Mackay city is now better prepared to face major weather events with the official opening of the new flood-resistant Mackay City Substation, located at Tennyson Street. The $28 million substation is designed to withstand a one in 200-year flood event, providing greater resilience to the region.

This significant project includes the installation of two new transformers, a control room, operating switchgear, and power cables. The substation has been successfully electrically commissioned, resulting in improved quality and reliability of electricity supply for homes and businesses in Mackay.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the new Mackay City Substation will support around 4,600 customers with the capacity to cater for the future needs of the CBD, including the newly developed and planned tourism and entertainment precinct on the riverfront.

“Based on build back better principles and past experiences such as the impact of the 1971 floods on Tennyson Street, the new substation is designed to withstand a one in 200-year flood event,” she said.

“This is a complex project which has taken time to design, construct and commission, but the community will reap the benefits of the new substation for many years to come.”

Ergon is continuing its work at the site, which involves the recovery of old underground cables and conduit, demolition of the old substation, and the construction of a new car park.

The energy resilience of the Mackay region will also receive an additional boost with the announcement of a new network-connected battery set to be installed adjacent to Ergon's substation on Peachs Road, Marion South. This 4MW / 8 MWh battery is part of the second stage of Energy Queensland's local network-connected batteries project, which aims to deploy 12 new batteries in communities across the state.

The battery's purpose is to store excess renewable energy generated by solar PV systems during the day and release it during the evening when electricity demand typically surges. This initiative contributes to a more sustainable and reliable energy supply for the region.

Queensland Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said that infrastructure like the substation and battery are vital parts of getting Mackay ready for Queensland’s supergrid.

“A reliable power grid that is built to deal with increased renewable energy electricity generation will mean more resilient businesses, with greater capacity for industrial growth,” he said.

At the official substation opening in Mackay, Treasurer Dick said the Marian South battery will capture solar power from rooftops west of Mackay, returning it to the grid when the sun goes down.

“That puts downward pressure on electricity bills to help local residents better deal with the cost of living.”

Construction of the battery is planned to commence in 2024.

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Queensland Treasurer Cameron Dick joined Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert and Ergon Energy Area Manager Daniel Werthenbach to officially open Mackay City’s new substation on Tennyson Street. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Locals in favour of the ‘No’ vote gathered at the Bluewater Quay on Saturday, 23rd September ahead of the upcoming Voice referendum, with prominent key figures from the Mackay region attending to share their opinion on the campaign, following a walk across Forgan Bridge.

The campaign is also known as ‘Australians for Unity’, led by Shadow Indigenous Australians Minister, Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Nyunggai Warren Mundine.

On the opposing side, Yes23 are campaigning for ‘listening, recognition and better results’.

The ‘Yes’ vote campaigners are three groups with a shared history and objective: the enshrinement of an Indigenous voice to parliament in the constitution.

Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party has become a spearhead of the ‘No’ vote campaign. The group aims to limit racial division and encourage Treaty as a first and foremost priority within the Federal government.

Mr. Stephen Andrew, parliamentary member of the Mirani electorate for the One Nation party, commented in opposition of the Voice to Parliament.

Mr. Andrew stated, “Think about core values and what this really means, its’ tokenistic at best,” he said.

“There’s a lot of elite people out there trying to push one agenda.

“Australia is a democracy, never forget it.”

Patricia Brady, or ‘Aunty Patsy’ is a fifth generation Indigenous Elder of the Birri Gubba nation, who took to the stage to share her history as a First Nations person and what ‘the voice’ means to her.

Sharing her emotional story to the crowd of attendees, Aunty Patsy detailed her childhood and the atrocities she faced when her and other families were removed from country and placed into missions.

Aunty Patsy shared, “Our greatest strength is our spiritual connection to the land. We don’t own the land, the land owns us.

“They introduced Native Title and Land Councils to divide us, to leave those of us remaining, fighting over money,” she said.

“We want to see the wealth of this country return to all. We want you to know that we all can live in the world we share and respect each other and the land.

“Our people have to stand together side by side, we must put our prejudice aside and move forward as one.”

Other prominent figures at the event included Patricia’s daughter, Vicky, and Kim Robertson.

To find out more information about the efforts of the ‘No’ campaign, visit fairaustralia.com.au.

For information regarding the referendum, visit voice.gov.au.

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

Queensland CANEGROWERS has been calling on Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) to listen to their grower shareholders, encouraging them strongly to step out of the city and into a regional growing area to hold its Annual General Meeting.

This is a fair and reasonable call: Bundaberg isn’t so far from Brisbane. The Burdekin is a stone’s throw from Townsville. Mackay has many flights in from Brisbane every day. We’d welcome the regional venue.

At the time of writing, a date and venue had not been set for the STL AGM, but I’ll take the wager that it stays firmly in Brisbane, because the board is hesitant to answer growers on why industry assets like our sugar ports may move into a more privatised model of operation, insourced to STL.

Until now, I would say the sugar industry has operated on an open and democratic system, and has established a network of ports that allow for our industry to control the flow of sugar to market- to hold it in storage in times of low prices, to let it be exported in prosperous times.

Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) stands at the heart of that arrangement. It’s a not-for-profit with growers as members, with an industry ownership structure that listens to industry and its members, and at most times implements systems that enhance our industry.

It has done an outstanding job of operating our sugar terminals for many years, delivering 7.2 million tonnes in the 22-23 FY - an increase on the last financial year.

STL is a listed company, and so is duty bound to maximise profits for shareholder benefit. And not all of those have a stake in the sugar industry, as set out in STL’s constitution.

As a listed company, STL operates under a constitution, which clearly states shares are for Active Growers, with a current cane supply contract. It also states that if they become Inactive Growers they must “dispose of all their G Class shares as soon as practicable.” Unfortunately, this is not being enforced. STL must not bow to the needs of unconstitutional shareholders. Constitutional shareholders must be heard on the subject of port operation.

Some will say, what does it matter if the badge on terminal staff’s shirt changes? But the issue is far bigger. It is about long-term transparency, and the two-party approach to running terminals was enshrined in the establishment of our industry’s Code of Conduct. A vitally important tool that protects growers and the supply chain from monopoly behaviour in an environment of increasing foreign ownership of sugar industry companies.

If you don’t need a sugar specialist to handle your sugar, then what are the other commodities in which they need to specialise. To what extent do these industry assets slip away into the whim and realm of the demands of other commodities.

North Queensland Bulk Ports was delighted to announce in recent weeks that the port, riding on the back of sugar, had had a record year. That sugar throughput was at a 15-year record at 102,000t of raw sugar. That throughput is testimony to the excellent work of QSL as terminal operators here in Mackay - and along the Queensland seaboard.

Having a terminal owner (STL) AND a terminal operator QSL creates a model of checks and balances, of transparency. To lose this is to see a monopoly gained on what, for our industry, is a chokepoint asset.

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QSL are known for efficiently delivering Queensland‘s sugar exports at terminals along the seaboard. Picture: contributed

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Queensland's Trade to Teach Internship program, in partnership with CQUniversity (CQU), is expanding its horizons with additional funding from the Queensland Government. The program, which facilitates the transition of qualified tradies into teaching careers, is set to receive a $10 million boost.

Education Minister Grace Grace recently announced the expansion, offering qualified and experienced tradespeople even more opportunities to pursue teaching. The Trade to Teach program provides successful applicants with a $20,000 scholarship, a paid internship, and a guaranteed permanent teaching position, with a specialisation in Industrial Technology and Design at a Queensland state secondary school.

Launched in 2022, the pilot program currently has 38 participants who began their education degrees this year at CQU or the University of Southern Queensland. These aspiring teachers will enter the classroom as interns with a half teaching load starting in 2024. The new applicants will commence their studies in 2024 and begin their teaching careers in 2025.

Dr. Corey Bloomfield, CQU's Head of Course for the Bachelor of Education and the Diploma of Secondary School Teaching, expressed enthusiasm for the program's renewal. Out of the 38 pilot participants, 22 are now pursuing further tertiary education at CQU.

Trade to Teach Internship participant Daniel Parslow, a former fitter and turner and electrician with 18 years of experience, sought a career change. He highlighted the program's guaranteed wage during the second to fourth years of study as a significant incentive, considering the financial challenges faced by many transitioning tradies.

Applications for the Trade to Teach Internship Program are open until Monday, October 2. Eligible tradespeople looking to embark on a teaching career can apply through the Teach Queensland website at www.qld.gov.au/tradetoteach.

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Photo credit: CQUniversity

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A new report from the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) has revealed skilled worker shortages, government policy settings, rising costs and global economic conditions are among the main concerns for resources companies operating in Queensland.

They’re among the key findings of QRC’s quarterly check of industry sentiment on the future outlook for the resources sector in Queensland through a State of the Sector survey of company CEOs.

QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane said the report reveals a number of key obstacles stand in the way of Queensland capitalising on emerging opportunities from the global push to a lower emissions future.

“The world is looking to Queensland, amongst other countries, to meet surging demand for critical minerals like copper and nickel to build the batteries, solar panels and electrical vehicles of the future, which will be central to achieving ambitious decarbonisation targets,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“To meet global demand, however, significant new investment is required in Queensland but right now, that’s under a cloud because of recent, sudden changes in economic policy.

“At the same time, member company CEOs are reporting increasing concerns over rising costs and global economic conditions are impacting business confidence.

That’s why all levels of governments need to do what it can to actively encourage the next wave of resources investment to keep the Queensland economy strong.

“Instead, we’ve seen the opposite, with the State Government’s decision to impose the world’s highest coal royalty tax rate adding to companies’ rising costs and threatening future investment in Queensland projects,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“Amid heightened concerns about the global economic outlook, a better approach would be for Queensland to offer stable and consistent policy settings to attract long-term investors in a competitive market, both in Australia and internationally.”

While resources CEOs say the move to a lower emissions future will create opportunities for growth, the QRC report identified the skilled worker shortage as a growing concern for companies.

“More than half of CEOs say the move to automation and digitalisation will mean more jobs, however 95 per cent say a shortage of skilled workers will affect productivity and profitability,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“With demand for graduates in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) related degrees forecast to increase by 25 per cent over the next five years, one positive is that companies are individually taking action to attract and retain workers.

“Along with their ongoing support for the QRC’s educational arm, the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy, which delivers workshops to promote career opportunities in resources in almost 100 schools each year, resources companies are increasingly conducting their own local campaigns to recruit new graduates to the sector.

“It’s encouraging to see the industry taking action where it can to support new opportunities for all Queenslanders from the growing global market for our new and traditional minerals,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“However, as this report reaffirms, there is an urgent need for the Queensland Government to improve its policy settings so the resources sector can continue to drive the job opportunities and economic success that benefits every Queenslander.”

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QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane

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Are you on the hunt for a new job? It’s a tale as old as time, you apply for a position that interests you, then wait to never hear a response.

Read ahead for advice to ace your next job interview and excel in your career!

Write yourself a career plan

It can be beneficial to have an understanding of who you want to be, in a professional sense.

Write a plan including your must-haves and dealbreakers – companies you’d like to work with, your preferred working hours, goals for career development, etc.

Keep this list close and make sure the next job you apply for aligns with your plan.

Refresh your CV

Your resume, while keeping it concise, should reflect your best roles and experiences. It is important to have reliable references that will vouch for your character.

Expand your network

Connect with your existing leads that have similar career trajectories. Maximise your search with companies like SEEK and register with local recruitment companies.

Let them know you’re searching for a new job and watch the opportunities begin to flow in.

Prepare for the interview

Research the company you’re applying for, understand their values and have questions ready to show your interest.

Wear an outfit that makes you feel sophisticated, yet comfortable. Maintain eye contact with your interviewee and shake their hand on arrival.

If nerves arise, ask someone close to you to perform a mock interview with you.

You are now well on your way to the career of your dreams!

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WorkPac Recruitment Mackay will be attending the Mackay Jobs Fair on 10th October, at CQ University. The core principle of WorkPac is to offer career management to talented individuals for a vast range of career classifications, from low skill to professional roles.

WorkPac has over 12,000+ Field Team Members employed daily on client sites and projects across Australia, making them one of the leading specialists of mining recruitment throughout the country.

WorkPac will be on the search for both new and experienced operators who are interested in work within the Bowen Basin, containing the largest coal reserves in Australia.

These roles will primarily be in production roles, offering a substantial range to suit everyone’s needs. Utilising their extensive network of employers, WorkPac will connect you with the best.

Specialised recruitment consultants will be engaging with potential employees, talking them through the various roles available and helping to match them with their ideal job within the mining industry.

A major goal for WorkPac is the opportunity to engage with school-leavers, to help educate them on what the company offers as well as providing general advice, networking and connections for their futures in the mining industry.

The current vacancies offered by WorkPac include but are not limited to:

● Traineeship -Warehouse

● Traineeship – Dump Truck Operators

● Experienced Dump Truck Operators

● Administration Roles

● Hoses – CHPP

● Escort Drivers

● Bench Hands – Blast Crew

● Civil Up Skill Operators

● Labourers

● Experienced Warehouse Assistants

Find the WorkPac Recruitment offices at 55 Gordon Street, Mackay, or visit workpac.com/recruitment-mackay for more information.

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Employees of WorkPac Recruitment Mackay

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MACKAY JOBS FAIR

In the ever-evolving landscape of employment, the upcoming Mackay Jobs Fair on Tuesday, October 10th, promises not just a chance to connect with potential employers but a gateway to real jobs for real people. With more than 30 organisations participating, the fair offers a diverse range of opportunities that may surprise attendees.

From traineeships designed for individuals with no prior work experience to positions for registered nurses, skilled tradies, efficient administration officers, and even managerial roles, the job spectrum on display at the fair covers all fronts. Whether you are starting your career journey or looking to take it to the next level, there may well be a position waiting to elevate your lifestyle.

Scott McPherson, an Employer Business Broker at IDEAL Placements, emphasised the importance of making a strong first impression. "First impressions matter, and this jobs fair bridges the gap between eager job seekers and businesses ready to hire.”

“If you're the right fit for the job, you might just find yourself interviewing on the spot. So, remember the fundamentals: dress to impress, good eye contact and a firm handshake."

The Mackay Jobs Fair is a collaborative effort between IDEAL Placements, CQUniversity, and Local Jobs Program Mackay, designed to benefit the local community. The organisers are committed to making this event accessible to everyone, especially small local businesses. Thanks to the support of these businesses, the fair is entirely free, and CQUniversity has generously provided the venue.

Mr McPherson further highlighted the positive impact such initiatives can have on the community.

"We're proud to connect businesses with the community, enhancing overall prosperity. When individuals have more disposable income, it circulates back into the local economy. Our goal is not just to address the skills shortage but to take concrete action."

The significance of this fair extends beyond job placements—it's about fostering self-sufficiency within the community. By actively addressing the labour shortage gaps in Mackay and hiring locally, the event plays a pivotal role in reducing the need to recruit from out of town. This, in turn, contributes to alleviating the pressing housing crisis that has burdened the region.

For young people, especially, the path to employment is fraught with hurdles, including the prohibitive costs associated with leaving home and securing a place of their own. Additionally, the high cost of petrol and the requirement to complete 100 hours of driving to obtain a license pose substantial financial challenges. These barriers can feel insurmountable, particularly for underprivileged youth who often face the brunt of these financial constraints, leaving them feeling left behind in their pursuit of employment opportunities.

"We're here to say that your current circumstances don't determine your future,” McPherson added.

“Consider the CEO of McDonald's, who started with 20-hour-per-week shifts and rose to become the Australian CEO. At IDEAL Placements, we don't merely place individuals in jobs; we work with them to shape their desired future."

McPherson encouraged attendees to focus on their forward journey, stating, "Your first job is just the beginning. You can chart your own course. The key is to start, work diligently, and demonstrate initiative."

He also highlighted the importance of small local businesses in the community, citing their willingness to hire trainees and individuals with disabilities, leading to enriched workplaces and higher profits due to reduced turnover. The Chamber of Commerce has thrown its support behind the jobs fair, recognising the potential to bridge workforce gaps among its members.

The Mackay Jobs Fair is not just an event; it's a platform for individuals to take the first step towards their desired future while fostering community growth and prosperity.

So mark your calendars for October 10th at CQUniversity Sydney Street campus and join us at the Mackay Jobs Fair, where opportunities await, and your future begins.

POSITIONS VACANT

Some of the jobs available at the jobs fair include:

House Keeper

Bar and Gaming Attendant

Hospitality Duty Manager

Painters

Blasters

Boilermakers

Scaffolders

Riggers

Trade Assistants

Forklift Operators

Trainee Freight Officer

Drivers – All License Classes

Supermarket Roles – Various Roles Across Many Stores

Diesel Fitters

Trade Apprentices

Storepeople

Office Administrators

Support Workers – Various Roles

Fast Food Opportunities

Graduate Accountant

Trainee Accountant

Receptionist and Assistant

Labourers – Parks and Gardens

Manufacturing Assistant

Business Support Officer

Civil Operations Labourer

Machine Operators

Courier Drivers

Food and Beverage

Registered Midwife

Registered Nurses – Surgical, Emergency, Scrub

Nurse Unit Manager

CSSD Assistants

Key Account Manager

Lead Estimator

Financial Planning

Police Liaison Officers

Assistant Watch House Officer

Various Mining, Mill and Manufacturing Positions

Field Technician

Fitters

Tyre Fitters

Wheel Aligners

Sales

Taxi Drivers – Full Time Or Part Time

Costing Clerk

Communication Centre Supervisor

Yardie

Cleaners

Escort Drivers

Blast Crew

Trainee Dump Truck Operators

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Mackay parents Jessica and Cameron Marller have spent 124 nights at Ronald McDonald House Townsville, while their twins, Alexander and William received medical treatment in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Townsville University Hospital.

“Our story begins with a routine check-up with specialist Doctor Watson at Townsville University Hospital on the 16th of December 2022.

“I was 26 weeks and three days pregnant with Monochorionic (MCDA) identical twin boys,” Jessica said.

“The ultrasound revealed that Twin A had Intrauterine growth restriction and I also had a shortened cervix.”

Jessica was admitted to hospital, expecting a few nights stay, but another surprise was underway.

“I spent Friday night in the hospital, then on Saturday morning at 4 am, Twin A's water broke much to my surprise.

“We thought it was ‘go time’, but Doctors were able to slow it down, so I could get two steroid shots to further the twin's lung development,” Jessica said.

Jessica had another ultrasound on Sunday and was asked if she was ready to deliver the babies that day.

“Things had progressed, and concern was growing for Twin A. I was open to the idea and only wanted the best possible outcome for the babies and myself,” Jessica said.

“I was whisked away to get an emergency c-section. The twins were born at 10:30 am and 10:32 am that day.”

Immediately after the birth, the twins were admitted into the NICU due to their extreme prematurity, however four days later, Twin A, Alexander needed bowel surgery, due to Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

“This was a harrowing experience for my husband and me,” Jessica reflected.

“He would need a stoma bag which was eventually reversed before we came home.

“This was the start of our journey through NICU and then eventually the Special Care Unit at the hospital.”

Ronald McDonald House Townsville opened their doors to the couple, while their twins remained in the NICU.

“It was nice to have our own room and shared kitchen to prepare food.

“Also, the open pantry and fridge with readymade meals were a godsend when we were too exhausted to cook.”

“We met lots of people during our 124-night stay at Ronald McDonald House. It was nice to talk to other parents who had bubs up at the hospital and support each other along the way.

The family returned to Mackay in April, after staying at the Ronald McDonald House for 124 nights.

“Our boys Alexander and William are doing well and growing every day,” Jessica updated.

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Cameron, Jessica, Alexander and William, in NICU in Townsville University Hospital

Going home after 124 nights. Photos supplied

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In a world over-powered by opinionated ignorance and blemished by virtue signalling, the issue of coal stands out as a beacon of frustration and absurdity.

If you want to get a good taste of it, tune in to an ABC news or current affairs program and listen to the discussion about the demise of coal.

Opinions are strong, dogmatic and uncompromising. Unfortunately, they also misrepresent the facts and fail to give a true picture of what is happening.

Listen to the discussion and you will learn that coal is finished, that the jobs are about to disappear and that communities like Mackay are doomed.

The problem is that in the world of the commentariat, no one seems to know the difference between thermal coal and metallurgical coal.

Thermal coal is used to fire up power plants and, yes, there is a big push in Australia and elsewhere in the Western world to put a stop to it.

However, something like 80 per cent of the coal produced in our region, the Bowen Basin, is metallurgical (or coking) coal, which is used to produce steel.

And that is going to be the case for a long time, which is good for businesses and, by extension, real estate, in our city.

We are certainly diversifying in what we do in this region but our steel-making coal is in big demand and that’s not expected to change any time soon.

I quote from BMA’s most-recent annual report: “We are continuing to focus our metallurgical coal operations in Queensland on higher-quality product and have one of the lowest GHG emission production intensities of benchmarked export metallurgical coal mines.

“We believe a wholesale shift away from blast furnace steel making , which uses metallurgical coal, is still decades in the future and as a result metallurgical coal will remain an essential input into the steel-making process and a critical input to support decarbonisation infrastructure over the coming decades.

“We believe higher-quality coals for steelmaking have greater potential upside for quality premiums as steelmakers seek to improve blast furnace utilisation and reduce GHG emission intensity  of production.”

Our region is diversifying and looking to be part of the renewable energy push by using our engineering and manufacturing expertise. It’s what we need to do to grow and evolve.

But our governments and leaders and media need to get better at explaining that we produce and export primarily steel-making coal and that stuff is different to the evil thermal stuff that the commentariat is so obsessed with.

The future of our economy and, by extension, our real estate sector, looks good but it’s time we started shouting that from the rooftops. Because it’s true and a dose of the truth would be a good thing.

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OPINION PIECE

As this term of council is nearing the end, I thought it would be good to reflect on community and what that means for me as a person and as an elected representative.

As a person, belonging in community improves my motivation, health and happiness. Being involved in community enhances my value in life. Making meaningful relationships with people and genuinely caring about people and their wellbeing is important to me.

I enjoy building close relationships with others and I find deep satisfaction in working hard with people to achieve a goal. I believe that my authenticity allows me to build long-lasting connections that foster trust and confidence. I look for the raw potential in people and actively invest in their development. Encouragement helps me and others to learn, grow and improve. I have certain core values that are unchanging and out of these values emerges a defined purpose for life.

As a councillor, I love working with community organisations to help them achieve their goals and aspirations. Building trust and being respectful to others helps ensure a cohesive group of people can deliver on the purpose of that organisation.  Ensuring that everyone in the group can be heard, and genuinely value what people have to say, enables the group to be progressive.  When you are part of a group, club or organisation, you strengthen your sense of belonging – not just in the group, but in the wider community.

I truly appreciate the work that all our community volunteers undertake daily.  I am fortunate to attend many different meetings throughout the year and it never ceases to amaze me the amount of time, commitment and passion volunteers invest in their organisation. I do get disheartened when the organisers of groups are sometimes under attack from other members of the group. We must not allow this sort of behaviour to become the norm. Yes, different opinions are good, however, it is how you voice those opinions that really matters.

If we are to grow and develop as a community, we must call out this sort of behaviour and encourage and support the people who are genuinely there with purpose and passion.

Cr Karen May

Deputy Mayor

Mackay Regional Council

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In the heart of Mackay, nestled on Level 1 of Canelands Shopping Centre, parents have discovered a haven where their little ones can play, explore, and unleash their boundless energy. Say hello to Cheeky Little Monkeys Play Centre, the ultimate destination for children under 5.

This fully enclosed, safe play space has become a cherished haven for parents seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. From as little as $6 for under-1s and $10 for 1-5-year-olds, parents can sit back and relax in the seated area while their tiny tots embark on grand adventures amid fun equipment and soft mats. Additional children over 1 are only $8. One of the most delightful aspects of Cheeky Little Monkeys is that it offers unlimited playtime. This accessible pricing makes it a go-to destination for families seeking quality entertainment without breaking the bank.

The entire play centre is cleaned regularly, ensuring a hygienic environment, and it's perpetually supervised by attentive child minders. Here, every safety measure is in place to offer parents peace of mind.

One of the main attractions at Cheeky Little Monkeys is the big ball pit, where kids can immerse themselves in a world of colourful balls, laughter, and endless fun. While the little ones literally have a ball, parents can treat themselves to a comforting coffee and put their feet up, all within arm's reach of the play area.

But Cheeky Little Monkeys goes beyond just playtime. If parents need some uninterrupted hours to run errands or do their shopping, the play centre offers four creche spots per hour for an hourly child-minding fee. During this time, experienced staff members take care of your child, while you enjoy some guilt-free shopping and dining within the shopping centre.

For those looking to celebrate a special occasion, Cheeky Little Monkeys can be exclusively booked for birthday parties. Imagine a stress-free birthday celebration where children play in a secure, immaculate environment, while adults either join in the festivities or simply relax and watch the magic unfold.

Mackay Life Editor, Amanda Wright, attests to the invaluable nature of Cheeky Little Monkeys' creche services.

"Finding daycare in Mackay is exceptionally challenging," Amanda remarked.

"When I need a few hours to meet with clients or conduct interviews, I schedule them into a two or three-hour block at Canelands. This allows me to get essential work done uninterrupted, knowing that my son is in safe hands and enjoying himself.

“The staff there are fantastic with children, and it's a great feeling to return to a smiling baby!"

Cheeky Little Monkeys Play Centre isn't just a place for play; it's a sanctuary for parents and a source of joy for children, where the essence of childhood is celebrated every day.

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Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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What do you get when you cross a hockey player, a 6-time marathon runner and a bloke who loves mowing his yard?

You get me.

That’s right, I do all those things and I’m here to tell you all about it.

Two weeks ago, I was in Sydney doing another marathon run through the streets of Australia’s greatest city, and I am pleased to tell you that I finished and feel terrific for doing it. I’ve had plenty of people asking how it all went, times, injuries and anything else. I can say all is great and I feel good.

They were saying there was a heat wave going on at the same time with temperatures reaching 35 most days, but hey, we’re used to it up here. Thing was, there was not the million percent humidity to deal with that we get up here each summer.

I did the same time as last year and that was what I was hoping for all along, so for that I am grateful. The eventual winner bloke did the 42km run in just over 2 hours, while the first female was just over 2 hrs 20 minutes which is just insane.

There were over 13,000 runners doing the same thing last Sunday, some faster and some slower than me, but you know what? We all had the finish line in mind as we were running around like crazy people in a city that doesn’t slow down at all.

As this is the off season of our hockey sport in Mackay, this is a great opportunity to get more active but doing more running around Mackay after work. The other day I ran 10k just for something to do, and another 5k last Monday just because I wanted to feel sand between my toes at Town Beach.

How lucky are we to live up here and be able to run and get active in such a spectacular place? Lucky as ever I reckon.

If you’re thinking of taking up running as something to do, just do it. Get off the couch, put the TV remote down and stop eating donuts. Your body will thank you for it.

The last few weeks have given me the opportunity to get the lawn mower out and get the backyard tidy after my trip away. There were more leaves to cut than there is grass, but that’s springtime I reckon. Best time of the year.

There could be more things to do over the next few months before Xmas, and one of them is festive decorations buying with my daughter. I’m heading out this weekend with her, so wish me luck. If you see a bloke with a perplexed look on his face holding what looks like boxes of Xmas decorations, say hello to me and buy me a coffee. I’ll need one I reckon.

You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!

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Marine Workers Strike For Fairer Pay

For the second week in a row, marine staff from Cruise Whitsundays are on strike and, while their right to protest is acknowledged, many are frustrated that their behaviour has disrupted countless travel plans during the busy school holiday period.

Three vessels are unable to operate, multiple subsidiary local businesses and suppliers have been impacted and workers commuting to nearby resort islands have been unable to transit.

The strike is expected to last for seven days, for the school holiday period, impacting holiday plans for thousands of holiday makers and possibly the overall reputation of the Whitsundays as a holiday destination.

Frustrated marine workers are striking once again this week to demand fairer pay, requesting a 30 per cent wage increase to align with “industry standards”.

Meanwhile, the marine company they work for is scrabbling to accommodate disgruntled tourists and manage disrupted ferry timetables during one of the busiest weeks of the year.

Timed to cause maximum impact during a busy school holiday period, there is no doubt the workers have made their point, but their actions in causing such significant disruption to many innocent holiday-maker’s plans is sitting uneasily with many members of the community.

The initial protest began last Friday morning when about 30 Cruise Whitsundays staff members held a peaceful picket line at the marine terminal.

A representative, who requested to stay anonymous, said that the motivations for the strike are a last resort at the end of a long battle to ask for fairer pay.

“The right of the employees to negotiate a different agreement has been refused time and time again,” they said.

“They left us no choice but to engage with the maritime union and with the fair work commission.

“A lot of workers are literally one cent above minimum wage – they’ve had a year to get on the negotiation table and they’ve put us less than a dollar up.”

Meanwhile, Adam Hosie, Cruise Whitsundays General Manager said that since July 2022 they have implemented pay increases totalling six per cent and have now proposed an immediate further average increase of over five per cent and higher for those with longer tenure.

“The new wage offer, which was proposed to take immediate effect, would see crew pay rates between 4.8 per cent to 44.4 per cent above award, depending on their position, skill level, and tenure,” he explained.

A meeting between Cruise Whitsundays and the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) took place on Monday, but no resolution was reached.

“Workers left the meeting in bewilderment at a pay offer from the company that amounted to between $1 and $1.50 per hour for a small percentage of staff,” said MUA Queensland Branch Secretary, Jason Miners.

“The company’s offer is completely unacceptable, an unfair and indefensible position, so we have no choice but to take further industrial action,” he said.

Protestors also allege that the Current Enterprise Agreement expired in March 2022 and that Cruise Whitsundays are refusing to negotiate reasonable terms on any matters.

In response, Cruise Whitsundays says it acknowledges it has reached “its nominal expiry date” but contests that “the agreement continues to apply until a new agreement comes into effect”.

They also state that “over the course of these negotiations, Cruise Whitsundays has put forward multiple proposals for review by our Bargaining Committee and MUA representatives”.

“We have agreed to and resolved almost all matters presented, however we have not received any reasonable or sustainable wage proposals for review. Despite invitations for feedback from the MUA, we have not received any,” said Mr Hosie.

The biggest point of contention for protestors, however, is their perceived rate of pay compared to other marine staff operating similar tours in the same area.

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Cruise Whitsundays’ marine workers protesting outside the terminal on Friday last week. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

An unusually quiet Cruise Whitsundays terminal that would normally be a hive of activity over the busy school holiday period. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Holiday Plans Disrupted

“We are over at South Whitehaven Beach every day and SeaLink and Cruise Whitsunday are doing exactly the same thing, except there is a 30 per cent disparity in wages between the vessels across the board,” said the anonymous protestor.

“At least match SeaLink – come to industry standard, we are not asking for millions - for them to be able to afford to pay us properly it will be a dollar and a half to $13 extra on different tickets. We’ve done the maths, and it will mean putting the ticket price to Whitehaven up by just $7.50.”

Cruise Whitsundays alleges that despite repeated requests, the MUA is yet to produce any supporting documentation that demonstrates this claim.

The company also states that a 30 per cent increase is unsustainable for the business.

“The MUA claims a "30 per cent disparity in wages" between Cruise Whitsundays and other workers in the same industry but has provided no data or wage comparisons to other local businesses with Marine Tourism as their core business,” said Mr Hosie.

“While Cruise Whitsundays has continued to negotiate in good faith, presenting fair and sustainable offers, the MUA is steadfast in demanding an uplift of 30 per cent in pay rates across the board. “

Mr Hosie also asserts that increasing ticket prices does not directly correlate to wage increases.

“These ticket price calculations have been discussed with MUA officials and it was agreed that a number of factors had been overlooked in the calculations, resulting in significantly substantial increases being required to cover the requested wage increases,” he said.

In regard to accusations that staff are only being paid “literally one cent above minimum wage”, Cruise Whitsundays stated that “this as a result of current negotiation of pay rates being underway, and increases to our lowest level roles were applied from 1 July 2023 to ensure that everyone is paid at or above award until the new rates would take effect.  

“Subsequent discussions have seen agreement on a rates calculation that achieves well above award rates,” explains Mr Hosie.

While both parties are looking for a swift and positive outcome, it seems they remain poles apart in terms of what they are able or willing to agree to.

“Although only a minority of our staff are taking protected action, all of our staff are feeling the effects,” said Mr Hosie.

“From the Reservations team who must call and disappoint our guests, to the catering team who are unsure how to plan for the coming weeks, to the marine staff who are happy to accept the fair proposal and get on with their jobs, everyone is affected.

“Additionally, we are also mindful of the many local suppliers who rely on the consistent weekly work that Cruise Whitsundays provides.”

Rick Hamilton, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays said he deeply regrets the timing of the strike during the school holidays, when our beautiful Whitsundays are at their prime.

“It's disheartening to see this disruption during such a busy time, with many of our operators running at capacity,” he said.

“The Whitsundays have been thriving with 90 per cent occupancy and it's disappointing that this action has coincided with a time when guests had planned to make the most of their Whitsundays experience.”

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Hundreds of families can no longer enjoy a day out on Whitehaven Beach with Cruise Whitsundays because of the strike. Photo credit: supplied

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Hi Everyone,

What a week for local breaking news!

To write the front-page story this week we’ve had lengthy conversations with both parties, in an effort to present a fair and impartial story.

On Friday last week I sat down with some of the workers from Cruise Whitsundays who are now in the midst of what is expected to be a lengthy strike to demand fairer pay.

This week, I have also had several conversations with Cruise Whitsundays who are understandably devastated by the actions of their workers.

For the full story, please read pages three and six.

While I will always defend people’s right to peacefully protest on matters that are important to them, I strongly disagree when these actions impact on other innocent people.

This week, thousands of holidaymakers have had their travel plans cancelled and, with other tours fully booked over this busy school-holiday period, many have been unable to re-book an alternative.

This means hundreds of families have come to the Whitsundays but are unable to see our beautiful islands.

Meanwhile, reports are flooding in that the workers who are on strike have been ‘protesting’ by drinking at a local pub wearing their campaign t-shirts.

I’ll let you come to your own conclusions on what you think about this.

In other big news, we have also decided to tackle the contentious issue of The Voice this week.

Thank you to all our contributors.

When putting this feature together, we contacted several First Nations People asking for their views but unfortunately time was not on our side, and we were unable to get the full representation we were hoping for.

We would, however, like to thank Peter Santos for his comments.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms – to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances” (Victor Frankl)

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