The excellent craftsmanship and impeccable standards Master Builders are renowned for were visible in the work of every winner at the 2024 Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards.
Fergus Builders took out an incredible eight awards – the highest number for one builder so far this season. The team won both the highly-regarded McInnes Wilson Lawyers Project of the Year Award and Education Facilities over $10 million for the world-class Whitsunday Anglican School – STEAM Centre – a first for the region. In the commercial category, their work on the Mackay Apartments won them best Community Service Facilities, while the North Jacklin Motor Group Refurbishment achieved Commercial Refurbishment/Renovation up to $5 million.
Fergus Builders’ work on four stunning homes was also rewarded, including Individual Home up to $400,000 for Meadow View (Beaconsfield), Individual Home from $400,000 up to $550,000 for Ella New (Bakers Creek), Individual Home from $550,000 up to $700,000 for Mist Cove (Shoal Point), and Home Renovation Project from $450,000 up to $600,000 for Stella Rise (Alligator Creek).
Cotter Builders celebrated an impressive four Award wins, including the sought-after BUSSQ Building President’s Award, Best Residential Bathroom and Individual Home from $700,000 up to $850,000 for coastal-modern-Mediterranean fusion masterpiece, Villa Ta Lumi; while in-demand young gun Riley Smith was named Apprentice of the Year – the team’s Construction Manager having come on board on the condition that Riley would be his direct apprentice.
21 years of dedication and mentorship to other women saw Crystal Edwards from Carpet One Mackay honoured with the Women in Building Award – a testament to her invaluable experience and exceptional customer service.
Master Builders Regional Manager – Mackay & Whitsunday, Brad Dobie, applauded the winners across all 35 categories.
“We have been up against it in terms of challenges over the last 12 months, and labour shortages, a tidal wave of regulatory changes, and huge jumps in the cost of construction are continuing to bite.
“But as these Awards show, the talent and tenacity of our local industry is helping shape and grow the Mackay and Whitsunday region for the future and proving that building and construction is a great career path,” Mr Dobie said.
“I’m so proud to be a part of this industry, and to celebrate our members’ success, as well as having their back in the tough times. I can’t wait to see what the next 12 months brings.”
‍

Major winners
   • House of the Year Award – Steve Knight Builders for The Lighthouse (Airlie Beach)
   • McInnes Wilson Lawyers Project of the Year Award – Fergus Builders for Whitsunday Anglican School - STEAM Centre (Beaconsfield)
   • BUSSQ Building Super President's Award – Cotter Builders for Villa Ta Lumi (West Mackay)
Individual winners
   • Apprentice of the Year Award – Riley Smith from Cotter Builders
   • Women in Building Award – Crystal Edwards from Carpet One Mackay
Specialty awards
   • Best Residential Bathroom – Cotter Builders for Villa Ta Lumi (West Mackay)
   • Best Residential Kitchen – Matthew Brady Projects for B is for Bona Vista (Mt Pleasant)
   • Best Residential Swimming Pool – Whitsunday Building & Renovations for Ripplecreek Entertainment Space (Cannon Valley)
Housing Awards
   • Display Home from $400,000 up to $600,000 – Hotondo Homes Mackay for Lansdowne 248 Project (Shoal Point)
   • Display Home from $600,000 up to $800,000 – Horizon Projects Mackay for Whitehaven 292 (Beaconsfield Heights)
   • Home Renovation Project from $450,000 up to $600,000 – Fergus Builders for Stella Rise (Alligator Creek)
   • Home Renovation Project from $600,000 up to $750,000 – Whitsunday Building & Renovations for Ripplecreek Entertainment Space (Cannon Valley)
   • Home Renovation Project from $750,000 up to $1 million – Matthew Brady Projects for B is for Bona Vista (Mt Pleasant)
   • Individual Home up to $400,000 – Fergus Builders for Meadow View (Beaconsfield)
   • Individual Home from $400,000 up to $550,000 – Fergus Builders for Ella New (Bakers Creek)
   • Individual Home from $550,000 up to $700,000 – Fergus Builders for Mist Cove (Shoal Point)
   • Individual Home from $700,000 up to $850,000 – Cotter Builders for Villa Ta Lumi (West Mackay)
   • Individual Home from $850,000 up to $1 million – Executive Living Homes for THE RETREAT (Richmond)
   • Individual Home from $1.5 million up to $2 million – Steve Knight Builders for The Lighthouse (Airlie Beach)
   • Individual Home from $2 million up to $2.5 million – NV Builders for JKD (Bloomsbury)
   • Medium Density up to 3 storeys – 2 to 5 dwellings – Executive Living Homes for THE BEACHSIDE TRIPLEX (East Mackay)
   • Medium Density up to 3 storeys – over 5 dwellings – Red Emperor Constructions for The Grove Stage 4A (Cannonvale)
   • Best Use of Sloping Sites – Hotondo Homes Mackay for Haber Oasis Project (Sarina)
   • Best Use of Steel Frame Housing – Hotondo Homes Mackay for Lansdowne 248 Project (Shoal Point)
   • Ken & Nola Clark Memorial Award - Judges Commendation – Tin Lid Enterprises for The Grove Stage 7
   • Judges Commendation for Innovation – Saltair Modular for Airlie Bungalows
   • Residential Trade Contractor of the Year – R&R Cabinetmaking for Bona Vista Residence (Mt Pleasant)
Construction awards
   • Education Facilities up to $10 million – WHF PMM for Eden Academy - Rural View (Rural View)
   • Education Facilities over $10 million – Fergus Builders for Whitsunday Anglican School - STEAM Centre (Beaconsfield)
   • Community Service Facilities – Fergus Builders for Mackay Apartments (West Mackay)
   • Tourism and Leisure Facilities up to $10 million – Vassallo Construction for Seaforth Esplanade Reserve Redevelopment (Seaforth)
   • Commercial / Industrial Building up to $5 million – Lowcock Builders for Nolan's Interstate Transport Warehouse Bowen (Bowen)
   • Commercial Refurbishment/Renovation up to $5 million – Fergus Builders for North Jacklin Motor Group Refurbishment (Mackay)
   • Commercial Fitout up to $5 million – Matthew Brady Projects for Flavours of Vietnam (Mackay)
   • Commercial Trade Contractor of the Year – Coral Coast Plastering for Whitsunday Anglican School (Resource, Science and Design Centre) (Beaconsfield)

‍

At the 2024 Master Builders Mackay & Whitsunday Housing & Construction Awards, Fergus Builders took home an impressive eight awards, emerging as the only builder in Queensland to receive this many accolades at a Master Builders awards evening.

Fergus Builders' success at the awards was recognised due to their remarkable work on the Whitsunday Anglican School STEAM Centre, which earned them the prestigious McInnes Wilson Lawyers Project of the Year Award.

Director and Construction Manager of Fergus Builders, Ben Hilder, reflected on the company’s success, stating, "It’s certainly a great reflection of the last 12 months we’ve had as a local business in the construction industry.

“To pick up a number of awards across both sectors of the industry is really a great achievement, and it’s a testament to our crew out there."

The STEAM Centre is a first for the region and showcases cutting-edge innovation and technology, making it a standout achievement in the education sector.

The Fergus team faced numerous challenges during the project, including limited site access in the heart of the school and the need to carry out demolition and construction while classes were in session. However, despite these obstacles, Fergus Builders completed the project on time and within budget.

"The project of the year award was a great achievement for the team.

“The Whitsunday Anglican STEAM development was a major project for the region, and to be recognised with this award was a great achievement," Mr Hilder added.

In addition to their work on the STEAM Centre, Fergus Builders also excelled in the commercial category, winning the award for Community Service Facilities for their work on the Mackay Apartments in West Mackay. Their renovations were a particular highlight as they took home the award for Commercial Refurbishment/Renovation up to $5 million for the North Jacklin Motor Group Refurbishment in Mackay.

Mr Hilder acknowledged the collaborative efforts that contributed to their success, noting, "It also reflects on the local subcontractors that were involved... although Fergus Builders won the award, it really goes out to everyone involved in the project, and it’s now going up against the best in the state next month in Brisbane so it’ll be interesting to see where we go from here."

The company’s residential work was also recognised, with four awards for stunning homes in various categories. Fergus Builders won the award for Individual Home up to $400,000 for Meadow View in Beaconsfield and Individual Home from $400,000 to $550,000 for Ella New in Bakers Creek.

They continued their winning streak with Individual Home from $550,000 to $700,000 for Mist Cove in Shoal Point and the Home Renovation Project from $450,000 to $600,000 for Stella Rise in Alligator Creek.

Since 1983, Fergus Builders have established a long history of providing high-quality construction services to Mackay and the surrounding regions. Over the years, they have built an honourable reputation, adapting to industry changes whilst consistently delivering buildings of exceptional value.

Their portfolio includes new homes, commercial premises and industrial projects which has all been characterised by innovative design and precise attention to detail.

“We strive to deliver a quality project, whether it be a residential or commercial project, we are proud to know that we were actually a part of someone’s dream,” said Mr Hilder.

www.fergusbuilders.com.au

‍

McInnes Wilson Lawyers Project of the Year Award for Whitsunday Anglican School - STEAM Centre (Beaconsfield)

Home Renovation Project from $450,000 up to $600,000 for Stella Rise (Alligator Creek)

Individual Home from $550,000 up to $700,000 for Mist Cove (Shoal Point)

Community Service Facilities for Mackay Apartments (West Mackay)

Commercial Refurbishment/Renovation up to $5 million for North Jacklin Motor Group Refurbishment (Mackay)

Individual Home from $400,000 up to $550,000 for Ella New (Bakers Creek)

‍

For more than two decades, Crystal Edwards, Senior Estimator at Carpet One Mackay, has been a dedicated force in the construction industry.

Most recently, she received recognition for her exceptional years of service at Carpet One Mackay, winning the honourable Women in Building Award at the Master Builders Housing & Construction Awards.

Specialising in large commercial projects and complex tenders, Crystal has been an essential part of Carpet One, handling estimating, quoting and overseeing projects from start to finish. Her attention to detail and commitment to delivering quality service have made her a key figure in the company’s success.

Owners in partnership, Russell and Meredith Allen, with Richard and Storm Carroll nominated Crystal for the award, expressing their gratitude for her contributions.

“She really deserves some recognition,” said Meredith Allen, Co-owner of Carpet One.

Meredith explained that Crystal’s ability to not only provide accurate quotes but also manage the scheduling and coordination of projects, has really helped Carpet One maintain its high standards and customer satisfaction, all while being an inspiration to other women.

“The construction industry can often feel like a male-dominated industry, so we are hoping that other women will be encouraged by Crystal’s achievement,” shared Meredith.

Crystal's extensive product knowledge is another standout quality as she prioritises understanding the specific needs of her clients, ensuring that she finds the best products to suit their requirements, while also providing competitive pricing without sacrificing on quality.

“We strive to give each customer a positive flooring experience from product selection through to installation… and Crystal really pays attention to the individual needs of the client to provide a smooth, straightforward process which leaves them with a pleasant experience rather than a stressful one,” said Meredith.

Carpet One is a family-owned and locally operated business that prides itself on delivering quality products and excellent workmanship. Covering all types of floor coverings and window finishings, the company serves both residential and commercial clients. They even have their own employed team of installers, so that they can ensure the quality and installation processes are always controlled.

Offering their service beyond Mackay, they cater to areas such as Moranbah, Glenden, Collinsville, Airlie Beach and all throughout the Pioneer Valley, promising a personalised experience for every customer.

As a local business, building personal relationships with their clients is Carpet One’s number one priority, and Crystal’s award was a true testament to that.

www.carpetone.com.au

‍

Cotters Builders, a family-oriented business led by Michael and Madison Cotter, recently gained impressive recognition at the 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday’s Master Builder Awards.
Cotter Builders achieved remarkable success at the Awards, securing four prestigious accolades: the BUSSQ Building Super President’s Award, Best Residential Bathroom, Apprentice of the Year Award (won by their apprentice, Riley Smith), and Best Individual Home in the $700-$850 category. Notably, one of their homes ‘Villa Ta Lumi’ was honoured with both the Best Individual Home award and the President’s Award.
CEO & Building Designer Madison Cotter said that winning the President’s Award was “huge” for them:
“We were so shocked to win the awards, it's always been a dream for us to deliver a high quality project and be recognised for it, and to have fun along the way.”
“We’ve been working with the same subcontractors for 10 years now, they play a huge part in the quality of projects we deliver, so it is really nice for them to also be recognized as part of the Cotter Builders Family.”
What differentiates the Cotter Builders team is a healthy work life balance, good working culture and a family-oriented approach. We are a one stop shop for design and construct. We aren’t afraid of a challenge; we don’t mind spending the extra time to investigate alternate solutions and all of our projects are unique & individualised to our clients wants and needs. Madison explained.

“We always love getting the kids involved in the journey of the project,” Our two sons Hayes & Spencer (5,3) are part of our team, and we love to involve the children of families that build, as it is just as important for them to enjoy the journey.” Madison enthused.

“We love our team; we are truly committed to breaking the 9-5 mould by Making Cotter Builders and our work life a lifestyle rather than the 9-5.”

Cotter Builders is a dynamic and dedicated team with a robust work ethic. Established in 2015 and officially incorporated in 2019, the company has achieved significant milestones in just five years. Notably, Michael was honoured with the Master Builders 'Rising Star' award in 2019, and Madison received the Master Builders 'Women in Construction' accolade.

When asked what keeps the team motivated, Madison responded:

“We live, love, breathe design and construction.”

The team provides a fully customised experience in home design, interior design, and construction, utilizing 3D walk-thru capabilities. The team ensure quality results through ongoing training and industry updates.
When asked about their most rewarding projects, Madison shared that the true satisfaction comes from delivering a custom-designed renovation that significantly transforms the way the family lives. Witnessing the joy and happiness of clients at the end of a build is what the team finds most fulfilling.
The company loves the projects they are currently undertaking and would love to continue to build and service Mackay and the surrounds for many years to come.

Congratulations Cotter Builders on your amazing awards.

For more updates check out their Facebook and Instagram: @cotter_builders and @villa.ta.lumi for the award winning project.

‍

The award winning property
The Team at the Master Builders Awards
Madison and Michael in their award winning property

‍

Winner of the 2024 Mackay & Whitsunday BUSSQ Building Super President’s Award – Cotter Builders for Villa Ta Lumi

‍
Michael and the Cotter Builders team have excelled themselves with Villa Ta Lumi, with their attention to detail and quality workmanship evident throughout. The home is a fusion of styles from coastal to contemporary, modern to Mediterranean, with its soft curves and archways, raked ceilings and exposed beams delivering a calming ambience. Boasting an entertainer’s kitchen, indoor-outdoor living, and considered floor plan, the level of finish on all aspects makes this an enviable abode.

Winner of the 2024 Mackay & Whitsunday McInnes Wilson Lawyers Project of the Year Award – Fergus Builders for Whitsunday Anglican School - STEAM Centre

‍
A first for the region, the world-class Whitsunday Anglican School – STEAM Centre boasts the latest in education innovation and technology. The Fergus Builders team overcame challenges including limited site access in the centre of the school, demolition, and construction during normal school operations – plus a significant redesign due to seasonal rain – delivering on time and budget. Boasting state-of-the-art labs and classrooms, indoor/outdoor learning spaces, senior and junior libraries and teachers’ facilities, our judges hailed this build as an impressive achievement.

‍

Tin Lid Enterprises, a remarkable and local roofing company, has truly made waves in the construction industry by clinching a prestigious Master builders award in only their third year as a company.
This achievement not only showcases their dedication to excellence but also highlights their commitment to quality and innovation in roofing services.  A local staple in Airlie Beach for over 15 years, Tin Lid Enterprises, in 2021, expanded their horizons and made the move from sole trader to company.
Moreover, the recognition of a previous apprentice winning the TAFE Indigenous Apprentice of the Year Award and another apprentice securing runner-up position for Plumbing Apprentice of the Year is a testament to Tin Lid Enterprises’ investment in nurturing talent and promoting diversity in the workforce.
These accolades not only honour the hard work and skill of the apprentices but also serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring tradespeople.
In an industry facing a shortage of skilled workers, the success of Tin Lid Enterprises and their apprentices brings much needed prestige and encouragement.
By setting a high standard of achievement, they motivate others in the industry to strive for excellence and contribute to filling the gap in the labour force.
Tin Lid Enterprises commitment to quality workmanship and the development of young talent not only elevates their own reputation but also uplifts the entire roofing and construction sector.
Tin Lid Enterprises has had the privilege and pleasure of being a part of many prestigious projects, from residential to commercial, new builds to re-roofs, they have left their mark on a variety of high-profile jobs.
Some of these jobs include many stages at The Grove in Cannonvale, the southern cross industrial warehouse in Mackay, QLD Government jobs such as the new housing units on Shute Harbour Road and the new Fire Station, Shute Harbour terminal, Boathouse apartments and Boat haven.
Tin Lid Enterprises also maintains roofs on Hamilton Island, Whitsunday Shopping centre as well as centres around Mackay.

www.tinlidenterprises.com

‍

Winners are grinners – Tin Lid Enterprises’ team take home Master Builders Award in only third year in business. Photo supplied
The Southern Cross building with its sparking roof
Housing estates look great with a Tin Lid roof!

‍

Police have charged a 36-year-old Proserpine man in relation to an alleged assault incident at Cannonvale Beach on September 4, 2024.
Police will allege about 5.40am, the man entered the female public toilets where he grabbed a woman from behind before he fled on foot up Beach Road.
Police conducted a number of enquiries and charged the man with one count of common assault on September 8.
Police will allege that the same 36-year-old Proserpine man was involved in a similar incident on August 24, also in Cannonvale.
On that occasion, at about 10.30am the man entered a female public toilet where he grabbed a 60-year-old female.
The man was arrested on September 8 and charged with serious assault.
The man appeared at Proserpine Magistrates Court on Monday, September 9.
This follows concerns raised by a social media post regarding a possible sexual assault in the region.
The social media statement read:
“*** Predator alert****
Just a heads up to all the ladies of the Whitsundays
There was an attempted s4xual assault at approximately 0540 this morning at Cannonvale beach
The perpetrator is still at large
He was sighted running away from the scene. Extremely fit looking and in his 20s. He appeared well dressed but was wearing a hi-vis vest as well?!
The crime was reported to police
Please please be careful and maybe take a friend with you if you want to be out and about early or late”

Police are appealing to anyone may have information regarding similar incidents to please come forward.

‍

The 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival held last weekend was a resounding success, bringing together hundreds of cyclists and their families for a celebration of fitness, community and charity. With a focus on promoting healthy living and raising funds for BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay, the event has become a cornerstone in the region since its inception. The Golding Kids Colour Ride at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens was a hit with young riders, who delighted in the colourful powder and bubbles showered on them by enthusiastic volunteers as they completed their laps.

River 2 Reef Ride

A significant number of participants wore and showcased the winning jersey design by Year 11 Moranbah High School student Naiya Luczynski, "Where Cane Meets Coral."

Naiya was present on the day and had the honour of ringing the bell to start each ride.

Director and head performance coach of Tri-Aktiv8, Nikki Giles said, "It was wonderful to have Naiya attend the festival and see the support from hundreds of riders who will wear her jersey design for many years to come.”

The introduction of the crit race hosted by Mackay Cycling Club drew impressive participation, with plans to expand in 2025. Legendary cycling commentator Mike Tomalaris added prestige to the event, providing expert commentary for the criterium and riding in the 100km Kaeser Compressors Gran Fondo.

"This event has so much potential," said Tomalaris.

"I’m already planning to be back next year with more people from outside the region."

Linda Murry, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s Hay Point Coal Terminal expressed her love for the event and said, “It's an honour to be part of something that brings so much joy and encourages positive lifestyles for people of all ages."

‍

By Hannah McNamara

CQ Rescue put on quite a show last Wednesday as the Mackay community recently celebrated the exciting arrival of the new BMA CQ Rescue AW139 helicopter.

A spectacular water show was presented by fire trucks on the runway, capturing the amazement of both children and adults as the chopper circled overhead, giving everyone a chance to view the impressive new aircraft from every angle.

As the sun set over the runway, the landing of the pristine AW139 was a memorable moment, however the fact that this new state-of-the-art helicopter will save up to double the number of lives and benefit the community is what made this arrival extra special.

The AW139 helicopter has been described as a “game changer” and is a significant upgrade for CQ Rescue due to its capability of flying up to 30 per cent further and 30 per cent faster than previous helicopters used in the region. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, the AW139 will enhance the lifesaving capabilities of the CQ Rescue team, allowing them to respond quicker than ever and operate more efficiently in critical situations.

A spokesperson from CQ Rescue says that helicopter includes state-of-the-art technology which will mean the team can save more lives.

Not only has CQ Rescue upgraded their technology, but they are also flying in with a brand-new palette of colours too.

CQ Rescue stated that the reason for colour change was because, “Orange symbolises energy, enthusiasm, courage and compassion, which are values that resonate deeply with our mission at CQ Rescue.

“Additionally, the vibrant orange with red hues mirrors the rich colours of our region's rugged landscape and embodies the resilience and strength of our rural communities.

“Just as the orange sunrises bring light to the day, the blue that has been synonymous with CQ Rescue for decades remains a part of our solid foundation and is synonymous with our dedication to saving lives.

“It further represents our brilliant skies and spectacular kaleidoscope of ocean colours.”

The arrival of the BMA CQ Rescue AW139 marks a new era in emergency response for the region. With its increased range, speed and advanced technology, the AW139 will allow the CQ Rescue team to reach those in need more quickly, prolong their search periods and ultimately save more lives.

Last Wednesday evening, Mackay welcomed the arrival of CQ Rescue’s newest helicopter: AW139. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and BMA CQ Rescue

‍

With treatment number four behind me yesterday, I'm officially halfway through my chemotherapy journey. It’s been a winding road, but one with a clear destination in sight. I’ll be taking the next few days to recover, so I can hit the ground running for next week’s edition. Thank you all for your continued support and understanding during this time, it means more than you know.
Today (Friday), Mackay turns its attention to the Trudy Crowley Foundation’s Touch of Teal soirée, an event that holds a special place in our community. This foundation has always championed assisting those with ovarian cancer, a cancer that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. It’s a silent killer, affecting many in our midst, which is why tonight’s soirée is not just a gathering, but a call to action. Importantly, the Foundation has evolved to welcome all who have been affected by cancer, and personally they have been a great help to me in my journey simply by providing an understanding and empathetic place to talk. This year, the spotlight is on the urgent need for better palliative care in Mackay. Too many families are left with memories of their loved ones in pain during their final moments, a heartbreaking reality that simply should not be.
Keep an eye on next week’s edition for more coverage from the soirée, where we’ll share all the fabulous photos and stories from the night.
But the giving doesn’t stop there. Tonight also marks the Mackay Hospital Foundation’s Dinner on the Runway, a truly unique evening where diners are treated to opulent tables and glittering lights beside the runway apron. This glamorous setting is the backdrop for an important cause, raising funds for those who need it most in our community while in hospital. Mackay Life is proud to support the Dinner on the Runway for the second year running, contributing to a media package to be auctioned off on the evening.
It’s a weekend to dig deep, give where you live, and support the organisations that are there for us during life’s toughest challenges.
‍

Amanda

‍

After 25 years of dedicated service to the Mackay community, Robert Gregg has officially retired.

As many in the city heart may have noticed, Robert is no longer seen with his iconic red trolley, tirelessly cleaning the streets and recycling to keep the town beautiful.

His daily presence was a fixture in the community and was always accompanied by a friendly smile and a warm wave to passers-by. For decades, Robert’s quiet, yet impactful work touched the hearts of many, to the point of earning him recognition through multiple Australian of the Year nominations and numerous newspaper features celebrating his commitment to the community.

Among being recognised for cleaning up the community, Robert was most known for his kind character, often becoming a cherished friend to local business owners, residents, and visitors alike wherever he went. His dedication to the city heart was remarkable and his influence made a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Unfortunately, after facing progressive health issues and spending some time in the hospital, Robert has now moved into full-time care.

Though it was a difficult decision, it was necessary for his well-being. His family would like to invite those who have fond memories of Robert to visit him or share stories and photos that will be passed along to brighten his days.

It’s Robert’s time to take a well-deserved rest, but the legacy he leaves behind continues. As a community, we can honour his work by continuing to care for Mackay, just as he did for so many years.

Thank you, Robert Gregg, for all your years of dedicated service to our community.

‍

Cathy Freeman OAM, the iconic Australian Olympic champion born in Mackay has recently expressed her strong support for the planned Stage 2 development at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
She highlighted the critical need for international-standard training and competition facilities for athletes in regional Queensland.
The Stage 2 development at the Great Barrier Reef Arena will feature accessible accommodation and amenities, allowing athletes and school students from regional, state and interstate areas to fully utilise the sports facilities. This expansion will also attract and host more carnivals, camps and clinics, providing a significant boost to the regional visitor economy.
As a proud advocate for regional athletes and the future of sports in Queensland, Cathy Freeman OAM said, “As we look ahead from Paris 2024 to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Queensland, I am delighted to add my full support for the plans for the new multi-sport regional training centre at Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay. 
“It is so important for young and aspiring athletes from all over Central and Northern Queensland to have facilities of international standard in their own backyard that can help them realise their full potential and achieve their dreams. 
“In particular, the inclusion of accommodation facilities for participants of all abilities from remote and rural communities is vital to allowing everyone to benefit from these opportunities.”
With deep ties to the Mackay region and a lifelong passion for advancing opportunities in sports, Freeman expressed that her connection with the Mackay region and State remains strong and that she is thrilled to see that this initiative has the support of so many people across so many different sports. 
“This development at Great Barrier Reef Arena will truly be a game changer for the community and an incredible asset for all athletes, sports participants and future stars,” Freeman remarked.
The new accommodation will also further support training and competition for both Australian and international athletes and teams in preparation for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Great Barrier Reef Arena General Manager Adrian Young said, “Cathy is not only an Australian Olympic legend but a local legend who is loved in our region.
“It will be of huge value to athletes from all areas of Queensland, providing them with greater opportunity to participate in multi-day camps, clinics and carnivals across a range of sports, including cricket, basketball, AFL and netball.
“Together with the incredible new indoor training and competition facilities Stage 2 will provide, it will make Great Barrier Reef Arena one of the most well equipped and attractive sports destinations in regional Australia.
“We are delighted to have her encouragement and support for the further development of the Great Barrier Reef Arena precinct.”

‍

Olympic champion Cathy Freeman backs game-changing sports development in Mackay.

‍

By Amanda Wright

The ongoing crime wave in Mackay has left local businesses and residents frustrated and fearful, with many calling for stronger measures to combat the rising tide of offences. As part of their campaign for the upcoming Queensland election, LNP representatives have pledged to restore law and order in the region through their “Adult Crime, Adult Time” policy.

Shadow Minister for Police and Community Safety, Dan Purdie MP, visited Mackay recently to highlight the alarming crime statistics and propose the LNP’s solution to what he described as a crisis spiralling out of control. Joined by former police officer and Mackay candidate Nigel Dalton, as well as local business owner Evan Corry, Purdie outlined the LNP’s tough stance on crime, particularly youth crime.

“Regional Queensland is the epicentre of a crime crisis,” Mr Purdie said.

“The crime crisis has torn communities apart. Proud regional cities like Mackay have been hijacked by a generation of untouchables.”

According to Queensland Police Service statistics, crime rates in regional areas have surged significantly, with Mackay reporting 953 offences per 100,000 people. This rise has prompted calls for immediate and decisive action to protect businesses and residents from further harm.

Evan Corry, Director of Corry Cycles, has experienced the impact of this peak in crime firsthand. His business has been broken into roughly a dozen times in the last two years alone, forcing him to invest heavily in security measures.

“The cost to our business has been huge, but also the cost to personal time,” Mr Corry explained.

“In the last two years, it’s been about a dozen times we’ve been broken into with a price tag of around $50,000 in lost stock, damage repair and increased investment into security measures.

“Last month alone we were broken into three times.

“It seems to be a revolving door for these criminals. The community and the police will often know who these offenders are, but they’re back out the next day, roaming the streets at 2am breaking into more businesses.

“It’s really disappointing.”

Nigel Dalton, a seasoned former police officer, echoed Corry’s sentiments, expressing his dismay at the lack of consequences for offenders.

“We need to make sure that the people who are offending against people like Evan are getting adult time for an adult crime.

“If you commit a crime, you should be getting appropriate repercussions for those actions,” Mr Dalton said.

“We’re committed to ensuring that young offenders receive proper rehabilitation and support, with plans to extend post-prison supervision from 72 hours to 12 months, helping them secure employment or education and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.”

The LNP’s proposed changes include revising the Youth Justice Act, ensuring that youth offenders face the same sentences as adults when committing serious crimes. Additionally, the LNP plans to introduce a comprehensive rehabilitation package aimed at reducing recidivism, with extended supervision periods and support to help young offenders reintegrate into society.

“Our hardworking police have been crying out for stronger laws to back them up,” Mr Purdie added.

“This is the tough-on-crime response Queenslanders have been pleading for.”

‍

Dan Purdie MP, Evan Corry and Nigel Dalton discuss the impact of repeated break-ins on local businesses, highlighting the need for stronger consequences and better rehabilitation for offenders. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

‍

‘Pick up the early warning signs, know what to say, what to do and where to go for.’

CORES-Queensland is dedicated to fostering community-led initiatives to combat suicide through targeted training and workshops. Their upcoming events in the region are designed to equip participants with vital skills when it comes to suicide prevention and self-care.

Suicide Intervention Training – September 16
On September 16, from 9:00pm to 4:00pm, CORES-Queensland will host a comprehensive Suicide Intervention Training session at NQPHN, 2/45 Victoria Street, Mackay.
This training aims to provide essential skills for recognising and responding to individuals at risk of suicide.

Participants will learn to Identify early warning signs of suicide, support individuals in accessing available services, encourage proactive help-seeking behaviours before a crisis occurs and not only develop, but also identify personal self-care strategies.

The training is designed to prepare attendees to handle potential crises effectively, although it is not a crisis service itself. The cost of the training is $25.00, with participants asked to bring their own lunch.
If cost is a barrier, contact CORES-Queensland for information on free sponsorships.

Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop – September 17
Following this, on September 17, from 2:30pm to 4:30pm, CORES-Queensland will present a Self-Care and Mental Wellbeing Workshop, also held at NQPHN, 2/45 Victoria Street, Mackay.

This 2.5-hour workshop focuses on creating a personalised self-care and mental wellbeing plan, recognising personal signs of stress and implementing daily strategies to manage stress effectively.

The workshop will provide practical resources for enhancing physical, emotional and mental health. This workshop costs $25.00 and free sponsorships are available upon request.

"By the Community For The Community" – CORES-Queensland continues to play a pivotal role in strengthening community resilience and support systems.

For more details on either of these events, or to RSVP, contact CORES-Queensland at adminqld@kentishrc.com.au or 0448 894 525.

‍

Have you ever stopped to think what it would be like if you were suddenly diagnosed with a severe disease only to then find out treatments available in Australia don’t work for you?
What about if there were other treatments you could access, but they were only available in Brisbane?
Sadly, only 5 years ago that was the case for many in the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region. However, in 2018, the Coral Sea Clinical Research Institute (CSCRI) was established because a doctor was frustrated in seeing his patients miss out, and since then many people in the region (including as south as Rockhampton) have now accessed treatments many years before they have become commercially available anywhere else in the world.
The doctor involved was Dr Daveson, a gastroenterologist (someone who specialises in bowel diseases and who grew up in Mackay) and as such the 30 or so studies CSCSRI has conducted in the region since have focussed mainly on bowel diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD which includes Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative colitis) and Coeliac disease.
To be involved in the IBD studies, patients usually must have not responded to other available treatments. However, once in the study, all treatments and related costs, such as doctor visits and hospital procedures such as colonoscopies, are covered by the study. Travel reimbursements are also available, important for those finding it difficult to afford or access treatment.
To be involved, people must have or be diagnosed with a condition, and be willing to follow the study requirements. Importantly, in some of the studies, although there may not be an immediate benefit for the person participating, the information gathered will likely help others or their relatives in the future.
CSCRI has been an important innovation in the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region and has put its role in clinical trials on the global map. Patients involved in clinical trials at CSCRI are closely cared for by an experienced research team made up of registered nurses, general practitioners and gastroenterologists.
If you are interested in learning more contact CSCRI on 1800 69 27 27 or email admin@coralseaclinical.com.

‍