By Amanda Wright

Picture this: a community coming together to champion equal access to top-notch healthcare. In a world where our health knows no bounds, last Thursday marked an extraordinary act of unity, as Mackay Hospital Foundation's Giving Day rallied the masses.

The mission was crystal clear: bridge the healthcare gap and ensure every family's health journey knows no disadvantages based on their postcode.

With the team from Gardian among many individuals generously donating their time, the telethon event commenced at 8am. With coffee and croissants in hand, by 8pm the fundraising target of $70,000 was impressively surpassed, with the campaign reaching more than $95,000, thanks to the passionate community including Giving Day’s ‘matched donors’.

Bridging Healthcare Gaps With Giving Day

Mackay Hospital Foundation’s Giving Day event welcomed Dylan Holmes as its ambassador. Dylan's presence added a powerful, real-world dimension to the proceedings. At the age of 42, and with no prior symptoms, he experienced a sudden cardiac arrest. The presence of a defibrillator at his workplace and the quick action of his colleagues and paramedics were the key factors behind this success story, underscoring the pivotal role that hospitals like Mackay Base play in providing life-saving care.

Dylan acknowledges that his survival on that day was the result of the combined efforts of his workmates at Jennmar Australia, the Queensland Ambulance team who were soon on site and the Mackay Base Hospital’s emergency, cardiac and intensive care teams who provided surgery and follow-up care.

Mackay Base Hospital Cardiologist Dr Dominika Budzbon spoke at the Giving Day breakfast and said that Mr Holmes’ cardiac arrest was caused by very fast and abnormal heart rhythm.

“After a period of stabilisation in hospital, we decided he needs protection from any possible event like that in the future.”

Dr Budzbon explained that Mr Holmes became the first patient in Mackay to receive an implant of a subcutaneous defibrillator (ICD).

“This is a clever and highly programmable processor which recognises dangerous heart rhythms and works out what to do with it,” Dr Budzbon said.

“It is suitable for patients who only need a device to shock the heart, and do not need the support of a pacemaker as well.”

Matched donors on Giving Day, playing a vital role, generously contributed to the cause. Notable contributors included Anglo American and Isaac Regional Council, with additional support from CFMEU, Mackay Base Hospital Auxiliary, Pembroke Olive Downs, Abbot Point Terminal, and Sons of the Southern Cross Motorcycle Club. Adding to this spirit of generosity were other donors, such as Mackay West Rotary Club, M & P Services, and the Austral Hotel, who had pledged their support in advance.

Local radio stations, Star 101.9 and Hit FM, actively joined in, lending their voices to further amplify the event's community appeal. Kristi Algate, General Manager of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, urged the community to embrace generosity and highlighted the importance of making healthcare a universal right, irrespective of regional or rural location.

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Matched donors, sponsors and members of the Mackay Hospital Foundation gathered to launch Giving Day with a breakfast at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Mackay Hospital Foundation donors and supporters at the Giving Day Breakfast at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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This year, Nell Thomsett’s daughter Millie spent two weeks at Mackay Base Hospital on two separate occasions. If it wasn’t for the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) Family Room, this challenging time would have been more of a struggle.

Diagnosed with a kidney infection, Millie ended up staying five nights in hospital during her first visit. Amidst the difficulties, the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital played a pivotal role in alleviating the burden for Ms Thomsett, Millie, and their entire family.

Nell expressed her gratitude, saying, "It was just amazing. My husband would bring the kids up at night after they had finished work and sport. We were able to eat as a family and spend time together. I was able to see our other two kids, and they were able to see their sister."

In a horror health year for the youngster, she also got appendicitis resulting in the removal of her appendix.

Last week, it was noticed by the pair that RMH was reaching out to the community for donations. Nell says, “Millie popped up and said: ‘Can we go shopping for them, please?’”

The pair filled their trolley with an array of groceries to help families in need, including brownie mix, cooking trays, coffee, snacks and treats and gluten-free items. Nell mentioned that Millie hand-picked everything from the supermarket herself.

The items are stored away until a family comes in to stay and they can use the items.

“The space is run by volunteers who are just lovely, they help you in any way they can. They were very thankful, as the stocks were running low,” Nell added.

Nell and Millie encourage the community to become volunteers or donate towards the Ronald McDonald House charity, who provide a nice place to escape to that doesn’t feel like a hospital.

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Millie with her haul of groceries for RMH – Photo supplied

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OPINION PIECE

It was a historic day last week, as Australians went to the polls for a vote to change the constitution for the first time since 1999.

The people have spoken, and their collective voice resonates, clear and unwavering. As the referendum on the Voice to Parliament concludes, the result was no, for the voice of the people is a cornerstone of democracy. Every state and territory, except for the ACT, voted no.

It appeared to be a widely understood sentiment that while the nation may not be prepared for this particular step, the will to improve the wellbeing of First Nations peoples remains strong.

My personal opinion was that the Federal Government failed to fully educate the Australian people about what they were voting for. Too many people were confused about what a Yes would mean and there were complex issues muddying the waters. The Prime Minister, or any politician, chose not to appear in our neck of the woods to talk about the Voice and our publication didn’t receive any correspondence from the Federal Government to assist our readers. I think it’s failed marketing to ignore your regional constituents and believe that endorsements by big business or celebrities can influence everyday people into changing the constitution. It’s like asking someone to sign a contract without letting them read it first.

In the wake of the referendum outcome, Beyond Blue Chair Julia Gillard, reflected on the importance of this moment for Australia. First Nations peoples experience significantly higher rates of psychological distress and suicide. Regardless of how we voted as individuals, it is essential to remember that the referendum outcome may be distressing for many. It’s a time to be kind.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart extends an invitation to walk hand-in-hand with First Nations peoples toward a brighter future. Regardless of our individual experiences and views, it is through the values of fairness and respect that we can truly unite as one nation.

Amanda

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This month, Orange Sky Laundromat celebrated the OSA laundry services’ six-year anniversary operating in Mackay and Sarina.

The delivery of the service has changed in that time, but the community connections and need for positive conversations has only grown over the years.

The United Apostolic Volunteer Foundation’s mission is ‘Giving Hope, Sharing Grace’, with their members actively committed to giving assistance and compassion to those in need.  

UAVF supports many different groups, suffering does not discriminate and actions speak louder than words. All projects are assessed purely on the foundation’s ability to deliver the relief required, and the team endeavour to undertake projects that enable long term viability, and ultimately independence for those being supported.

The foundation held their Family Trivia fundraising event, to support local charity, Orange Sky, as well as two of their international projects, Ukrainian Humanitarian Aid and Kenyan Children in Need.  

Whilst there was some competitive team spirit for the trivia prizes, the generosity of the community in donating prizes and that of the participants bidding on auction items and other fundraising activities on the day, was phenomenal.

All money raised was donated to the charities, with Orange Sky as a major beneficiary, receiving an eleven thousand dollar donation to support the growth of services in Mackay and Sarina.

UAVF members, Lyle and Alan visited Orange Sky to meet the volunteers, who shared their gratitude for the donation they received.

With appreciation for UAVF for their generous support to the growth of Orange Sky services, Bev, the Trivia Team Captain, presented them with an appreciation certificate.

There is still a growing need for services, but it is something that Orange Sky couldn’t deliver without support from the wider community.

To volunteer, donate or find out more about Orange Sky, visit their website at orangesky.org.au

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Orange Sky and The United Apostolic Volunteer Foundation unite to celebrate six years of dedicated service

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Meet Nicole Pasquale, Leader in Community Education and Disaster Preparedness

Deputy Group Leader of the State Emergency Service Mackay Regional Unit, Nicole Pasquale, assists with community education and disaster awareness events.

Nicole is a teacher by trade when she is not donning the orange, working for three high schools around the Mackay region.

A couple of years ago, Nicole, alongside her colleagues JoAnn, Brenton and Jody, began an educational video series for their Facebook page to inform the community about preparing for storm season.

Since then, the series has gained major traction. This allowed the team to make videos regularly, with SES groups across Queensland now using the videos to help with their own promotion and community awareness.

“The videos have been received very well. Some have mentioned that they've been able to do things for themselves, which is really good because that's what we're aiming for,” Nicole stated.

Nicole’s favourite videos to film were the originals, when the teams’ acting skills were a little rusty and scripts were a work-in-progress, with blooper reels to enjoy the humour behind serious topics.

The next videos will feature cyclone preparation tactics and information on a new mentorship initiative, allowing volunteers to work with flood boats.

Nicole was a victim of Cyclone Debbie, before she became a volunteer. This event encouraged her passion to give back to the community in ways she couldn’t previously.

“I cleaned up my school, cleaned up my house. I couldn't do any more to help the community because I just didn't have any training to be able to help out that way.

“The skills are things you can put into action yourself, as well as when you're out in the community which is just amazing,” Nicole said.

Nicole has trained in a variety of areas. Her favourite skills she has learnt so far is operating a flood boat and trailer reversing, both in which she had never done prior to her SES training.

Recently, Nicole was awarded a Runner Up plaque for the Ministers Cup in Brisbane, which she was anonymously nominated for.

Nicole’s favourite part of being a member of the SES? ‘Friendship with like-minded volunteers, teamwork, and camaraderie.’

To prepare yourself for storm season, check out Nicole’s work in creating these educational videos at facebook.com/mackaySES

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Nicole Pasquale alongside the Public Education Unit

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In the latest session of Parliament, Andrew Willcox, the Federal Member for Dawson, delivered an impassioned speech addressing the actions of the Federal Government. His speech primarily centred on the recent ban imposed on commercial gillnet fishing, sparking profound concern.

With frustration, the MP vehemently voiced his worries about the Federal Government's actions, emphasising the detrimental impact on the livelihoods and economic prospects of more than 90 licensed fishermen in the North Queensland region.

Mr. Willcox highlighted the lack of community consultation and hasty decision-making. He pointed out, "In June, a joint media release from the Federal and Queensland Governments declared their intention to ban gillnet fishing with no community input and extremely tight deadlines. This ban is slated to take effect by the end of the year."

Mr Willcox also questioned Parliament about the effects on the communities, detailing that it’s not just the fishermen’s lives who would be negatively impacted.

“As we know, the fishermen operate in a tough environment, out in the sun and out in the salt. So, they need a lot of shackles, ropes, floats, anchors, all those sorts of things. Without this, the chandlery shops are going to go out of business, and the ice producers.

“The boatbuilders, the repairers, they’re all going to go out of business. The outboard sales and service, going out of business.

“When you take the supply out, the price will go up. So, then, we’ll be relying on more imported fish. So, rather than having fish from our pristine waters… we’ll be importing lesser-quality fish, and prices will be skyrocketing!”

Mr Willcox exclaimed that he will “not be taking this lying down” and has written to the Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek, on this issue.

“I’m calling on Minister Plibersek to come to my electorate, do some community consultation, talk to the fishermen, have a discussion, and see how the fishermen fish!”

Mr Willcox also called out the State Government for “this absolute rubbish” about gillnets damaging the Great Barrier Reef stating “these nets don’t go within 60kms of the Great Barrier Reef! It’s just another Labor lie!”

“The wild caught fishing industry is run by professional men and women and has been done for so many generations,” he said.

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

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Prepare to be inspired and empowered at Endeavour Foundation’s Business Solutions Employment Showcase, a remarkable event designed to open doors to fulfilling work opportunities for individuals living with disability. This unique event offers you an exclusive glimpse into the incredible efforts of the Endeavour Foundation team, showcasing their dedication and expertise in various work areas, such as assembly work, document destruction, and even painting of stakes and pegs. It's a chance to witness firsthand the achievements and support available in a supportive workplace environment.

At its core, the Employment Showcase is all about providing individuals with disability a place to thrive, gain support, and find a profound sense of purpose. It's an occasion for individuals with disability to shine, showcasing their skills and abilities across various vocational areas.

Nora, an Endeavour Foundation employee, has dedicated 44 years of her life to the organisation.

Crystal, another valued employee at Endeavour Foundation, is passionately dedicated to her role. In the tagging department, she intricately places strings on tags that serve critical roles in the mining and construction industries. Payne Print, a valued commercial customer of Endeavour Foundation, entrusts the team with this task.

"I feel happy when I'm here," Crystal said. "My workmates keep me smiling because they are funny to talk to." Her feelings resonate with the vibrant, supportive, and enriching environment that Endeavour Foundation creates.

Blackwoods are another organisation who support the Endeavour Foundation.

“Blackwoods has a proud history of supporting businesses within the community and are committed to supporting Endeavour Foundation Industries’, a local not for profit business providing opportunities for people with disability to work, develop skills, earn an income, explore their interest and be involved in the community.”

The Employment Showcase is not only a chance to witness Endeavour Foundation’s Mackay social enterprise in action, but it's also an opportunity for the community and local businesses to explore how they can become part of this remarkable journey. Supported Employment is a beautiful symbiosis, providing local businesses tailored business solutions while creating opportunities for people with disability.

This event unites a community that values diversity, inclusion, and the incredible potential each individual holds.

Join us for the Employment Showcase on October 27th, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM at Endeavour Foundation Business Solutions, 22 David Muir Street, Slade Point. Please call 07 4955 1533 to RSVP.

It's your chance to be a part of this inspiring journey and witness firsthand the work achieved of Endeavour Foundation.

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Crystal Love happy at work at Endeavour Foundation’s Mackay social enterprise

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Next year Mackay Regional Council will welcome 15 new employees through its doors as apprentice and trainees.

The program is now taking applications for a variety of roles across the organisation.

Deputy Mayor Karen May said the Apprentice and Trainee Intake program offered an opportunity for successful applicants to gain entry level pathways not only into council but the wider workforce.

“Council is a fantastic place to start your career and we encourage people from all walks of life to consider taking on a role in our organisation,” Deputy Mayor May said.

“We have a variety of roles available, from libraries to local laws and horticulture,” she said.

“Our apprenticeships and traineeships often lead to full time work at council and we are very proud to say we have many of our past apprentices and trainees still working here even 10 years later.

“Council prides itself on its apprentice and trainee program as it is vital for long-term workforce planning, helping to transfer knowledge from one generation to the next and building skills and capacity, not just for council but for our community.”

Apprentice plumber Tom Frost said he continued to enjoy his career journey at council.

“Family is really important to me and I enjoy being able to expand my skills and career while still being able to come home every night,” Mr Frost said.

“There are always opportunities to further your career and I enjoy learning and being part of such a close-knit team,” he said.

Former trainee Savannah Vella said council had provided her with a smooth transition into the workforce.

“For me it’s been a great gateway into the workforce from school life – all my supervisors have been encouraging and helpful,” Ms Vella said.

“I strongly encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship or traineeship to apply for one of the council roles,” she said.

The Apprentice and Trainee Intake has a variety of opportunities in a variety of industries, including:

• Apprentice heavy commercial vehicle mechanic.

• Local Laws Trainee.

• Apprentice Electrician.

• Horticultural Trainee.

• Civil Construction Trainee.

• Live Production and Staging Trainee (MECC).

• Warehouse Trainee.

• Information Technology Trainee.

• Surveying and Spatial Information Trainee.

• Business Trainee.

• Library Services Trainee.

• Community Services Trainee.

Council encourages applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, anyone re-entering the workforce, those from a non-English speaking background, individuals with a disability, impairment or long-term condition, school leavers or an adult worker wishing to change careers or gain new skills.

Applications for the 2024 Apprentice and Trainee Intake are now open, more information on the positions available can be found at Mackay Regional Council - 2024 Trainee and Apprentice Intake.

Applications will close October 19.

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2022 Apprentice Plumber Tom Frost continues his career pathway at council today

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Samantha Munt, well-known by her title, S.K Munt, is a local Mackay author who has made the Amazon Best-Seller list twice in Australian Fiction, for her collection of local ghost stories in her book, ‘And The Memory Remains’.

By popular demand, S.K Munt is writing a second book and is currently on the hunt for the spookiest ghost stories in the Mackay and surrounding regions.

Samantha has been interested in ‘all things spooky’ since she was a young schoolgirl in the early nineties, spending her time discovering books at Bucasia Primary School and on the mobile library bus.

By grade four, she was hooked on the works of Stephen King. Also an avid fan of Halloween, making haunted houses, watching scary movies and telling ghost stories to her friends.

The older Samantha got, the more she wrote about these stories, describing that her book series has been ‘about 35 years in the making.’

During her research and writing journey for her debut book, Samantha not only encountered her fair share of ghosts but also accrued several more eerie experiences while touring haunted locations.

The reaction from Mackay locals was overwhelming, with the first book a labour of love for Samantha, commenting, “It was always about learning more for me, giving people in our community that love this stuff the way I do, a voice and a sounding board.

“I get a huge rush out of reading other people’s stories, and am so grateful to everyone who has submitted one.”

Samantha has acquired an immense amount of knowledge after writing her first book, surrounding her research and getting her facts straight. She will be expanding her search to outlying regions, such as Coalfields and the Whitsundays.

Samantha stresses that privacy is paramount – besides finding out locations for her own research, it is as confidential as you’d like it to be. Don’t worry about getting in trouble, people resonate with the story more than arbitrary details.

To share your own ghost encounter, you can find Samantha’s page on Facebook titled: ‘And The Memory Remains’ where you can message her privately.

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Author of Mackay's ghost stories, S.K Munt

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Meet the Director of EDC Accounting, Emma Walker, an expert in her field of accounting for over fifteen years across Mackay, Hervey Bay and Brisbane-based firms.

Ms Walker established EDC Accounting in December 2022, after seven years working in a local firm where she enjoyed developing and nurturing relationships with business-owners in the local community.

EDC Accounting provides tax agent services and professional advice for all kinds of businesses and services, including tax returns, financial and management accounts, business activity statements, bookkeeping assistance, audits, assistance with accounting software and general advice.

Ms Walker enjoys working with business owners, from side-gig hustlers to multi-million dollar companies, assisting them to flourish within their industries.

A certified partner with Xero, MYOB, QBO and Reckon, EDC Accounting works with businesses through their preferred accounting platform and operates as both a mobile and online service.

Ms Walker is committed to gaining an in-depth understanding of each of her clients’ businesses, with meetings at client premises a standard offering. Feedback from clients is overwhelmingly positive and allows business owners to demonstrate pain points in real time and have all paperwork easily on-hand during consultations.

EDC Accounting has a unique negotiation strategy with clients to set a fee up-front, based on the value of service provided, rather than traditional firm pricing structure based on chargeable time. This factor gives EDC Accounting a competitive edge over competitors.

Ms Walker’s number one tip is: ‘don’t look for the cheapest way out.’ This can lead to costing you more in the long-run due to missed deductions, missed opportunities or mistakes.

Your accountant should be someone you can trust to have your best interests at heart. With EDC Accounting, you can rest assured that your accountant genuinely cares about your success and financial wellbeing.

Ms Walker’s diligence ensures that all services are done by the book, so you can feel confident that your financial matters are in capable hands.

Ms Walker threw herself into the unknown when starting her own business. However, word of mouth in Mackay has already triggered exponential growth and she is now in the process of hiring an assistant to maintain the highest standards for her client base.

To find assistance from EDC Accounting with all aspects of your taxation, accounting, bookkeeping, audit and legislative obligations, visit edcaccounting.com.au for more information

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Emma Walker, Director of EDC Accounting

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Join Zonta Club of Mackay Inc to raise awareness to the impacts of coercive control experienced by members of our community.

This dinner, held on 28th October at 6pm, is an advocacy event to facilitate an open discussion within the community about how together, we can act towards changing the narrative of ‘What is Domestic Violence?’.

The night will take place at Ocean International, with Jordana Abela from Reynolds Family Law as the Chair, as well as a host of guest speakers including:

● Mayor Greg Williamson – Mayor DV Taskforce

● Detective Inspector Emma Novosel - Queensland Police Service

● Namarca Corowa - Reconcile Life

● Mike Fry - Domestic Violence Resource Service Mackay

● Grace Harrison - Statewide Family Law

Designed as a panel discussion, the evening will provide insight into the police perspective of witnessing on-scene evidence involving domestic violence versus the legal perspective on the nuances of coercive control heard in the courtroom.

The hope of change will be heard by Zonta Club’s community workers, who will discuss the resources available for perpetrators through Reconcile Life and the Domestic Violence Resource Service.

Tickets include access to this event and a 2-course meal. Raffle tickets will also be sold on the night, with the proceeds donated to Reconcile Life to help continue changing the community one person at a time.

Please visit facebook.com/ZontaMackay for more information.

Tickets can be purchased through localtix.com.au

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Zonta Club of Mackay Inc hosts event for domestic violence awareness – Photo supplied

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Mines rescue brigades from across Queensland and New South Wales (NSW) will descend on the Bowen Basin this week for the 59th annual Australian Underground Coal Mines Rescue Competition.

Four Queensland teams and four NSW teams will vie for the national title at Anglo American’s Moranbah North Mine on Thursday (October 19, 2023), with the winner invited to an international competition in South America.

Competing for Queensland are Anglo American’s mines near Moranbah, Grosvenor mine and Moranbah North mine, as well as BMA-owned Broadmeadow mine and Kestrel mine – all in the Bowen Basin.

Teams from Newcastle, Hunter Valley, Southern and Western Mines Rescue represent NSW.

The day’s format includes several underground and surface simulation exercises to demonstrate knowledge and the use of equipment in realistic scenarios, including exercises to test hazard awareness, underground search and rescue, first aid and fire-fighting.

Queensland Mines Rescue Service Chief Executive Officer Tim Jackson said numerous competitions were held each year across the mining regions to challenge the proficiency of brigade members’ emergency response and recovery techniques.

“The primary purpose of Mines Rescue is to provide emergency response to the industry in the case of an emergency,” he said.

“Events like these allow the brigades to test and hone their skills in preparation for the unfortunate circumstance where they may be called upon.

“With their skills, experience and teamwork they will, at the end of the competition, be a much better team.”

Moranbah North Mine General Manager Paul Green, who will host the 2023 national event, said these competitions provided an invaluable opportunity to enhance skills and training.

“Mines rescue competitions serve as a vital platform for our industry to highlight critical aspects of mine safety,” he said.

“They reassure our employees and their families that we have highly-trained individuals.

“Beyond recognition, they are a testament to our industry’s ongoing commitment to zero harm and continuous improvement of our capability to respond swiftly and effectively when called upon.”

Mr Green said Grosvenor mine emerged as the state champions at the 2023 Queensland State Cup for Mines Rescue in July, with the Moranbah North team finishing runner-up.

“This friendly rivalry between our sister mines adds a unique dimension to this national competition for me but I commend all teams on their grit in physically and mentally demanding state competitions to get here,” he said.

“Best of luck to all competitors and thank you to all our dedicated volunteers for what will no doubt be a tremendous event.”

Coal Services’ Mines Rescue General Manager Alaster Wylie said 2023 was a significant year for NSW Mines Rescue, having just commemorated the 100-year anniversary of the Bellbird Mine Disaster.

He said the event was the catalyst for change in the industry, resulting in the Mines Rescue Act 1925 and establishment of a mines rescue service.

“Almost a century later, our highly skilled mines rescue brigades continue to play a pivotal role in upholding the standards that contribute to incident prevention,” he said.

“We prioritise safety through the implementation of rigorous work practices and the establishment of robust controls to mitigate the hazards of underground mining.

“Their advanced knowledge and expertise are instrumental in ensuring a safer working environment for all.”

All Mines Rescue competitions are the culmination of extensive planning to create realistic and demanding scenarios that challenge the capabilities of each participating team, ensuring a memorable experience for all involved.

The winners will be announced at a presentation dinner to be held following the competition on Thursday.

The winning team will be invited to represent Australia at the International Mines Rescue

Competition which will be held in Colombia in 2024.

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Images from the Queensland Underground Coal Mines Rescue Competition held in July. Photos supplied: AngloAmerican

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Celebrating the success of local tourism operators and their contribution to the region’s economy took centre stage at the 2023 Mackay Isaac Region Tourism Awards, held at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC).

172 people were in attendance, representing the region’s tourism businesses and industry stakeholders.

Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Karen May said these awards helped to acknowledge those who had been constantly raising the bar in our tourism industry to achieve success in a very competitive industry.

“All of the winners and finalists at this year’s awards are a fantastic example of the exceptional tourism experiences offered in our region,” Cr May said.

“It is these businesses that drive investment into our communities, supporting sustainability and job creation and building on the liveability of the region,” she said.

“We know we are the best place to live and work, and these businesses, through their commitment to building and developing tourism opportunities, are showcasing our region to the world.”

Capping off a successful year for tourism, the Mackay Isaac Region saw record numbers of domestic travel and an increase in visitation for business/events tourism – a new record seen for the region.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said the tourism awards created a point of difference and helped to boost the profile of our tourism operators as they look to attract more domestic and international travel into the region.

"The Isaac region is one of the most dynamic places for business in Australia due to our major resource, renewables and agricultural industries," Mayor Baker said.

“This record-breaking trend echoes what we see on the ground with increased investment. This is happening despite the headwinds like rising energy prices, inflation and other factors impacting consumers’ wallets and their decision to travel.”

Congratulating each of the winners was Mackay Isaac Tourism Chief Executive Officer Al Grundy.

“The Mackay Isaac Region Tourism Awards exist to recognise the commitment to tourism excellence and celebrate the exceptional achievements of tourism businesses and individuals throughout the region,” he said.

“It is the dedication of businesses and individuals like those we have recognised tonight, that has enabled tourism to firmly establish itself as a key economic pillar to The Mackay Isaac Region’s economy, contributing millions of dollars in investment and creating thousands of jobs.”

GOLD WINNERS

Wildcat Mackay

The Flackyard

Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park

Ocean International

St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend

Mt Pleasant Centre

MECC

Oh Deere Farm Tours

Moss on Wood

Comfort Resort Blue Pacific

Rydges Mackay Suites

Sarina Sugar Shed

Murray Gibbs

Friends of the MECC

Amanda Pelagalli

Shamrock Hotel

READ THE FULL MACKAY ISAAC TOURISM AWARDS FEATURE IN NEXT WEEK’S MACKAY AND WHITSUNDAY LIFE – CHECK OUT THE FULL LIST OF WINNERS AND VIEW A GALLERY OF SOCIAL PICS PLUS LEARN ABOUT THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE BUSINESSES!

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Photos supplied: Mackay Tourism

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A range of employers flocked to the Mackay Job Fair 2023 this week, with the event hosted at CQUniversity and sponsored by IDEAL Placements, Workforce Australia and Local Jobs to offer interested job-seekers a chance at secure employment opportunities.

With over thirty businesses and employment agencies in attendance, the event gave opportunity to students from across the Mackay region, to inquire into a range of industries and career pathways.

The Transition to Work program, guided by IDEAL Placements, focuses on youths aged fifteen to twenty-four to guide them in the right direction.

Working on both short-term and long-term goals, the program assists participants to enter the workforce or commit to further study. This allows access to a skill-set that they may not have received in a typical education setting.

Denzel from IDEAL Placements is a former member of the Transition to Work program and now works as an Employment Consultant and Junior Employee Business Broker.

Denzel stated, “I work closely with Mackay businesses to help them find employment leads and I have a caseload of about thirty [job-seekers] right now, that I work with and manage. I've made about fifteen to twenty local contacts that I can use for my participants for future reference.

“Seeing the outcome of what our participants can achieve is really good to see, I have one of my participants that has three interviews next week.”

Employer Business Broker at IDEAL Placements, Scott McPherson stated, “We just want to make sure we're making a difference in people's lives. So if we can help one or two people to get a full-time job, it's going to make a big difference.”

A substantial factor in getting the event running, was to ensure it was not a costly expenditure for businesses to attend. Scott commented, “With the housing crisis at the moment, the more people we can get working, it’s going to be better for businesses.”

Local Jobs Employment Facilitator, Jodie Ahwang, commented, “A lot of new employees have received at least five or more resumes, and we've had a couple of employers conducting interviews, it's been a really successful day.”

Scott and his team at IDEAL Placements would like to thank CQUniversity for being generous hosts of the Mackay Jobs Fair 2023, and encourages anyone who is interested in a career opportunity to reach out, so IDEAL Placements can further help to make a difference.

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Operations Team Member, Arabella Jordan and Employer Business Broker, Scott McPherson at Mackay Job Fair 2023

From Transition to Work to Junior Employee Business Broker, Denzel Bobongie

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The Queensland Resources Dust Disease Support Group attended the Seniors Expo this week, with an important message to retired mine workers regarding their lung health.

QRDDSG is a not-for-profit charity providing retired, former and current Queensland mine and quarry workers and their families with guidance, support, and friendship during the health assessment process and in the event of a diagnosis.

It is a long road ahead for the volunteers of this organisation, with a goal to test 25,000 former mine workers. The charity started back in February 2022, and slowly but surely, they have achieved 780 individual tests out of their mammoth goal.

QRDDSG provide assessment forms to check eligibility of their applicants before testing commences. By completing the form, QRDDSG can contact you via your preferred details and help to begin the application process for your free lung check.

Applications are for former coal mine workers only, as existing workers receive periodic health assessments from their employers.

From there, if something is wrong, you will be financially covered to travel to Brisbane for further assessment and treatment.

The charity encourages those who are eligible to receive their free lung check on the HEART5 Mobile Health Unit in November. A thorough lung check detects mine dust lung disease early, so you can get support sooner rather than later.

Eligibility requirements:

- You were a coal mine, mineral mine or quarry worker for at least three years in total over your lifetime, with at least 6 months of your mining experience in Queensland. (Note: You may be asked to supply evidence of your work history, such as pay slips or tax returns)

- You have now permanently stopped being a coal mine, mineral mine or quarry worker

- It has been five years since your most recent assessment

HEART5 Mobile Health Unit is coming to Proserpine on 8th November, and Mackay 9th-10th November.  

8 November – Proserpine

9-10 November – Mackay

For more information about Queensland Resources Dust Disease Support Group, contact 0419 646 856 or admin@qrddsg.org.

Mine Dust Health Support Service can be contacted  at 1300 445 715 or info@minedusthealthsupport.com

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Volunteers of Queensland Resources Dust Disease Support Group at the Seniors Expo

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