Over the past eight weeks, our region has witnessed eight tragic road fatalities.

While driver error and the 'fatal five' are contributing factors in some of these accidents, it's high time that governments step up and acknowledge their share of responsibility for poorly constructed and inadequately maintained roads and highways.

The incessant battle with pothole-riddled roads, constant bumps, and gouges undoubtedly exacerbates driver fatigue.

The frustration of motorists navigating roads devoid of overtaking lanes often leads to dangerous overtaking manoeuvres, especially given the surge in traffic, particularly during the ever-popular caravanning season.

The Bruce Highway, in some sections, falls short of what should be a dual-carriage highway, resembling more of a crumbling goat track.

A few months ago, while driving to Rockhampton, I experienced my vehicle unexpectedly veering sideways after hitting a substantial gouge in the road. Fortunately, the modern ute I was driving equipped with substantial tyres regained control, but the danger is evident, especially for older vehicles. A week later, tragically, a fatality occurred in the same area, and I wondered if they had struck one of the bad bits of the road.

Our region contributes billions of dollars in mining royalties to the state's coffers, yet very little is reinvested in our roads. The allocation for Bowen Basin road improvements is woefully inadequate. Those workers generating immense wealth for the state should, at the very least, have a safe passage to and from their workplaces.

If investigations into recent accidents, such as the one on the Saraji road near Dysart, reveal that poor road conditions played a role, it is only right that governments are held accountable for the rising death toll on our roads.

Road safety is a collective responsibility, and we must demand better from those entrusted with our infrastructure and safety.

Amanda

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In an act of pure kindness, Tristan Dales celebrated his 10th birthday in a unique way – by giving back to those who can't speak for themselves. Instead of asking for toys or games, Tristan decided to use his special day to help homeless dogs and cats at the RSPCA in Mackay.

Tristan's journey into generosity began with a realisation.

His Mum, Khloe said, “While cleaning his room one day, he said to me, "I have plenty of toys, Mum, and I don't think I need any more."

While completing his home schooling he learnt about donating and charity, and said to his Mum, “I want to help the homeless doggies and cats".

“He’s grown into such a kind-hearted young man,” Khloe added.

With the support of family and friends, Tristan embarked on his noble mission.

For his birthday party, Tristan's guests joined his cause, contributing to his donation fund. The result? A heartwarming $155 raised and gifted to RSPCA Mackay.

The RSPCA Mackay team expressed their gratitude, saying, "Happy 10th birthday to Tristan!

“Tristan so kindly donated $155 of his birthday money to us!

“Thank you, Tristan!"

Tristan was given a tour of RSPCA Mackay and spent time with animals needing a forever home.

His love for dogs and cats, coupled with his compassion, is a reminder that small gestures of kindness can make a world of difference.

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A new face-to-face general practice service, which aims to address the current gaps in afterhours primary health care delivery and improve access to timelier care, is now available for all residents in Mackay and surrounding areas.

Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) is pleased to announce Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (ATSICHS) Mackay will deliver a new comprehensive and integrated afterhours primary care service for all community members in the Mackay region whose health conditions cannot wait for health care during normal hours.

The NQPHN Health Needs Assessment (HNA) 2022-24 confirms a demonstrated lack of comprehensive afterhours services, including access to general practices and pharmacies, with people finding it harder to access afterhours primary care, particularly where primary care services are already limited during normal hours. NQPHN is an independent not for profit organisation, funded by the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care.

NQPHN Chief Executive Officer Robin Whyte said the afterhours primary care service would help reduce reliance on emergency departments (EDs) and avoidable hospitalisations after hours.

“We recognise there is a rising need for afterhours services in Mackay and the surrounding areas, and the limited availability of primary care services after hours can lead to the increased use of emergency departments and urgent-care services,” Ms Whyte said.

“ATSICHS Mackay was selected as the lead provider following a rigorous tendering process to ensure timely access to safe and high-quality afterhours services could be met.”

ATSICHS Mackay has been delivering tailored quality primary health care services to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Mackay and surrounding areas since 1978, and celebrated 40 years of operation in 2019.

Ms Whyte said ATSICHS Mackay had an established presence in the Mackay region in meeting the health care needs of local communities and would commence delivery of the afterhours primary care service from today, 4 September 2023.

ATSICHS Mackay Executive Manager Valerie Pilcher said the service would help community members access care without having to travel to the Emergency Department.

“Having an alternative option to attend a clinic that offers afterhours emergency services will benefit our community positively, especially those living in the Northern Beaches and Bucasia area,” she said.

ATSICHS’ afterhours primary care service will operate Monday and Wednesday from 6pm to 9pm, and Saturday from 2pm to 5pm.  

Ms Whyte said the afterhours primary care services would ultimately complement existing health services in the Mackay area.

The main ATSICHS clinic operates from 31-33 Victoria Street, Mackay, while the subsidiary clinic operates from Shop 21, Hibiscus Shopping Centre, 54 Downie Avenue, Bucasia.

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The new afterhours service will help all Mackay residents access care without having to travel to the Emergency Department

A Refreshing Esplanade Oasis Revealed At Grand Opening

By Amanda Wright

Hundreds of excited residents from the Mackay region gathered last Saturday for the grand opening of the Seaforth Esplanade, the area's newest and most thrilling leisure destination. The recently unveiled Esplanade upgrade, built by Vassallo Constructions, boasts an impressive array of attractions designed for all ages to enjoy.

At the heart of the new Esplanade recreation hub is an all-abilities water play area, a true centrepiece that promises endless aquatic fun. This exciting feature includes an oversized splash pad area adorned with various water jets and sprays, cleverly modelled after the local marine life and vibrant corals.

Mayor Greg Williamson officially opened the facility, alongside Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert and it was highlighted that the esplanade upgrade was developed in collaboration with the Hibiscus Coast Progress and Sports Association.

Overlooking the swimming enclosure, a brand-new barbecue and picnic area has been established, providing visitors with the perfect setting to relax and soak in the scenic beauty while lounging on sun chairs. Along the foreshore, you'll find innovative playground facilities designed to cater to a wide range of ages, ensuring that everyone can have a fantastic time.

Mayor Williamson emphasised that inclusivity is a core focus of the project, extending beyond the water play area. Change facilities, designed to assist disabled adults in getting dressed, have been installed. Wheelchair and ambulant toilet facilities, in addition to general male and female changing rooms, have been thoughtfully provided.

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Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Mackay Police have announced a new virtual reality road safety resource, Drive and Thrive, an immersive visual and auditory experience that will put school students in the driver’s seat.

The resource is the work of school-based police officers Senior Constable Tamara Cook and Senior Constable Jaime Brooks, collaborating with local business Tropical Exposure to bring virtual reality into Mackay’s classrooms.

The program will give students in the district the opportunity to use 360-degree virtual reality goggles to experience a variety of road safety situations.

“The virtual reality goggles will allow students to safely experience and react to challenging road safety events,” said Senior Constable Steve Smith.

“They also give police officers the opportunity to discuss road safety with the students after they have (virtually) experienced the best and worst of what can happen on a road.”

School-based police officers will roll out the Drive and Thrive program in high schools across the district, with Mackay Police already contacting schools who may be interested in participating.

“We are extremely grateful for the assistance and support of our local Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and our student actors – without your contributions we could not have seen this through,” said Senior Constable Smith.

“Thank you to all of the staff at Tropical Exposure for your dedication.

“We are all very hopeful that this new great resource will lead to safer roads for our younger drivers.”

Acting Chief Superintendent Janelle Andrews (Road Policing and Regional Support Command), Acting Inspector Nicole Fox (Road Policing Specialist Operations), Superintendent Graeme Paine, Detective Inspector Emma Novosel, Acting Inspector Lisa Mansfield and Adam Dyer all attended the Drive and Thrive launch, ‘test driving’ the new equipment.

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Mackay Police staff launched and trialled Drive and Thrive, an immersive visual and auditory experience. Photos supplied

A local teacher has combined her passions for youth and yoga, partnering with Mackay Regional Council and the Activate Program to implement Yoga for Youth, a yoga class aimed exclusively at young people aged 12 to 18.

Rebecca Cooper previously explored yoga within her role as a secondary physical education teacher.

“I noticed how much the students got out of that experience, quite a diverse group of students who really needed this opportunity to slow down and escape the challenges of being a young person,” Ms Cooper said.

While on maternity leave, Ms Cooper contacted council to explore the possibility of a youth-focused yoga class who, at the time, had recently completed the Youth Out Loud 1000 survey.

“They interviewed 1,000 young people and from that they identified that there was a lack of safe spaces for young people to connect in the Mackay and Northern Beaches area and a lack of affordable and accessible youth-centred events, hence the birth of Yoga for Youth,” she said.

Whether young people are looking for low impact exercise to develop their sporting performance or are feeling stressed or anxious about the pressures of study, Ms Cooper said yoga can help.

“We’re encouraging young people to let go of their preconceived ideas about yoga and who it is for,” she said.

“Yoga is for everybody, and everyone can gain something different from the practice.”

Yoga for Youth classes present an opportunity for young people to move their body in a different way, improving strength, power, flexibility and balance.

“It gives young people the opportunity to move their body, regulate their stress, connect with themselves, calm the mind, and it’s also an opportunity to put the phone down,” Ms Cooper said.

Yoga for Youth classes are held weekly at the Mackay Northern Beaches State High School Performing Arts Centre from 4:45 to 5:45pm at a subsidised cost of $5 per student.

Ms Cooper will also host a mindfulness and yoga afternoon at Mackay Northern Beaches Community Group’s upcoming R U Ok? Day event on September 14 at Eimeo Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

Visit Yoga for Youth - Mackay on Facebook for more information.

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Rebecca Cooper

The State Government’s decision to pass legislation forcing mining company QCoal to accommodate its employees in the Central Queensland town of Glenden from 2025 onwards was made without consulting the people most affected, the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) said.

QRC Chief Executive Ian Macfarlane said the government had pushed through the legislation without any real consultation or consideration of the consequences for the 400 QCoal employees who currently work at Byerwen mine.

“QCoal has complied with all regulatory requirements required by the government, only to see the rules changed after the event without any consultation,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“Now the company is facing a workforce walk-out at a time when it’s already hard enough to attract enough skilled workers to the resources sector.

“The State Government should have properly consulted all parties to find a solution that doesn’t have such a deep personal impact on the lives of mine workers and their families.

“It’s understandable that employees have serious concerns about being forced to live in sub-standard homes with sub-standard community services in Glenden when they already have suitable on-site accommodation available. It’s difficult to imagine the Government doing this to any other industry.

“The resources sector supports 90 per cent of jobs in the Isaac region and is the biggest contributor to the local economy.

“If Byerwen mine’s ability to operate to its full potential in the future is impacted by this decision and flow-on staff shortages, the economic consequences will be felt by businesses right across the region’s supply chain.”

A statement from QCoal said it believed the company is being unfairly targeted in a politically motivated campaign of misinformation to disrupt the approval process for its proposed mining accommodation.

“QCoal workers have the right to choose where they live and their safety is paramount.

“QCoal cannot legally dictate to its workers where they live or demand that they move their families to Glenden,” the statement issued by Managing Director, Christopher Wallin, said.

“Glenden requires 2000 rateable homes to be sustainable. Even if all 600 of Byerwen’s workers moved to Glenden this would not be enough to make the town sustainable.

QCoal is of the firm belief that being forced to accommodate its non-resident workers in Glenden during their working week will only put them at increased risk of travelling nearly 100 kilometres a day to and from work.

“It will also unnecessarily and unfairly take up a further two hours per day with travel and the time necessary to muster workers onto bus transport.

“QCoal does not believe this is reasonable and neither does its workforce.”

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At about 2:45am on September 4, someone stole a car from the front yard of a home on Main Street in Bakers Creek.

Mackay police reported that the resident was woken by the noises of her dogs barking and discovered two people searching a Toyota Prado parked in the front yard.

“When they moved into the front yard to investigate further, a separate car was seen being stolen and driven away from the area,” the police statement said.

The stolen car is a white coloured 2008 model Toyota Hilux, registration number 176 WLY.

Police said this car had also been parked in the front yard and the keys used to steal the Toyota Hilux were found in the Toyota Prado that was initially searched.

Anyone who might have information about the current location of the stolen car or the original theft is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible. The police report number to refer to is QP2301470313.

Police are urging car owners to store their car keys in secure and out of sight locations within the home - especially during nighttime hours.

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In a heartwarming display of community unity, Safe Sleep Mackay proudly announced the achievement reaching its $300,000 fundraising goal. With this financial milestone secured, the organisation has wasted no time and has promptly ordered three crucial Sleepbuses, providing essential sleep solutions to the local homeless population.

Through a combination of community grants and generous donations, residents joined forces with a common purpose: to enhance the quality of life for everyone in our region.

Safe Sleep Mackay would like to express its heartfelt appreciation to: Mackay Regional Council, Run for MI Life, BMA Benefiting My Community Fund, Mackay Community Foundation, Port of Mackay Rotary, Macrossan & Amiet Charitable Foundation, Freemason Lodges of the Mackay Region, Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

Housing affordability is affecting communities across Australia, in that respect Mackay is not different to other regions.  

Lisa Jamieson from Orange Sky and the Safe Sleep Mackay committee said what makes the Mackay community stand out is its generosity and the expediency in coming together to find a solution.  

“Remarkably, the Mackay region will have three buses to provide safe sleeping options for those in need,” Lisa said.

“The Sunshine Coast is the only other location that has multiple buses with two, and this funding milestone has been achieved in 8 months!”  

“We look forward to the first bus arriving in the first quarter of 2024.  

“This will bring another opportunity for our community to be involved and make a difference to someone else’s life. The buses will need volunteers, and ongoing financial support, to operate in both Mackay and Sarina.”

Mackay's Sleepbus received a $30,000 Community Grant from Mackay Regional Council, with Community Grant Committee chair Cr Laurence Bonaventura saying council was happy to be able to contribute.

“Sleepbus provides a temporary accommodation service, getting people off the street by offering safe overnight accommodation in a bus with ten sleep pods for those who would otherwise be sleeping rough,” he said.

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Orange Sky Service Coordinator Lisa Jamieson Australian Street Aid Project CEO Kayleigh Brewster have raised $300,000 to order three sleepbuses for Mackay’s most vulnerable. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

The MECC and Events team is developing a game plan to enhance attendance and spectator experiences at BB Print Stadium Mackay.

The stadium will remain the home of Mackay Cutters, but MECC and Events staff will collaborate with them to help attract more events to the council-owned facility.

As part of the plan, a memorandum of understanding is being developed, subject to council approval, which will bring the stadium management role in-house to Mackay Regional Council.

The mutually beneficial plan will allow both parties to concentrate on their core business.

The Cutters will be better placed to manage their six rugby league teams and build their membership and sponsorship bases.

The MECC and Events team will attract and deliver high-calibre events to activate the stadium, draw people to our region and generate economic benefits.

Council CEO Scott Owen said a key catalyst for the transition was the Mackay Stadium Masterplan.

“Council has allocated $3.1 million as part of its current budget for Mackay Stadium refurbishment and master planning for future development,’’ he said.

“The Cutters management contract was also expiring, so the opportunity was taken to look at options for management and operation of the stadium.”

Mackay Cutters CEO Mitch Cook thanked council for its proactive approach in dealing with future management of the stadium.

“This will be a great outcome for the stadium, the region’s economy and Mackay’s sports and events lovers,” he said.

“We’ll be able to concentrate on footy, knowing our interests in the stadium are being looked after as part of a greater plan to activate and improve the facility going forward.”

This collaboration promises exciting prospects for the Mackay region, and both the Mackay Cutters and the MECC and Events team are eager to work hand in hand to create memorable experiences for residents and visitors alike.

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Artist impression of what BB Print Stadium could be redeveloped into, a 15,000-capacity stadium if future funding is secured

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP has thanked the Northern Beaches community for their recent engagement and contributions towards the consultation for Mackay Bucasia Road upgrades.

Transport and Main Roads (TMR) sought feedback about potential future upgrades to Mackay Bucasia Road and Ms Camm has made a submission based on the feedback she received.

“It is important that the Queensland Government listens to the locals and that is why I conducted my own community engagement to give as many residents as possible the opportunity to be heard,” Ms Camm stated.

In the last month Ms Camm held five mobile offices in the Northern Beaches and ran an online survey to gain community feedback.

“In total 555 submissions were made which was a fantastic effort by the community.”

Ms Camm stated that the overwhelming feedback was one of frustration and concern.

“It is quite clear that the community is frustrated, frustrated at the condition of the road, frustrated that there is only one way in and one way out and frustrated that it has taken this government so long to act.”

The majority of the submissions indicated that the flow of traffic was the major concern, especially during peak times.  Bottlenecks were identified at specific intersections, and the three major roundabouts of Holts Road, Eimeo Road and Golf Links Road were singled out as causing the most issues. Suggestions for slip lanes, traffic lights and overpasses were offered as a solution with the majority agreeing that roundabouts were not the solution.

“What was very clear was that the community do not believe simply duplicating Mackay Bucasia Road in part or in full will solve the congestion issues. Of the responses an alternate access was the suggested solution 700 per cent more times than what a duplication was.”

Of the alternate routes suggested, a route out of Blacks Beach across to either Slade Point, Andergrove, Beaconsfield or the Mackay City was the most favoured suggestion, with 42 per cent.

Alternate routes from Bucasia to either Richmond Hills or through to the Bruce Highway or the proposed Ring Road were also suggested. As were alternate routes from Rural View to either Richmond, Kerrisdale or Habana.

Ms Camm will be writing to Minister Bailey to request that the State Government works with the Mackay Regional Council to review the submissions to identify any short-term measures that can be immediately implemented to alleviate the congestion problems.

“The community has provided some commonsense solutions that could be implemented relatively quickly and easily which could have an immediate impact,” she said.

“The planning business case is scheduled to be completed sometime next year.

“We know governments don’t move quickly but we need all levels to come together to look for short term solutions as well, especially with new developments scheduled to open soon.  

“The community can’t afford to have any more delays.”

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Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP and Local Resident, Charlie Symons at Mobile Office at Golf Links Road

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The Mackay branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) celebrated 100 years of volunteer service to the community on August 30. CWA members attended a luncheon at Western Suburbs Leagues Club where the members decorated the room with memorabilia of the last century.  

The branch welcomed special guests Julieanne Gilbert, Member for Mackay, and Mayor Greg Williamson to the occasion. On this special occasion, Rhonda Rose was presented with her 50 year service bar by Gail Pratt, Pioneer Division President.

QCWA is more than just tea and scones. Our vision is simple: for the women of Queensland to come together to support communities, celebrate their interests and forge friendships in a respectful and caring environment. This is achieved by advocating and providing opportunities for women around education, health and community throughout every phase of a woman’s life.

The Mackay Branch was formed on August 1, 1923, with 28 members attending. The first President was Mrs Stephenson, followed by Mrs Manning. By the first annual meeting the Branch had grown to 166 members. In 1953 the membership was 415 women.

In 1925, the Mackay branch conducted a Tea Booth and Rest Tent at the Mackay Show. In 1926, a shelter was built at Bakers Creek to be used by travellers and a picnic venue.

Mackay branch members were visiting hospital patients and sewing for the maternity ward in 1928. A Younger Set was started in 1929 and a group was formed at Mackay State High School.

Land was purchased in 1929 for Rest Rooms in Gordon Street. The present CWA Rest Rooms were built in 1938 at a cost of £1976. The President during this time was Mrs W A Wright who led the branch for 16 years. She worked tirelessly to raise the funds for erection of the building.

During World War II, members worked with the Red Cross to produce 1,531 knitted garments, 1,031 camouflage nets, reconditioned uniforms, make cakes, send money to Britain for food and provide drums of dripping to make soap.

By 1947, the Mackay Rest Rooms became a designated Waiting Mother’s Hostel. The Rest Rooms also accommodated miners, TAFE students and casuals. The hostel closed in 2002.  

In 1948, the Mackay branch purchased a cottage at Bucasia for holiday accommodation at a reasonable rate to country families. The Bucasia beach cottage was sold in 2006.

In 2016, Country Kitchens was introduced. The QCWA Country Kitchens program is a health promotion program supporting communities across Queensland to adopt healthier lifestyle behaviours. It is a partnership between the QCWA and the Queensland Government, funded through Health and Wellbeing Queensland.

The Mackay branch continues to support the Rural Crisis Fund, knitting, crochet, cookery, floral art, handcraft, country of study, product of the year, school children’s competitions, patchwork, public speaking and photography. In 2007, Rhonda Rose won the State Fundraiser of the Year. The branch has held fetes, catering raffles, hoys and cent sales in volunteering for Mackay charities and disasters.

The hall is in constant demand with many organisations using it on a regular basis. It is used for meetings, fundraisers, parties, teaching arts and crafts, card and car clubs and church services.

The Mackay branch thanks the community for its long and continued support. We welcome new members and encourage women to strengthen their families and our country. The QCWA hopes to be a helping hand and provide a space for friendship, connection and collaboration for the next 100 years.

Contributed by Sandra Amoore, President, QCWA Mackay Branch

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Julieanne Gilbert MP, Sandra Amoore and Mayor Greg Williamson

Rhonda Rose and Sandra Amoore. Photos supplied

A man from the Pioneer Valley died in the early hours of Father’s Day last weekend when his 4WD was involved in a fatal road accident in the Bowen Basin.

A Queensland Police statement said a 45-year-old Owens Creek man died following a fatal two-vehicle crash near Dysart on September 3.

“Initial investigations indicate around 4.30am, a coal truck towing a trailer and a 4WD were travelling along Saraji Road,” the statement said.

“The truck’s trailer rolled and struck the 4WD, which was travelling in the opposite direction.

“The driver of the 4WD, the 45-year-old man, sustained critical injuries and later passed away in hospital.”

The driver of the truck was physically unharmed.

“Forensic Crash Unit investigations into the circumstances of the crash are continuing,” Queensland Police said.

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By Amanda Wright

The Blueprint Exhibition concept, which originated as a way to bring art to life within Foodspace Café, has taken to the streets – specifically, Second Lane, where Blueprint 2.0 made its grand debut last Friday night, September 1.

The launch unfolded as a free outdoor art gallery event, featuring the talented artist, Autumn Skuthorpe.

Autumn, an experienced Māori wahine inclusive arts practitioner, takes great pride in celebrating the voices and stories of our region. Since 2006 she has worked with Crossroad Arts in a range of multi-faceted capacities.

On opening night, attendees had the chance to meet Autumn, witness a live community art session on the "free wall," and unwind with friends in the open-air lounge area, complete with comfy beanbags.

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 Riverfront and the other on the ground of the River Wharves precinct.

Artspace Mackay will be running a Public Art Walk to coincide with the unveiling of the murals on Friday, October 6, and Ms De Vries will attend the walk to answer questions.

Hosted by Artspace Mackay Public Art Officer, Jennifer Dalton-Smith, this free riverside art walk for all ages begins at Fish Bones, Bluewater Quay at 4.30pm.

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L-R Cr Fran Mann, Mayor Greg Williamson and artist Autumn Skuthorpe at Autumn’s exhibition opening in Second Lane

Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Businesses servicing the resources sector came together at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Friday September 1, to honour the sector’s top performing companies and individuals.

The Resource Industry Network (RIN) Awards recognise the outstanding achievements of the region’s companies during the past 12-month period. Established in 2008, the awards showcase excellence in business and the significant contribution that they make to the regional economy and community.

The awards program provides a credible platform for which outstanding performance can be acknowledged and celebrated by the whole sector.

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Connecting in the Community Award

Winner: BOQ Mackay City

Champion Culture Award

Winner: Wisely Group

Manufacturing Excellence Award

Winner: Linked Group

Striving for Diversity Award

Winner: Intelics

Innovation for Export Award

Winner: Village National

Safety Foremost Award

Winner: Aurizon

Standing out from the Crowd Award

Winner: Charlotte Nash-Stewart, Field Engineers

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