Ah, the age-old topics that ignite spirited conversations among Mackay residents – Aldi's arrival and the elusive Mackay Bucasia Road upgrade! We can't deny the excitement of shopping for quirky garden ornaments while filling our carts with BBQ essentials, that joy is around the corner with construction on Aldi underway. As for the road upgrade, it's been a hot topic for years, and it seems like we're finally seeing some action from the powers that be.

The Queensland Government has announced that they're gearing up for planning to improve the Mackay-Bucasia Road. This 11-kilometer stretch holds a special place in our hearts as it connects the bustling North Mackay to the charming communities of Rural View, Bucasia, Eimeo, Dolphin Heads, Blacks Beach, and Shoal Point.

As a Beaches resident myself, I can't help but rejoice at this development. Sure, the traffic isn't quite as chaotic as the bustling streets of Istanbul or LA's freeways, but it could certainly use some improvement to ease those pinch moments in the morning and afternoon. More importantly, safety is paramount, especially when it comes to potential evacuations. And let's not forget about future-proofing as our beloved region continues to thrive and grow.

What is vital, is that no matter where you stand on the issue, we have an opportunity to be heard. Your opinion matters, and the Queensland Government wants to hear from you. Flip to page 5 to get all the details, and as MP Amanda Camm puts it, "Let's build it for the Beaches!" It's time to shape the future of our community, so let's come together and make a difference.

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One of a child’s most prized possessions is their bike, so when Channy Schmidt accidentally left her son Wyatt’s bike at Moranbah’s Bernborough Park after a party, she was relieved to discover someone had found the bike and had posted the discovery to the Moranbah Community Notice Board Facebook group.

“(I) didn’t realise until a friend PM’d me about an ad on (Moranbah Community Notice Board) about it,” Ms Schmidt posted.

“I’ve raced down to the park now but can’t find it.

“Please help us get it back, my little boy absolutely loves this bike.”

The bike was found by Emma Harrison and her daughters, who came across it at the park and shared photos of it throughout social media hoping to reunite it with its owner.

“A big THANK YOU to Emma Harrison and her daughters for thinking to take my son’s balance bike home with you last night,” Ms Schmidt later commented after connecting with Ms Harrison.

“If you hadn’t, we may not have got it back.

“You’re amazing and we can’t thank you enough.

“Be proud, Mumma, you’re raising some amazing children there.

“Wyatt is so happy to have his bike back.

“And thank you for taking the effort to fix his BMX plate back up.”

Community spirit, paired with the power of social media, prevails.

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Wyatt and his bike. Photo supplied: Channy Kacein Brialee Schmidt

Planning is underway to identify future upgrades to Mackay–Bucasia Road to improve congestion, active transport, safety, and flooding impacts.

The $750,000 planning project is funded by the Queensland Government under the Transport System Planning Program. It will identify, assess, and prioritise key deficiencies along the corridor.  

In addition to extra lanes, future intersection upgrades and improved turning movement opportunities will be considered to improve capacity and safety.

Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said, "Mackay–Bucasia Road is the primary commuter and freight route between Mackay and the Northern Beaches.

"The 11-kilometre corridor connects the Bruce Highway in North Mackay to Rural View, Bucasia, Eimeo, Dolphin Heads, Blacks Beach and Shoal Point,” he said.

"Growth in Mackay's Northern Beaches has resulted in increased congestion and safety concerns on Mackay-Bucasia Road.

"This planning project will identify the highest priority for future upgrades between North Mackay and the Northern Beaches."

As part of this planning, the Queensland Government is seeking community input regarding road user experience and potential future upgrades to Mackay–Bucasia Road.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said, “the Mackay Bucasia Road upgrades are important for the safety and growth of the Northern Beaches communities.

“It is vital TMR hear from locals who regularly use the road, so future planning meets the needs of the community.”

A business case for the highest priority upgrades on Mackay-Bucasia Road is being developed and is expected to be finalised mid-2024. The TMR website says that submissions will close on August 23, 2023.

For further information and to provide feedback, please visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au/projects

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Have Your Say On Mackay-Bucasia Road

Caption: Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and Deputy Leader of the Opposition Jarrod Bleijie are calling on the public to have their say on Mackay-Bucasia Road

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP is calling on Northern Beaches residents frustrated by the congestion on Mackay-Bucasia Road to register their support for upgrades and express their main concerns.

Ms Camm said residents should visit nodelays.com.au to complete a short online form.

“Since the 2020 election I have called on the Queensland Government to address the access issues that have arisen due to rapid growth at the Northern Beaches,” she said.

“We are dealing with long travel times in peak periods, congestion at roundabouts and school zones, and, of course, emergency response issues with the one way in, one way out problem.

“Unfortunately, we have seen very little progress which is why I am asking Northern Beaches residents to register their concerns and call for action.”

Ms Camm said the daily traffic delays in getting to and from work, schools and other city services was no longer acceptable.

“In some sections of Mackay-Bucasia Road there is just one lane in and out servicing a population of about 21,000,” she said.

“Growth in that part of our region is not slowing. In fact, the number of Northern Beaches residents is expected to increase by more than 9000 by the mid-2030s.”

Ms Camm said it was well and truly time to “Build it for the Beaches”.

The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is currently taking submissions as part of a planning process and Ms Camm encouraged Northern Beaches residents to also make a submission directly to TMR.

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MRDA Grants 85-Year-Old's Equestrian Dream

By Amanda Wright

Mackay Riding for Disabled (MRDA) recently received a heartwarming request from Nanyima Aged Care in Mirani. Margaret, an 85-year-old resident, had one cherished wish, to ride a horse again.

Margaret's love affair with horses began in her early days in New Zealand's South Island. At the tender age of four, she fearlessly mounted a half draft horse named Dolly using a clever technique: waiting for Dolly to lower her head to eat, she would nimbly hop onto her neck and gracefully slide down when Dolly lifted her head.

Her passion for horses only grew with time, as she galloped into show jumping and became an active member of the local pony club. In her adult years, Margaret even bred Appaloosas, demonstrating her unwavering love for these majestic creatures.

Before her move to Australia, Margaret worked as a Sales Representative for Butlers, a company selling horse supplies like shoeing gear, halters, stirrups, leads, harnesses, bridles, and ointments. Additionally, she generously shared her knowledge and passion for horses by teaching at the pony club and assisting people with disabilities to experience the joy of horse riding.

Upon receiving the request from Nanyima Aged Care, Coach Jody from MRDA knew they had to make Margaret's wish come true. The MRDA team, together with their treasured volunteers, organised a memorable day for Margaret.

With agility and a sparkle in her eye, Margaret mounted Bo-Jangles, one of MRDA's therapy horses, and the reunion was nothing short of magical.

MRDA felt privileged to have played a part in making Margaret's heartfelt wish a reality. The organisation provides therapeutic horse riding lessons for the disabled community of Mackay and the surrounding district.

As Margaret bid farewell to Bo-Jangles, her smile seemed to light up the entire stable. It was a moment of pure connection, proving that dreams never truly ride off into the sunset.

Here's to more dreams coming true, one hoofbeat at a time, and celebrating the little moments that make life a delightful ride.

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Nanyima Aged Care resident Margaret riding Bo-Jangles courtesy of Mackay Riding for the Disabled

Kim McCosker uncovered the simplicity of cooking with her popular ‘4 Ingredients’ series of cookbooks, and the Queensland-based chef visited Mackay last week to share her tips and tricks.

Lucky attendees met Ms McCosker at the Gordon White Library, having a fantastic time and learning lots about cooking with just four ingredients.

After being turned down by every major publisher in Australia, the author self-published her first cookbook ‘4 Ingredients’ in 2007, which went on to become the best-selling self-published book in Australian history.

The initial book has spawned 37 cookbooks, a publishing house, smartphone app, cookware range and television series, making Ms McCosker a trusted household name.

“When I first wrote ‘4 Ingredients’, I thought our target audience would be busy Mums, just like me,” Ms McClusker said.

“I have been astounded by the number of men, students and retirees who have embraced the 4 Ingredients philosophy.”

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‘4 Ingredients’ author Kim McCosker shared her tips and tricks in Mackay last week. Photos supplied: Mackay Regional Council Libraries

Established in the trenches of World War I, Legacy Australia was built on a promise between two diggers; a promise that has been honoured for over a decade.

Legacy Australia has been supporting Veteran’s families since 1923 and in Mackay since 1947, but the branch faces an uncertain future if it doesn’t find more volunteers.

The role of a Legacy volunteer, known as a Legatee, is to conduct welfare checks, either via a visit or a phone call, to the region’s war widows, and to be able to assist them when required.

There are currently 140 women in the Legacy Mackay database and less than 10 Legatees to attend to them all.

“We’re supposed to go and visit those 140 ladies and when you divide that by the number of volunteers, it’s a full-time job and we’re only volunteers,” said President Les Palmer.

“We need people who will take on Legatee positions,” added Secretary Lorrayne Morris.

Ms Morris gains great satisfaction from volunteering for Legacy, saying she feels a sense of pride and accomplishment.

“Talking to the elderly, they’re really lovely to talk to,” she said.

“They’ve got some beautiful stories.”

That’s what enticed incoming volunteer Peter Gibbon, who is involved in the RSL Marian Sub Branch and in discussions to become a Legatee.

“As a volunteer, you talk to the elderly, they are the history of the community here and wider,” Mr Gibbon said.

“They have so many stories that are relevant and they’ve seen changes that nobody else has seen.

“If you’re giving back to the community in this way, with Legacy and other areas, you’ll actually gain so much satisfaction.”

“It’s very rewarding, but it is time-consuming,” added Mr Palmer.

Legacy Australia holds the expectation of at least 20 Legatees to make Legacy Mackay viable, with the branch facing the possibility of amalgamating with Townsville if numbers don’t rise.

“If we can keep it alive, maybe we won’t have to amalgamate,” said Ms Morris.

Legacy Mackay are seeking volunteers of all ages and backgrounds and allow for flexible time commitment, however, recommend the role to those working part-time, the semi-retired and retired.

A blue card is required, and new volunteers will be expected to attend meetings before taking up the role to ensure compatibility.

The team is also seeking volunteers for Legacy Badge Week, which involves two hour shifts selling badges and memorabilia at stalls across Caneland Central, Parkside Plaza, Marian, Proserpine and Sarina.

Legacy Badge Week runs from August 27 to September 2.

Those interested in volunteering can contact Mr Palmer on 0437 451 635 or visit the branch at 94 Nebo Road on Mondays and Fridays between 9:00am and 12:00pm.

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Legacy Mackay President Les Palmer, Secretary Lorrayne Morris and incoming volunteer Peter Gibbon. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Get ready, rev-heads, for the Bullet Bikes Superstore Motorcycle Beach Races is returning for a day of methanol-fueled, nitrous-induced action.

Promising another unforgettable experience, this year’s event will showcase the best of beach racing where high-octane energy meets the creativity of world-class modifications and unique designs.

The competition is the only one in Australia of its kind and will feature an array of extraordinary race bikes, ranging from modified street bikes equipped with Nob Tyres to powerful 4-strokes boasting side-hanging turbos, as well as the awe-inspiring duel carbureted, fuel-injected, and nitrous-powered 500cc dirt bikes that will take your breath away.

"Beach racing is not just a sport; it's an art form," said event organiser Ann Hand.

"We're proud to host this gathering of fearless riders and their cutting-edge machines.

“The dedication and passion on display are truly inspiring."

Expect fierce competition as riders push the limits of speed and skill, displaying moments of great triumph and heartbreaking setbacks.

With the coveted title of ‘King of the Beach’ on the line, the question remains: will it be claimed by an ingeniously converted street bike hybrid or a heavily modified dirt bike?

An estimated crowd of around 5,000 people from all walks of life are set to experience an electrifying ambiance that will resonate through the mainland.

Whether you're a devoted racing fan or simply curious about the fascinating world of beach racing, this event promises something for everyone. Don't miss out on the chance to witness fearless riders and cutting-edge machines in action!

“It's not just a race; it's an experience like no other," exclaimed Ms Hand.

"We encourage everyone to mark their calendars and join us for this action-packed day of thrills and spills."

For more information and tickets, visit www.motorcyclebeachraces.com.au and prepare to immerse yourself in the adrenaline-fueled world of beach racing.

WHAT: Bullet Bikes Superstore Motorcycle Beach Races

WHEN: Sunday, August 27. Gates open from 8:00am, racing begins at 10:00am.

WHERE: Grasstree Beach

TICKETS: www.motorcyclebeachraces.com.au

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Event Organiser Ann Hand, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson and Event Organiser Simon Currie. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Living with disability can be made easier with the right support networks, aids and equipment.

The Mackay Disability Expo, coming up next Friday (August 4), from 9am until noon, will feature a range of both local and out-of-town specialist exhibitors and will be a one-stop-shop for everyone with an interest in disability services.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the expo would be held in the Mackay Showgrounds big shed and would be free and easily accessible to all.

“This event has gone from strength to strength over the last three years,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It’s been tremendous to see it expand from a minor expo held in a community hall to a regional drawcard event,” he said.

“Last year, this event had an amazing atmosphere. There was a real buzz – people were getting some great info from the exhibitors but also taking part and watching some really lively classes from both Crossroad Arts and Groove Movers.”

Crossroad Arts will once again be hosting their ROAR program at the expo, which will be about exploring untapped imaginings through movement, sound and theatre making.

Groove Movers will also be putting on a display of movement and dance for people of all abilities and the Choir of Unheard Voices will be hosting a singing workshop.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the expo started as a way of offering local providers an inexpensive way to showcase themselves while also providing an opportunity for service providers and businesses to network and connect with each other.

“More than 19 per cent of Queenslanders live with some form of disability and more than 10 per cent act as carers, so there was a very real call for an expo of this nature,” he said.

“If you crunch the numbers, that means, in our region, more than 34,000 people could potentially require some level of assistance from the disability sector.”

Coffee and food will be available for purchase at the expo and parking is close, plentiful and disability friendly.

Demonstrations and activities will be held at the following times:

● Groove Movers – 9.30am to 10am

● Choir of Unheard Voices Workshop from 10am

● Crossroad Arts Roar Program – 10.30am to 11.30am

For more information on the event, residents are encouraged to follow Mackay Disability Expo on Facebook or head to council’s website.

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Mayor Greg Williamson with the Groove Movers crew at the 2022 Disability Expo

Police have charged a man after he was allegedly found with stolen weapons in Mackay last week.

It will be alleged between June 20 and 22 a Sarina house was broken into and three guns removed from a gun safe that was secured inside the house.

It will be further alleged on July 17 a South Mackay house was broken into and a gun safe containing firearms was forcibly removed from the house.

On Thursday, July 20, police located a white Holden Cruze with false plates on Shakespeare Street at South Mackay. The vehicle stopped in a shopping centre car park and police stopped behind the vehicle. When police approached the driver and asked him to turn the vehicle off, he reversed into the police car however officers were able to arrest the man and stop him driving away.

Police will allege a search of the ute located six firearms from the South Mackay house and one from the Sarina residence along with a quantity of ammunition and dangerous drugs.

A 26-year-old Mackay man has been charged with two counts each of break and enter, possession of weapons and receiving tainted property (firearms). He has also been charged with three counts of possession of dangerous drug (methylamphetamine, Diazepam and cannabis), and one count each of assault occasioning bodily harm, possess explosives (ammunition) possession of tainted property (cash), receiving tainted property (registration plates) and possession of property suspected of been stolen (tools).

He will reappear in the Mackay Magistrates Court on August 16.

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Stage Two of Thriive Program Builds Confidence

Stage two of the Women in Leadership Thriive program by Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) is now in full swing.

Spearheaded by RDA GW Project Manager, Nic Willis, the program aims to tackle the under-representation of women in leadership roles within regional areas. Through a range of workshops, masterclasses, mentorships from local and regional leaders, and valuable industry networking opportunities, the program strives to empower and uplift aspiring women leaders.

Nic Willis said the program to date has “been a real eye opener”.

“Women at all levels underplay their capacity and capabilities, often feeling that they cannot display their true confidence in roles and tasks.

“The program seeks to support the women involved to stop second guessing their abilities and instead take calculated risks, explore opportunities and above all understand they have the skills and capability to achieve their aspirations.”

Stage one was funded by the Local Buying Foundation (LBF), a BHP-established foundation that supports regional programs facilitating workforce development, innovation and building the industry.

After requests from the stage one participants for continued development and support, RDA GW developed a stage two for the program that will continue to be supported by LBF.

LBF Project Officer Sarah Miotto said that LBF is “thrilled to provide ongoing support” for the Women in Leadership Thriive Program in Mackay.

“After witnessing the success of the initial six-month program, which attracted influential leaders within the community and created demand for continued mentoring and leadership development, the LBF Advisory Committee recognised the value in the continuation of this exceptional initiative.

“This program aligns with the LBF intent and commitment to supporting projects and programs which build regional business communities.”

The twenty-five stage one participants will continue to develop their personal and professional skills in stage two through the program’s workshops and mentoring over the next five months.

To keep up to date with the Women in Leadership Thriive program and RDA GW’s other initiatives, follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/rdagw.

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Back Row – Amy Hayward, Cr. Michelle Green, Shannon McKenzie, Debbie Knight, Adrienne Bradshaw, Rebecca Flor, Nikki Wilson, Nicole Bradley, Janine Wood. Middle Row - Kimberley Staffsmith, Roxanne Mackenzie, Amy Finnis, Andrea Davis, Caitlyn Lamont, Rachel Barbeler, Bonnie Davis. Front Row – Nic Willis, Judy Porter (Facilitator)

Community Bank Sarina Supports Education With Scholarships

Fuelling local ambition and empowering educational dreams, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank took centre stage as they awarded scholarships to three outstanding CQUniversity students at the Ooralea campus presentation this week.

These scholarships are an integral component of the Bank's Community Engagement Programme, embodying its commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering educational and professional growth within the community. By providing essential financial support and unwavering encouragement, the scholarships empower students to pursue their chosen vocations while continuing their studies and contributing to the local workforce.

Offered on an annual basis, the scholarships are open to students in their first year at CQUniversity, offering them the opportunity to apply for either the Vocational and Educational Training (VET) Apprenticeship scholarship or the Higher Education scholarship. This thoughtful selection ensures that aspiring individuals across various fields of study can benefit from the program's support in fulfilling their academic and career aspirations.

The total value of the CQUniversity scholarships awarded in 2023 was $14,000.

Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said these students shone with their enthusiasm about their studies and staying close to home to achieve their career aspirations.

“We know that students who study and get their trade qualifications and degrees in the region are more likely to stay and work here,” she said.

“Scholarships aren’t just about financial assistance, it’s about helping these students navigate opportunities that arise and connecting them with business and industry, potentially creating future leaders in our community.”

Recipient of a Higher Education scholarship Chloe Paul, said it was a huge honour to receive a scholarship to complete 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 the 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.”

CQUniversity Associate Vice-President NQ Rob Brown said he was happy to see the long-term partnership between Community Bank Sarina and CQUniversity continue to provide young people educational and networking opportunities.

“Scholarships provide encouragement for students by providing an investment in their future,” he said.

“Since 2012 we have partnered with Community Bank Sarina, and they have continued to tailor their scholarships to keep pace with the business and industry needs in the region.” he said.

VET (Apprenticeship) scholarship recipient, Seumus Andrews, said he isn’t sure which path he will take after he completes his Cert III in Parks and Gardens at North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation, but knows the scholarship will provide plenty of opportunities for growth.

“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 for a scholarship is beyond their abilities but there’s no harm in giving it your best shot.”

Brooke Vella is completing an Electrical Apprenticeship at Aurizon and plans to be an Electrical Engineer. She gratefully received a VET (Apprenticeship) Scholarship to help forge this career path.

“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.”  

Community Bank Sarina will open applications for their Sarina State High School scholarships in August, to find out more email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.

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(L-R) Maree Franettovich, Charmaine Matsen, Cr Karen May (Community Bank Sarina), Seumus Andrews, Chloe Paul, Brooke Vella (scholarship recipients), Ash-lee Johnson (Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce), Rainee Shepperson (Community Bank Sarina) and Prof. Rob Brown (CQUniversity)

(L-R) 2023 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity scholarship recipients Chloe Paul, Brooke Vella and Seumus Andrews

A female motorcyclist was taken to Mackay Base Hospital in a serious condition after a crash at Chelona last week.

Mackay Police reported that preliminary inquiries indicate two motorcyclists were headed northbound on the Bruce Highway around 3.10pm. They overtook a number of vehicles and as they returned to the lane, collided with each other causing both riders to lose control.

One of the riders, a 47-year-old Rockhampton woman, was transported to the Mackay Base Hospital where she was reported to be in a serious condition.

The second rider, a 49-year-old Rockhampton man, was also transported to the Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition.

Investigators are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam vision to contact police.

There was no reference number provided by police for this incident.

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Under the Radar: High-Speed Rental Car Leads To Sarina Drugs Bust

Last weekend police charged two men with drug related offences, after officers intercepted a rental car for speeding in Sarina on July 22.

Officers intercepted the allegedly speeding Toyota Rav4 on Broad Street just before 10pm, before a subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered three kilograms of methamphetamine, two grams of cocaine and more than $9000 in cash.

A 25-year-old New South Wales man has been charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs.

A 19-year-old New South Wales man has been charged with one count of possessing dangerous drugs.

The duo appeared before the Mackay Magistrates Court on July 24.

Police reported the 19-year-old driver was also issued a traffic infringement notice for speeding (101km/h in a 70km zone, $1161.00) on the Bruce Highway.

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Police seized methamphetamine, cocaine and cash from a speeding rental car last weekend

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Services of Remembrance will be held at every grave or commemorative plaque site across Australia on August 3 to mark 50 years since the withdrawal of Australian combat troops from the Vietnam conflict.

Vietnam veteran and President of the Mackay RSL Sub Branch Ken Higgins OAM and fellow Vietnam veteran and President of the Veterans Support Group Les Palmer have been working together to prepare for the Vietnam Veterans Vigil, to be held at 11:00am, Thursday, August 3 at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Jubilee Park.

The Vigil will pay tribute to the 523 that died during the Vietnam conflict, particularly six from the Mackay region and surrounds.

“The tragedy of losing 523 people was bad, but for us to forget them is worse,” said Mr Higgins.

“We need to remember they gave their lives in the service of the country and they should be remembered for that.”

Following the Vigil, a formal service will be held at Jubilee Park on Friday, August 18 at 5:30pm in line with the Australian Government’s national Commemorative Service earlier that day.

A memorial gathering at Harrup Park will follow that evening, featuring rolling tribute footage captured in Vietnam.

“More than 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam, over 3,000 were wounded and 523 lost their lives in the longest conflict Australia was involved in during the 20th Century,” Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said.

“This was a war that was at times contentious at home, and for some veterans their service was not recognised as it should have been.

“The Australian Government is honouring those who served, and throughout this commemorative year will specifically recognise and honour the service and sacrifice of Vietnam veterans and their families.”

Read on to learn about the six local soldiers who lost their lives during the conflict.

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Pte. Trevor Ralph Black

Service: Australian Army

Date of birth: September 3, 1947, in Mackay

Hometown: Mackay

Occupation: Soldier

Date of Intake: April 3, 1968

Army Employment: Rifleman

Operational Service: South Vietnam

Enlisted: May 19, 1968

Tour of Duty: November 26, 1968 – January 6, 1969 1st Australian Reinforcement Unit; January 7, 1969 – April 8, 1969 A coy, 9th Battalion, RAR

Date of Death: April 8, 1969 in Long Khanh Province, South Vietnam

Resting Place: Bowen General Cemetery

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Pte. Francis John Fewquandie

Service: Australian Army

Date of birth: September 30, 1944 in Mackay

Occupation: Soldier

Hometown: Walkerston

Date of Enlistment: February 6, 1967

Army Employment: Rifleman

Operational Service: South Vietnam

Embarked: April 1967 onboard HMAS Sydney from Australia

Tour of Duty: May 8, 1967 – December 4, 1967 2nd Battalion RAR

Date of Death: December 4, 1967 in South Vietnam

Resting Place: Walkerston Cemetery

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Cpl. Frederick William “Bushy” Hoare

Service: Australian Army

Date of birth: August 19, 1939 in Rockhampton

Occupation: Soldier

Hometown: Mackay

Date of Enlistment: June 7, 1960

Army Employment: Rifleman

Operational Service: Indonesian Confrontation, Vietnam

Tour of Duty: 1962 – 1966 Indonesian Confrontation; May 14, 1966 – September 7, 1966 Headquarters, 1ATF; May 7, 1966 – February 28, 1967 9 Platoon, C Company, 5th Battalion, RAR; May 8, 1969 – August 4, 1969 6th Battalion, RAR

Date of Death: August 4, 1969, in South Vietnam

Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery

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LCpl. Paul Leslie Smith

Service: Australian Army

Date of birth: August 21, 1949 in Mackay

Occupation: Builder’s Labourer, Soldier

Hometown: Mackay

Date of Enlistment: 1969

Army Employment: Rifleman

Operational Service: South Vietnam

Tour of Duty: January 27, 1969 – July 5, 1969 7 Platoon, C Company, 5th Battalion, RAR

Date of Death: July 5, 1969, in Long Binh, South Vietnam

Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery

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Pte. Donald Leslie Thompson

Service: Australian Army

Date of birth: September 14, 1949 in Mackay

Occupation: Soldier

Hometown: Mackay

Date of Enlistment: Unknown

Army Employment: Rifleman

Operational Service: South Vietnam

Embarked: May 1970 onboard HMAS Sydney from Australia

Tour of Duty: May 12, 1970 – August 2, 1970 2nd Battalion, RAR

Date of Death: August 2, 1970 in South Vietnam

Resting Place: Mount Bassett Cemetery

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Pte. Brian Thomas Young

Service: Australian Army

Date of birth: December 25, 1946 in Brisbane

Occupation: Soldier

Hometown: Brisbane

Date of Intake: April 19, 1967

Army Employment: Rifleman

Operational Service: South Vietnam

Embarked: May 1970 onboard HMAS Sydney from Australia

Tour of Duty: March 26 1968 – 16 May 1968 1st Battalion, RAR

Date of Death: May 16, 1968 in South Vietnam

Resting Place: Allambe Memorial Park

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In an ambitious effort to tackle key challenges facing beef productivity in northern Australia, the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) has joined forces with MLA in a groundbreaking $24.4 million partnership. The collaboration aims to combat three critical threats: pasture dieback, land condition decline, and pasture rundown.

The Queensland Pasture Resilience Program (QPRP) will spearhead research, development, and extension activities throughout QLD over the next five years, with additional support from the Australian Government through the MLA Donor Company (MDC).

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the partnership is about helping producers build on their world-leading success.

“The program will form the centrepiece of the Queensland Government and MLA’s feedbase investment in Queensland,” Mr Furner said.

“With a heavy focus on adoption, this program will give graziers the skills they need to improve the sustainability and profitability of their businesses, and that means good jobs for Queenslanders.”

As well as improving land condition through sustainable grazing land management, the program will encourage greater adoption of pasture legumes, which reduces methane emissions intensity. This will support the red meat industry’s goal to be carbon neutral by 2030 and the Queensland Government’s Low Emissions Agriculture Roadmap 2022-2032.

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) managing director Jason Strong said, “Pasture is the foundation of profitable and sustainable beef production, and the QPRP is strengthening our pasture systems from the ground up.

“The QPRP is a long-term partnership that will tackle major issues including pasture rundown, declining land condition and pasture dieback with practical research and adoption activities, creating a pathway to help producers lift their productivity,” Mr Strong said.

“It will also link strongly with the industry’s goal of being carbon neutral by 2030 (CN30), as resilient and productive pastures are a key component of the CN30 target.”

Pasture legumes improve the productivity of native and sown grasses that are in good condition, boosting profitability. They can also help manage pasture dieback, pasture rundown and declining land condition.

Capitalising on DAF’s world-leading research and extension expertise, the Queensland Pasture Resilience Program will help grazing businesses improve:

• land condition and carrying capacity

• animal growth and reproduction rates

• capacity to manage drought

• carbon market opportunities and methane reduction

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National Program Equips Growers Against Fall Armyworm Onslaught

By Amanda Wright

To bolster growers' efforts against fall armyworm, a nationwide coordinated program has been launched to curb the pest's population and minimise its impact.

Led by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and delivered with co-investment from Hort Innovation, the $2.1 million initiative will arm vegetable growers with the tools and knowledge they need to wage war on the ravenous pest.

Through regionally based area-wide management groups, on-farm activities, and workshops, the program aims to cultivate collective knowledge about the pest and its effective management strategies.

Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries senior scientist Dr Heidi Parkes said the program brings research and industry experience in fall armyworm management from across Australia and the globe to multi-industry growing regions nationally.

“Workshops and learning activities with industry will be underpinned by world-class research to ensure impacted growers are getting the most up to date information available,” she said.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the initiative demonstrates the Queensland Government’s commitment to delivering a successful and integrated fall armyworm management strategy.

“Our growers are on the front line when it comes to managing fall armyworm, so it is important that we support them with science-based practical management tools,” he said.

“Getting the science right is vital, and it is just as important to get the right information about fall armyworm management into the hands of our farmers.

“This program will ensure they can easily access the latest industry information and resources to maximise their efforts against this pest.”

Fall armyworm was first detected in Australia in the Torres Strait in January 2020 and has since spread to every state and territory except South Australia.

Hort Innovation chief executive officer Brett Fifield said that Fall armyworm is here to stay.

“We are equipping the vegetable industry with what they need to reduce the pest’s impact while remaining productive and profitable,” Mr Fifield said.

“This program will accelerate our response towards the pest by rapidly bringing cutting edge science into vegetable growers management tool kits, advancing best practice management for vegetable growers and ensuring this new knowledge is communicated widely.”

To date, fall armyworm has caused significant crop losses in sweet corn, maize and sorghum. A number of other horticultural, grain and fodder crops have been impacted to a lesser degree.

Discussions are underway with grains and cotton industries to expand the program to broadacre crops grown in regions with vegetables to enhance area-wide management of this pest.

AUSVEG chief executive officer Michael Coote said the program will bolster the resilience of vegetable growers and position the industry for ongoing success.

“Since fall armyworm arrived on our shores, vegetable growers have quickly stepped into action to combat the pest,” Mr Coote said.

“This investment will fortify our industry against fall armyworm’s impact and ensure that there are no disruptions to the supply of fresh produce to Australians.”

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