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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Pet Photo Comp For A Good Cause

Dress your pet pooch up in your best Martian, alien, robot, or star costume and go in the chance to win three great prizes.

The Mackay Animal Rescue Society (MARS) is excited to host their animal photo competition.

Judged by Jay and Dave from Triple FM, dress your pets up as an intergalactic creature, a robot, or star and submit your pic to MARS by Sunday, September 24 to go into the running.

Third prize is a $50 voucher for Canelands Shopping Centre.

Second prize is a $100 voucher for JB Hi Fi.

And first prize is a $150 Timezone voucher.

MARS is a not-for-profit charity that is entirely operated by volumeters and is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of animals in the Mackay region.

Providing animals with a second chance as a long and happy life, MARS ensures safe and loving foster homes, that are caring and supportive, until they find their forever home.

To enter, send your entry through to MARSphotocomp@pub2100.uk

For further enquiries, contact MARS on mackayanimalrescuesociety@gmail.com

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Get your best costume out and ready!

The Queensland Government is offering a reward of $500,000 for information regarding the suspicious circumstances of Francis Foley’s death, in December 2008, in Rubyvale, west of Emerald.

62-year-old Francis Foley, known as Frank, disappeared from his Reward Fossicking area residence in December 2008.

A neighbour conducted a welfare check on Frank, on December 28, after some local flooding, and discovered an exploded gas bottle and Frank’s wallet in the carport, but could not find Frank.

Police attended the residence and located blood, which was confirmed to be Franks.

Further police investigation revealed that the gas bottle explosion and damage to the property’s front door was a result of a shotgun blast.

A number of neighbours confirm hearing what they believed to be gunshots in the afternoon or evening of December 23 or December 24.

In July 2022, human remains were located approximately one kilometre downstream from Frank’s residence.

The remains were confirmed to be Frank’s, with assistance from the Australian Federal Police National DNA Program for Unidentified and Missing Persons.

Homicide Cold Case Investigations Team detectives have begun a review into Frank’s death.

Frank relocated to Rubyvale in 2003 and was a caretaker for a fossicking lease at the time of his disappearance.

While Frank himself was not a gem miner, several valuable gemstones have been located in his possession.

Frank’s son, Shaun Charlton, said his family is extremely hopeful someone will have the information needed to provide them answers.

“Almost fifteen years after my father’s death, it would mean everything to know what happened and have some closure,” Shaun said.

“We ask anyone in the Rubyvale and fossicking communities to please, if you know something, speak to police.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Tara Kentwell said the Cold Case Investigation Team is confident the matter can be solved.

“Someone out there knows what happened to Frank and they now have 500,000 reasons to come forward and speak to police,” Detective Senior Sergeant Kentwell said.

“Anyone with knowledge of Frank’s movements on 23 December 2008, or who may have information relating to this investigation, is urged to contact police.”

Police have begun an extensive search in the area where Frank’s remains were located.

The $500,000 being offered by the Queensland Government is for information that leads to the apprehension and conviction of the person or persons responsible for Frank’s death.

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Francis Foley, better known as Frank, disappeared under mysterious circumstances from his property in Rubyvale, December 2008

His residence contained suspicious indicators of shotgun blasts

Frank’s son is grateful for police returning to Frank’s disappearance

Frank relocated to Rubyvale in 2003, before his disappearance in 2008. Photos supplied

A 69-year-old man died due to a snake bite while attending a centenary celebration held at Koumala State School last weekend.

The tragic incident occurred around 6pm on Saturday, September 9, when a local grandfather, Donny Morrison, committed a heroic but fatal act.

It was reported that a snake had coiled around the leg of a 65-year-old friend and Mr Morrison didn’t hesitate in trying to pry the snake off the leg. When the incident was recounted by bystanders they said Mr Morrison was successful in removing the snake but at some stage between prying the snake off and taking it away, he was bitten on the arm and the chest.

Bystanders at the event attempted CPR on the man, who had suffered a cardiac collapse. Later, paramedics implemented a defibrillator and worked to resuscitate the man for around 30 minutes. He died on the scene surrounded by friends and family.

It’s believed that the snake was an eastern brown, however, an interview with Queensland Ambulance Service states there is no way to be wholly sure.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Claire Bertenshaw said, “It is hard to say with certainty what type of snake it was.

“It’s very hard for us to identify snakes from the symptoms the patient had.”

Mr Morrison’s friend was also bitten on his leg and taken to Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition, he was discharged on Sunday.

Mr Morrison’s family sent a message to the school to be shared with the community.

It read, “Thank you to the school and committee that pulled together a wonderful celebration,” the statement said.

“We all enjoyed ourselves, especially Donny who was really happy to have caught up with so many old friends.

“We would like to thank everyone involved with the incident involving Donny, people pulled together in an attempt to resuscitate Don but unfortunately were not successful.

“If you were involved directly in the emergency response please feel free to get in touch and also please seek help if you feel you need to talk through the events that transpired as it was a confronting situation for all.

“Donny was a well-liked member of the Koumala community and will be missed by many.”

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Event proceedings at Koumala State School’s centenary celebrations before tragedy struck. Photo credit: Councillor Karen May (Facebook)

The National Boys Choir of Australia North Queensland Tour concert in the beautiful St Paul's Uniting Church, Mackay, is just days away: 6pm Wednesday 20 September and seating is limited: book now on www.trybooking.com/1088478.

Come to the venue with the best acoustics in the region and hear a performance of national standard. St Paul’s Uniting Church, originally Presbyterian, is the oldest church building in Mackay. Heritage listed, the church was designed originally for unaccompanied psalm and hymn singing and has an active congregation with two pianists who also play the pipe organ. Mavis Braithwaite, recently retired, still plays for funerals.

Young and old are welcome to hear secular and sacred repertoire and to be inspired by young voices. Joined by the Mackay Choral Society, the National Boys Choir of Australia was founded in 1964 and has established itself as one of Australia’s finest treble choirs. The full choir is composed of about 200 boys aged between 7 and 15 – about 30 will fit into St Paul’s. A new member is trained for two years in the traditional bel canto style before progressing to the Performing Choir. Repertoire ranges from early motets to contemporary commissioned works. The choir also performs children’s operas, musical comedy, and art and folk songs.

Contributed by Rev. Dr Julia Pitman

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

This week, most of us will have forked out on a hefty rates bill, an ever-increasing challenge for property owners in an environment of low wages growth, high cost-of-living, and rising property values and interest rates.

For most cane farmers, the story is not different. Our homes and our businesses are wrapped up in the farm.

Under the Mackay Regional Council rating system, cane farming is its own category, charged at 0.22586 cents in the dollar with a minimum annual general rate of $2,110. By comparison, the “Other Rural'' category is 0.11211 with a minimum of $1386. Why the difference? If we are looking to build a modern regional economy based on renewable biocommodities derived from cane, why create a municipal disincentive to keep rural land under cane. There is a clear message being sent from growers that they have had enough.

We call upon Council to support the cane industry with measures that help us boost our productivity and keep land under production, rather than create more hurdles. We ask that our rating category be brought more into line with “Other Rural” and “Other Commercial/Industrial-Regional” categories.

CANEGROWERS Mackay has had reports from members of 90% increases in the amount they pay in rates. Two examples of growers not far from the city who have sought CANEGROWERS Mackay’s voice on this subject and are paying in excess of $8000 for the half year amount. We know for a fact that there are farmers that are paying even more.

In this day and age of higher costs of production, growers are attempting to keep ahead of cost of production by taking on new farms, either by lease or purchase, in order to generate a viable business income to stay afloat while working in an industry and lifestyle for which they have a passion.

Yes, growers are businesspeople, but unlike most businesses, growers operate on the margins of taking a world price for their product and therefore are not able to pass on their increasing cost to maintain a profit margin like other businesses can. Yes, sugar prices are strong at present: but costs of production remain high and rising. Likewise, growers cop it from both directions when we grow the best crop we are able and then have that potential dwindle away as a result of poor milling performance. This is especially disheartening and unrewarding in a high price environment.

Rates are straight off our bottom line. We do not derive income through the more lucrative mining and resources sector, we are a vibrant and growing economic sector, but we should not be milked as a cash cow. Many growers live in areas well away from council facilities. Why are we one of the middle-to-higher general rates categories?

With the exception of shopping centres and major ports, mills etc and Commercial/Industrial properties based in Paget, Commercial/Industrial properties across the region are paying a lower general rate.

In May, elected and management representatives met with council’s leadership to ask these questions, responding to increases to land valuations which were likely going to cascade into higher rates for our members. Council did assure us that decisions at that point had not been made, and that they would meet with us before rates were issued. We still look forward to that meeting and continuing this discussion.

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In an environment of high costs of production, growers are after a fair go on rates to help keep land under cane, a renewable product which will support a transitioning local economy. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb