By Amanda Wright

Last week, services of remembrance reverberated across Australia, commemorating the significant milestone of 50 years since the withdrawal of Australian combat troops from the Vietnam conflict. This poignant occasion served as a reminder of the enduring cost of war, and the valour of those who gave their lives in service. The Vietnam Veterans Vigil, held at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Jubilee Park on August 3, stood as a testament to this commemoration, uniting the community to remember and honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The event was hosted by Vietnam veteran Ken Higgins OAM, President of the Mackay RSL Sub Branch, alongside fellow Vietnam veteran and President of the Veterans Support Group Les Palmer. As the solemn gathering unfolded at 11:00 am, attendees paid homage to the 523 individuals who lost their lives during the Vietnam conflict, with a special emphasis on the six from the Mackay region and its surrounds, as well as Robert “Jock” Buchan, Mr Higgins’ section commander.

Ken Higgins OAM, speaking at the Vigil, emphasized the importance of remembrance, stating, “We need to remember they gave their lives in the service of the country and they should be remembered for that.”

During the vigil, Mr Higgins shared a poignant tribute to his section commander Jock, an overseas serviceman from Scotland who gave his life for Australia. He expressed, "Jock wasn't a Mackay boy, but Jock was from Scotland. He was my section commander in Vietnam, and we felt it fitting to pay tribute to Jock as he was not from Australia but gave his life for Australia."

Les Palmer, who served in Vietnam at a similar time to Higgins, took part in the Vigil by reading the poem "In Flanders Fields."

Mr Higgins expressed gratitude to the fallen soldiers, saying, "Thank you for your service to your country and for giving up your life while doing what your country asked you to do.

"In October 1987, 32,000 of your mates passed through the streets of Sydney in a 'welcome home' parade with crowds lining the streets, in some places 10-deep. More than 521 Australian flags each representing an Australian killed in Vietnam were carried by relatives and friends at the head of the parade.

"The staff of each flag bearing a metal plaque engraved with a serviceman's name and unit. There was a flag there with your name on it. I want you to know that today at this hour there are people like us all around Australia standing at the graves and memorials of your mates who were also killed in Vietnam.

"As Australians we are saying thank you for your service and for the service of your mates. You're not forgotten, your sacrifice was not in vain, the world is a better place for your actions. We all join together to say thank you and pray for you and to give thanks for your life that you laid down many years ago."

The ceremony also paid tribute to the four servicemen who recently lost their lives in the Talisman Sabre training exercise. Lieutenant Maxwell Nugent, Warrant Officer Class 2 Joseph Laycock, Corporal Alexander Naggs, and Captain Dan Lyon were remembered for their dedication and service.

As the community gathered last week to remember, reflect, and honour, the legacy of these local soldiers continues to resonate, reminding us all of the sacrifices made for today’s freedoms.

An additional service will be held on Vietnam Veterans Day, August 18, to say thank you to all veterans, both living and fallen.

Local Soldiers Remembered in the Vigil:

1. Pte. Trevor Ralph Black

• Date of Death: April 8, 1969

• Resting Place: Bowen General Cemetery

2. Pte. Francis John Fewquandie

• Date of Death: December 4, 1967

• Resting Place: Walkerston Cemetery

3. Cpl. Frederick William “Bushy” Hoare

• Date of Death: August 4, 1969

• Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery

4. LCpl. Paul Leslie Smith

• Date of Death: July 5, 1969

• Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery

5. Pte. Donald Leslie Thompson

• Date of Death: August 2, 1970

• Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery

6. Pte. Brian Thomas Young

• Date of Death: May 16, 1968

• Resting Place: Allambe Memorial Park

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Servicemen, women and members of the public gathered at Jubilee Park last week to remember 50 years since the withdrawal of Australian combat troops from the Vietnam War. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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The shockwaves of road crash trauma are often felt throughout the community, but a local organisation is continually working to educate users on road safety and reduce these incidents.

The Road Accident Action Group (RAAG) has been operating throughout the Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday and Central Highlands regions for the last 21 years, completing many successful projects and programs to reduce road incidents and fatalities.

Last year, those regions saw a combined 25 fatal crashes, 512 injury crashes and 266 non-injury crashes, and RAAG Chair Viv Coleman said the not-for-profit is working to reduce these numbers.

“We get together with industry and community, industry being absolutely any industry at all with which we can have a partnership, to promote good, safe practices for driving,” she said.

“With the amount of accidents we’ve been having on our roads in the last few months, it highlights the extreme importance, and we really need to escalate that.”

Meeting once a month at the Resources Centre of Excellence in Paget, RAAG implements a variety of projects and campaigns spearheaded by a passionate team of volunteers and organisations.

Collaborating with the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR), RAAG has successfully advocated for and played an instrumental role in a variety of projects throughout the region, including the Walkerston Bypass and the Eton Range, as well as an increase and upgrade of rest areas.

RAAG also presents its road safety education program to organisations throughout the Mackay and Bowen Basin regions, focussing on specific road safety issues relevant to our region including wide loads, fatigue management, distracted driving, stock on roads and more.

Advertising and education campaigns focussing on these issues have been spread throughout the region and the eastern seaboard.

The organisation’s work also addresses other road users including walkers, runners and bike riders, with their Work Out Visibly safety initiative spreading the message of “Be Seen, Be Safe” to those exercising on or near roads.

RAAG can be seen spreading this message throughout the community at events including Parkrun and Emergency Services Day.

“RAAG is in the community,” said Ms Coleman.

“We are a volunteer group and we’re always looking for additional people.”

To find out more about volunteering and sponsorship, visit raag.com.au.

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RAAG is a volunteer organisation promoting safe road use. Photo supplied

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The 140-Year Legacy Of The Porters Group

Mackay’s longest standing hardware store is turning 140 on August 13, and the history behind this locally owned business is one for the books – literally! For The Porters Group’s 125 years of service, Ray Braithwaite OAM wrote 'The End of the Beginning' – a commemorative book explaining the history of The Porters Group. But we’re getting ahead of ourselves – let’s start at the beginning, where it all began with founder Charles Porter.

1883 - Taylors Hotel (known as Empress of India Hotel at the time)

Without the use of power tools, ready-mix cement or mechanical lifts, Charles Porter and his team finished construction of the hotel in nine months. They relied on manual tools of the trade, including ladders, winches and transport through horse and bullock drawn carts.

1912-1913 – Mackay’s Town Hall

Charles Porter was involved in the construction of Mackay’s Town Hall and introduced hardware and plumbing supplies into the business. The new products included Rogers Paint, Wunderlich Art Metal and hot water systems, oil engines, electric light installations, gas and wood stoves.

1916 – Mackay Master Builders Association

A long-standing relationship was formed between The Porters Group and Master Builders, with Charles Porter attending the inaugural meeting to form the Mackay branch. He was one of the earliest contributors to the association, as he was committed to supporting Mackay’s building and construction industry – a value The Porters Group continues to uphold today.

1930 – Brisbane Street showroom

The Porters Group Brisbane Street showroom opened on the corner of Brisbane and Gordon Streets with the motto ‘anything in building material’. This site is the same location the current Porters Mitre 10 Mackay City business stands today.

1971 – Hay Point Coal Terminal

The Porters Group supplied material for the construction of Hay Point Coal Terminal, a significant development for coal mining in the region at the time.

Early 1980s – Moranbah and Dysart

Materials were supplied for the construction of the Moranbah and Dysart townships that are now home to over 12,000 residents.

1985 – The Trade Expo

In 1985, businesses were not allowed to trade on Sundays unless it was outside the standard business premises, so The Porters Group introduced The Home Show and over time it became the annual Porters Group Trade Expo.

1998 – Charlies Coffee Shop

The iconic café, that’s still very loved today, opened with the motto ‘food that tastes like home’.

2002 – Porters Whitsunday Trade Store

The Porters Group opened a trade store in Cannonvale, supplying the Whitsundays with building supplies and hardware needs.

2017 – Porter Mitre 10 Marian, Sarina and Cannonvale

The Porters Group announced the acquisition of the Woodman’s Stores in Marian, Sarina and Cannonvale – joining the Mitre 10 buying group in Australia.

2020 – Porters Northern Beaches Trade Centre

Northern Beaches gets their own trade centre – with Porters Northern Beaches Trade Centre opening in August 2020. It was rebranded in 2022 and Inspirations Paint added in 2023.

The Porters Group is more than a local hardware store; it’s a true cornerstone of our community. The history of The Porters Group is rooted in the growth of the Mackay and Whitsunday region, developing townships for families, hotels for locals to gather, industrial facilities to boost local employment – the list truly goes on, and you can read more about the history of The Porters Group on their website – www.porterscando.com.au.

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By Amanda Wright

In the latest quarter, Mackay Hospital and Health Service's emergency departments experienced an unprecedented surge in the care of critically ill and injured patients, yet despite the increase, all Category 1 patients received immediate attention within two minutes of their hospital arrival, according to data released by the Queensland Government. There were 139 patients classified as Category 1.

During this quarter, the emergency departments within the Mackay Hospital and Health Service area attended to a total of 26,457 cases. This reflects a discernible 3 per cent escalation in comparison to the corresponding quarter in the previous year. The Queensland Government reported that a substantive 91 per cent of these patients underwent examination within the confines of the clinically stipulated time frame. The median interval of wait-time prior to treatment initiation stood at a mere 10 minutes.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman said that despite improvement, there is still more work to be done.

“Our emergency departments managed a record number of presentations, more than 10,500 than the same quarter last year, and our patient off-stretcher times remained steady, at 55 per cent,” she said.

“Despite the rapid population growth we’re experiencing, and despite being the busiest in the country, our ambulance service is doing incredible work to look after their communities.”

Demand also increased significantly for the next most urgent Category 2 patients with 4549 presentations, a 17 per cent increase compared to the same quarter last year.

767 patients underwent elective surgeries, which is a 23 per cent increase on the same time last year.

In the June quarter 4708 patients were seen for an initial appointment in a specialist outpatient clinic.

Mackay Base Hospital also improved its Patient Off Stretcher time in the quarter, rising to 71 per cent from 68 per cent despite an increase in ambulance arrivals.

“These improvements would not be possible without the hard work, dedication, and commitment to patient care from our health care workers, who I thank for their tireless efforts,” Minister Fentiman said.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon said the June quarter had been another busy time for staff across the health service.

“I would like to thank our dedicated emergency department staff for their tireless service to our community. We are very proud of them and what they have achieved,” Ms Gannon said.

“Our emergency staff continue to report that a visit to ED is often the first time people have seen a doctor in some time.

“Unfortunately, this means they are presenting with more complex conditions and mental health issues.

“Staff in our operating theatres have also been hard at work to perform additional elective surgery in the June quarter when 767 patients were treated, a 22.9 per cent increase from the previous quarter.”

Ms Gannon added that at the end of June there were no Category 1 patients waiting longer than the clinically recommended time.

“Category 1 – the most time-critical elective surgery – was the largest category with 362 people treated during the quarter,” she said.

“Mackay HHS also has a plan to improve access to elective surgery.

“In 2023-24 the HHS has received $5 million of non-recurrent funding to reduce long waits for Elective Surgery, Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Specialist Outpatients."

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Mackay Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Susan Gannon

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A Sarina distillery and popular tourism destination has been awarded four national awards.

Sarina Sugar Shed distiller, Sarah-Jane Parrott, travelled to the 2023 Australian Distilled Spirits Awards last Thursday and said the whole team were excited with the result.

“We are thrilled to return from the awards with not just one, but four awards,” Ms Parrott said.

“The awards were held in Melbourne, on Thursday, August 3, at a special awards presentation,” she said.

Judges for the Australian Distilled Spirits competition are selected from across Australia and are engaged for their industry knowledge and expertise.

“The Sarina Sugar Shed Aromatic Bitters Chocolate won gold in the cocktail bitters category, the Aromatic Bitters Spiced Orange won silver, the Lime NOI won silver and the Sarina Sugar Shed Liqueur won bronze,” Ms Parrott said.

“The star of the night was the aromatic bitters, which is hand crafted on site at the sugar shed, and is available in two flavours, spiced orange and chocolate.

“The chocolate is infused with cacao nibs, cinnamon and vanilla, with each botanical carefully hand selected, blended and infused to bring out the natural flavours.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said the sugar shed team should be very proud of winning these awards on the national stage.

“It’s an incredible result to enter four categories and bring home four awards,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Sarah started working on the aromatic bitters in February, trialling different ingredients to achieve the ultimate flavour profile and it was released to the public in June, at the Sarina Sugar Shed cocktail book launch,” he said.

“Congratulations to Sarah and the whole team at the Sarina Sugar Shed on this amazing achievement.”

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Sarina Sugar Shed distiller, Sarah-Jane Parrott

The award-winning Sarina Sugar Shed team

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May was the first time in five years that the St Lawrence Recreation Group were able to host the St Lawrence Campdraft, the event making a very successful return.

With 680 first round runs to get through, the campdraft kicked off with the ‘Mark Robertson Earthmoving Maiden Draft’ on the morning of Saturday, May 20.

Events ran across the weekend with competitors, both local and visiting, competing and achieving impressive results.

Six top quality judges were secured for the draft, prioritising the safety of the cattle and competitors all weekend.  

Kerry Wallace, Steve Drury, Jason Wanstall, Bo Hatfield, Don Sivyer and Luke Townsend donated their time and expertise, as did many members of the community in supporting the event.

Competitors drafted four lines of cattle supplied by cattle donors The McGibbon Family – Ametdale, The McArthur family – Mystery Park, The McIntyre Family – Waverly Station and Seamark Pty Ltd – Carmila Glen.  

“A draft cannot run without cattle, and we are enormously grateful to these very generous donors,” the St Lawrence Recreation Group Committee said.

Trucks were also donated by Don Shaw Cattle Transport to transport cattle to and from the draft.

Talented committee member Jessica Cash treated attendees to a delicious smoked brisket for dinner on Saturday night before swapping her tongs for the guitar and entertaining the crowd with some live music.

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Junior Draft placegetters

Encouragement Draft placegetters

Juvenile placegetters

Open Draft placegetters

Adelaide McArthur riding Red

Elise Burston

Committee member Jessica Cash cooking the smoked brisket

Dedicated announcer Dave Armstrong. Photos credit: Aaron Rankin Photography and Jessica Cash

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Despite their vastly different fields of study, three CQUniversity students have been recognised for following their chosen career paths close to home.

Awarded scholarships by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank in July, Chloe Paul, Seumus Andrews and Brooke Vella all share a dedication to their education and commitment to their community.

The Community Bank Sarina scholarships enable those studying to remain in the region, seize opportunities in the local workforce, and actively contribute to our economy and enrich the community.

Partnering with CQUniversity since 2012, the scholarships have evolved with time to meet the ever-changing needs of local business and industry, to keep students local after their studies.

Chloe Paul, one of the proud recipients of the Higher Education scholarship, expressed her gratitude for the support she received toward her Bachelor of Agriculture.

“I’ve chosen a Bachelor of Agriculture because of my passion for cattle genetics, and I aim to be well known in the agriculture industry for my contributions to bovine reproduction,” she said.

“It means a great deal to me to have support from the area that I have grown up in and live in, and this scholarship will provide invaluable support while I complete my studies.”

Seumus Andrews, recipient of an Apprenticeship Scholarship, is completing his Certificate III in Parks and Gardens at North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation. Although he is unsure about his career path after finishing his studies, he knows the scholarship will provide plenty of growth opportunities.

“It was an incredible feeling to be selected for this scholarship and I would encourage other students to apply.

“A lot of people may think applying is beyond their abilities but there’s no harm in giving it your best shot.”

Brooke Vella is currently undertaking an electrical apprenticeship at Aurizon with the goal of becoming an electrical engineer. She expressed her appreciation for the apprenticeship scholarship that will support her career journey.

“I wanted hands-on experience in the industry first and this apprenticeship has been a fantastic way to do so. I want to thank Community Bank Sarina for this opportunity, and I will make the most of it.”  

These scholarships have proven to be a transformative force for students, empowering them to pursue their dreams whilst making meaningful contributions to their community. Community Bank Sarina's dedication to nurturing local students serves as an inspiring example of the positive impact such initiatives can have on the lives of youth in our region.

Community Bank Sarina scholarships in association with CQUniversity are offered annually, and students can apply for either the Vocational and Educational Training (VET) apprenticeship scholarship or the higher education scholarship.

Community Bank Sarina has now opened applications for the Sarina State High School (SSHS) Senior Schooling Scholarship. SSHS students may request an information pack from executive@sarinacommunity.com.au and submit their application by September 8.

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A group of friends are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime for the second time after ticking off a “bucket list item” last year.

Viv Coleman, Karen Armstrong and Molly Bendle from St Lawrence and Kate Craig from Sarina are the Opal Chicks, a team undertaking the 2023 Variety Bash from Toowoomba to Cairns, leaving on Tuesday, August 15.

Ms Coleman said it had been a lifelong goal to take part in the Bash, which raises funds for Variety, a charity providing support for children who are sick, disadvantaged or who have a disability.

“I’ve never experienced the emotional rollercoaster of being able to see firsthand what we are giving back into communities, families and children who need help,” she said.

“You are crying and you are laughing 10 times a day on the same day.

“The impact that Variety Queensland makes, to see it firsthand, there’s no way to describe the emotions you actually feel.”

Before the Opal Chicks participated in their first Variety Bash last year, Ms Coleman travelled to Adelaide to collect a Holden VN Commodore they’ve named Vinnie.

“There’s four of us girls in the car together and we all work amazingly well together as a team,” Ms Coleman said.

“We have a great time and we try to make the best of our ability to have fun.”

The team has already raised over $28,000 thanks to donations from the community, fundraising efforts and sponsors including Ray White Sarina.

“We’ve had so many donations of gifts and prizes for raffles,” Ms Coleman said.

“The community support’s been wonderful.”

Returning for their second year, the Opal Chicks are excited to reunite with their ‘Bash Family’, as many participants return to the Bash year after year.

“We’re all very like minded people, and having that Bash Family atmosphere, it’s so uplifting and it’s such a wonderful experience,” Ms Coleman said.

“I recommend it to anyone; you need to do it at least once in your life.”

Search Opal Chicks on Facebook to follow their journey or visit www.varietybashqld.com.au/t/boulderopalchicks to make a donation.

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The Opal Chicks held a fundraising Bush Bash Ball earlier this year, pictured here with Richard from Ray White Sarina and Vinnie the VN Commodore. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

Sarina's QCWA Branch marked its centenary with a delightful high tea event that attracted guests and visitors from across the region. The celebration, a nod to the Branch's remarkable century of service, was attended by Mayor Greg Williamson, a representative of Michelle Landry MP, Councillor Karen May, and Maree Franettovich of Community Bank Sarina.

The event, steeped in bygone era charm, treated attendees to an array of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, cakes, and pikelets. Fine bone china, tiered cake stands, and pristine white tablecloths adorned the setting, transporting guests to the past. Each table was uniquely adorned with vintage aesthetics.

Guests cherished the opportunity to unwind, connect with Sarina Branch Members, and relish the display of nostalgic memories. Attendees were also treated to gift bags containing homemade jelly jams courtesy of Sarina Branch members, alongside a special chocolate from Sarina Community Bank.

The event served as a prelude to upcoming gatherings, including Scone Day on August 11th. Watch out for ticket sales for the much-anticipated Race Day on September 5, details to be revealed soon.

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Award-Winning Shop Up For Grabs

By Amanda Wright

Nestled in the heart of Sarina, Under the Veil, an award-winning bridal shop, is now presenting an irresistible opportunity for a passionate entrepreneur to take the reins of a thriving business. With its remarkable track record and esteemed clientele, this turn-key venture promises the chance to be a part of countless couples' special moments.

Under The Veil has garnered acclaim for its commitment to offering an exceptional and personalised experience to brides-to-be and those seeking formal attire. The attentive and friendly staff create an inviting and relaxed atmosphere, where every bride's individual needs are at the forefront of attention. Your wedding gown, a symbol of your big day's significance, is treated with the utmost care and consideration, ensuring that you look and feel nothing less than spectacular. The spacious showroom boasts a wide selection of wedding gowns, formal attire, accessories, and more.

What sets Under the Veil apart is not just its commitment to excellence, but its well-established client base and industry recognition. With years of hard work and dedication, the owners have curated a loyal clientele that stretches beyond local boundaries. The business comes with a well-stocked inventory and comprehensive financial records, ensuring a smooth transition for the new owner. The industry recognition extends to winning both national and state wedding industry awards, further solidifying the shop's reputation in the bridal realm.

The decision to put this gem of a business on the market is driven by the owners' pursuit of new endeavours. While the current proprietors cherish the business, they recognise that it requires an enthusiastic successor to continue its legacy of exceptional service. A passion for weddings, fashion, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction are the qualities that the ideal buyer should possess.

The new owner will have the flexibility to choose between continuing the lease at the current location with an option to extend or relocate the business if desired. The shop has cultivated a local following for formal attire, high school formals, and after-five events.

For the visionary entrepreneur seeking a turn-key business with a successful history and endless potential, Under the Veil stands as an unmatched opportunity. Envision yourself at the helm of a shop that has already etched its name in bridal elegance and excellence, ready to continue its journey of celebrating love and life's most cherished moments. Don't miss the chance to be a part of this legacy; inquire now and step into the world of bridal beauty and splendour.

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Photo credit: Alyce Holzy Photography

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CANEGROWERS Mackay has appointed its new chief, District Manager Michelle Martin.

Michelle comes with a strong background in business and member services, and her appointment follows the passing of esteemed, long-serving CEO Kerry Latter, who lost his battle with cancer in June.

CANEGROWERS Mackay Chairman Kevin Borg made the announcement this week, saying that a long and transparent selection process had been undertaken. Mrs Martin will formally take up the position on Monday, August 7

“We are pleased to announce today that Michelle Martin will take on the role of District Manager,” Mr Borg said.

“She comes with a professional background in building, small business, administration, insurance, and education.

“Importantly, Mrs Martin has been with CANEGROWERS Mackay’s Grower Services for the past two and a half years, and Growers Services Manager since May 2022. In that time, she has had the opportunity to work closely with CANEGROWERS Mackay’s senior management and board, and has developed extensive knowledge of the industry and, with excellent relationship-building skill, has a great rapport with the membership, making her a perfect fit for the role.

“We are confident that she will bring the clear and strong advocacy for our members, and for the sugar industry as a whole, that both the community and our membership expect. We are confident that the organisation will be in good hands.

“On behalf of the CANEGROWERS Mackay Board and staff, we congratulate Mrs Martin and welcome her into her new role.”

Notably, the organisation is transitioning from leadership being nominally Chief Executive Officer, to District Manager, which brings the position more into line with that of other Queensland CANEGROWERS Districts.

“The rationalisation streamlines the Growers Services and District Manager positions, delivering greater efficiency and value to our members,” Mr Borg said.

Mrs Martin said she was honoured to accept the leadership role.

“I am very honoured to be a part of this new chapter for CANEGROWERS Mackay,” she said.

“I have a great team behind me and have been privileged to have been mentored by senior members and management at CANEGROWERS in my time here.

“I will continue the tradition of being a leading and vocal advocate in the industry for our local members.”

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CANEGROWERS District Manager Michelle Martin

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Funding has been secured for the region’s first two sleepbuses, with Safe Sleep Mackay urging the community to rally behind a third.

Two buses will be located in Mackay, one open to everyone and the other pink sleepbus for women and children only, while the third will be located in Sarina.

Lisa Jamieson of Safe Sleep Mackay thanked the community for their support but said $70,000 is still required for the third sleepbus, as well as volunteers to operate them.

“We couldn’t do the fundraising without the community, and we can’t operate the buses without the community,” she said.

“It’s got to be a community effort to get them here and a community effort to sustain it.”

With 20 beds onboard, televisions, toilets, charging facilities and storage, sleepbus promises a safe and restful night’s sleep for those who have nowhere else to go.

“While we all know housing is the ultimate solution, we know it’s not something that’s going to happen overnight but at least these buses give that temporary short-term relief and are that interim solution until something more permanent can be done,” Ms Jamieson said.

“These are all human beings; the majority do not want to be homeless,” added Kayleigh Brewster.

“Life on the streets is not fun, they aren’t out there with no responsibilities having a great time, they’re really struggling.”

Ms Jamieson hopes to see the first two sleepbuses in Mackay by Easter next year, with a third not far behind.

To find out more about donating and volunteering, visit www.sleepbus.org/fundraisers/sleepbusmackay/mackay-needs-a-sleepbus.

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Lisa Jamieson and Kayleigh Brewster of Safe Sleep Mackay. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Local homeless support services have shared their gratitude for the support of the region’s youth.

A group of students from Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School (KMG) have been collecting plastic bags and turning them into mats, providing comfort and insulation for rough sleepers.

As part of the Life Skills program, students learnt to crochet, taking strips of plastic bags and crocheting them into mats.  

The crocheted mats provide a reliable, durable, and lightweight sleeping surface for those experiencing homelessness.

The mats were recently donated to Orange Sky who then shared the mats amongst Australian Street Aid Project, CASA and ATSICH for them to distribute to their clients in need.

Students and staff from KMG also raised $310 for Safe Sleep Mackay's sleepbus initiative.

Safe Sleep Mackay has also received donations from Mackay North State School and St Mary's Catholic Primary School where students and staff raised funds to help secure the region’s sleepbuses.  

In other efforts of community support, Pioneer State High School recently collected cans of food, donating around 1,100 tins to Australian Street Aid Project, while St Brendan's Catholic Primary School’s 'Winter Warmer' appeal is currently on, seeing students collect socks, beanies, scarves and travel wipes to donate to Orange Sky.

Orange Sky continues to work with St Patrick's College as they have for the last three years, with the school’s year 10-12 students making and serving breakfast twice a week for those in need.

During school holidays, the tongs are passed onto Teen Shed Mackay, who first took over the breakfast service in the 2022-23 Christmas school holidays and have been back every school holiday since.  

“You can see that the youth of our community are trying to do something,” said Lisa Jamieson of Orange Sky and Safe Sleep Mackay.

“They know that people out there are doing it tough and if we can instill that in the youth, it’s going to make a better community all around.”

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KMG students recently donated sleeping mats and a cheque to support services throughout the community

Mackay North State School was presented with a certificate of appreciation after a donation to Safe Sleep Mackay

Teen Shed Mackay donate their time to cook breakfast for Orange Sky every school holidays

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Sudsy Challenge Returns

Orange Sky is inviting the community to “keep your kit on in support of people experiencing homelessness”.

The Sudsy Challenge tasks people with wearing the same clothes for three days in the month of September to raise awareness and funds for people experiencing homelessness or hardship.

“That’s another call to arms where the community can get involved and take action,” said Orange Sky Mackay Service Leader Lisa Jamieson.

“It’s about giving people an appreciation of what it’s like to be in those clothes.”

Visit www.thesudsychallenge.com.au to find out more.

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Drop In Lounge A Success

Chances Op Shop recently announced changes that will see a greater focus on Australian Street Aid Project’s homelessness support services.

The op shop’s floor space has been minimised, allowing space for a drop in lounge for those in need.

“We realised that there really is nowhere for these people to go through the day, and they needed access to amenities and charging facilities and somewhere safe to be,” said Australian Street Aid Project Founder Kayleigh Brewster.

“It’s worked really well and it’s very well utilised; we’ve had great feedback from people using the space.”

The drop in lounge provides users with amenities, charging facilities, books, desks, couches and a television to be used throughout the day.

Australian Street Aid Project has also employed a part-time Case Worker to assist with accessing drug, alcohol, mental health and legal support services.

“We’re seeing really positive outcomes for some of our service users not necessarily just around homelessness but around other factors that create barriers to housing,” said Ms Brewster.

“People just really like to have a place to be where they’re not asked to leave and where they’re out of the elements; somewhere they can relax, find support, have conversations with people.

“It’s helped us to develop better and more therapeutic relationships with people, spending a little bit more one on one time with them.”

Ms Brewster said Australian Street Aid Project has seen a dramatic increase in service users, with the number of meals dispersed into the community spiking from around 350 meals a week two months ago to over 500 meals a week.

To accommodate the increase in demand, Chances Op Shop will now be open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 3pm and Fridays and Saturdays from 9am to 1pm, closing from Sunday to Tuesday.

“We’re hoping it will help to increase our revenue which goes directly into the homelessness services so we can create a more sustainable environment and continue providing all those services,” Ms Brewster said.

The op shop is celebrating Super Saturday this Saturday, August 12 to mark the first Saturday opening, with all clothing half price and all other items discounted by 15%.

Australian Street Aid Project has also launched it’s Pay It Forward Meal campaign, asking locals to donate as little as $7.50 to pay forward a meal for their many clients who come in for homelessness assistance.

Visit www.austreetaid.org for more information.

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Australian Street Aid Project Founder Kayleigh Brewster. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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For Homelessness Week

A monthly barbecue this morning, Friday, August 11, has brought Homelessness Week to a close for 2023.

The annual event is an effort by Community Accommodation & Support Agency (CASA) to draw attention to the issue of homelessness in Mackay while providing information and resources to those experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

“It’s about everyone who is homeless, and that can be rough sleepers, people who are couch surfing, people who live in overcrowded conditions, people who don’t have a secure tenure,” said CASA Manager Lorraine Wirth.

“For people on a low income, people who don't have a rental history, people who might be on a single income or benefit, it’s extremely difficult to get any accommodation.”

Homelessness Week offered the opportunity for the community to come together and share information and resources, including financial and budgeting tips, information sessions, meet and greets, and “homeless hacks”.

In the last financial year, CASA distributed over $470,000 and over 1,000 food vouchers to those in need.

From January 2023 to July 2023, 1,567 nights of accommodation to different people in need.

Ms Wirth said CASA’s services provide outreach, crisis housing, homestay and food services, but more needs to be done for a permanent solution.

“I would like to see more properties, more tenure, more bricks and mortar,” she said.

“Whether it’s social housing, community housing, more affordable housing full stop, anything as long as there are more options available for people.”

Visit www.casamackay.org.au to find out more.

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CASA Manager Lorraine Wirth. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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