Just recently on the breakfast show, we took up something later in life, tried something new. It’s something neither of us have ever done before, and for me it involved an area I’ve never been good at.

Wakeboarding!

This is in a sport I’ve never dabbled in, needing a level of coordination and balance. In the past I’ve done a surf lesson, and in the hour-long lesson I never managed to get up on the surfboard despite less than a foot wave. The strength needed to explode up onto the board, flexibility and balance when up, I just couldn’t coordinate it all.

Skateboarding was something I had a lot of friends at school doing, but I couldn’t get the hang of it, and fortunately stopped before breaking wrists, ankles and doing ACL’s.

When my son had a crack at wakeboarding at a friend’s birthday party a few years back I was proud as punch to see him do a lap on his third attempt, I knew I probably wouldn’t be able to match that.

I was right. My first two attempts were so bad when I fell off, I could still talk to the lady at reception. Someone could have offered me a bit of pizza, I had fallen off so close to the start they pretty much could have passed it to me.

Two tries down and the Me Vs Kaley challenge was looking very one-sided. Fortunately, things clicked a little on number three and I ended up over near the gymnastics building side. I don’t know who was more shocked, the Wake House people or me. I’d kind of forgotten what to do to avoid the jumps and as I approached one a little bit of panic set in.

My son got around in three, but for me the fourth attempt was close, but not as good as him. There was a little bit of swearing from me as I stacked it just metres from the “finish line”, nearly there, but not quite.

So, taking up Wakeboarding later in life, I give the tick. If you’ve never tried it before, take it from someone hopeless at this kind of stuff, you’ll have fun and enjoy the challenge.

Scotty

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The latest figures on the Mackay real estate market provide a story about opportunity, a handy snapshot of the local economy and a reminder that the principle of demand and supply tells us a lot about how any given market is going.

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland has released figures showing the median sale price for units in the Mackay area increased by 8 per cent over the past 12 months to $280,000, which tells me that while there is strong growth there are still great opportunities to pick up affordable properties.

There are plenty of units selling in the $200,000-$250,000 price range, which represents an opportunity for young people looking to break into the market as well as singles and couples who don’t need a big property.

What we have is strong price growth for units of 8 per cent for the year but prices that, at this point in time, are ridiculously cheap compared to the current Australian situation.

How much longer will you be able to buy a unit in Mackay for under $250,000? I don’t know but they are usually renting out for $360-$400 a week so, on that basis, they appear cheap to me at the moment.

So buyers can see affordable opportunities and owners and investors are getting solid growth.

The REIQ’s figures, based on CoreLogic data, show house prices have increased by 3.5 per cent in Mackay in the past 12 months, to a median price of $440,000. Again, solid growth but affordable prices in the national context.

There appear to be a few factors in play here; we obviously have plenty of business activity, job availability and a strong economy that is creating confidence and a demand for real estate.

But the old concept of demand and supply is also playing a role.

The total number of unit listings in the past 12 months is down by 6 per cent to 573 and the number of houses listed for sale dropped from 3746 to 3109 compared to the previous 12 months … that’s a 17 per cent reduction in houses listed for sale.

So supply is down while demand remains strong thanks to Mackay’s strong economy, job availability and other factors such as the great lifestyle in our region. The demand and supply dynamic remains the key factor in price movement.

The other factor is investors. I have sold a number of properties to investors in the past few months and there are some key considerations they take into account when deciding to buy here.

Affordability: it is much cheaper here than most southern markets.

Rental yield: they are achieving a net rental yield of 6 per cent and above, which is also much better than down south.

Rental vacancies and job vacancies: Rental vacancies are under 1 per cent so demand is huge among tenants and there are thousands of jobs available.

Strong economy: Well-informed investors understand the power of our economy and have confidence in opportunities for businesses in our region that employ the investors’ tenants.

So, if you are thinking about selling, call me for a chat.

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OPINION PIECE

I have a strong personal belief that we are all human beings first and foremost and that we should all be working together on a shared pathway; understanding the viewpoints of different people and groups; respecting all cultures and ensuring our community is a safe, welcoming and harmonious place for all to live, work and settle.

During NAIDOC week in July, we found ourselves with several community activities to lead us to the national Australian Indigenous day of celebrations where our community learnt more and connected with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our region. It was great to see community participation in our annual NAIDOC program of events and it was great to see council’s flag raising event include traditional performances by local groups.  There was an outstanding attendance for the march and family day – a huge congratulations to the volunteer committee for putting the program together year on year.

The pending referendum has certainly been a discussion amongst many, but I do encourage everyone to sit down and listen deeply to both sides of the debate because this is no different to a council decision where we endeavour to be informed on both sides before we decide and, regardless of individual views, we must do what is best for most of our community.  Again, I encourage everyone to have a safe and respectful discussion with family and friends because the cornerstone of our democracy is our ability to share different opinions.  Please encourage everyone to learn more to make an informed decision when it comes time to vote.

What I love and appreciate about our community is how welcoming our First Nations families are to anyone who wants to sit and listen to their story.  I have also enjoyed those times that I have had the opportunity to go out on country to learn more about the ancestors, the land and the sea that they look after.

I have been lucky to share time with our traditional custodians and from this have developed positive relationships and I look forward to continuing to work together towards reconciliation.

Cr Alison Jones

Mackay Regional Council

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Breaking free from its traditional newsagency roots, Carroll's unveils a fresh initiative – a clothing line designed to cater to the diverse needs of new mother’s, adding a contemporary twist to their ninety-year legacy in Mackay.

Juanita and Daryl Shepperson, who have operated Carroll’s for just over a decade, have expanded their product range to attract a younger audience to the storefront.

With over thirty-seven years of sewing experience, Juanita has opened an area within the store to stock her very own merchandise. She has two of her own trademarked brands, including MummActive and Boddi.

The brands collectively house a range of items, such as sport and supportive bras, action back singlets, breastfeeding bras and t-shirts, jumpers, shorts, leggings and activewear.

Juanita has her family and friends test the garments before they hit the market. The new range of Boddi underwear have a flat seam, meaning they won’t cut into skin or show crease lines under clothing.

With sizes extending up to 22 or 3XL, Carroll's offers a comprehensive selection that caters to a wide range of body types.

A bestseller in the store is the Tacticool Dad Bag, with interchangeable pockets, insulated food pouch and a built-in stubby holder!

It is a versatile product, also being adopted by motorcyclists, photographers and office workers to use for work or travel. A backpack-style of this bag is currently in the works.

On the other end of their business, along with stationery and news supplies, Juanita and Darryl stock kids and babies clothing, giftware and their famous wooden roses, an everlasting flower that comes in 58 different colours!

Juanita states, “This is evolving our business into a ‘destination’ shop, rather than [just] being known for newspapers, magazines and at back-to-school time.

“If we can cater products that young people are looking for, we hope that gets them in the doors.”

Constructive feedback from her customers is welcomed by Juanita, who is happy to take on modifications and style suggestions to improve her designs.

She even has registered colours and pattern styles, so you won’t see copies in any other store.

“We will keep evolving the range with different products, we’re just getting started.

“We are enjoying it, hopefully people will have a look at our products and see us as a regular go-to for these products.”

Carroll’s Newsagency is open 7-days-per-week, you can find them at 5/171 Victoria Street in Mackay.

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Juanita and Daryl of Carroll’s Newsagency, posing with their brand-new merchandise.

Colourful assortment of Boddi underwear for any occasion

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In an era where more women are considering egg freezing for future fertility options, the topic of preserving reproductive choices has garnered increased attention among both medical experts and individuals facing the challenges of fertility.

While the natural window for fertility spans from puberty to menopause, it's important to recognise that a decline in fertility begins to manifest notably in the mid-30s, and this decline becomes more pronounced with advancing age.

NG Gyne Health Care offers gynecology and obstetrics services in North Mackay, at Mater Private Hospital. Fertility Specialist, Dr Naguesh Gaunekar, explains the importance of contemplating fertility options earlier in life.

Dr. Naguesh said, “Egg-freezing is topical nowadays, because the average age of mothers having babies is increasing.”

The reality of wanting to put parenthood on hold for career opportunities is an increasing trend, with around 50 per cent of women now having their first baby over the age of 30.

“If you ask your grandmother and how many of her peers were over 30 when becoming pregnant, you will realise how drastic the change is, in just a few generations.” Dr. Naguesh says.

“If you freeze eggs before 35, the chance of success is quite good. The more eggs, the more chance of having a baby.”

“If you freeze eggs 36 and over, it starts to plateau, and the impact of aging will decrease the chance of success.”

“The main issue we have seen with egg freezing is that people can be oblivious to how much age matters.

“IVF has done wonders to combat this however, on average there is one child of IVF in every classroom across Australia.”

NG Gyne Health Care has proudly served the Mackay community for 17 years. Over this time, they have consistently achieved high success rates and have been dedicated to providing exceptional services to local families.

Naguesh says, “We have a state-of-the-art facility and access to modern technology, which is usually only accessible in big cities.”

NG Gyne Health Care also takes general health and underlying conditions into account before proceeding with the IVF and fertility treatments.

“What is often ignored, is general health in couples. Conditions such an endometriosis, PCOS, low sperm count, reversed vasectomies can all have an impact on the success rate. There is no cookie cutter approach.”

“I think, when the aspirations of the couple to have a baby, when they let us help them, it is the biggest blessing to be trusted and a part of their journey to have a baby.”

“We have delivered close to 6000 babies, and they are all a part of our family.”

NG Gyne Health Care considers it a privilege to be a part of each individual's fertility journey and remains dedicated to providing ongoing support as they continue on this lifechanging path.

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Last Friday, the highly-anticipated "Dinner on the Runway" event, hosted by Ibis Mackay in support of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, once again graced the tarmac adjacent to the 'old terminal' at Mackay Airport. Diners had the unique experience of enjoying a sumptuous three-course meal under the starry sky, all while watching scheduled jets take off and land just meters away.

Tery Wekumbura, the talented chef who has been behind this culinary extravaganza for the past two years, once again crafted a delectable feast for the guests. Mango Junction provided the musical entertainment, ensuring a lively atmosphere that had everyone dancing the night away. MCs Rob Kidd and Johnny Wilson, from 4MK and STARFM, added their signature charm and wit, elevating the evening's entertainment to new heights.

But the real highlight of the evening was the astounding generosity of the attendees. The Mackay Hospital Foundation was the beneficiary of the night's fundraising efforts, and it proved to be an overwhelming success.

Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate said, “It’s a massive effort for Ibis Mackay and our small team at Mackay Hospital Foundation to prepare for this event but it certainly didn’t disappoint.

“We couldn’t be happier or more proud of the outcome.”

Local hospitals will reap the rewards of over $100,000 raised as a result of this year’s Dinner on the Runway.

Auctioneer extraordinaire, Luke Curtis from LJ Hooker Mackay wowed the crowd, providing entertainment as well as conducting a very successful live auction. Some of the auction items included flights, accommodation and tickets to a corporate suite at the Paul McCartney concert in Brisbane on 1st November; a mobility scooter donated by Mackay Outdoor Power Centre; a media advertising package including radio, television, print, digital and billboard advertising; and Sleepmaker ensembles donated by Harvey Norman Bedding.

Throughout the evening, guests were able to purchase a pillow, also donated by Harvey Norman Bedding, with the opportunity to take their pillows home or donate them to Mackay Women’s Centre.

Ms Algate added, “We owe a huge thanks to Adriette Meyer and Chef Tery at Ibis Mackay, as well as Mackay Airport and our record number of guests at this year’s Dinner on the Runway, for helping to make this unique event an incredible success.”

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Photo credit: Coffee and Hops

The Mackay region really does have it all happening.

Allow me to share a glimpse into the exciting whirlwind that was my weekend, that’s right, a journalist’s job is a 7-day-a-week affair – a delightful mix of work, motherhood, and a toddler who's rapidly approaching the six-month milestone. It's all about balance, right?

Thankfully, I'm blessed with colleagues and friends who are ever so willing to step in and lend a hand, occasionally whisking my little one away for a few hours, allowing me to dive headfirst into the buzz of our community events.

Now, let's talk about Friday night – a real standout on Mackay’s calendar. I had the pleasure of attending the "Dinner on the Runway," a heartwarming fundraiser for the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Picture this: an electrifying atmosphere, Mango Junction's captivating performance, and the charismatic MC, Rob Kidd, who had us in stitches. What struck me most was learning about the crucial role the Foundation plays in filling the gaps left by state funding.

Also on Friday, a "Touch of Teal" graced the Marina marquee, raising funds for the Trudy Crowley Foundation.

Saturday was a whirlwind of action, from the Sarina Beach Coconut Festival to the Eungella Ancient Arts & Craft Fayre. Personally, I found myself on the stunning Cape Hillsborough Beach, covering the sport of blokart racing—a thrilling pastime that, believe it or not, was born in New Zealand.

And on Sunday, Harrup Park was abuzz with international cricket as New Zealand A faced off against Australia A (see page 21 for the full report). Amidst all the hustle and bustle, I managed to sneak away to Whitehaven for the grand finale of "White on Whitehaven," an extravagant lunch hosted by Fish d'Vine. Events like these not only showcase the splendour of the Whitsundays but also solidify our region's reputation as a premier holiday destination.

Mackay never ceases to amaze with its vibrant energy, and there's always something happening every weekend. So, if you have an event that you believe deserves coverage, don't hesitate to reach out. While we strive to be everywhere, your help in keeping us informed is immensely appreciated.

You can reach me anytime via email, and whether I'm there in person (possibly with a toddler in tow) or we find a place for your event in our pages, our commitment to sharing your stories with the community is our passion.

Amanda

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Stellarossa Café had a burst of positive energy in their drive through this week, with a ‘pay-it-forward' act from a mystery man leaving Northern Beaches local, Carole Harrison delighted by the generous act.

Carol states, “When I got to the window, I was informed that the gentleman [who I was behind in line] had paid for my food, because somebody did this to him a few days ago and he wanted to reciprocate.

“I was so touched by this act of kindness that I will do the same.

“If the gentleman should read this, thank you. You made my day.”

Other social media users commented on their own personal experiences, appreciating the kindness of strangers.

Jackie responded, “I helped someone, and he bought me a gift. I said: ‘You didn’t have to do that, but when someone wants the same help, I hope you pay that forward.’ He said ‘yes - that makes my heart happy’.”

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A local was the recipient of a generous pay-it-forward act in the Stellarossa drive-thru in Northern Beaches

Mackay Man's Remarkable Mission In Vietnam

By Amanda Wright

Amidst the discarded echoes of a distant war, a remarkable tale of renewal and hope emerges.

Mackay local Chris Shepherd's recent holiday in Vietnam led him to an encounter that has since rippled through communities on opposite sides of the world. The journey took him to the Long Tan Cross, a solemn memorial standing a few kilometres from the former Australian task force base at Nui Dat.

The Long Tan Cross holds a unique place in the hearts of Australians, as it is one of only two foreign memorials permitted by the Vietnamese Government. It stands proudly amidst the red mud of the surrounding rubber plantations, a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Australian soldiers.

During his visit to the Cross, Chris Shepherd crossed paths with Jason Fenech, a former infantry soldier with a remarkable mission. Jason, who now resides near the Cross in the Ba Ria Vung Tau province, has taken on the role of the "self-appointed caretaker" of this sacred memorial.

But Jason's commitment goes far beyond caretaking. He has embarked on a noble mission to support underprivileged children in the Nui Dat and Long Tan areas, ensuring they have access to education. Last year alone, he covered school fees for 41 children, provided essential stationery, and brought joy to their lives with Christmas and Lunar New Year presents. Not stopping there, Jason continues to deliver monthly food parcels to these children, offering them ongoing support.

“We can’t change the world, but we can change their world,” Jason said.

What makes Jason's mission truly remarkable is the fact that he funds it entirely from his own pocket and with the help of donations collected along the way. He funds this endeavour by turning scrap into salvation. Using the detritus of war left by Australian and New Zealand soldiers, otherwise destined for the scrap heap, Jason crafted jewellery from brass shell cases, once fired by the Anzacs during their occupation of Nui Dat. These items included commemorative dog tags, crosses, hearts, and a unique 2kg bell forged by a local in Vietnam. The bell, created from the very shells that once echoed with the sounds of conflict, now symbolises hope and change.

To raise funds for his ongoing mission, Jason organized an auction for this special bell. The auction took place on Vietnam Veterans Day, August 18, and the Mackay RSL, along with a generous contribution by Chris Shepherd, secured the winning bid in the final seconds. The proceeds from this auction will be dedicated to supporting the education of children in the Nui Dat area, ensuring they have the opportunity for a brighter future.

The bell now sits proudly with Mackay’s RSL, forging a link between Mackay and Nui Dat, creating an everlasting tribute to the ANZACS who gave more of themselves in conflict than we will ever fully know.

Jason operates independently, free from affiliation with any group or organisation, and he doesn't receive external funding for his endeavours. You can support Jason through his Facebook page, Diggers Rest.

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Chris Shepherd, Hason Fenech and Ken Higgins OAM. Rear: Members of the Mackay RSL. Mr Fenech auctioned a brass bell made from brass shell casings gathered in Vietnam, the auction was won by the Mackay RSL with the assistance of Mr Shepherd. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

McCarthy Panel Works Takes Top Queensland Training Gong

In the realm of vocational education and training, the 2023 Queensland Training Awards have become a prominent platform for acknowledging achievements. This event acknowledges apprentices, trainees, vocational students, mentors, and institutions while highlighting standout nominees from across the state, including Central Queensland.

Among the awarded businesses, North Mackay's very own McCarthy Panel Works, a family-owned business, was named Small Employer of the Year. Their dedication to developing the next generation of mechanical experts has not only earned them this title but also contributed significantly to the industry.

Over 52 years Craig and Andrea McCarthy and their team have initiated 31 Apprentice Training Contracts, including successful programs for individuals with disabilities.

The automotive repair shop contributes to the industry and community through partnerships, mentoring, and training programs and offers extended training to technicians to bridge the gap between apprentice learning and new technologies.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said it is great to see a local business take home an award this year for their exceptional support of their employees and their community.

“I hope this will inspire more of our local students and employers to pursue their goals through vocational education and training,” Mrs Gilbert added.

“Being a regional winner is already an amazing achievement but taking home a state title is an incredible feat.

“Congratulations to Craig and Andrea – not only have you made our region and community proud but Queensland too.”

Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said that the Queensland Training Awards highlight Queensland’s top achievers in training and showcase the power of skills.

“Congratulations to all the state winners – we are so proud of you and can’t wait to see you represent Queensland at the Australian Training Awards in November.”

The state winners were announced at the Queensland Training Awards State Final Gala Presentation dinner at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre in South Brisbane on Saturday 9 September 2023.

This year state-wide nominations increased by more than 40 per cent from last year with over 210 regional finalists selected from more than 800 nominations.

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Andrea McCarthy accepted the award for Small Employer of the Year at the Queensland Training Awards State Final gala presentation dinner at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre last weekend

The NRL Telstra Footy Country Tour marked its arrival in Mackay last week, bringing the Provan-Summons trophy and the NRL Telstra Women’s Premiership trophy to town, continuing on from Aurukun where it commenced its four-week journey across Australia’s footy heartland.

Telstra Footy Country Tour Ambassador and Queensland NRL legend Sam Thaiday accompanied the trophies to Alligator Creek State School and Wanderers Junior Rugby League Club where students and players were treated to an elite Rugby League Clinic to help inspire the next generation of footy stars.

Thaiday said that country footy is very important.

“It’s important for the community itself, it’s the life of that community in a lot of these little areas we’re going to, but it’s also important for the big game,” he said.

“We get some of our best players from some of these smaller country regions and if we invest in these kids, the kids are going to be the future of the NRL and NRLW.

“To have the trophies as well as some of our current and former players going around on this tour is going to be absolutely brilliant for country rugby league.”

The NRL Telstra Footy Country Tour aims to increase participation in regional areas and inspire the next generation of footy players. The tour will travel throughout Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria in the lead-up to the NRL Grand Final to give regional kids and community clubs rare access to star players and elite coaching clinics.

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NRL legend Sam Thaiday spent time at Alligator Creek State School and Wanderers Junior Rugby League Club last week as part of the NRL Telstra Footy Country Tour. Photos supplied

Police charged a man with grievous bodily harm (domestic violence offence) following an incident involving an infant.

It was alleged that a 7-week-old baby presented to a hospital in Moranbah with significant injuries on Tuesday, September 5.

Police attended and commenced investigations into the circumstances of the child’s injuries.

A 23-year-old Moranbah man was arrested in relation to the investigation on Wednesday, September 6.

He has been charged with one count of grievous bodily harm (domestic violence offence) and was expected to appear at Moranbah Magistrates Court, Thursday, September 7.

If you have any information that could be helpful to the police, quote this reference number: QP2301480891.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, you should report it to police.

Support and counselling is available from the following agencies:

DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811

DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636

1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732

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A special parade was held at the Scoutfest activities to present Leadership Awards to two members of the Adventurous Activities Team in Hibiscus Coast District.

Alex Cinelli, who is an abseiling specialist, was presented with her Woodbadge half way down the 10 metres abseiling tower at Rowallan Park by fellow abseiling team member Brendan Ross.

Alex was also presented with a Meritorious Award which was announced on World Scout Day on August 1.

It is Awarded to Adult Members and Supporters for service of a higher standard and intensity than reasonably expected for a period of six to eight years.

Alex joined scouting as a youth member and has continued her push for success in her current Scouting role as a District Leader Adventurous Activities committed to getting youth members and adults out into the outdoors and enjoying adventurous activity pursuits.

For her Woodbadge Project, Alex continued her personal leadership journey leading a team to prepare Best Practice Guidelines for adventurous activities organised in this district.

Alex is currently driving an increase in interest within the Scouting community to work with and grow the 21 Degrees South Multisport Association relationship in Mackay.

During her study years, Alex was also able to participate in an overseas teaching trip to an island community and, prior to the trip, Alex was involved in a drive to gather up resources to support the island schools she visited.

The Special Service Award is awarded to Adult Members and Supporters who have made a noteworthy contribution to supporting, developing and managing the movement over a period of at least 12 months, and was recently awarded to Matthew Vella.

Matthew joined scouting as a youth member in Scouts, however, has really come into his own in Rover Scouts where he has readily demonstrated leadership and outdoors skills well beyond that expected of youth members.

Matthew is both an active member of the Rover Scout community working towards his peak award whilst also excelling personally in OAS areas of bushwalking and paddling.

He is assisting with the weekly Scout section nights and is also an integral part of the Adventurous Activities team in Hibiscus Coast District.

His passion for the bushwalking and paddling areas has resulted in an increase in activities able to be delivered for the youth in the district along with a reduced reliance on the small number of qualified leaders in this area.

Contributed by Mary Wallace

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Brendan Ross abseiling down the tower with Alex Cinelli

L-R DC Katrina Hoare, Matthew Vella, Alex Cinelli, Brendan Ross and Joanne Hamilton. Photos supplied

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When it comes to competitive cheerleading and dance, the region of Mackay can boast an abundance of talent.

This was evident at the recent AASCF Queensland State Cheer & Dance Championships on the Gold Coast when Adrenalin Cheer and Dance scooped the pool with a swag of titles.

The Mackay club sent 80 athletes aged from five years to adults to the prestigious event to compete across eleven divisions including cheer, pom and hip hop - and returned with four State titles plus two Grand Champion awards.

Adrenalin Cheer made an impact on the judges - tallying a total of ten medal placings for the event with four Mackay teams now holding the State titles in cheer divisions of Junior Level 2 (Lawless), Senior Level 3 (Vipers), Senior Level 4 (Dreamers) and Open Level 4 (Rampage) in addition to three second and third places respectively.

The club’s Junior Level 1 (Scorpions) and Senior Level 3 (Vipers) squads also captured the coveted small gym Grand Champion awards for their levels – a tremendous feat.

Grand champion awards are presented to the highest-scoring team for the level across all age groups and divisions and are a prestigious achievement.

Adrenalin Cheer and Dance are now preparing for its final event of the season - the Cheerbrandz Super Nationals Championships to be held in Brisbane during November - hoping to secure more national titles.

"We are so proud of the teamwork, sportsmanship and determination our athletes and club as a whole showed across the State championships” beamed a proud Adrenalin Cheer and Dance owner/head coach Kelly Munt.

“It certainly wasn’t a smooth preparation in the lead up to the event with athletes succumbing to injury over the course of the championship but the resilience and skill of our coaches and athletes to adapt to the changing circumstance was admirable," she revealed.

The accomplished coaching panel includes Head Coach Kelly Munt, Ashley Fergus, Holly Barry, Amber Ansell, Jayda Bungay, Holly Williams and Annie Everlyn.

"The atmosphere was electric and our athletes certainly put on a show but despite their successes so far this season the competitive athletes are straight back to work to ensure we stay at the top of our game leading up to the final championship" Kelly added.

Adrenalin Cheer and Dance is hosting tryouts for all ages 4 years and all experience levels for 2024 season squads in the coming weeks. If interested in getting involved in the sport, contact the club for details.

By Chris Karas

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Adrenalin Cheer and Dance Junior Level 1 (Scorpions) and Senior Level 3 (Vipers) squads picked up Grand Champion Awards at the recent AASCF Queensland State Cheer & Dance Championships on the Gold Coast

Breakfast And Lunchtime Events Gaining Ground

In recent years, the traditional image of a nighttime Christmas party with alcohol and late-night revelry seems to be evolving.

Mark “Laffo” Laffin, owner of Laffos Bar and Pizzeria in Mackay, has observed a significant shift in people's behaviour during the festive season, particularly in the corporate world.

With an increasing number of companies opting for breakfast and lunchtime events to celebrate, Mr Laffin believes this trend arises from a desire to avoid the potential risks and liabilities associated with evening parties.

While Laffos Bar and Pizzeria continues to host traditional evening Christmas parties, Mr Laffin acknowledges the growing popularity of morning and lunchtime gatherings.

"We're happy to accommodate any type of Christmas celebration, and we always abide by all Liquor licensing rules and regulations,” he said.

“However, I can't help but notice that more and more companies are opting for earlier time slots.”

The shift towards breakfast and lunchtime events can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, companies increasingly prioritize the safety and well-being of their staff members.

By organizing functions during the day, businesses reduce the risk of excessive alcohol consumption and potential related incidents.

Additionally, daytime events allow employees with other commitments or family responsibilities to attend festive gatherings without impacting their personal time.

This change in Christmas party culture has become noticeable over the past few years, and Laffos Bar and Pizzeria is equipped to accommodate these evolving preferences.

Whether it's an early morning networking breakfast, a festive lunchtime feast, or a traditional evening celebration, Laffos ensures a delightful experience for all guests.

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