By Bronte Hodge

For Jane Bettridge, a quiet retirement was something that she steered clear of, instead filling her time giving back to the Proserpine and Whitsundays community as much as possible.

In her working life, Jane was a primary school teacher, teaching the youngest of our youth for years before she moved into retirement.

“I got grade two in my second year of teaching, and I loved it. It was my niche, I had so much fun. I never taught higher than grade three ever again,” Jane explained.

Moving back to the area in her retirement, she was looking to give back to the community that raised her in her youth.

Aligning with her values, the Whitsunday Proserpine Uniting Church was the perfect fit for her.

“It just happened, that I was on the committee. I accidently wound up on the church council as their marketing person,” Jane said.

“Somebody thought it was a great idea!

“Sometimes I think God has a very strange sense of humour, but it’s been a vertical learning curve.”

During her time as the church’s marketing guru, she has overseen the massive fundraising effort of the Whitsunday Proserpine Uniting Church Brick by Brick campaign, with the goal to fund the rebuilding of their church.

When she’s not focusing her energy on the church, Jane loves volunteering with Whitsunday Lions Club.

She began this connection following Cyclone Debbie in 2017, helping with the kitchen effort and feeding emergency services as they helped in the aftermath and clean up.

Now, she has turned her sights to the Lions Youth of the Year Program, being the local coordinator of the Whitsunday Lions.

In this role, she overlooks the program, mentoring the local youth with their confidence in public speaking.

At the end of the program, the youth present two speeches, and one impromptu speech.

“The impromptu questions are difficult, but not impossible, and the children are amazing.

“The Youth of the Year is something that reminds me that the world is in great hands, because they are truly inspiring.”

For both organisations, Jane is integral to core programs and projects, solidifying herself as an invaluable community member.

“It’s just so humbling to be a part of these things, but there are many other people in town who do more than I do.”

Jane’s humility and passion drive everything she pursues, and she is a force to be reckoned with.

In the final stages of the Whitsunday Proserpine Uniting Church Brick by Brick campaign, she is excited to witness the construction of the church, as well as begin the 2024 Lions Youth of the Year planning.

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Jane Bettridge services the Proserpine and Airlie Beach community every day, contributing to better the area. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

The Blueprint Exhibition concept began as a way to activate the wall in Foodspace Café while highlighting emerging artists.

The concept is now being taken to the streets – specifically to Second Lane (off Gregory Street), where Blueprint 2.0 will launch this Friday night (September 1).

A free outdoor art gallery launch, with artist Autumn Skuthorpe, will run from 4.30pm to 6.30pm.

Skuthorpe is an experienced Māori wahine inclusive arts practitioner who proudly celebrates the voices and stories of our region.

On opening night, you can meet the artist, watch a “free wall” live community art session and relax on a beanbag with friends in the open-air lounge area.

There will be hot food by Hibiki Bar and Karaoke, drinks available at the Can Bar and a live acoustic session by Jamesley.

Also in the City Centre, Stephanie De Vries from Emu Creek Art is completing two complementary murals on the riverfront – one on the playground wall next to Red Dog Brewery and the other on the ground of the River Wharves precinct.

She will be painting between September 18 and 25 at River Wharves and October 1 and 6 at Bluewater Quay and is happy to chat to people about her work as she paints.

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Autumn Skuthorpe Dingo 2023 (pictured) will be one of the five artworks featured in Blueprint 2.0 (image courtesy of the artist)

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Launched By Local Socialpreneurs

A social enterprise initiative aiming to tackle a significant gap in housing availability and suitability has been designed and launched by local ‘socialpreneurs’ Elisa McFadzen and Jenna Armstrong.

‘Millions in the Middle’ aims to provide a stable, affordable housing solution for those impacted by the housing crisis.

“We saw friends and colleagues, hard-working professionals, struggle to keep a roof over their head,” said Ms McFadzen.

“We knew we had to do something.

“Our vision is to bridge the gap in housing availability and make a lasting impact in our community.”

In Mackay, only 3.6 per cent of dwellings are flats or apartments, compared to 12.5 per cent in the rest of Queensland, and 14.2 per cent in Australia.

With 23.9 per cent of households in Mackay being single-person dwellings, Ms McFadzen highlighted the pressing mismatch in housing suitability.

“We looked at what the gaps were in our community and found a significant need for smaller dwellings,” she said.

“We have single-person or smaller households in need, our ageing population, working couples, single parent families and a lack of suitable dwellings,” added Ms Armstrong.

“It's a challenge that requires innovative thinking and community-driven solutions.”

The pair have capitalised on recent changes in Queensland government legislation which unlocked new housing opportunities, allowing ‘Millions in the Middle’ to create a community actionable solution through secondary dwellings.

Recognising the hurdles faced by the general public, ‘Millions in the Middle’ partnered with local industry networks to streamline the process, developing four small-scale, fully self-contained, 7+ star-rated housing models in collaboration with Whitsunday Design & Drafting and GJ Gardner Homes.

Officially launched on Friday, August 25, the new, small-scale housing models will cater to diverse needs within the region.

“Homeowners in our region have a unique opportunity to be part of this solution,” Ms McFadzen stated.

“We have gone through and fully streamlined the process, completed designs, engineering certificates and made sure everything is really ready to go and easy for people to add this as an option onto their property.

“By offering space for a secondary dwelling, you're not just investing in property – you're investing in people, in community, and in change.”

The dwellings can be built from consultation to construction in approximately four months and start at $140,000, ranging from 33m2 to 75m2.

If you are a homeowner with space to build a secondary dwelling, visit www.millionsinthemiddle.com.au to learn more or get involved.

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Jenna Armstrong and Elisa McFadzen. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Millions in the Middle developed four small-scale, fully self-contained, 7+ star-rated housing models. Image supplied

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Last week, the tables turned, and I found myself on the receiving end of a good deed. Typically, I'm the one orchestrating acts of kindness, but it seems the universe had a different plan in store for me.

Amidst a busy workday, I had a meeting scheduled at Caneland Central right after lunch. Naturally, I couldn't resist a detour past one of my beloved fashion boutiques. Call it serendipity or a lunchtime whim, but I ended up acquiring a few additions to my work wardrobe ensemble.

However, as fate would have it, my phone went MIA. A minor inconvenience, I thought, assuming I had merely left it in my car. Armed with my laptop and a café's Wi-Fi, I soldiered on through my meetings.

Later, in the depths of searching through my vehicle, I came to the startling realisation that my phone was playing hide-and-seek elsewhere. Could it have slipped beneath a seat? I hatched a plan. Fingers crossed, I started my car and attempted a call. No ringing. That ruled out the car.

Returning to the boutique, I was met with sympathetic brows and a thorough search of the change room. The verdict? Nada. However, the boutique staff made a winning move – they connected with centre management, and lo and behold, my phone was in safe hands!

As of today, the mystery of where it had slipped from my grip remains unsolved. Yet, I extend my gratitude to the person who found it and turned it in. In my line of work, my phone is more than a gadget; it's a lifeline. The relief of heading home, clutching it securely, is a sentiment that can't be overstated.

Amanda

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Editors Note

Ah, the days of curling up with a Roald Dahl classic, the era when my imagination was sparked by the magic of words. Fast forward from my childhood to today, and life's script has added a new character: my 5-month-old son. While his attention span for books might rival a squirrel's, I seize every chance to introduce him to the imaginary world of storytelling.

One gem in our collection is a heartfelt token from one of my New Zealand aunt’s – a book titled "Kuwi the Kiwi." Now, before you envision me audibly reading to my son in an exaggerated Kiwi accent, let's focus on the real narrative. This little masterpiece resonated deeply with me. It struck a chord the very first time I flipped through its pages, perhaps because it wasn't just about a feathered friend named Kuwi, but about a mother's earnest worries and hopes – a tale that touched even this sleep-deprived mum's heart.

Kuwi, for those not in the know, had never experienced the egg-life before. The poor bird fretted about its temperature and even shed a few beak-nibbled tears when it cracked. Spoiler alert: Despite the egg breaking, there was a happy ending.

When it comes to the importance of reading to children, last week’s Book Week served up a quirky reminder to parents – and let’s face it, love them or loathe them, character costumes are the stuff of parental legend. Whether you're fashioning cardboard cutouts or scouring thrift shops for that elusive Sherlock Holmes hat, the real message amid the costume chaos is the importance of cultivating a love for reading in children.

The message isn't merely about the ABCs or 123s; it's the symphony of stories that shape minds, ignite imaginations, and nourish empathy. Consider this an ode to the bedtime stories, the giggles over rhymes, and the inexplicable charm of a good ol' dog-eared book.

Your child's literary journey is a narrative still being written, and with every page turned, you're casting a spell that even Harry Potter would approve of.

Amanda

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Reading Kuwi the Kiwi to my son for the first time when he was 8 weeks old

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Wheels In Motion Again After Stroke Survivor Was Hit By Car

Tommy Quick, a resilient stroke survivor, has re-embarked on a massive journey to achieve a monumental feat—becoming the first person in Australia to traverse the country's four most extreme mainland points on a recumbent trike. Though his journey has been anything but smooth.

29-year-old Tommy is on track to complete a 9,000 kilometre cycle, as far north as Cape York, east to Byron Bay, south to Wilson’s Promontory and far west to Steep Point, with the aim of raising $1 million for the Stroke Foundation, and to spread awareness of the impact of stroke in young people.

“I’m passionate about social inclusion and I plan on breaking down some common misconceptions about disability,” Tommy said.

“I want people to know that stroke can happen to anyone, at any time. I plan on stopping along the way and speaking with anyone who will listen.”

Tommy had a life-changing stroke at the age of 12 which has impacted him physically and affected his communication, but it has not stopped him from achieving great things or overcoming major challenges.

In November 2021, while Tommy was 3,638 kilometres into his ride, he was hit by a car in South Australia.

“My injuries were severe, and the recovery hasn’t been easy. Broken bones hurt like hell, but unlike the brain they are faster to heal,” Tommy said.

“My parents saw the whole crash unfold, Mum actually thought I was dead, it was very confronting for them.”

After more than a year out of the saddle, and months of gruelling rehab to repair a shattered pelvis, displaced sacrum and broken leg, Tommy is back on the recumbent trike and resuming his epic pedalling challenge.

“It’s been a tough year for me, both mentally and physically, however I’m back better and more determined than ever to get somewhere.”

Stroke Foundation Executive Director, Marketing, Mr John De Rango, has applauded Tommy’s resilience.

“Tommy’s determination and perseverance is to be commended. He has overcome huge challenges in his life but it hasn’t stopped him from making big achievements.” Mr De Rango says.

Tommy’s challenge will go a long way in educating Australians about stroke, particularly young stroke.

“Tommy is doing a great job in addressing the misconception that stroke only impacts older Australians. Evidence shows that while the overall incidence of stroke in Australia has been declining, stroke incidence rates in young people of working age have been increasing over time.”

Last month, Tommy visited Mackay during his journey, and since then, he has passed the third point, Cape Byron. Currently on his way back to Melbourne, Tommy's dedication to his mission continues to inspire and educate about stroke awareness.

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Tommy Quick with his parents in North Queensland, making his way back to Melbourne via Cape Byron. Photo supplied

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Rescue Helicopter’s Busy Bowen Basin Weekend

A fatal two-vehicle traffic crash at Moranbah on the morning of August 27 has claimed the life of a Moranbah father.

Initial investigations by the Forensic Crash Unit indicate that at around 9:40am, a prime mover truck crashed with a road train truck as it was travelling southbound along Moranbah Access Road, near Cunningham Way.  

The driver of the prime mover, 46-year-old Moranbah man James Rolph, was declared deceased at the scene.

A 56-year-old Southbrook man was operating the road train and was taken to Moranbah Hospital before being transported to Mackay Base Hospital by RACQ CQ Rescue with serious injuries.

The RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter was already in the Bowen Basin having just landed in Dysart ready to transfer a hospital patient to Mackay when they were retasked by Queensland Health to the Moranbah scene at around 10:00am.

The helicopter landed at Moranbah Airport to refuel and retrieve the 56-year-old patient.

He was delivered to the waiting aircraft by ambulance and was flown to Mackay Base Hospital with a serious head injury and lacerations.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the crash and are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the crash or have relevant dashcam/CCTV vision to come forward.

If you have any information regarding the crash, contact Policelink at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or Crime Stoppers at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au or call 1800 333 000.

Quote this reference number: QP2301424106.

The Mackay-based RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter was later tasked at 1:30pm to fly to a remote cattle property near Clermont.

A 58-year-old woman visiting family had fallen from a spooked horse, hitting her head and possibly breaking her collarbone.

The woman was treated on scene and flown to Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition.

Since last Friday, August 25, RACQ CQ Rescue has also been tasked by Queensland Health to airlift two cardiac patients from Moranbah and Labona Airfield as well as transport an unwell tourist from Daydream Island very early Saturday with a serious medical issue.

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Two trucks collided Moranbah Access Road on the weekend, claiming the life of a Moranbah man. Photo supplied: RACQ CQ Rescue

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Amidst a nationwide homeless crisis that has taken a crippling toll, the Mackay region is battling a worsening housing struggle. In the wake of the Greater Whitsunday Housing Summit, Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) has emerged as a pioneering force, leading the charge in supporting the Greater Whitsundays Housing Alliance.

Informed by insights from the Urbis Housing Research report and the Urbis Greater Whitsundays Region Housing Playbook, Robert Cocco, CEO of RDA GW, underscores the critical importance of collaborative efforts. He believes that the key to breaking ground in new housing stock lies in forging strong alliances and partnerships between stakeholders.

“A key recommendation within the Whitsundays Region Housing Playbook was for the formation of a Housing Alliance that would see stakeholders commit to tackling the current and future housing challenges and drive a positive set of solutions,” Mr Cocco said.

“This Summit provided an opportunity for those partnerships to form, which will be essential when seeking to apply for State and Federal funding.”

RDA GW will commit $10,000 per annum for the 2022/23 and 2023/24 financial years to support the Housing Alliance operations and resources in-kind.

Greater Whitsunday Communities Executive Officer Carol Norris said the Greater Whitsunday Housing Alliance “offers a tangible chance to unite efforts, amplify impact, and chart a path for comprehensive solutions across the housing spectrum”.

“As a crucial project partner, RDA GW's multi-level policy expertise and financial support guided and shaped the favourable outcome of support for the Housing Alliance at the Summit.

“Their continued commitment to the Housing Alliance will be pivotal to orchestrating the regional action plan.”

Mrs. Norris also acknowledged RDA GW’s involvement in the Summit and Urbis Playbook that helped raise support for the Housing Alliance.

“Greater Whitsunday Communities extends our deep appreciation to RDA GW for their vital financial investment and invaluable in-kind assistance in crafting the Urbis Greater Whitsunday Housing Playbook.”

The Summit addressed key gaps in the region’s housing system, from housing innovations for reduced costs and quicker completion to independent living options for seniors and aged care.

Greater Whitsundays Housing Alliance Chair Malcolm Hull said, “There are numerous housing programs and housing bodies that are all trying to get a better outcome for the housing market and, ultimately, for the consumer”.

“To be able to achieve a lower cost and more efficient house that can be supplied in a reasonable timeframe is the goal of the collective.”

The Summit has been a catalyst for action regarding the housing crisis, but Mr. Hull said, “not all the answers have been found”.

However, he recognised that RDA GW’s “ongoing support has many positive outcomes for all concerned in finding possible answers and solutions to the housing crises facing this region”.

“The contribution and assistance provided by RDA GW was invaluable and very much appreciated,” said Mr. Hull.

For more information on RDA GW’s involvement in the region, visit www.rdagw.org.au.

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Left to right: Chair of Greater Whitsundays Communities Karen May, Greater Whitsunday Communities Executive Officer Carol Norris, State Minister of Housing Hon Meghan Scanlon, Housing Project Officer of Greater Whitsundays Communities Tonia Wilson

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An exciting new website has been launched encouraging people to “Discover Mackay”, promoting Mackay as the ultimate destination to live, work, invest and explore.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the website extended on council’s existing Discover Mackay promotion, with a special emphasis on investing and working in our region.

“The four key features of the website aim to encourage visitors to discover exactly what they will find if they choose to visit or make Mackay their home,” Mayor Williamson said.

The website highlights why people should choose to "live" in Mackay – with its warm summers, mild winters, more than 30 beaches and cool rainforest hinterland.

People looking to "work" in our region can access the Mackay Region Jobs website, which is a specific site for businesses and individuals to search for their dream career or their ideal employee.

“There is also the opportunity for local businesses to post their vacant positions on the site for free,” Mayor Williamson said.

For those seeking to "invest", the website offers information on our diversified economy, links to working with council to set up a business as well as funding opportunities on offer.

Finally, locals and visitors alike are encouraged to "explore" our region’s exceptional leisure activities, from feeding a wallaby on the beach, attending a concert or cultural festival or partaking in some fishing – there’s something for everyone.

Mayor Williamson said the Discover Mackay website would go further to entice growth in our region and to fill the current job shortage we are experiencing.

“There are plenty of amazing job opportunities available here in Mackay and we want to make it easier for people to find out how they can achieve that perfect work/life balance right here,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We also want to continue to encourage investment in our town to grow our economy and make the region the most vibrant and exciting in Queensland,” he said.

Resource Industry Network General Manager Dean Kirkwood said it was rare these days for people to move based on a job alone.

“There are so many opportunities available to people all around Australia that we must highlight why living and working in this region is so great,” Mr Kirkwood said.

“The Discover Mackay website is a one-stop-shop that promotes the best of Mackay.  By utilising this tool, businesses will be better placed to attract labour from all around Australia and the World,” he said.

For more information, visit discovermackay.com.au.

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Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, right, and Resource Industry Network General Manager Dean Kirkwood at the launch of the new Discover Mackay website

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As the day of bad dad jokes approaches, Porters Mitre 10 is celebrating amazing dads and their little helpers. From tackling big DIY projects like building a cubbyhouse to those weekends wandering through Porters with your youngest in tow, bombarding you with "what's that?" a gazillion times – a father figure holds a special place in all our lives.

But let's face it, Father's Day isn't just about applauding our dads for their lightbulb-changing skills and heroic spider rescues; it’s about appreciating all that our fathers do for us and creating memories to cherish for years to come. Porters Mitre 10 has been a big part of many local families' memories for more than 140 years, from play dates at our playground to tasty cupcakes at Charlies Café. This year, we're not only celebrating those memories – we’re helping our community to make new ones.

For every customer who spends over $50 in-store, we're gifting you an exclusive 'tradie in training' t-shirt. These tee-rrific shirts are available in children's sizes ranging from one to sixteen.  Whether you're on the hunt for that perfect Father’s Day gift or treating yourself to something special, make sure to come in store before Friday 1st of September to get your hands on this adorable tradie t-shirt.

The fun doesn’t stop there! We want to see those adorable little tradies in action. Share a photo of your little one in our ‘tradie in training’ t-shirt and tag us @Porterscando on Facebook to enter our Father’s Day competition to win a YETI Tundra valued at $649.99.

At Porters Mitre 10, we're more than just a place for tools and supplies; we're a part of your family's journey. Our goal is to help you transform dreams into reality, one project at a time. So, let's celebrate the memories we've built together – share your photo and join us in celebrating the moments that make us more than just a hardware store, but a part of the community.

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Amidst the maritime currents that link trade and opportunity, North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) welcomes Brendan Webb as its new Chief Executive Officer. With a seasoned background in ports, commercial leadership, and a commitment to North Queensland, his return sets a course for sustainable port trade and economic growth.

NQBP Chair Jane McTaggart said the Board has welcomed Mr Webb, who is currently the CEO of Ports Victoria, back to NQBP and back to Queensland.

“As a government-owned port authority, our ports and our people deliver essential port services facilitating billions of dollars of trade worldwide for the benefit of the people of Queensland,” Ms McTaggart said.

“We believe that Brendan is the right person to lead NQBP to deliver on our long-term vision to be global leaders in the sustainable facilitation of port trade and further the economy of Queensland.”

Ms McTaggart said that as well as a deep understanding of NQBP and ports, Brendan has extensive commercial experience, having held senior leadership roles in heavy haulage and mining support sectors.

“He has experience in commercial sales, trade development, and 24/7 operations including safety and emergency management,” Ms McTaggart said.

“Brendan has a strong commitment to Mackay and north Queensland, having previously worked in the Mackay region for 11 years.”

Ms McTaggart said the new CEO would commence in early October and be based in NQBP’s Mackay head office. Ms McTaggart thanked Acting CEO Belinda Kenny for her outstanding leadership during the recruitment period. Ms Kenny will continue to act as CEO until 2 October, before returning to her role as Chief Financial Officer.

Mr Webb said, “As a former General Manager with NQBP for almost five years, I hold a deep connection with the organisation. I look forward to leading a positive team culture, and fostering a unified organisation which is resilient and capable of navigating challenges that may arise.”

Ms McTaggart also thanked previous CEO Nicolas Fertin, who resigned in December last year after four years in the role, for his contribution to NQBP.

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) has announced the appointment of Brendan Webb as its new Chief Executive Officer. Photo supplied

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A successful ‘Save Glenden’ campaign has secured the mining town’s future after a fast-tracked piece of amended legislation passed in Queensland Parliament last week.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker led a small contingent in Brisbane to witness the historic moment alongside long-term Glenden resident Milissa Phillips-Payne.

“The future of Glenden has now been enshrined in law with the changes to the Mineral Resources Act ensuring that the community will continue to thrive,” Mayor Baker said.

“Minister Stewart was clear in his parliamentary address about the legislation that will see QCoal, Glencore, Council and State Government coming together over the next six months to finalise planning of the workforce integration.

"This precedent-setting legislation not only secures Glenden’s future but gives hope to all Queensland communities that host major resource projects, that the government has the desire and will to listen to regional communities.”

The Mineral Resources (Glenden) Act legislated the integration of 100 per cent of QCoal’s workforce within the town boundaries by 31 March 2029 in line with Glencore’s phased exit plan.

Resources Minister, Scott Stewart said, “I understand why people are so passionate about Glenden and its long-term future.

“This plan will mean QCoal can continue production at Byerwen knowing that their workforce has accommodation options.

“But this also secures the long-term viability of Glenden, because QCoal will have to house their workers in the town.”

Jangga Operations manager Irene Leard said the legislation cemented a bright future for Glenden.

“We are grateful we are part of a vibrant community who are willing to raise our voice as one,” Ms Leard said.

Ms Phillips-Payne, who has lived in Glenden since 1982, said it had been an emotional ride of uncertainty for a decade.

“This is my home, our home, and after all the blood, sweat and tears, the government has listened and, in the process, saved towns like Glenden from facing a wrecking ball,” Ms Phillips-Payne said.

Mayor Baker said more than a third of Queensland mayors and their local governments wrote to the Premier in support of protecting communities such as Glenden from extinction.

“Council would like to thank the Jangga Peoples, the Traditional Custodians of Glenden, the town residents for not giving up, our Council team, the 28 Mayors and communities across Queensland who backed us, Local Government Association of Queensland, Greater Whitsunday Communities and our Queensland Origin players,” Mayor Baker said.

“We also thank Resource Minister Scott Stewart, Treasurer Cameron Dick and the State Government for listening to mining regions and showing that they are willing to walk the walk when it comes to supporting Queenslanders.

“This is about more than politics. This is about people and today, the people won.”

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High school students have the world at their feet and as ambitions begin to soar, so too can the cost of education.

Whilst scholarships provide fantastic financial support, Sarina local Josie Dahtler discovered that they can also be a catalyst for a bright future, receiving the first ever Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Senior Schooling Scholarship at Sarina State High School (SSHS) in 2017.

The former SSHS student has always been a strong believer in ‘giving it a shot’, saying she applied for the scholarship to ease the financial strain of study but gained so many more benefits.

“The scholarship introduced me to a world of networking opportunities whilst at high school and provided a huge boost to my personal and professional development,” she said.

Wanting to earn and learn locally after finishing Grade 12, she felt empowered to continue her studies and enrolled in a Bachelor of Science at CQUniversity online.

Soon after finishing High School, she was successful in attaining a position that became available at Community Bank Sarina as a Customer Service Officer, fueling her love of being involved in the local area.

“The local community has always held a place close to my heart, so I saw the job at the bank as the perfect opportunity to work and study locally.”

Josie has continued to enjoy a fulfilling role at the bank for four years and celebrated finishing her degree this July. She said she feels excited to see where her job and her degree will take her.

Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair and Chair of Business and Engagement Maree Franettovich said Josie’s scholarship success story is both encouraging and motivating to current Grade 10 SSHS students, who can apply for a 2024 Senior Schooling Scholarship until September 8.

“We congratulate Josie on her success and her experience is a wonderful example of the investment in your future that a scholarship can provide,” she said.

Scholarships are a transformative tool for developing the diverse pool of talent in students and we encourage students to apply, using the application process as a learning opportunity as well.”

Josie said current SSHS students had nothing to lose by applying, so she encouraged them to give it a go.

“It is a great scholarship that can open so many doors in both the schooling and professional world. You won’t regret it,” she said.

Applications for the Sarina State High Senior Schooling Scholarships are open to students entering Grade 11 in 2024. SSHS students may request an information pack from executive@sarinacommunity.com.au and submit their application by September 8.

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This year’s Clean Up, Mackay Region has seen an increase in volunteers, with 124 people collecting close to three tonnes of litter at nine sites across the region.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was the loyal volunteers who kept these events running, year after year.

“We would like to thank everyone for taking the time to help keep our region beautiful,” Mayor Williamson said.

“As pledged, this year council will plant five native plants either as street trees or revegetation, for each of these volunteers. That’s 620 trees that will now be growing in our region, helping to make it cleaner and greener,” he said.

“Volunteers removed large items like shopping trolleys and tyres but also large quantities of micro plastics, such as drink bottle lids, plastic water bottles and plastic bags.

“By collecting these items before they make their way to our beautiful beaches, volunteers are helping to protect our local waterways and wildlife in the process.”

Council also thanked event partners including North Queensland Airports, Grasstree Beach Progress Association, Sarina Landcare, Pioneer Catchment Landcare, Mackay Land Rover Club and Mackay Board Riders Club for supporting this event.

Fast facts:

● 2.9 tonnes collected across the clean ups.

● Four shopping trolleys and 41 tyres collected.

● 744kg of resources recovered for recycling and resale at Incredable Tip Shop and 484 “Containers for Change” donated to Mackay District Turtle Watch.

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One of the volunteers, Frances Eiteneuer, at the Bridge Road clean up. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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After a period of relative calm, the sugar market has come to life with the focus on where the sugar is going to come from in the New Year.

Unofficial reports that India will be banning any sugar exports and the Thai crop continuing to suffer under a poor monsoon leaves Australia in the box seat.

The dream Brazilian harvest continues with weather, ATR and sugar mix combining to keep analysts revising up the final sugar tonnage. However, even with the record Brazilian production, upwards of 39M tonnes factored in, our forecasts remain for a significant deficit for next year.

This will be the fourth year out of five that global supply and demand numbers indicate a reduction in world sugar stocks. Our pools are well positioned to take advantage of any further price rises in the #11 contract, while already having some favourable hedging in place to protect against the downside.

For users of the popular GMPRS pricing mechanism the Mar/May 24 futures pricing structure will benefit from any first quarter tightness. Hopefully this will provide some attractive pricing for the production risk proportion of this year’s crop.

The other contributor to the AUD sugar price rise has been the slide in the currency to a recent low of 63.65. This has seen the AUD break out of the well-established 66 – 68c trading range that has characterised much of this year’s trading.

Concern about Chinese economic growth, a turnaround in the interest rate differential – whereby US longer-term rates are higher than Aussie rates – and a weakening of our core commodity export prices have conspired to turn sentiment against the AUD. The low last year was around 61.70 in October and many analysts are talking the AUD down.

Nevertheless, as is shown by the table below, in recent history, the AUD does not spend a lot of time below 65c. So even if #11 is to rise, the shine might be taken off prices if the AUD was to rally at the same time.

For any queries, please contact Proserpine Grower Marketing Consultant Shirley Norris on 0437 803 019 or Plane Creek Grower Marketing Consultant Angus McKerrow on 0419 238 536.

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