Dr Dee Nereda Hacking From Bay Massage & Homeopathy

They say healing is both an art and a science, but at Bay Massage & Homeopathy, it’s also a legacy. Dr Dee Nereda Hacking offers something refreshingly different – a healing experience grounded in understanding, tradition, and heart. As the owner, physician, and sole practitioner behind Bay Massage & Homeopathy, she has spent nearly three decades blending the science of medicine with the soul of natural healing.

It seems Dr Dee was always destined for this path.

“I grew up in a natural and homeopathic household where remedies, medicinal plants, and teas were the norm,” she says.

With a lineage steeped in both traditional and natural medicine, including her English grandfather, lovingly known as “Doc,” it was no surprise when she announced her dream of becoming a healer, a doctor, and an author.

Now, as she celebrates 30 years in business in 2025, her clinic stands as a testament to those childhood dreams made real.

Beyond conventional medical approaches, her heart lies in the way she sees people…the whole person, not just the symptoms.

“Holistic wellness is more than the body or medicine. It’s a transformative connection between mind, energy, and the human form – far more than a machine that needs fixing.

“I treat the whole you – mind, body, and spirit.”

Dr Dee’s treatments include homeopathy, injury management massage, reflexology, shiatsu, hypnotherapy, alpha brain wave therapy, CBT, lymphatic drainage, oxygen therapy, tuning fork vibrational healing, and infrared light therapy.

These modalities work in a continuum of support, designed not just to help people feel better, but to live better too.

Tuning Fork Vibrational, Resonance Healing And Biofield Tuning

A tailor-made session begins with an initial consultation, followed by the therapeutic use of vibrational tuning forks to stimulate and balance energy within the body. This gentle yet powerful technique helps alleviate muscle and joint pain, chronic conditions, emotional stress, and mental fatigue, while supporting clarity and overall wellbeing. The relaxing treatment involves lying down as varied tuning fork frequencies are applied to meridian points, incorporating sound balancing and biofield tuning. By working with the body's subtle energy field, this resonance therapy promotes natural healing and restoration from the inside out.

“I have suffered chronic pain for 30 years, and now have found some relief, Dee is amazing.” - Chris, 2025.

www.dr-dee.com
@ Bay Massage & Homeopathy - Dee & John Hacking

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Earlier this month, 41 cadets from No.105 (City of Mackay) Squadron, Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC), took to the skies during a day of flying activities at Mackay Airport with Horizon Airways. For many it was their first flight in a light aircraft.

A total of 17 cadets participated in Cadet Air Experience (CAE) flights, while 24 undertook Pilot Experience (PEX) flights, all under the supervision of Qualified Flying Instructors.

CAE flights allow 3 cadets to fly in a Cessna 172 aircraft with a Qualified Flying Instructor for approximately 45 minutes during which time the instructor demonstrated the aircraft controls and take-off and landing procedures.

PEX flights enable individual cadets to fly with a Qualified Flying Instructor in either a Cessna 172 or 152 and have ‘hands on’ experience flying the aircraft under supervision for approximately 45 minutes.

Cadets in their first year of training are offered CAE flights, and Cadets in their second and subsequent years are offered PEX flights as part of the AAFC National Learning Curriculum.
In addition, a number of cadets are selected annually to undergo flying training to Solo standard.

The RAAF also provide Cadet Aviation Military Experience (CAME) flights in aircraft such as the Globemaster 3, C-130 Hercules, C-27 Spartain and KC-30 Multi- Role aircraft, for AAFC members.

Further CAE and PEX flights will be conducted in August this year for Australian Air Force Cadet members.

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From left to right: Cadet Lucy Tipping, Franske Hovinga, Julie Tipping. Photo supplied

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In the heart of the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region, a quiet revolution is taking place — one led by the women who live, work, and thrive in the agricultural sector. As farming families adapt to shifting roles and the evolving needs of agriculture, this group is stepping up to support and empower a vital part of the industry: women.

Reef Catchments Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator, Kellie Harmsworth, lives by the mantra: “If you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, march down there and light the darn thing yourself!” It’s a bold philosophy — one that many women in agriculture will resonate with; equal parts grit, humour, and quiet determination.

It’s also a sentiment that sits at the heart of the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac Women in Agriculture (WiA) group — an initiative that recognises how vital it is to create space for women who are part of agriculture to connect, grow, and be heard.

“The WiA group was created as I had seen the need — from my own personal experience — for women who work on-farm or within the agriculture sector to have a comfortable space for connecting, sharing, and learning,” said Kellie. “I’m utilising word of mouth, social media and other platforms to provide growth opportunities for ladies in our region.”

“Life is so busy and can at times be consuming, isolating and overwhelming — a simple opportunity could potentially create a more positive pathway for someone who, like all of us, is on a journey.”

WiA aims to strengthen the everyday resilience of women who balance family, farm, and often off-farm work. It’s about building the confidence to lead, the clarity to set goals, and the community to lean on when things get tough. Perhaps most importantly, it’s about visibility: making sure women are seen — not just as supporters of farming businesses, but as co-drivers and custodians of them.

“It’s a community,” said local grazier Sharon Yensch, “where we are isolated as farmers with commitments to our family and farm, and we can forget ourselves. We lose our identities.”

“This group helps support my self-worth as a Woman in Ag. It gives us a comfortable environment to learn, share, and connect to help create healthy minds.”

Women who join WiA groups often speak about how empowering it is simply to be in a room where they’re not alone in their challenges. The shared conversations about time management, delegation, farming partnerships, and goal setting help break the mould and build healthier personal and professional habits.

As Sharon puts it, “Farming is about being in a partnership. What tools or methods can we learn to better manage time, plan ahead, and support one another? Sometimes, we just need that reminder to wind back and make time to smell the roses.”

And it’s not just about the now — it’s about the future.

“We are custodians of our farms,” Sharon said. “What are we leaving for the next generation? What differences are we making? Plant the seed, keep watering — and it will grow.”

A Chance to Connect
The next Women in Agriculture gathering will be held on Saturday, July 5, at Sharon Yensch’s property in Bowen. The event — “Building Strong Foundations” — will provide a relaxed, supportive space to explore identity, purpose, and practical strategies for managing life and work on the land.

Featuring guest speaker Kaitlin Tilly and hosted with community in mind, it’s another opportunity for women to come together, share stories, and build lasting connections.

For more information about the Women in Agriculture group or to join the next event, please contact Kellie Harmsworth at saf@reefcatchments.com.

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Recent WiA Farm Animal First Aid Workshop at the Calen Trail and Horse Sports club. Photo supplied

Sharon Yensch hosting a Reef Catchments Peer to Peer workshop on her property in Bowen.

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Last Friday, St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School in the Mackay Northern Beaches officially opened and blessed its Stage 4 and 5 developments in a heartfelt ceremony attended by dignitaries, community members, and proud families.

The event marked a major milestone in the school’s journey, which will celebrate its tenth anniversary in 2025. Since opening in 2015, St Brendan’s has grown more than fourfold and is now well on its way to becoming a three-stream school.

Principal Karla Falzon addressed the gathering, saying, “I feel deeply honoured to deliver the heart of this address on behalf of the St Brendan’s school community.

“First and foremost, we give thanks to God for bringing us together today and for the blessings that continue to sustain and guide us. It is through God’s grace that we have been able to celebrate this special occasion.”

The new facilities include a purpose-built classroom block for Year 5 and 6 students and a modern library. The upgrades are designed to accommodate the school’s rapid growth and provide state-of-the-art learning environments.

The ceremony included blessings by Diocese of Rockhampton Bishop Michael McCarthy, who said, "Thank you for your support and prayers – for your commitment to Catholic education, which lies at the heart of our mission."

Minister for Education Jason Clare acknowledged the federal contribution to the development.

“The Australian Government has contributed $1.8 million under the Capital Grants Program to support the development of new general learning areas and student amenities,” he said.

“This program represents an enormous opportunity for students in schools.”

“Education is the most powerful cause for good,” he added, noting that the new facilities will help students at their school to become anything they want.

“I would also like to personally thank the teachers and staff for everything you do to help your students be kind and work harding.

“I look forward to continuing to work with you in the future.”

Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox also praised the school community.

“I was honoured to take part in the opening and blessing of stages 4 and 5 at St Brendan's Catholic Primary School Mackay Northern Beaches this morning.”

He commended the school captains and students for their warm welcome and tour of the new facilities.

Mayor Greg Williamson noted that, “This important milestone marks another step forward for the school community, with new facilities helping to support growth, learning and opportunity for students now and into the future.

“Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing these stages to life – your commitment to education and the community is something to be proud of.”

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St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School celebrated the official opening and blessing of its Stage 4 and 5 developments last Friday, marking a significant milestone ahead of its tenth anniversary in 2025. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

The new facilities at St Brendan’s Catholic Primary School reflect a bold vision for 21st-century learning, designed to empower students and support the school’s continued growth into the future. Photo source: St Brendan's Catholic Primary School Mackay Northern Beaches

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With quiet strength and immense gratitude, Mackay man Les Hastie faced the toughest chapter of his life, battling both severe kidney disease and pancreatic cancer. Through every hospital visit and round of treatment, it was the steadfast love of his family and the compassionate care of Mackay Base Hospital staff that carried him through.

After his passing in March and as part of his family’s healing journey, his wife Wendy and daughter Renae visited the palliative care and renal unit teams to present a token of their appreciation for his dedicated and excellent care.

“Dad had been a regular patient at the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) over the last couple of years receiving care for his stage four kidney disease and more recently pancreatic cancer,” Renae said.

“As part of the healing process, my Mum wanted to show her thanks to the two main teams he received care from; the palliative care team and the renal unit support team under Dr Wu.

“We were able to visit both teams and deliver a little thank you basket of treats as well as get some photos with the staff.

“Throughout Dad’s health journey, he also received excellent care and support through ED, F2 and G0 and we wanted to say thank you and highlight the wonderful work the clinical staff here are doing for their patients and also their carers.”

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Mackay Base Hospital renal clinical nurse consultant Chantal Jones, Renae German, renal specialist Dr Danielle Wu, nurse practitioner Dolly Ramsamy and Wendy Hastie. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Wilmar AgServices has bolstered its agronomic services with the addition of a third agronomist to the team. Drew McGilchrist, a respected Mackay agronomist with more than 20 years' experience, joined Wilmar AgServices in June. He joins Dev Chalise, a certified practising soil scientist with a PhD, and Marc Tanizar, who graduated from the University of Queensland's Gatton Campus last year with a Master's in Agricultural Science.

AgServices Business Manager David Parker said the decision to expand the business's agronomy resources was driven by ongoing conversations with Bio Dunder customers who wanted to make more informed decisions about fertiliser.

"Our customers are trying to use fertiliser smarter by being strategic about application timings," he said.

"They're also very interested in their soils and the benefits that Bio Dunder brings to soil health compared to other products in the market."

He added that the team members are well qualified to do soil testing, provide information on soil science, and assist with Bio Dunder pricing and recommendations.

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You’re Not Alone!

Pelvic floor health is often overlooked, but it’s something everyone should care about. From incontinence to pelvic pain, pelvic floor dysfunction affects millions of people — and the great news is, it’s treatable! As a local pelvic floor and continence physiotherapist, I want to help you understand how simple steps can boost your pelvic health and improve your quality of life.

Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support your bladder, bowel and reproductive organs. When these muscles weaken or become imbalanced, you may experience symptoms such as urinary leakage, pelvic pain, prolapse or bowel issues.

Surprisingly, pelvic floor dysfunction is common — but it’s definitely not normal. Studies show that one in three women and one in nine men will experience pelvic floor issues at some point. It doesn’t just happen with age or childbirth; it can affect people of all ages and at any stage of life.

Pelvic floor dysfunction can make simple activities like exercising, laughing or even coughing feel uncomfortable or embarrassing. But it is treatable. Current evidence recommends that individualised pelvic floor muscle training by a qualified physiotherapist should be offered as the first-line treatment. Pelvic floor physiotherapy aims to restore muscle function, improve symptoms and help you regain your quality of life. We’ll guide you through a tailored treatment plan that may include specific pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle advice and, if needed, aids or devices to support your symptoms.

While we know pelvic floor muscle training can be highly effective, doing the exercises incorrectly can make symptoms worse. Many people struggle with proper technique, so an individual assessment with a pelvic floor physiotherapist is recommended to ensure you’re performing the exercises correctly for the best results.

Additionally, many people continue to suffer from bothersome symptoms due to a lack of consistency with their pelvic floor muscle training. Staying motivated at home can be difficult — but joining a group class can help. It’s a proven way to stay on track and improve outcomes.

Thanks to the Queensland Government Sport and Recreation ActiveKit Super Round, Women’s Health Physio Mackay now offers twice-weekly, free supervised pelvic floor and abdominal exercise classes for everyone. Our Fit Floor to Core classes are evidence-based and designed to functionally strengthen your pelvic floor in a supportive group setting. All classes are live-streamed and recorded, so you can attend in person, join remotely or watch the sessions in your own time — making them accessible to our wider regional community.

Pelvic floor dysfunction doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying life. With pelvic floor physiotherapy, you can regain control, feel stronger and live your best life. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t wait — reach out to Women’s Health Physio Mackay today.

Your pelvic health matters — and getting the right help can make all the difference.

Lauren Neill
Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist

Women's Health Physio Mackay
admin@whphysiomackay.com.au
0476 616 324

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Mackay Regional Council is proud to reaffirm its dedication to supporting local small businesses by re-signing the updated Small Business Friendly Commitment.

The commitment will be co-signed in partnership with the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce.

This renewed pledge reflects council’s ongoing role in building a resilient and thriving small business community across the region.

Originally signing the charter in March 2021, council continues to champion small business through this strengthened collaboration.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Small Business Friendly Program had recently been revised following a comprehensive review.

“The new commitment presents a simplified, more practical and measurable framework that sets clearer expectations for members,” Mayor Williamson said.

“This is about uplifting our small business community through real action – boosting digital literacy, cutting red tape, promoting opportunity and building networks that help our businesses thrive,” he said.

Currently, 51 of Queensland's 77 councils are active participants in the initiative.

Queensland Small Business Commissioner, Dominique Lamb, will join council and Chamber representatives on Wednesday, June 18, in Mackay to mark the official recommitment, taking place after the scheduled council meeting.

Ms Lamb said small businesses were an essential part of Mackay’s economic future.

“There are more than 495,000 small businesses in Queensland who employ more than one million people and contribute more than 117 billion dollars to the economy,” Ms Lamb said.

“But more than just being a key part of our regional economies, small businesses make communities,” she said.

“Small business owners are the people who roll up their sleeves and chip in to support our community, charities, sporting clubs and just generally lend a helping hand when needed,” she said.

Mayor Williamson said the pledge reinforced council’s commitment to supporting the region’s business community.

“Small businesses are the heart of our economy – there are more than 10,000 registered small businesses in our region,” he said.

“As a council, we are proud to have spent about $147 million so far this financial year with local businesses, which is 72 per cent of all council procurement.”

“This updated commitment ensures we continue to prioritise local businesses where possible, while also delivering practical support for those who drive local jobs, innovation and services.”

The Small Business Friendly Commitment commits council to working with small businesses, industry, community and government to be more small business friendly by:

Uplifting the capability of small businesses.
Working together for small business.
Fostering ecosystems that help small businesses thrive.
Promoting small businesses and vibrant economies.
Enabling small business development and success.

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Council has introduced five strategic advisory committees to enable councillors to develop the strategic directions outlined in the corporate plan.  It’s important that councillors have opportunities to work with the CEO, directors and executive managers to ensure the best possible outcomes for our community.

The advisory committees also enable community members, organisations, state agencies, business and industry to inform the committees on matters that help the Mackay region to become the best region for liveability and livelihood. Committees are as follows:

Arts, Culture and Heritage Strategic Advisory Committee
Co-Chairs: Cr Namarca Corowa, Cr Heath Paton
_Responsibilities and strategic focus __

• Make recommendations regarding Reconciliation initiatives
• Enhance Arts, Culture and Heritage
• Make recommendations regarding community arts events and capacity-building opportunities
• Make recommendations regarding council Art, Museums and Heritage Collections polices and strategies

Economic Development and Growth Strategic Advisory Committee
Co-Chairs Cr Belinda Hassan, Cr Nathenea Macrae
Responsibilities and strategic focus

• Guiding diversification of the regional economy
• Facilitating development and innovation
• Investment opportunities
• Support for and growth in existing industries
• Tourism and events attraction

Sustainability Strategic Advisory Committee
Co-Chairs: Cr Alison Jones, Cr Peter Sheedy
Responsibilities and strategic focus

• Sustainability
• Natural environment
• Coastal management
• Catchment management
• Strategic planning

Regional Infrastructure Strategic Advisory Committee
Co-Chairs: Cr Karen May, vacant
Responsibilities and strategic focus

• Regional waste and recycling
• Regional transport and drainage
• Energy, water and communications
• Regionally focused parks/facilities

Liveability and Social Inclusion Strategic Advisory Committee
Co-Chairs Cr Karen May, Cr Ash-Lee Johnson
The committee is strategically focused on making recommendations regarding:

• Provision of community facilities
• Community events and place making opportunities
• Governance and regulatory mechanisms
• Locality social planning
• Community development
• Community safety

I would encourage community to reach out to councillors to discuss opportunities to have input into this important work.  It is important for the community voice to be heard, and the establishment of these committees is one way for community to influence council decision making. All recommendations from the advisory committees are presented at a council meeting.

Cr Karen May
Deputy Mayor

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The Search For 10 Key Biomarkers

Bowel cancer is no longer just a disease of the elderly. In Australia and around the world, there's been a concerning rise in bowel cancer cases among people under 50, and no one yet knows exactly why.

Leading cancer researcher Professor Michael Samuel – from the Centre for Cancer Biology based at the University of South Australia and the Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Health Research – is at the forefront of a major effort to find answers.

Backed by a $573,833 grant from Bowel Cancer Australia through Cancer Australia, his team has launched a three-year research project to uncover why younger people are increasingly affected and why a significant number of patients relapse after treatment.

“We’ve come a long way in the fight against bowel cancer,” Professor Samuel explains.

“Thanks to better screening, fewer people are dying from it. But early-onset cases are growing, and that’s a mystery we urgently need to solve.”

Recent statistics from the University of Melbourne show that someone born in 1990 is up to three times more likely to be diagnosed with bowel cancer than someone born in 1950.

And the challenge doesn’t end with diagnosis.

About one-third of patients who have their bowel cancer surgically removed later see the cancer return, but there’s currently no way to predict who’s at risk. In people under 50 diagnosed with cancer, the relapse rate is closer to 50 per cent.

“That means that some people are going through intense monitoring and therapy that they might not need, while others who opt out may end up facing a relapse that could have been prevented,” says Professor Samuel.

“It’s not good enough. We need tools to predict, prevent, and personalise treatment.”

This is where the team’s breakthrough focus comes in: 10 key biomarkers. These biomarkers (chemicals produced by tumours) are being investigated as potential indicators of both the risk of developing early-onset bowel cancer and the likelihood of a recurrence.

With the investigation into the 10 biomarkers now fully underway, this research offers hope for earlier detection, smarter treatment, and ultimately, better outcomes for bowel cancer patients of all ages.

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Five small and family businesses in the Mirani electorate have received a grant under the Queensland Government’s Business Basics Grants program.

The grants program provides support for small and family businesses to grow through access to professional business advice or improvements to digital and marketing systems.

Queensland has more than 495,000 small and family businesses and they employ more than 1 million Queenslanders.

One of the local recipients of the Crisafulli Government’s Business Basics Grants program is Michelle Camilleri, One Hungry Mumma Pty Ltd. One Hungry Mumma is small batch condiment business, transforming excess food into award winning condiments using locally sourced produce.

“Receiving support through the Business Basics Grant will be a game-changer for our business”

“We are passionate about transforming local produce into award-winning condiments and creating unique food experiences, this funding has allowed us to invest in the tools we need to grow, we're now in a stronger position to connect with food lovers, tourists, and our local community’’ said Michelle Camilleri owner of One Hungry Mumma Pty Ltd.

Member for Mirani said funding will assist local businesses receive professional advice and services to grow.

“We are putting small and family businesses first with the latest round of Business Basics Grants,” Glen Kelly MP said.

“Our small and family businesses are the key to driving economic growth and we want to support our businesses to thrive for years to come.

“We are supporting businesses to increase their key capabilities, embrace innovation and capitalise on high growth opportunities.”

Small and Family Business Minister Steve Minnikin said the Business Basics Grants program was part of the Small and Family Business First Action Statement providing assistance for business development activities at different stages of their lifecycle.

“Queensland small businesses are not only essential to the prosperity and economic growth of Queensland, but they are also vital in supporting communities across the country and especially in our regions,” Mr Minnikin said.

“We know small businesses continue to face challenges with rising costs, economic uncertainty, and in some cases the effects of natural disasters."

Mirani electorate successful recipients are:

EDC Accounting Pty Ltd – Ooralea
One Hungry Mumma – Finch Hatton
The Hare Boutique – Walkerston
The Childminding Co. – The Caves
Golden Hour Marketing – Ooralea

Visit business.qld.gov.au to see a full list of Business Basics Grant recipients and to find out about other upcoming business grants programs.

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Glen Kelly MP and Minister Steve Minnikin

Michelle Camilleri, owner of One Hungry Mumma, is turning local produce into award-winning condiments — with a helping hand from the Business Basics Grant to grow her small batch food business. Photos supplied

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What began a decade ago as a heartfelt response to a struggling community has blossomed into Central and North Queensland's largest charity golf day, consistently driving significant funds and fostering immense goodwill.

The M&P Services-Key Solutions Group Annual Charity Golf Day is celebrating its remarkable 10th anniversary, poised to shatter all previous fundraising records and cement its legacy as a true community pillar.

How a Passion for Golf Paved the Way for Community Support

From humble beginnings in its inaugural year, raising a commendable $6,000, the event has seen an extraordinary surge in support, culminating in over $61,000 raised in its 9th year. This year, the ambition is even grander: to surpass an incredible $75,000, which would push the total funds raised over the past decade to more than $350,000 – a truly monumental achievement for the community.

The genesis of this beloved event traces back to a challenging period.

"The annual golf day was born in the downturn," explains Max Lamb Jr, Director of M&P Services.

"Businesses were really feeling the pinch in 2012 and 2013, and by 2015, charities were truly suffering."

Max, who previously hosted other supplier/client annual events that saw waning interest, sought a new avenue for impact.

"I thought of a golf day, which linked a personal passion of mine with something I could make truly special," he recounts. And special it has become.

Over the years, the M&P Services-Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day has taken off, now widely regarded as the pinnacle of fundraising combined with fun in the community. It's a day for everyone, attracting both men and women, with workplace groups of women increasingly showing the men how it's done on the greens.

Beyond the friendly competition, every swing and every putt is in the name of charity. Participants can test their luck at the popular "Hit and Hope" hole, “Putt for Dough” or contribute to the "Dry Village" hole, where pledges for tents directly support Chances House for the homeless. The generosity doesn't stop there, with over $30,000 in incredible raffle prizes up for grabs. Imagine winning your very own "Club House”, kitted out with a 65-inch Smart TV along with all the luxuries in a 29m2 cyclone-rated modular building! Other coveted prizes include kayaks, wheelie bins full of groceries, BBQs, flight vouchers, sailing trips, a generator, and much more. For those seeking unforgettable moments, there are awesome experiences too, like weekend getaways and VIP experiences.

Max Lamb Jr is quick to acknowledge the vital partnerships that make the day possible.

"We couldn't do this without the incredible support of our sponsors and enthusiastic participants," he states.

"I want to specifically thank Frank Attard from Key Solutions Group, our joint naming rights sponsor, along with all our other major and minor sponsors. Their commitment is what allows us to ensure that 100 per cent of the funds raised go directly to those in need in our region.”

As the 10th M&P Services Charity-Key Solutions Group Golf Day prepares to tee off, it's abundantly clear that this isn't merely a pursuit of birdies or an avoidance of the dreaded rough. It's a masterclass in driving change, one perfectly (or hilariously imperfectly) struck ball at a time.

This annual gathering has consistently proven that when a community collectively swings for a cause, the resulting impact is anything but par for the course. Indeed, it's a decade-long hole-in-one for Mackay, demonstrating that even a slice can lead to a substantial sum for those who need it most.

WHAT:
10th Annual M&P Services Charity Golf Day
WHEN:
Friday, 25th July 2025
WHERE:
Mackay Golf Club
Mackay Bucasia Road

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The Bluewater Lagoon will close next Monday (June 30) for its winter maintenance period.

The facility will undergo important upgrades to the plant room, including pump and instrument upgrades, during that time.

Contractor Dowdens Pumping and Water Treatment will be carrying out the upgrades and are expecting works to be completed by mid-September 2025.

Works will be carried out Monday to Friday from 6.30am to 6pm and Saturday from 7am to 5pm, as required.

There may be some noise associated with these works. However, appropriate controls will be implemented to minimise any impact to residents.

The works within this project will ensure this facility continues to serve the needs of the community well into the future and it is expected to increase the longevity of the lagoon.

Other council pools, including the Mackay ARC, will remain open during this period. For opening hours, head to council's website

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Calls for improved public transport access in Mackay’s growing Beaconsfield area have been brought to the attention of state leaders, with Member for Whitsunday and Minister for Seniors, Hon Amanda Camm MP, recently meeting with Margaret Lane and residents of Kerrisdale Gardens to hear their concerns.

Ms Camm said, “After listening to the needs of the Kerrisdale community, I will take the matter forward to the Minister for Transport, TransLink and Mackay Regional Council to progress greater accessibility for our senior population and community who want to utilise 50 cent fares.”

Residents are now advocating for an extension of the current bus route and the installation of a new bus stop to better serve the needs of locals, staff, and the broader Kerrisdale community.

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State leaders are considering improved bus services for Mackay’s Beaconsfield area after residents of Kerrisdale Gardens raised concerns about accessibility and affordable fares. Photos supplied

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Finance experts are calling on the Federal Government to make it easier for Pacific and Timor-Leste workers that come to Australia to access unclaimed superannuation once their visa expires.

More than 31,000 workers participated in the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme in rural and regional Australia in March 2025, helping to fill labour gaps in agriculture, aged care, hospitality and tourism.

PALM workers on a nine-month visa can typically accumulate between $3000-4000 in superannuation before tax, while those on four-year visas can accumulate up to $16,000. It can only be claimed after their visa expires and they’ve returned to their home country, and the process of accessing the funds is difficult and time consuming.

UniSA Senior Lecturer and Manager of the UniSA Tax Clinic, Dr Rob Whait, says the Australian Tax Office holds millions of dollars of unclaimed superannuation owned to workers from the PALM scheme.

“Completing the required paperwork requires workers to be proficient in English, seeing as the forms aren’t available in other languages. It also requires access to a computer and the internet as the forms can’t be downloaded and need to be completed online, then emailed to the relevant authority,” he says.

“In PALM countries, English is a second language, and the internet is not as readily accessible as it is here. The responsibility for making a claim lies solely with the worker, and there is no obligation for the employer here in Australia to provide information about how workers can claim their superannuation.”

Dr Whait and Dr Connie Vitale from Western Sydney University are recommending policy reforms to make it easier for PALM workers to have their superannuation directly paid into their own super fund in their home country while working in Australia, or have the funds paid as part of their wages in lieu of superannuation.

Analysis by Dr Whait and Dr Vitale of the issue revealed several recommended policy reform options to make it easier for PALM workers to claim their superannuation once their visa expires. It was found that allowing workers to automatically have their superannuation paid directly into their own fund in their home country while working in Australia would be the most logical option.

The two researchers travelled to PALM worker locations across SA and NSW late last year to support workers to prepare their Departing Australia Superannuation Payments (DASP) claims and other documentation before leaving Australia.

He says the recent visits to the PALM worker locations revealed that paying superannuation into a super fund in their own country was not the most preferred option by the workers themselves and that payment added up front to their wages was most desired.

“A leader among the PALM workers said that he would prefer Australia to follow the New Zealand approach where superannuation is not paid at all, and instead, they get all their money paid as wages. Another PALM worker said that the superannuation funds in their country are not being managed in their best interests,” Dr Whait says.

“If done correctly, PALM superannuation policy reform presents Australia with an opportunity to rebuild and strengthen relationships with its Pacific neighbours.”

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Pacific and Timor-Leste workers have become a vital part of regional Australia’s workforce, but experts say the system for claiming their superannuation after returning home is too complex and urgently needs reform. Photo supplied

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