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Hormones have become a popular topic, and with good reason. People at every stage of life can experience changes that affect how they feel, function and move through their day. A young person may be struggling with acne. A couple may be trying to conceive. A new parent may feel exhausted and emotionally overwhelmed. Later in life, women may experience significant changes through perimenopause and menopause. Men can also experience hormonal changes that influence energy, mood, sleep, strength and wellbeing. Alongside this growing awareness, an enormous market has emerged. Pills, powders, potions and lotions promise balance, vitality and rapid results. The message can be persuasive, especially when you are tired, uncomfortable or searching for answers. Yet hormone health is deeply personal, and meaningful support begins with understanding the whole person. So, what are hormones? Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands and other tissues throughout the body. They travel through the bloodstream and help coordinate thousands of important processes. Insulin helps regulate blood sugar. Melatonin supports the sleep and waking cycle. Other hormones influence growth, reproduction, appetite, metabolism, stress responses, mood and much more. The body carries an extraordinary built-in intelligence. Your heart beats, your hair and fingernails grow, and countless processes continue every moment without conscious instruction. When hormonal symptoms arise, the body may be communicating that an area of health needs closer attention. There can be many contributing factors. Is the body receiving and absorbing the nutrients it needs? Are sleep, hydration and regular movement supporting healthy function? Could ongoing stress, emotional strain or fatigue be affecting the way the brain, nervous system and hormonal glands communicate? Environmental exposures, medications, alcohol, smoking and other lifestyle factors may also be relevant. Existing health conditions can influence hormones as well, which is why persistent or concerning symptoms deserve appropriate assessment from a qualified health professional. At Healthy Life Essentials, we explore the bigger picture. We listen carefully to your experiences and help you identify realistic areas where greater support may be valuable. Hormonal changes can feel confusing, frustrating and isolating. They can also become an invitation to understand your body in greater depth. Your body possesses a remarkable capacity to communicate. When something changes, it may be asking you to pause, listen and respond with care. Contact Healthy Life Essentials to explore a personalised approach to hormone health and discover practical steps that support your wellbeing through every age and stage of life.
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Australia’s freshwater fish are facing an escalating extinction threat, with new research highlighting the growing pressure on waterways from invasive species, climate change and declining water quality. Researchers from James Cook University and Griffith University assessed 22 rare and threatened Australian freshwater fish species, drawing on published research and the knowledge of regional aquatic specialists. The study found invasive species, habitat degradation, altered river flows and climate change were among the most significant threats to native fish populations, while crossbreeding between introduced and native species was also identified as a concern. James Cook University Principal Research Officer Dr Aaron Davis, a co-author of the study, said freshwater ecosystems were experiencing significant biodiversity loss. "Modern extinction rates for freshwater fish are more than 100 times higher than natural extinction rates. Globally, nearly one-third of freshwater fish species are at risk of extinction, while an estimated 37% of Australian freshwater fish species are threatened," Dr Davis said. Rainbowfish and cling gobies were among the species identified as facing the greatest risk, with several classified as being at high or very high risk of extinction. Dr Davis said some species were particularly vulnerable because their entire populations could be confined to small catchments. “So, their entire global population is extremely vulnerable to a range of potential catastrophic events like pollution, a major landslide upstream filling up instream habitats, a heatwave or hypoxic (low dissolved oxygen) event, or the introduction of a feral species, affecting the entire population. An event like this, which can be very local, and certainly do occur, can wipe out an entire species.” The researchers are calling for stronger protection and restoration of critical habitat, improved riparian vegetation management, invasive species control, and targeted translocation and captive breeding programs. "If we don't move quickly, we risk losing species found nowhere else on Earth," Dr Davis said. CAPTION: Freshwater ecosystems are facing growing pressure from climate change, invasive species, declining water quality and habitat degradation, with researchers warning some native fish species are at risk of extinction. Photo source: Queensland.com
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Road safety, maintenance and investment across the Mirani electorate have been raised in Queensland Parliament by Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP, who said roads remained the number one issue raised with him and his office. “Whether I am in Sarina, Marlborough, Mount Morgan, the Pioneer Valley or one of our smaller rural communities, roads are consistently the number one issue people raise with me,” Mr Kelly said. “People want safer roads, better maintenance and stronger investment in the regional roads that keep our communities and economy moving.” During debate on the Transport and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 and the Criminal Code (Dangerous Driving) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, Mr Kelly said road safety laws needed to be supported by safer infrastructure. “Our roads get kids to school, workers to their jobs, cattle to market, cane to the mill and freight to the port,” he said. He highlighted the Bruce Highway, including safety upgrades around the northern and southern approaches to Sarina, as well as Hay Point Road. “Hay Point Road is an important road for local communities and a key connection to Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and Hay Point Coal Terminal,” Mr Kelly said. “It carries local families and workers alongside traffic servicing one of Queensland’s most important export precincts.” Mr Kelly also pointed to rural freight routes including Marlborough-Sarina Road and May Downs Road. “These are working roads carrying cattle, feed, machinery, fuel, workers and families every day,” he said. “They are part of the supply chain that supports Queensland’s beef and agricultural industries, and investment in these roads is investment in the Queensland economy.” He also described the Capricorn and Peak Downs highways as important connections for the resources sector. Mr Kelly said road safety depended on stronger laws, effective policing and continued infrastructure investment. “Behind every cattle truck, school bus, ambulance and family car is a Queenslander who deserves to get home safely,” he said. “That is why I will keep raising local road priorities in Parliament and pushing for the investment our regional communities deserve.” Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP has raised road safety, maintenance and infrastructure priorities across the Mirani electorate in Queensland Parliament. Photo supplied
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Habana Rural Fire Brigade members have been busy with training and station work, with a strong turnout for a recent training day at Shoal Point. The brigade completed familiarisation training with its four-wheel-drive appliance before new volunteers prepared for their basic firefighter assessments. Training included standpipe handling, hydrant and fill pump familiarisation, as well as a truck hose down. Members then returned to the station to complete appliance checks, while others stayed behind to help erect the station sign after it had been removed while the new concrete driveway was completed. With bushfire season approaching, the brigade has also reminded local residents to take care when preparing their properties. Residents requiring assistance from Habana Rural Fire Brigade with burning are asked to contact First Officer Dave Stewart on 0411 078 648 beforehand. The brigade advised that all fires above 2m x 2m x 2m require a fire permit and encouraged residents to check the fire warden details on the QFD website for the appropriate contact number in their area, or contact their local fire brigade. Residents are reminded to stay safe over summer, with the brigade warning that it only takes a spark to start a fire. All fires should be reported by calling 000. Habana Rural Fire Brigade volunteers took part in recent training at Shoal Point last month. Photo source: Habana Rural Fire Brigade
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Kymbellie holding her flowers and award certificate Photo supplied: Kymbellie Butler
Making a difference has never been about recognition for Kymbellie Butler, but her dedication to Bowen's young people and her passion for sharing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture has earned her the 2026 NAIDOC Community Person of the Year Award.
Presented by the Bowen Girudala Community Cooperative Society, the award recognises people who demonstrate a strong commitment to caring for, protecting and nurturing the Country and cultural values of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“It was an incredibly humbling experience,” Kymbellie said.
“Walking up to accept the award in front of our Elders and the wider community was quite nerve-racking, but it was also a moment of immense pride.”
While Bowen wasn't where Kymbellie Butler's story began, it's the place she now calls home. A proud Bundjalung woman from the Byron Bay region, Kym says a difficult childhood shaped her passion for making sure young people have the support and opportunities she once needed herself.
Today, Kym wears many hats across the community, all centred around supporting the next generation. She is a Student Engagement Officer at Bowen State School and, since joining PCYC Bowen last June, has progressed from Activity Facilitator to Community Development Officer and Lead Gymnastics Coach.
In that role, she created safe and welcoming spaces for young people through youth drop-in programs and introduced the Duke of Edinburgh Award to the centre. This is an internationally recognised award that challenges youth to set and achieve goals across voluntary service, physical recreation, skills development and adventurous Journey.
“Seeing young people build confidence, develop new skills, and feel like they belong is one of the most rewarding parts of my job,” Kymbellie said.
A large part of Kym's work centres on helping young people build a strong sense of identity to culture and country.
Through the PCYC Youth Leadership Team, she encourages local teenagers to care for their community by organising beach and community clean-ups, while at Bowen State School she helped establish a Torres Strait Islander dance group for this year's NAIDOC celebrations.
Supported by Torres Strait Islander volunteers who mentor the students and share their language, traditions and culture, the group has created an opportunity for young people to celebrate their heritage with pride.
“Our stories, languages, traditions, and knowledge connect us to our ancestors, our communities, and to Country,” Kymbellie said.
“It's our responsibility to help keep those connections strong for future generations.”
She's currently studying a Bachelor of Education and a Master of Secondary Teaching, driven by a desire to keep learning while helping others do the same.
“It is a community that I care deeply about,” Kym said.
“I feel incredibly privileged to be able to give back through the work I do.”
Kymbellie thanked the people who have supported her throughout her journey, especially a woman she affectionately calls "Mumma Julz", whose love, guidance and encouragement helped shape the person she is today.
“Her love, guidance, and unwavering support have had a profound impact on my life,” Kymbellie said.
“I truly wouldn't be where I am without her, and I will always be grateful for everything she has done for me.”
Looks rough but it’s in much better shape following their help. Photo Credit: Rachael Smith
Whitsunday Life journalist Zach Houtenville set out before sunrise on Saturday hoping to photograph kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough, but an unexpected roadside encounter instead led to an act of kindness he will not soon forget.
Zach left Cannonvale at 4.45am, hoping to capture one of the region’s most iconic sights, kangaroos gathered along the shoreline as the first light broke over the beach.
However, he saw one much earlier than expected. At about 5.50am, just five minutes from the turn-off along the Bruce Highway, a kangaroo suddenly struck the front right side of his car.
The vehicle remained drivable, but after arriving at Cape Hillsborough, Zach discovered the bumper had been pushed in, the washer fluid reservoir punctured and several parts left hanging beneath the car.
With little mechanical knowledge, and staring down the daunting thought of another two hour drive home still ahead, he was lying on the ground trying to assess the damage when a couple parked nearby walked over and asked if he was alright.
The Wollongong pair immediately pulled a toolbox from their car and, despite it being before 7am, stayed to help.
Using pliers, they repaired a loose plug, secured the hanging parts so they would not scrape along the road and pushed the front bumper back into place.
Their help and confidence that the car would be ok gave Zach the peace of mind to drive home.
Premier David Crisafulli visited Mackay's Northern Beaches this week, confirming the long-awaited Mackay-Bucasia Road and Golf Links Road intersection upgrade had progressed to detailed design.
“We said we'd do it, and we are,” Mr Crisafulli said.
The highly anticipated announcement comes as sweet relief for a lot of motorists, with this intersection seeing up to 30,000 vehicles pass every day, making it one of the most bottle-necked in the state.
“We can get anywhere in half an hour in Mackay, but then when you put in 24,000 to 30,000 vehicles passing one spot on a roundabout which is not working well, we need to change that,” said state member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP.
The $20M upgrade will transform the busy roundabout with traffic signals on all four approaches, supported by CCTV and queue-detection technology designed to improve traffic flow during peak periods.
Additional turning lanes are also planned on Mackay-Habana Road, Mackay-Bucasia Road and Golf Links Road, with construction expected to begin early next year.
“People will see shovels in the ground early next year after the wet season,” Mr Cristafulli said.
“We want to deliver a project that a growing community needs, that it deserves, that's been crying out for the better part of a decade.”
Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm has been a long-time advocate for upgrading the intersection, first calling for funding while in opposition before including the project as part of the State Government's election commitment.
Throughout the planning process, Ms Camm also undertook community consultation, receiving more than 600 responses from Northern Beaches residents. Feedback from those surveys, alongside community meetings, helped push the project to the stage it’s at today.
“I want to say thank you to the community and those particularly who are represented here today by Antoinette du Toit, a local resident,” Ms. Camm said.
“It’s through her advocacy, through our community's joint advocacy, that we are here today delivering upon our $20 million government election commitment to upgrade.”
For Northern Beaches residents like Antoinette, navigating the area's growing traffic has become an everyday frustration.
“I think one of the biggest concerns for people is if there's an accident here, we can't get in or out,” Antoinette said.
“They're [the State Government] listening to us, they see what we need and are actually progressing on it.”
The project comes amid growing concern over the condition and capacity of regional Queensland roads, particularly the Bruce Highway.
“It has been a national disgrace,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“If you have a look at the infrastructure spend, then you realise how fair dinkum we are about it.
“We are unashamedly passionate about making sure that rural and regional Queenslanders get their fair share of what they haven’t for many years, that we're not backing away from doing projects right across the board.”
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook)
Whitsunday Anglican School’s Kindy to Year 2 students enjoyed a fun-filled Athletics Carnival, with young athletes taking part in running, jumping and throwing events while showing plenty of enthusiasm, determination and House spirit. Supported by Senior School volunteers, the day celebrated participation, encouragement and the strong sense of community across the school.
Newly appointed General Manager, Samantha Self (Right) with REMAX Select Principal Nikita Kinnane (Left).
Leading Mackay real estate business REMAX Select has announced the appointment of highly respected business professional Samantha Self as General Manager.
The appointment is set to further strengthen the agency's high-performing team across the Mackay region, with Principal Nikita Kinnane describing Ms Self's arrival as an exciting step forward for the business.
“We are heading in a really exciting direction with our business, and I cannot be more excited to have Samantha join our leadership team to build on that momentum,” Ms Kinnane said.
Ms Kinnane said the recruitment process was focused on finding a leader whose values aligned with those of the business, it was Ms Self's shared commitment to those values and vision that made her the ideal candidate.
"Samantha will play an important role in shaping the future REMAX Select, bringing exceptional experience in property, management and leadership to help drive growth and innovation, and this will flow into enhancing every aspect of our business.
"Importantly, Samantha shares our core values and commitment to putting Mackay first, and we share the same drive to really make impactful change, bring big city ideas and execute them in our own country girl way.”
It was the core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, excellence and trust that Ms Self aligned with, sharing her goal to continue to build on the trust and integrity the agency has established in Mackay, while supporting the continued growth and development of both the team and business.
“I’m excited to take on the role of general manager and work alongside Nikita and the entire team at REMAX Select,” Ms Self said.
“REMAX Select has a strong team with exceptional talent which is highly respected throughout the community and I’m excited to be part of its continued success.”
Ms Self steps into the role after eight years as retail manager of the largest shopping centre in northern Australia. During that time, she was the key driver of building positive, collaborative relationships with retailers, creating an environment where retailers were genuine partners in success.
Having led sales performance analysis and market insight initiatives, Ms Self said she looks forward to applying her knowledge and experience to support the continued success of the REMAX Select team.
“I am dedicated to empowering our team members through training and development opportunities, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed,” she said.
“My goal is to continue to foster the team’s culture of professionalism, responsiveness and customer-first approach and I look forward to collaborating with our talented agents and staff to create a dynamic and successful environment here at REMAX Select.”
REMAX Select is an award-winning real estate business, recently recognised as the 2025 REIQ Medium Agency of the Year and finalist at the 2026 REIA National Awards for Excellence. The office consistently ranks in the National Top 10 Offices in the REMAX Australia network, recognised as the #3 individual office for commissions and transactions at the REMAX Australia Annual Awards 2025 earlier this year, where they were also named a finalist for the network’s community service award and special achievement in marketing for an office award.
REMAX Select is located at 133B Victoria Street, Mackay. Contact (07)4829 4612 or visit remax.com.au/select/ for an award winning real estate experience.
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In 2000, Peter and Denise Phillips laid the foundation for what would become one of Mackay’s most recognisable holistic, all in one property, insurance and financial services ecosystem. Starting as a Mortgage Choice franchise, Gardian was built on a commitment to helping people make confident financial decisions with local people in the know!
Over the decades, that foundation has steadily evolved. Today, Gardian encompasses a wide range of services, including all manner of finance, general and business insurance, financial planning, real estate sales, property management, and commercial sales, management and leasing. What began as a single offering has grown into an integrated business model serving individuals, families, businesses, and community across the region.
Now, the organisation enters its next chapter.
After many years at the helm with her late husband Peter, Denise Phillips will step down from her role as Managing Director. Her leadership has been central to Gardian’s growth — not just in size, but in culture, reputation, and its connection to the local community. Taking over the role is Ben Phillips, Owner/Director and Head of Gardian Finance. Having been closely involved in all aspects of the business and its clients, he brings both continuity and a forward-looking perspective to the position.
Leadership transitions often mark defining moments for organisations. In this case, the change represents both the continuation of a strong legacy and the opportunity to build on it. The evolution of Gardian — from a small franchise to a diversified advisory group — reflects the importance of adaptability, strategic growth, and staying aligned to core values to the community.
For the Mackay business community, this transition highlights the strength of long-term vision and succession planning, particularly within locally grown enterprises. It also reinforces the impact that leadership grounded in community and relationships can have over time.
As Gardian moves forward under new leadership, it does so with deep roots, a clear purpose, and a platform built for continued growth.
I don’t know about you, but I find morning TV hosts incredibly annoying.
I rarely get to see them, with their contrived laughter, over-the-top friendliness, stupid nicknames for each other, make-up and perfect hair cuts.
But sometimes, if there has been some event that might interest me, or if I’m curious about what’s going on, I might flick on the TV and see what’s happening as I’m getting ready for work.
I immediately regret it and start flicking channels to try to find someone bearable. It’s a challenge that usually lasts a couple of minutes before I turn the TV off and do something much more pleasant, like go to work.
I did like Karl Stefanovic but he has been flicked, apparently because his employer didn’t like his podcast guests. There seemed something real about Karl but he was an island in a sea of fakery so there’s no point in me turning on Channel 9 anymore.
There’s an Irish journalist/host on ABC TV, Catherine Murphy, who I also like. She’s funny and real and seems to want to stick to simply presenting a story in her slightly quirky style without imposing an agenda. But that’s about it for me.
One thing the morning shows have an abundance of is “experts”. Whatever the drama that’s emerged, there’s an expert to explain it to you, pull it apart and tell you how concerned you should be. The expert needs to do it in about 17 seconds because everyone is going to get bored soon and we’ve got an ad break coming up.
The more dramatic the event and the more it impacts the loyal viewers, the more vital it is that an expert is on hand.
The current disaster of note it a neat combo: the economy/inflation/interest rates/housing downturn. This is the type of news drama you want when you’re planning the show because it affects the viewers, hits their hip pockets.
But experts are everywhere in the media on this one, not just the morning shows.
They’re out there giving their views on interest rates (some say they will go up, others say they will go down), the economy (some say it will be okay, others say we are headed for a recession), inflation (some say it will get worse and others say it will ease).
Part of this blockbuster, of course, is house prices. Some experts say prices will drop in big cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Others say they will drop everywhere. Some say there will be a small, temporary drop but things will soon start going up again because there is a lack of housing supply across the nation.
One group of experts that are worth paying attention to are the valuers from Herron Todd White, who put out their monthly property clock, which is a snapshot of how they see particular markets. The position on the clock face a particular city is located (we’re talking analogue here kids, not digital) tells you where it sits in the market. Twelve o’clock is top of the market, 3 o’clock is a falling market, 6 o’clock is the bottom of the market, 9 o’clock is a rising market.
Things can change quickly and there a times a property can go from falling market to bottom of the market and up to rising market very quickly.
HTW’s June clock would have been a challenge for them because tax changes and other events had happened but their longer-term impacts are unclear.
They had Bundaberg and Toowoomba at the top of the market, Sydney at 2 o’clock and starting to decline, The Whitsundays, Gladstone and Sunshine Coast approaching the top of the market and Mackay, along with Rocky, Townsville and Cairns, in a rising market.
Most agents in Mackay will tell you there has been a change but there is still activity, investors are still engaged and properties are selling. Most are being alert, not alarmed.
Photo Sources: Glen Kelly MP and Mackay Region Chamber Of Commerce
More than 200 business, industry and community leaders filled the Mackay Turf Club on Tuesday, 1st of July, for the sold-out Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) Queensland Budget Briefing Luncheon, highlighting the importance of regional voices in shaping the state's future.
Hosted by Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP, the event welcomed Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie MP, who discussed the Queensland Budget and its implications for regional investment, infrastructure and economic growth across the Greater Whitsunday region.
The luncheon provided an opportunity for businesses and community representatives to engage in conversations around government priorities and the investments that will help drive future growth throughout the region.
The event also recognised the outstanding contribution of Kylie Porter during a farewell luncheon, celebrating her years of leadership and commitment to regional collaboration.
Kobe has been in care for over six months and has been waiting patiently for a Staffy lover just like you.
Your life would be complete with Kobe. He loves family life such as going for ute rides to Bunnings, swimming, burning off energy, playing, running behind a quad bike and simply being part of absolutely everything you do.
Kobe would thrive with an active family. He needs lots of physical exercise and some ongoing training to continue being his best self.
After so long in care, he deserves a family to call his own who appreciates just how special he really is.
Kobe is approximately 18 months old, is super healthy, desexed and fully vaccinated.
If you can't wait to make Kobe part of your life, please contact LLTags and Dog Rescue on 0410 370 705 or LLTAGSandDogRescue@gmail.com
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Photo source: Newgirlonthebookshelf Street Library
A small neighbourhood initiative in Sarina has grown into a much-loved community hub, with the local Street Library preparing to celebrate its first birthday after an extraordinary year of sharing stories, kindness and connection.
Since opening its tiny doors, the little Street Library has welcomed countless visitors who have borrowed books, left behind their own favourites, contributed to the community pantry, or simply stopped by for a friendly chat.
The milestone comes after the Street Library was proudly named the National Street Library of the Year 2025, a recognition that highlighted the special role it plays in bringing people together.
Chloe, the passionate heart behind the project said the achievement would not have been possible without the ongoing support of locals who continue to make the space what it is today.
The addition of a community pantry has also added another layer of generosity to the little space, with plans already underway to expand it even further.
Beyond books, the Street Library has become a place of small surprises and thoughtful touches, with visitors able to find items such as stickers and coffee sachets alongside reading treasures.
As the first birthday approaches, the community is being invited to help shape the celebrations, with a date yet to be confirmed.
For more information, visit ‘Newgirlonthebookshelf Street Library’ on Facebook or Instagram.
The Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) will once again bring together some of Australia's leading voices in mining, engineering and innovation when it returns to the Mackay Showgrounds from 21–23 July.
For more than 30 years, QME has remained at the heart of Australia's resources sector, connecting industry leaders, suppliers, decision-makers and innovators in Mackay – a city recognised as one of Queensland's mining powerhouses.
This year's free Leadership Series will showcase a diverse line-up of speakers from government, industry, research and education, exploring the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of mining.
Among those taking to the stage are Queensland Minister Dale Last, Senator Susan McDonald, Mayor Greg Williamson, Bryson Head MP, and representatives from the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development, the Queensland Mine Rehabilitation Commissioner, Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) and Resources Safety and Health Queensland.
Industry leaders from some of Australia's largest mining organisations will also share their expertise, including representatives from BMA, Whitehaven Coal, Stanmore Resources, MacKellar Group, Macmahon and Hastings Deering, discussing operations, equipment, safety and workforce capability across Queensland's mining regions.
Engineering and technology will also take centre stage, with specialists from CSIRO, Emerson, Schaeffler, Hitachi Construction Machinery Australia, TUNRA Bulk Solids and Vayeron presenting the latest advancements driving productivity and innovation across the sector.
The program also features respected researchers and academics from the University of Queensland, alongside experts in sustainability, resource science and emerging technologies, while organisations including the Queensland Resources Council, TAFE Queensland, MATES in Mining, PowerSkillsAi and the Mackay Community Foundation will explore workforce development, skills, wellbeing and regional growth.
Recognised as Queensland's largest mining and engineering event, QME brings together more than 300 exhibitors and attracts thousands of visitors from across Australia. The exhibition offers attendees the opportunity to explore the latest equipment, technologies and services while connecting directly with the businesses and people driving the industry's future.
Running alongside the exhibition floor, the Leadership Series provides practical insights into the evolving resources landscape, making it a valuable addition for professionals working across every aspect of mining and engineering.
QME will be held at the Mackay Showgrounds from Tuesday, 21 July to Thursday, 23 July, with the exhibition open daily from 9am to 5pm. Entry to both the exhibition and Leadership Series is free.
From dismantling electronics as a five-year-old to leading an engineering company supporting some of Queensland's largest industrial operations, Deftec Managing Director and Principal Engineer Garry Thomas has always had a passion for technology – and it shows.
Founded in 2013, Deftec has grown into a Queensland-based industrial automation and control systems company, with a full electrical workshop in Mackay and a design, software and electronics hub in Brisbane. Today, alongside business partner Steven Pel and a team of more than 50, the company delivers engineering solutions that help keep mining and heavy industry operating safely and efficiently.
"Our goal is to serve the mining industry by building intelligent, reliable systems," Garry said.
Deftec specialises in industrial control and automation, designing, building and supporting the PLC and SCADA systems that monitor and operate industrial plants. The company also delivers electrical infrastructure, including field panels, substations and motor control centres, managing projects from scoping and design through to manufacture, commissioning and ongoing support.
Rather than relying on multiple contractors, Deftec provides a complete turnkey service.
"We own the whole lifecycle – we scope it, design it, build it in our own workshop, commission it on site and support it afterwards," Garry explained.
"For a mining or industrial operation, that means one accountable partner for the systems they can't afford to fail, not a chain of suppliers pointing at each other."
Among the company's proudest achievements is the development of SubMon, an innovative monitoring system designed to detect ground movement at mine sites. Using cameras and computer vision, the technology measures movement down to a fraction of a millimetre, providing around-the-clock monitoring and early warnings if critical infrastructure begins to shift.
"If a tower starts drifting beyond safe limits, it alerts operators straight away so they can act before anything's compromised. It's already detected real tower movement and raised the early warning – which is exactly why we built it."
While engineering innovation sits at the heart of the business, Deftec says its people remain its greatest strength. Its multidisciplinary team includes engineers specialising in electrical, software, mechatronics, electronics and computer systems, alongside electricians with expertise across communications, instrumentation, fibre, wireless, surface and underground operations.
Garry acknowledges that mining is a demanding industry and credits the company's dedicated team for driving Deftec’s continued growth and success.
"We put real effort into looking after our people: plenty of team activities to reward them for what they put in and to keep the close-knit culture we've built."
Supporting the wider community is another key focus. Deftec recently raised $7,400 through the Beyond Blue Big Blue Table campaign, funding 112 contacts to the Beyond Blue Support Service while helping raise awareness of mental health within the industry. The company also supports grassroots sport across the region, including local cricket and the Powerhouse Fight Series.
Deftec plans to continue investing in its people, expand its regional capabilities and remain at the forefront of automation and control technology for mining and industry.
Find out more about Deftec and its industry-leading automation solutions at this month's QME Expo!
Photo source: St John's Catholic Primary School Walkerston
Hard work in the school cane plot has paid off for students at St John's Catholic Primary School, Walkerston, who have been crowned Mackay's Sweetest School at this year's Mackay Show.
After months of tending their sugarcane crop, students harvested the cane with the guidance of local farmer mentor Charlie Townley, cutting and collecting the stalks before they were sent for judging.
The school's impressive entry also claimed top honours in the Heaviest Six Sticks category, highlighting the students' dedication and teamwork throughout the growing season.
Member for Mirani Glen Kelly praised the achievement and the efforts of everyone involved.
"Congratulations to St John's Catholic Primary School, Walkerston on being crowned Mackay's Sweetest School at this year's Mackay Show!
"To also win the Heaviest Six Sticks category is a fantastic achievement.
"Well done to the students, teachers, grounds staff and grower mentors, and congratulations to every school that took part in showcasing our region's proud sugar industry."
The Sweetest School Competition gives students a hands-on connection to Mackay's rich sugarcane heritage while recognising the growers, mentors and school communities helping inspire the next generation of the region's agricultural industry.
Behind every successful creative agency are businesses willing to take a leap, back a vision, and commit to building something meaningful. Real Conversations puts the spotlight on those businesses sharing, in their own words, how strategic branding and marketing have shaped their growth.
After a decade of growth built on reputation and relationships, EHS Parts had outgrown its brand. To better reflect the scale and capability of the business, EHS partnered with Redhotblue to take a more strategic approach to branding and marketing. The result is a stronger, more authentic brand positioned for the future.
We spoke with owners Chris and Ash Patroni about the journey.
1. What prompted you to invest more strategically in your brand and marketing after a decade of building EHS Parts?
For many years, EHS grew through reputation and strong relationships. As the business evolved, we realised our brand no longer reflected the scale, expertise and capability we had built. Redhotblue helped bridge that gap, clearly articulating that EHS offers far more than parts alone through trusted advice, technical expertise and practical solutions. The capability was always there; the branding simply helped the market see it.
2. Before working with Redhotblue, how would you describe your brand presence and what did you feel was missing?
Our branding was functional but lacked consistency and strategic direction. While the business had strong foundations, our external messaging didn't fully represent the depth of our services and expertise. Redhotblue invested significant time in understanding our business, our values and where we wanted to take EHS. They brought clarity and consistency to our messaging while ensuring the brand remained authentic to who we are and the industries we support.
3. How has a more strategic approach to branding and marketing influenced the way your business is perceived in the mining, civil and construction industries?
The rebrand was never just about creating a new logo or visual identity. It was about establishing a stronger connection between what EHS had built over the years and how the business was understood by customers, suppliers and the broader industry.
Redhotblue helped us communicate the scale of our services, our technical strengths and our solutions-focused approach in a way that feels both professional and genuine. The impact has been significant.
The consistency across our branding and marketing has strengthened trust, increased recognition and opened the door to new conversations and opportunities.
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Come along this Saturday, and celebrate 100 years of the Mackay & District Pipe Band at the free Bluewater Fling, featuring massed pipe bands, Highland dancing, live music, Murphy's Pigs, fireworks and family-friendly entertainment on the banks of the Pioneer River. Photo source: Mackay & District Pipe Band
The sounds of stirring bagpipes, pounding drums and lively Highland dancing will once again fill Mackay's Bluewater Quay when the much-loved Bluewater Fling returns this Saturday, July 11.
This year's event is extra special, with the Mackay & District Pipe Band celebrating 100 years of community service to the Mackay region, making the 2026 Bluewater Fling one of the biggest celebrations in the event's history.
Festivities begin at 1.30pm, before the spectacular Massed Bands March crosses the Forgan Bridge at 2pm, creating one of the day's most memorable sights as pipe bands from across Queensland join Mackay's own band in a stirring display of Scottish tradition.
Visitors can enjoy an afternoon of pipe band performances, Highland dancing, local musicians and family-friendly entertainment, with plenty of food vendors on site and Scottish-style brews available.
Adding to this year's festivities are special guests Murphy's Pigs, the popular Brisbane-based Celtic band renowned for their energetic live performances and sell-out shows around Australia. They'll take to the stage from 5.30pm, before the evening concludes with a spectacular fireworks display presented by Daly Bay at 8.30pm.
Organisers are encouraging families and friends to pack a picnic blanket or fold-up chair and settle in for a free afternoon and evening of entertainment on the banks of the Pioneer River.
Following the daytime festivities, the celebrations will continue at Red Dog Brewery with a traditional Scottish ceilidh, ensuring the party carries on well into the evening.
You don't need Scottish roots to enjoy the Bluewater Fling. Bring your family, a picnic blanket and your sense of fun for an afternoon of live music, entertainment and community spirit as Mackay celebrates 100 remarkable years of the Mackay & District Pipe Band!
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