The pre-dawn darkness at Finch Hatton carried a weight that was impossible to ignore. Guided by dim streetlights and the distant flash of emergency vehicles marking road closures, a quiet procession of people moved toward the cenotaph. There was no chatter, no distraction, only the steady rhythm of footsteps and a shared understanding of why we had gathered. In that silence, the significance of the dawn service spoke louder than any words could.

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When the service began, the stillness gave way to reflection. The words spoken were powerful, grounded in remembrance and respect. To lay a wreath on behalf of the Mackay Regional Council was an honour, made more meaningful by the setting away from the familiarity of the Mackay precinct and into a smaller, deeply connected community. It was a reminder that Anzac Day is not confined to large ceremonies; its spirit thrives just as strongly in quiet regional towns.

What followed was perhaps the most profound part of the morning. Conversations sparked among strangers who, within moments, felt like old friends. Stories were exchanged – some light, some heavy. I recall my conversations with people like Buzz and Bevan, whose openness captured the essence of the day. These were not rehearsed interactions, but genuine human connections formed through shared respect and collective memory. Over an early breakfast at the Criterion Hotel, those conversations continued, unforced and deeply engaging.

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It was only afterward, sitting alone, that the emotional weight truly settled. There was an unexpected sense of reluctance to leave, as though departing meant abandoning something meaningful. That feeling, difficult to articulate at first, soon became clear: it was patriotism in its truest form. Not the loud or performative kind, but a quiet, enduring bond, standing shoulder to shoulder with others in remembrance of sacrifice, loyalty and mateship.

Later in Mackay, the scale of the main service reinforced that same sentiment. With a record number of marchers, including more than 7000 children, and crowds lining the streets, the idea that Anzac Day is fading could not have been further from the truth. The presence of Major General Paul Kenny added to the significance, but it was the community itself that defined the day.

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From children waving flags in prams to elderly attendees sharing memories of years gone by, the spirit of Anzac Day was unmistakable. It lives on not just in ceremony, but in connection. In the stories told, the friendships formed and the collective act of remembering

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Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  The next session will be held at Eton Hotel from 5pm on May 5, 2026.  

Further details can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

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Greyhound owners and their beloved pets gathered with Nigel Dalton, Member for Mackay, to discuss Queensland’s muzzle laws. Reilly, with Keith and Anne McCollim, Higgins and Liam with Kate Chiconi, Lotti with Lyn Harris, and Pheobe with Lisa Veney. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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A group of passionate greyhound owners from the Happy Greys Social Club recently met with Nigel Dalton, Member for Mackay, to advocate for a review of Queensland’s requirement that greyhounds must wear muzzles in public.

The gathering brought together several owners and their dogs, providing supporters an opportunity to demonstrate the gentle temperament that they say defines the breed.

Under current Queensland legislation, greyhounds are generally required to wear a muzzle in public unless they are recognised through the Queensland Greyhound Adoption Program (GAP) and identified by the program’s green collar. Where council local laws permit, this collar allows GAP greyhounds to be walked muzzle free.  

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Queensland is widely considered the only Australian state where a broad public muzzling requirement for greyhounds still applies.

Co-founder of Happy Greys Social Club in Mackay, Kate Chiconi explained the group reached out directly to Mr Dalton to begin the conversation.

“Lyn and I are co-founders of the Happy Greys Social Club and between us we wrote a letter and sent it to Nigel Daltons office.”

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She said the meeting allowed the Member for Mackay to see the dogs up close.

Ms Chiconi, who owns retired racing greyhounds Higgins and Liam, said the breed is often misunderstood.

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“People who know anything about greyhounds know that they are inherently not aggressive dogs,” she said.

“They’ve been trained to chase, not attack.”

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She described greyhounds as calm and affectionate companions.

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“They are gentle, they’re quiet, they rarely bark, they’re calm, they’re great with kids and good with each other,” she said.  

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“They absolutely don’t need to wear a muzzle outside.”

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Fellow club co-founder Lyn Harris attended with her dog Lotti, who she said came into her life after a difficult start.

“She came from the pound after being dumped in the bush,” Ms Harris said.

“We’ve had her for about five years now and she’s around seven. It’s wonderful that she landed on her feet with us. She’s such a good dog.”

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Ms Harris said greyhounds are known for their funny and relaxed nature.

“They do all the quirky things like lying on their back with their legs in the air. They call it ‘roaching’,” she said.

“They sleep for about 18 hours a day after half an hour of exercise,”  

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She, along with other group members believe the muzzle requirement sends the wrong message about the breed.

“They’re not a dangerous or aggressive breed of dog,” Ms Harris said. “They deserve to be living their best life, muzzle free.”

Mr Dalton said he is now looking into the background of the legislation and whether it remains justified.

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“At this stage we’re doing research into why we have these laws in Queensland which say that a greyhound that has raced before has to wear a muzzle in public,” he said.

“I don’t think greyhounds should have that stigma.”

He said dangerous behaviour should be addressed regardless of breed.

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“A dangerous dog is a dangerous dog and they should be dealt with under the legislation,” Mr Dalton said.  

“But a dangerous dog could be any breed. Why are we just focusing on one particular breed?”

Mr Dalton said the next step is to examine the evidence.

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“I want to examine the evidence behind it and see whether or not it’s something we can change,” he said.

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While no immediate changes have been proposed, the conversation has prompted fresh discussion around whether greyhounds, often known as gentle giants, should be required to wear muzzles in public after retiring from racing in Queensland.

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Tough new laws targeting crime and antisocial behaviour will expand police powers in Mackay’s CBD precincts to help protect local businesses and improve community safety. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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A suite of new laws aimed at tackling youth crime, drug offences and antisocial behaviour is set to roll out across Queensland, with Mackay identified as a key focus area.

The Government has passed the Expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time and Taking a Strong Stance on Drugs and Antisocial Behaviour Bill 2026, introducing tougher penalties for serious offences and expanded powers for police.

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Under the changes, 12 new offences have been added to the Adult Crime, Adult Time framework, bringing the total number of applicable offences to 45. The legislation also includes significant drug reforms and the introduction of Designated Business and Community Precincts, designed to help police better manage antisocial behaviour in high-risk areas.

Mackay is one of four priority locations selected for the new precincts, which will allow police to move on offenders and provide greater protection for local businesses, workers and families.

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the reforms would deliver much-needed support to the region.

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“These laws are about restoring safety in Mackay and backing our local businesses who have been doing it tough,” Mr Dalton said.

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“For too long, businesses across Mackay have been targets of repeat offending and antisocial behaviour, and that has real impacts on jobs, confidence and our local economy.

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“Businesses like Kawasaki have unfortunately been frequent targets in the past, and that’s why these stronger police powers and tougher laws are so important.

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“Our community deserves to feel safe when they go to work, shop in the CBD, or spend time with their families, and these laws will help make that happen.

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“The Government is delivering exactly what we promised — stronger laws, better support for police, and real action to turn the tide on youth crime.”

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The expanded list of offences under Adult Crime, Adult Time includes serious crimes such as aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm, conspiring to murder, unlawful stalking and intimidation, riot, indecent treatment of a child under 16, choking or strangulation in a domestic setting, and administering poison with intent to harm.

Alongside tougher penalties, the legislation introduces a new Illicit Drug Enforcement and Diversion Framework, which aims to balance enforcement with rehabilitation by ensuring offenders face consequences while offering support pathways for low-risk cases.

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The government says the reforms are already contributing to a decline in crime, with a reported 7.2 per cent drop in the number of victims in 2025, and expects the new measures to further strengthen community safety across Queensland.

With enhanced police powers set to be implemented in Mackay’s CBD and surrounding precincts, the changes are intended to deter repeat offenders, reduce antisocial behaviour and restore confidence for businesses and the wider community.

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Photo source: Queensland Police Service

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Dysart Police are appealing for public assistance following an incident involving wilful damage and the unlawful use of a motor vehicle at two local businesses on Murphy Street, Dysart, between 1.28am and 2.35am on 19 April.

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Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and have released information in relation to the matter, including an image they believe may assist with inquiries. Members of the public who recognise the person or have any information are urged to contact police as soon as possible.

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Officers are also reminding residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour immediately, regardless of the time of day, as early reporting can assist in preventing further offending and support timely investigations.

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Driver Loses Licence Following High-Speed Detection – Alligator Creek

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A 20-year-old Sarina man has had his driver licence suspended after being allegedly detected travelling at 191km/h in a 100km/h zone during speed enforcement patrols on the Bruce Highway at Alligator Creek.

It will be alleged the motorist was intercepted at approximately 7.20am on 24 April while travelling northbound, exceeding the posted speed limit by 91km/h.

The driver was issued a traffic infringement notice totalling $1,919, resulting in the loss of eight demerit points and a six-month licence suspension.

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Police have reiterated their focus on road safety across the Mackay Whitsunday district, including remote and high-risk areas, through ongoing enforcement operations targeting dangerous driving behaviour.

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Senior Constable Donna Hill, from the Mackay Crime Prevention Unit, said in some cases vehicles linked to high-speed offences may also be subject to impoundment.

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The junior playground at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens will be temporarily closed from Wednesday, April 29 until approximately May 9 to allow for scheduled improvement works.

Mackay Regional Council will install a new water sand play unit and a new excavator as part of the upgrade, enhancing play opportunities for younger visitors at the popular riverside parkland precinct.

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The closure will ensure works can be completed safely and efficiently, with access to the area restricted during the construction period. Council has advised the public that all other areas of the Botanic Gardens remain open for use during this time.

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Once installation is complete and safety checks have been finalised, the playground will be reopened to the community. Council will provide an update when the works are finished and the space is ready for use.

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Council has thanked the community for its patience and understanding while the improvements are carried out, noting the short-term closure will support longer-term benefits for park users.

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Residents are encouraged to plan alternative play options during the closure period.

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Coal haulage between the Vulcan and Moranbah North mines will resume temporarily, with Isaac Regional Council granting short-term approval for Anglo American to transport approximately 20,000 tonnes. Photo source: ABC News

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Isaac Regional Council has temporarily reinstated approval for the road haulage of coal from the Vulcan Mine to Moranbah North Mine near Moranbah over an estimated three-week period commencing 27^th April 2026.

The original haulage permits were suspended in February 2026 following the Vitrinite companies entering receivership and administration. Isaac Regional Council’s previous decision related specifically to the Vitrinite companies and the suspension of their approvals while the future of the business and its assets was being determined.

Council has now granted a request from Anglo American to retrieve approximately 20,000 tonnes of coal purchased from the Receiver of the Vitrinite companies and currently located at the Vulcan Mine site.

This temporary approval is for haulage to Anglo American only for short period of weeks. It does not reinstate any other approvals, nor does it authorise any ongoing operations by the Vitrinite companies.

Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said Council’s decision reflects that the coal is being removed for a different company.

This is an approval for Anglo American to remove coal it has acquired from the Receiver.

“Council has made it clear to both Vitrinite and Anglo that the same conditions that applied previously will continue to apply, including the payment of road haulage fees.”

The approval restores the conditions of the suspended permits, including approved haulage routes, operational requirements and the payment of road haulage fees to Council.

Council will continue to monitor the haulage operation during the temporary three-week period.

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Dan Peters with his son on ANZAC day. Photos supplied

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An Australian Army veteran who served across East Timor, the Solomon Islands and Afghanistan has reflected on his military career shaped by discipline, hardship, mateship and the long, often unseen aftermath of war.

Dan Peters enlisted in 1999 at the age of 19, shortly after finishing high school, driven by a longstanding interest in the military and aviation. He began in the infantry before transferring into the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, working as a helicopter mechanic after completing trade training and specialist aviation courses in Australia and the United States.

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His service took him into some of Australia’s most significant deployments, including Timor in 1999 and again in 2001 to 2002, the Solomon Islands in 2003 and Afghanistan in 2011.

He described his first deployment to Timor as confronting yet influential, marked by both destruction and connection.

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“We took time to get to know the community and show compassion on the people of Timor.”

“They were very happy for us to be there and liberate them as an independent country, especially the children,” he said.

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Amid the intensity, he said it was often the smallest interactions that carried the deepest meaning, including engagement with locals and moments of lightness such as servicemen racing children on karts.

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“The mateship is the biggest thing that you get from the military.”

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Mr Peters has remained closely involved in veteran wellbeing and RSL initiatives across Central Queensland, particularly within the Walkerston Pleystowe RSL sub branch, including leadership roles as Secretary and participation in commemorative and peer connection programs.

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He said the transition from military to civilian life can be disorienting, but not impossible with the right support.

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“The military is awesome at breaking a civilian down and building them back up again… but when we leave… we don’t know how to adjust back.”

“We just leave and we put on civilian clothes, but we’re still a military person.”

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A significant part of his ongoing advocacy focuses on veteran mental health and recovery programs that use shared experience as a pathway to healing. These initiatives often return veterans to Timor, combining reflection at historical sites with group discussion and storytelling.

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“There’s a lot of emotion, a lot of tears, a lot of stories… but people come back feeling refreshed.”

“It’s like they’ve got a whole new outlook on life.”

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At the centre of that process is forgiveness, not as erasure, but as a form of inner solace.  

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“It’s not about forgetting, but more about forgiving… so they heal inside and learn to deal with anger and resentment.”

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Mr Peters said remembrance and honour must extend beyond just one day per year to acknowledge the invisible burden carried by those who return.

“I think we need to remember all service men and women more than once a year.

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“A lot of times we remember those who didn’t make it home, but we sometimes forget to acknowledge and appreciate the people that fought and still came home alive, and the scars they still go through because of it.”

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Now, Mr Peters spends his days alongside his wife and three children, carving out time for his sons’ cricket matches and continuing his commitment to the Walkerston Pleystowe RSL Sub Branch as Secretary.

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Just ten days after her seventeenth birthday, on April 10^th 1995 Linda Elliott officially joined the Navy.

Growing up between Mackay and Moranbah, Linda was drawn to the idea of seeing the world beyond regional Queensland. Her introduction to naval life began through a cadet program, where she developed an early understanding of the structure and expectations of military life.

“I was a Navy cadet beforehand… so I had a bit of a background and I knew people that had already served.”

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Her early role placed her in close proximity to officers, working in a steward capacity where she supported their daily needs and operations during deployments.

“I was a steward, so my main job was to look after the officers.”

But life at sea rarely meant doing just one job. Sailors were expected to step into multiple responsibilities depending on operational demands.

Linda took part in boarding parties, emergency response training, medical assistance teams and firefighting drills, while also completing chemical warfare training.

“When you’re at sea, you’ve got more than one job.”

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Her time in uniform was marked by contrast. Some days followed routine and structure, while others demanded resilience and quick thinking.

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“Some days were really good… but other days could be really bad, so you just had to take each day as it came.”

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Life onboard ship also created strong bonds between those who served. Living in tight quarters, often sharing bunk beds and limited personal space, meant crew members relied heavily on one another.

“It turns into a family.”

Linda says many of those friendships have endured to this day.

“We still stay in touch.”

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“You might not see them for months or years, but as soon as you see them, it’s like we’re family again.”

Completing the demanding twelve weeks of recruit training stands out as one of her proudest milestones, and the discipline developed during those years continues to shape her life today.

Linda also hopes to broaden public understanding of who veterans are.

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“People think of a veteran and they think of an elderly man or a Vietnam vet… but there are younger women out there that have served as well.”

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Today, she balances life as a mother of three while remaining connected to the Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub-Branch.

One of her daughters has recently decided to join the Navy, following in her footsteps, while her young son has begun taking an interest in the stories of her service.

She encourages younger generations considering military service to approach it with confidence.

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“Just believe in yourself.”

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“You’ve got to believe that you can do it.”

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And just as importantly, she hopes fellow veterans know support is available.

Linda now hopes to be that source of support for others. After navigating her own recovery through rehabilitation and a veteran’s program she speaks highly of, she is committed to giving back to a cause that remains close to her heart.

“Like many other veterans, it’s taken a lot of years for me to be able to speak about things I’ve seen, and what’s happened.”

“So many of our veterans go without help… but it doesn’t have to be like that.”

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“I just want people to know that there is help out there for veterans… please just reach out.”

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Former Navy sailor Linda Elliott, who enlisted at 17, reflects on a life shaped by resilience, service at sea and motherhood, while encouraging veterans and young women to believe in themselves and seek support. Photos supplied

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Whitsunday Anglican School launches Medical Pathways research partnership with MHHS. L-R: Dr Matthew Hiskens, Mackay HHS Principal Research Fellow, Senara Wasalthilaka, Student, Soham Rana, Student, Andrew Wheaton, Principal, and Dr Ashwita Venkatesh, Director of Medical Pathways. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Anglican School is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) which will offer students a unique opportunity to experience real-world medical research.

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As part of the school’s expanding Medical Pathways programme, two students each term will have the opportunity to undertake a research placement with the Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation (MIRI) which is the research arm of Mackay HHS. The placements will occur during school holidays and run for over three to four days, providing students with valuable insight into clinical research and innovation.

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During the placement, students will work alongside research fellows, research translation staff and innovation teams, gaining experience in research planning, protocol design, project management, data analysis and writing for publication. They will also have the opportunity toassist with processing clinical samples, contribute to research communication through poster design with the communications team, attend Friday Hospital Grand Rounds, and engage in discussions with principal investigators of clinical trials.

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While students will not have direct patient contact, the experience is carefully designed to ensure confidentiality and uphold the highest ethical standards.

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This initiative will provide a broader cohort of students with exposure to research environments, career pathways, and the diverse roles within health and medical innovation.

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Director of Medical Pathways at Whitsunday Anglican School, Dr Ashwita Venkatesh, said the programme will provide students with an authentic and meaningful introduction to translational research.

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“Experiences such as attending Grand Rounds and contributing to research communication will help them better understand the connection between scientific discovery and patient outcomes,” Dr Venkatesh said.

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“We are particularly pleased to be working collaboratively on the ethics component of the programme. Introducing students to key principles such as professionalism, non-maleficence, autonomy and confidentiality will provide a strong foundation for any future pathway in medicine or health research.”

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Principal of Whitsunday Anglican School, Mr Andrew Wheaton, said the partnership reflects the school’s commitment to providing meaningful, future-focused learning opportunities.

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“We are delighted to be working alongside MHHS to bring these opportunities to life,” Mr Wheaton said.

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Mackay HHS Principal Research Fellow, Dr Matthew Hiskens said it’s important for students planning their career path to have knowledge of local opportunities available.

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“It’s great to highlight opportunities for the next generation of the medical workforce, and to show students that rewarding careers in health and research can happen right here in the Mackay region,”

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“After high school, what drew me to research was the chance to explore unknown questions, and I hope this experience gives the students an insight into research career paths.” Dr Hiskens said.

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Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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A smoking ceremony, Welcome to Country and Torres Strait Islander prayer marked a significant beginning for the newly appointed Mackay Hospital and Health Board, as it convened for its first official meeting at Mackay Base Hospital.

Yuwi Elder Philip Kemp conducted the Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, while Seba Kaigey delivered the Torres Strait Islander prayer.

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Following the cultural protocols, Board members, Mackay Hospital and Health Service Executive Leadership Team Chief Executive Sean Birgan, staff and attendees were invited to walk through the smoke or waft it over themselves, symbolising cleansing of spirit and body.

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The ceremonies established the tone for the board’s work moving forward, reflecting a commitment to partnership with community, cultural respect and holistic approaches to care. The moment also served to connect the hospital’s physical environment with broader principles of healing and wellbeing for the community it serves.

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The newly appointed Board is led by reappointed Chair Monica McKendry and includes five new members: Deputy Chair David Nebauer, Ron Nightingale, Dr Peter Malouf, Alana Moller and Lynn Smart. Reappointed members Associate Professor Luke Lawton and Andrea Ranson continue in their current terms.

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Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, says the Coalition’s plan to more than double our national fuel reserves is about one thing: ensuring that when global shocks hit, our farmers, transport operators, and families are not left running on empty. Photo supplied

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The Coalition will more than double Australia’s minimum fuel reserves to 60 days and deliver at least 1 billion litres of new storage through an $800 million Australian Fuel Security Facility, building long-term resilience against future supply shocks in Dawson.

Under the plan, the threshold amount of fuel held by industry in Australia’s fuel reserves through the Minimum Stockholding Obligation would be lifted over time to increase stocks of gasoline, jet fuel and diesel. Currently, industry is required to hold around 30 days’ worth of reserves for each fuel type.

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In addition to raising the threshold, a dedicated $800 million program will be established to invest in new large-scale fuel storage projects across the nation, significantly boosting the capacity of industry to hold more fuel onshore.

Leader of the Opposition Angus Taylor said Australians expect their country to keep running, but in a crisis the Prime Minister is always last to lead.

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“This is a plan the Prime Minister should pick up today. No excuses, no delays,” Mr Taylor said.

“If fuel stops, Australia stops. It’s that simple. Trucks don’t move, supermarkets don’t stock, businesses shut their doors.”

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“We are putting forward a practical plan to make sure that never happens. More fuel in reserve, more storage on the ground, and a country that can stand on its own two feet.”

Leader of The Nationals Matt Canavan said families and businesses needed confidence that fuel would be there when they needed it.

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“This plan is just common sense. Keep more fuel here in Australia so we are not relying on overseas supply lines that can be cut overnight,” Senator Canavan said.

“We cannot keep hoping for the best. We need to be ready, and this plan gets us there.”

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Shadow Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Dan Tehan said the Coalition’s plan delivered a clear pathway to stronger fuel security.

“The Coalition understands that fuel security is national security: in government, we legislated the Minimum Stockholding Obligation, funded new fuel storage, and backed our refineries,” Mr Tehan said.

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“This stands in stark contrast to the Albanese Labor Government, which has cut funding for fuel storage projects over three federal budgets.”

Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson, said the national fuel crisis had exposed critical fuel storage gaps in our agricultural sector.

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“This crisis has exposed Australia’s vulnerability to global supply shocks of critical liquid fuels, including in Dawson,” Mr Willcox said.

“The Coalition’s fuel security package will more than double our fuel reserves and deliver a new wave of vital storage projects – it's about locking in our long-term resilience so Australia can stand on its own two feet.

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“We must protect our economic foundations by scrapping the Safeguard Mechanism costs on refineries and lifting the minimum stockholding obligation. This is the only way to ensure that during global disruptions, our tractors keep moving and our supermarket shelves stay stocked.

“I urge the federal government to back our plan and, importantly, commit to increasing our minimum fuel threshold on 1 January 2027 as a positive first step towards locking in our fuel security.”

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Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox

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A dry and hot winter has been forecast, with water scarcity and rising fuel loads at the front of mind in planning for the season ahead. Photo source: Pixabay

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The upcoming 2026 El Niño has been forecast to be among the strongest on record, bringing hotter, drier weather in the coming weeks.  
 
With already drier-than-average conditions recorded in early 2026, farmers are bracing for a challenging season as worsening soil moisture deficits and water scarcity raise concerns.  

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said he’s not overly concerned about the forecast El Niño conditions, noting Council works closely with the Queensland Fire Department to proactively manage and mitigate risks ahead of the dry season.

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“The Rural Fire Service is very active at the moment clearing roadside vegetation, maintaining fire breaks and undertaking fuel reduction operations in rural areas,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“The main message we have for the community is to be prepared. Knowing your local bushfire risk helps you make informed decisions before the season starts. Every household should have a clear bushfire survival plan that suits their family and property. Simple steps like clearing gutters and managing vegetation can greatly reduce bushfire risk.”

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Residents are being reminded that taking simple steps now could make a significant difference, rather than waiting until the dry season has taken effect.  

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Advice includes trimming trees, mowing grass, removing flammable materials around homes and clearing vegetation; particularly on properties bordering bushland.  

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Rural Fire Service Queensland said volunteers are already active in communities, supporting preparedness efforts and working alongside partner agencies to carry out hazard reduction burns where conditions permit, ahead of the higher-risk bushfire season.

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Students across the Mackay region paid tribute to Australia’s servicemen and women this ANZAC season, including those at Bloomsbury State School who held a special service and participated in the Postcards of Honour program organised by RSL Queensland.

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The day at Bloomsbury was both reflective and educational, with students dressing as soldiers, nurses and farm workers to help them better understand the roles people played during times of war.  

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The school community gathered for a commemorative service before students took part in the Postcards of Honour activity, designing postcards to express their gratitude and respect for veterans.

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The initiative connected schools with local RSL Sub Branches, allowing veterans to visit classrooms, share their experiences and help students learn about the significance of ANZAC Day. The postcards were then delivered to veterans as a gesture of appreciation.

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Across Queensland this year, more than 23,000 students from 192 schools participated in the program, working alongside 52 RSL Sub Branches to create messages of thanks for those who have served the nation.

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RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day said it was encouraging to see strong engagement from schools across the state.

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“The benefits of the Postcards of Honour initiative is twofold,” MAJGEN Day said.

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“Not only is it a creative activity for students to learn about ANZAC Day firsthand from local veterans, but it’s also a meaningful experience for the veterans who receive a postcard.

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“It may seem like a small gesture, but the postcards act as such meaningful keepsakes and are truly valued by those on the receiving end.”

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The exchange of postcards also reflected a historical tradition dating back to the early 20th century. During World War I, soldiers serving overseas often sent postcards home to loved ones, sharing brief messages from the frontline.

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“The students put so much thought and creativity into making their cards that each one is one-of-a-kind,” MAJGEN Day said.

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The program highlighted how the ANZAC spirit continues to be passed from one generation to the next. More than 110 years on from the Gallipoli Campaign of 1915 - the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during World War I - young Australians are still learning the importance of remembrance, respect and gratitude.

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Through activities like Postcards of Honour, students across the Mackay region are helping ensure the stories, sacrifice and values of the ANZACs continue to be remembered.

Bloomsbury State School students commemorated ANZAC Day with a service and Postcards of Honour activity, dressing as soldiers, nurses and farm workers to honour the ANZAC’s. Photos supplied

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A local community member has taken to social media to publicly commend a security officer at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre, praising his calm professionalism during a confronting incident involving an individual behaving erratically under the influence of drugs.

The post described witnessing the situation unfold near the Coles entrance, noting the individual’s distressing behaviour and the swift response from centre security. The witness shared that the officer “handled himself outstandingly” and expressed genuine admiration for his composure under pressure.

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“I honestly do not know how you stayed so calm,” the post read, “but whatever it is keeping you so calm in situations like that, keep it up. That looked very scary and dangerous.”

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The community member also reflected on the sense of reassurance the intervention provided, stating they felt an immediate shift in safety once the situation was managed. “I had this overwhelmingly sense of safety,” they wrote, after seeing the officer step in to protect the area and prevent further disruption or property damage.

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The post went on to acknowledge the lasting impact of the moment, sharing that it had changed their perception of visiting the centre after dark: “I purposely don’t go there at night because of this stuff, but after seeing how you handled him, I feel a lot safer.”

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Although the officer’s name was not confirmed, the poster recalled it may have begun with a “J,” and closed with heartfelt gratitude: “Thank you, sir. You made my night. Take care, and thanks for your service at the centre.”

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A powerful wave of remembrance swept across Mackay and surrounding regions this ANZAC Day, with crowds swelling beyond last year’s attendance as communities gathered in unity, reflection, and gratitude. From the pre-dawn silence of Finch Hatton at 4.28am to the dawn light breaking over Jubilee Park in Mackay, thousands stood shoulder to shoulder in solemn tribute to those who served and sacrificed.

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Across the region, services were held at Calen, Eton, Farleigh, Gargett, Greenmount Homestead, Hay Point, Koumala, Kuttabul, Marian, Mirani, Northern Beaches, Sarina, Seaforth, Walkerston and beyond, with each location carrying its own weight of history and heart. Dawn parades formed through quiet streets, cenotaphs were encircled by wreaths, and voices rose in the Last Post.

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In Mackay, crowds gathered in force at both the 5.00am dawn service and 9.30am morning service at Jubilee Park, marking one of the strongest turnouts in recent memory.

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No matter what region we reside in, we will remember them.  

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Lest We Forget

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