of music, games, and connection. Bring your own dinner or enjoy a sausage sizzle—everyone’s welcome, no matter your style or age. Let the boogie begin.
Andergrove Community Hall

Catherine McAuley College Mystery Dinner
6pm
Step into Shakespearean Verona for an evening of intrigue at Catherine McAuley College’s Murder Mystery Masquerade Ball. Guests will enjoy a three-course meal, live entertainment and a dramatic twist—murder is afoot. Dress in disguise, don a mask, and prepare for a night where nothing is quite as it seems. 18+ event.
239 Nebo Road

Sunday 22nd June

CASA Sunday BBQ
11am
Everyone’s welcome at CASA’s weekly sausage sizzle, held every Sunday at the Blue Water Quay BBQ area. Enjoy a free bite to eat, connect with others, and bring a friend along for a relaxed and friendly start to your Sunday. Just bring a smile—everything else is sorted.
Blue Water Quay

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Mackay Country & Western Club Family Afternoon
1.30pm
New artists are welcome, with a band available to provide backing for those who wish to perform. The event commences at 1.30pm, with an admission fee of $5. Everyone is welcome. For more information, contact Charlie on 0408 776 564.
Senior Citizens Hall, Macalister Street, Mackay

Monday 23rd June

Mackay NAIDOC Community Committee Meeting
12.30pm
The Mackay NAIDOC Management Committee invites all community members to attend the upcoming NAIDOC Community Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Community Centre. This is an opportunity to connect, contribute ideas, and support the planning of this year’s NAIDOC celebrations. Everyone is welcome.
Jubilee Community Centre

Tuesday 24th June

Northern Beaches Community Playgroup – Hall Session
9am
Enjoy a morning of play and connection at Northern Beaches Community Hall. Special guests include a Child Health Nurse offering weigh and measure checks—bring your red book. Activities start at 9:15am with crafts, sensory play, and storytime. A $3 donation per family supports consumables; children under 12 months attend free. Remember to bring hats, water, sunscreen, and morning tea. Membership with Play Matters and arrival check-in are required. Families are responsible for their children at all times.
Northern Beaches Community Hall

Thursday 26th June

Mackay Get It Together - Better Housing Together
10.30am
Better Together Housing supports women over 55 exploring shared housing options. Gatherings offer casual meet-ups, connection, and occasional guest speakers. Join the Mackay Get-it-together for coffee and conversation. Register to attend or contact Project Worker Lauren at 0419 179 495 or lauren@gwcommunities.org.au. More info is available on the Better Together Housing website.
Gordan White Library

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A man in his 30s is in critical condition after being shot in the shoulder at a rural property in Devereux Creek, west of Mackay.

Police and emergency services were called to the scene on Devil’s Pool Road shortly before 10:30am.

Upon arrival, officers found the man with a gunshot wound and he was quickly transported to Mackay Base Hospital. A Queensland Ambulance spokesperson confirmed the injuries were life-threatening.

Authorities have assured there is no immediate threat to the public. Investigations are ongoing, with no further details released at the time of publication.

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When people need something important done, something that really matters, they tend not to simply find out who offers the cheapest quote and go with that option.

If someone owns a classic car, for example, you will never hear them do a ring-around of mechanics or spray painter shops to see who is the cheapest.

A conversation you’ll never hear at a pub: “Hey fellas you know that beautiful 1968 HK GTS Monaro of mine that I’ve had forever, well it needs a paint job and I rang around and found someone who’ll do it for hundreds of dollars less than everyone else. Booked it straight in.”

When a professional sportsman has a knee injury their focus is not on arranging the cheapest surgeon to do the job.

Matildas captain Sam Kerr injured her knee a while back and this was not the conversation at the time.

Matildas football manager: “Sam, we’ve rung around and we’ve found a really cheap orthopedic surgeon in Mt Isa who reckons he can get you in for surgery next week. It’ll be thousands of dollars cheaper than the other options.”

Sam: “Sounds great, book me in.”

That conversation will never happen because the team and the player know there is a price to pay for going with the cheapest option.

It’s not how much you pay, it’s how much it hurts the player and the club to go with someone who is not going to create the best possible result.

It’s the same for the owner of the HK Monaro. The car is too important for the cheapest option and you will probably lose money in the end.

Which is why it’s so odd that, in real estate, you will often get a call along these lines: “Gidday mate, I’m planning to sell my house and I’m just ringing real estate agencies to see who can offer me the best deal. What’s your commission?”

Now I know that the cost is important. Agents get paid well and the cost of commission is absolutely something that a seller needs to factor in. There is no reason for someone to charge over-the-top commission that’s higher than everyone else. That’s a rip-off.

Agents have to justify their commission, produce a result that means the investment in commission is a good one.

The truth is that the person who does a ring-around to find the cheapest agent, usually ends up with the person who has one trick up their sleeve; low commission. A bit like the cheap spray painter and the cheap surgeon. Not very good but cheaper than everyone else.

And the problem is that saving money at the start can cost you in the end. You can save $1000 on commission but lose $30,000 on the sale price because the stupid agent didn’t know how to create competition for your property and negotiate the best price.

Good work by the agent can produce a result that means the difference in commission between that agent and the cheaper one is not only irrelevant but completely justified.

I recently sold a three-bedroom, one bathroom house in Beaconsfield with no pool and no shed for $590,000 after getting 38 groups of buyers at the open house and receiving eight offers on the property.

The sellers were hoping for something in the low $500,000s and comparable sales reflected that expectation.

The thing is that the sellers were not thinking about whether my commission was $1000 higher than someone cheaper, they were thinking about the result.

I know I am not the only agent to get better-than-expected results in this market and I mention this one, not to brag, but to simply illustrate that cheaper isn’t always better.

Well, maybe to brag a bit. Oh, shut up! At least I didn’t start off with it!

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