Guests aboard the Coral Discoverer on a recent Citizen Science expedition on the Great Barrier Reef had the unforgettable experience of naming a brand-new manta ray. The playful juvenile male was first seen breaching the surface and showing off his curious nature at Yamacutta Reef in the stunning Whitsundays, and was aptly named Discover-ray.

Adding to the magic of the voyage was Project Manta researcher and guest lecturer Hannah Moloney, who guided guests in capturing ID shots of the majestic rays and shared fascinating insights into the research behind manta ray conservation.

With manta ray season approaching as winter sets in, several rays have already made appearances, including some familiar fins. Among the resightings was 'Coral Guardian', spotted cruising around the islands. This local legend was first recorded in June 2020, reappeared in July 2022, and has now been seen again in March 2025. Another old friend, Marg, made a comeback too. She was first seen at Yongala in November 2015 and has now been spotted once again 9 years later.

Project Manta Whitsundays plays a vital role in tracking and protecting these gentle giants. Their work focuses on monitoring populations through satellite tagging and photographic identification, which helps researchers track movement patterns and better understand how manta rays interact with their marine environment. They also work to protect important habitats such as feeding and cleaning stations by collaborating with local stakeholders and advocating for stronger marine conservation policies.

A key part of Project Manta Whitsundays mission is public education, using community outreach, school programs and eco-tourism experiences to inspire greater awareness and appreciation for manta rays. All of this is backed by robust scientific research that explores the biology, behaviour and ecology of manta rays, providing the foundation for effective conservation strategies.

You can stay updated on manta sightings, research highlights and reef adventures by following @projectmantawhitsundays on Instagram.

Whether you're a seasoned snorkeller or a first-time reef explorer, there’s something truly magical about meeting a manta ray. And who knows – the next one might be named by you.

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Whitsundays Mantas return! Photo source: @projectmanta_whitsundays.

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The 2025 flag laying ceremony held a particularly moving moment this year, as the service of an unmarked soldier was finally recognised.

More than 400 flags were placed at the Proserpine Cemetery during the annual tribute, with a special cross erected at the previously unmarked grave of Andrew William Anderson. Until now, his resting place bore no headstone, no sign of his service.

Lyn Burke, founder of the flag laying tradition, emphasised the importance of remembering every service man and woman, saying it’s vital to ensure no one is forgotten.

400 Flags Laid And Soldier Found

Old Proserpine Cemetery is full of unmarked graves, and Lyn Burke and Lloyd Fox are still on a mission to find the names of all ex-serving military personnel whose bodies are located in these graves today.

Andrew William Anderson was a Bowen man that enlisted into the service at age 40.

On the voyage to England, Anderson contracted mumps, then spent time in training battalions, battling further illness, including influenza and scabies.

A fractured thigh bone ultimately ended his military hopes, and he was sent back to Australia without ever reaching the front lines.

Despite never seeing combat, Anderson’s willingness to serve is now being acknowledged.

During the 2025 flag laying ceremony, a cross was placed on his previously unmarked grave, finally giving recognition to a soldier whose sacrifice had long gone unnoticed.

Years ago, when Lyn and Lloyd started their flag laying tradition it was just the two of them, and the pair recalled how it had taken them hours to lay all the flags. Now the community get behind the annual event and this year the 122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment attended for the first time.

Lieutenant Chris Saunders from 122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment said it was a huge honour to attend and assist in the flag laying ceremony, and the assembly of the cross for Andrew William Anderson.

“It's surprising, even to myself and the major of Mackay that 400 flags are being laid today,” he added.

“That's an awful big representation for a town the size of Proserpine, to have 400 ex serving members being honoured with flags today.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity, and we'll be here again next year.”

Lyn said the flag laying is all about letting the community know that these service men and women are here, and just how many there are in the region.

“This to honour these men and women and also let our community know that they are here,” said Lyn.

“Most people don't realise how many servicemen we have in this area, or what they went through, or what they did for us.

“We do it so anyone can come and have a look and see all of these people.

“Not everyone's got a symbol, this one here is the greatest example. There is nothing that tells you that this person here was in the military.

“Nothing says that for you, but having a flag next to him, you can see that person was.”

The ceremony is always the weekend before ANZAC Day, and the flags are kept up for two weeks afterwards so people can see and acknowledge all of those in the Old and New Proserpine Cemetery that served for this country.

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122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment with the now recognised soldiers grave. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

Young people from Proserpine State High School and Whitsunday Swimming Club were at the flag laying

Laying the flags

122 Army Cadet Unit Proserpine Detachment Cadets hammering in the cross for Andrew William Anderson

Photo credit Daniel Heggie

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With Easter now behind us and Anzac Day upon us, Airlie Beach Bowls Club is looking forward to the long-awaited installation of its new cover. In the meantime, the greens have been alive with action, as members turned out in force for a packed week of competitive and social bowls.

Isgro Takes the Title in A Grade Final
The headline event of the week was the Men’s A Grade final, where club legend Manny Isgro took on promising young talent Harrison Quad in a gripping contest. It was a classic battle between master and apprentice, with Quad threatening an upset at one stage. But Isgro dug deep, calling on his wealth of experience to clinch a hard-fought 25–21 victory. Congratulations to Manny on another well-earned title.

Patron's Day Draws a Crowd
Tuesday was Alison Holmes Patron’s Day, and the club welcomed a fantastic turnout for the occasion. In second place was Margo Stanley’s team, with Mandy O’Brien at lead and Kathryn Remmeswaal at second. Top honours went to Joan McGrath’s team, made up of lead Carol Crosbie and second John Brown. It was another fun-filled day with plenty of quality bowls on display.

Social Bowls and Scroungers Shine
Wednesday’s social bowls saw the team of Merve Stewart, David Meiklejohn, and Howard Moulang dominate proceedings. Meiklejohn impressed at lead, while Moulang delivered consistent support to help the team claim a convincing win.

Saturday morning brought the final of the Scroungers competition. After a competitive first round, Dennis Donnadelli, Steve Lawrie, and Mark Mawson advanced to the decider. In a closely contested final, Steve Lawrie emerged victorious, with Donnadelli and Mawson rounding out the podium in second and third place respectively.

Sunday Social Action
Sunday’s social bowls also attracted strong numbers, with four rinks in play. The big winners of the day were Andy McDougall and Rick Galea, who teamed up brilliantly to claim the top spot. Well done, boys!

Looking Ahead
The next club championships—Senior Singles and Men’s B Pairs—are set to get underway shortly, with results to be shared in due course. The club also looks forward to welcoming back students from the Christian College and the Endeavour Foundation participants for their upcoming bowls lessons.

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover—but let’s be honest, when it comes to buying a home, first impressions are everything. And nothing says “welcome” quite like a lush, emerald-green lawn. It’s the red carpet of real estate, the final flourish that takes a house from “nice” to “need to have.”

If you’re looking to sell, don’t underestimate the power of a pristine patch of turf. A well-maintained lawn not only boosts street appeal but can add serious value to your home. Buyers love the look of a fresh, green expanse—it suggests the house is well cared for and gives them visions of backyard barbecues, kids playing barefoot, and Sunday afternoons spent lounging under the shade.

Tips for a Show-Stopping Lawn

1. Ditch the Weeds – No One Likes an Uninvited Guest
   Weeds are the gatecrashers of the lawn party—ugly, stubborn, and impossible to ignore. In North Queensland’s tropical climate, they thrive in the warm, humid conditions, so getting on top of them early is key. A pre-emergent herbicide in the warmer months will stop them before they start, and for those already making themselves at home, targeted weed control is your best bet.
2. Keep it Thick and Lush – Because Bare Patches Belong on Cows, Not Lawns
   A patchy lawn screams neglect, and no buyer wants to inherit a project. Regular mowing at the right height (not too short, not too long) encourages dense growth, while aerating compacted soil allows water and nutrients to reach the roots. A good-quality fertiliser will also work wonders—look for one suited to North Queensland conditions to handle the heat and humidity.
3. Water Smarter – Not Harder
   With our climate, it’s tempting to turn the sprinkler on full blast and hope for the best. But too much water can be just as damaging as too little. The trick? Deep, infrequent watering in the early morning. This encourages deeper root growth, making your lawn more resilient in the dry months.
4. The Prickle Problem – Because Bare Feet Deserve Better
   Nothing kills a backyard dream faster than a prickle to the foot. Bindii and burrs are common culprits, and they’re best tackled before they seed. A targeted weed killer in early spring can keep them at bay, ensuring your lawn stays soft underfoot—perfect for barefoot buyers imagining themselves strolling across their new slice of paradise.

Call in the Experts for the Greenest Grass on the Block
While a bit of DIY maintenance helps, nothing beats expert advice when you’re aiming for a standout lawn. Professionals know the right grass varieties for our tropical conditions, the best treatments for weeds and pests, and how to get that deep, rich green that makes neighbours envious. If you’re selling your home, investing in lawn care is a small price to pay for maximum impact.

After all, when it comes to impressing buyers, the grass really is greener when you give it the attention it deserves!

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Australian Red Cross Lifeblood urgently needs 6,000 additional donors to replenish supplies depleted by ex-Cyclone Alfred. Widespread donor centre closures last month and a surge in hospital orders before the Queensland emergency have significantly reduced blood stocks. A major increase in donations is now critical to ensure patients continue to receive the lifesaving blood they need.

Acting Chief Executive Officer Stuart Chesneau said Lifeblood is particularly focused on replenishing platelets, which are made from blood donations and have a shelf life of just five days.

“We pre-emptively sent extra supplies of blood products, including platelets, to hospitals in the impacted region ahead of Alfred landing, but many of these platelets are now close to expiring,” Stuart said.

“They are used to help people undergoing chemotherapy or to stop bleeding during surgery or after a major trauma.”

Lifeblood was forced to cancel 3,500 appointments due to the closure of 22 donor centres in Queensland and northern New South Wales. A further 330 appointments were cancelled the following day.

“The shortfall in donations, combined with the pre-emptive drain on our blood stocks, means we now urgently need to replenish supplies across the country,” Stuart added.

“We’re asking eligible donors to book an appointment now, and we also need new donors to step up.”

Almost 4,000 bags of blood are needed by hospitals daily for trauma, major surgery, cancer treatment, childbirth, and other medical conditions. While most donor centres in Queensland have reopened, disruptions continue, impacting blood collection.

Businesses, community groups, and workplaces are encouraged to rally their teams and donate as a group, following Gardian Real Estate Mackay’s example.

The Gardian team recently demonstrated their commitment to community support by rolling up their sleeves and donating blood to Lifeblood, helping to save lives and make a meaningful impact. By donating together, organisations can play a vital role in strengthening Australia’s blood supply during this urgent time.

Lifeblood spokeswoman Gwendolyne Camaret praised local efforts, saying, “North Queenslanders always step up in times of need and come together to show they are the heart of our community.”

To book a donation, call 13 14 95, visit lifeblood.com.au, or download the Donate Blood App.

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Lifeblood urgently needs 6,000 more donors to replenish supplies depleted by Cyclone Alfred, with businesses and community groups urged to join the effort. Photo source: Gardian Real Estate Mackay (Facebook)

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As of April, more than 60 lives have already been tragically cut short on Queensland’s roads in 2025, with hundreds more seriously injured. With the Easter school holidays set to begin, the Queensland Government is ramping up its efforts to prevent further road trauma with a timely reminder: there’s no excuse for speeding.

The state’s Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has launched a new road safety campaign aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of speeding, as the state braces for increased traffic during the long Easter break. The campaign underscores the stark reality that speeding continues to be one of the leading contributors to fatal crashes on Queensland roads.

The state’s road toll in 2024 reached a staggering 300, marking the deadliest year for road safety in 15 years. The rising death toll is attributed to a combination of factors, including speeding, fatigue, distraction (such as mobile phone use), seatbelt non-compliance, and drink and drug driving—collectively known as the Fatal Five.

A recent survey by TMR revealed a concerning trend: over 50 per cent of drivers regularly speed, with younger male drivers (aged 17-39) being particularly prone to exceeding speed limits. Alarmingly, 90 per cent of speed-related fatalities involve men, and more than half of these fatalities occur in regional areas.

To address this, the Queensland Government’s road safety campaign will run from April 6 to May 6, spanning the Easter school holidays and the extended public holiday period.

Transport and Main Roads Land Transport Safety Regulation General Manager, Joanna Robinson said, “Every life cut short and every life-altering injury caused by a crash, leaves a permanent mark on families and has a devastating impact on the entire community.

“As you travel around our state this Easter, I strongly urge you to stay safe and slow down on the roads.

“Speed limits are not a recommendation, they are there to prevent the thousands of avoidable deaths and serious injuries that occur on our roads."

Fast Facts:
• 2024: 300 lives lost on Queensland roads, the highest toll since 2009
• Around 33% of road fatalities involve speeding drivers
• 90% of fatalities involving speed are men
• More than 50% of speed-related fatalities occur in regional areas
• 60 fatalities recorded as of April 3, 2025

The campaign also aims to challenge the widespread belief that speeding is socially acceptable or harmless, particularly in situations such as being late or driving on familiar routes.

To learn more about road safety, visit the Street Smarts website.

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Authorities are urging motorists to slow down and drive safely during the Easter holidays to prevent further road trauma. Photo supplied

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Mackay VIEW Club is on the lookout for new members who want to give back to their community and make new connections with women in the area.

VIEW, which stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women, is a network of close to 280 clubs and over 13,000 women throughout Australia. For 65 years VIEW has connected with others in the community, enabling The Smith Family to reach more families in need.  It provides a place for women to connect with each other, enjoy social activities, and develop lasting friendships – all while supporting the work of children’s education charity, The Smith Family.

Mackay Club President Elizabeth said, "this year when we are celebrating 65 years of Making a Difference, is the perfect time to join VIEW as social events are truly back on the calendar including VIEW National Convention in Brisbane in September.

"Our events and activities are a way that we raise funds to support the education of children and young people experiencing disadvantage through The Smith Family."

VIEW is proud to be the largest community sponsor of The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, which provides students with financial, educational and personal support. Elizabeth says this is crucial, particularly in the current economic climate.

“We have all been hit by the rising cost of living, be it power prices, food or petrol. But these rises have had an even greater impact on those already doing it tough”.

“Parents shouldn’t have to choose between putting dinner on the table or buying their child a uniform for school. This is why it is so important that we can help children experiencing disadvantage with their education.”

VIEW nationally supports the education of nearly 1,800 students through the Learning for Life program, ensuring that they have educational support and what they need for the school year. Mackay VIEW Club currently supports four Learning for Life students.

“We are always looking for women of all backgrounds and ages to join us and look forward to welcoming new faces at our next monthly meeting,” said Elizabeth.

Anyone interested in becoming a member or coming along to find out more about the Mackay VIEW Club can email Elizabeth on mackay.viewclub@gmail.com or visit www.view.org.au for further information.

The Mackay VIEW Club meets on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at The Mackay Surf Club, gathering at 11:00am for an 11:30 am start.

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Mackay VIEW Club is inviting local women to join their vibrant group, make new connections, and support children’s education through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program. Photo supplied

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Mackay’s prestigious Art on Show Awards has been saved from the brink of closure, thanks to the backing of Craig Percival, CEO of Woollam Constructions. Craig has stepped in as the major sponsor to ensure the beloved event continues to celebrate and support local artists.

In its nineteenth year, the Awards is being hosted by the Mackay Art Society for the very first time. The Art Society is a not-for-profit organisation completely run by its members, twelve of whom have volunteered to organise this very significant exhibition.

The Art on Show Awards, a highlight on Mackay’s cultural calendar, has long provided a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their talent. When the future of the event became uncertain, Woollam stepped forward, reinforcing its commitment to the region—not just in construction but in community, creativity, and culture.

“The arts are a vital part of any thriving community,” said Craig Percival, Managing Director Woollam Constructions.

“When we heard the event was at risk, we knew we had to do something.

“Woollam has a long history in Mackay, and supporting initiatives like this is part of who we are.”

The Awards will return in 2025 with the Opening of the Artists Entry Form on Monday, 14 April.

This year entries will be online only and can be found on the Mackay Art Society Website.  The event will also attract visitors and art lovers across the region, bringing renewed energy to the local arts scene.

Local and interstate artists have welcomed the revival, with many expressing gratitude for Woollam’s support.

“Having a business like Woollam step in to keep this event alive means so much to us,” said Ben Ranson, President of the Mackay Art Society.

“It’s more than just an art competition, it’s a chance for artists to share their work with the wider community and feel valued for what we do.”

The renewed event offers $10,000 in prizes across 4 categories with an overall prize of $3,000, ensuring that the Awards continue to grow and inspire the next generation of artists.

With Woollam’s and the sponsorship of seventeen other local businesses, the Woollam Art on Show Awards is set to remain a centrepiece of Mackay’s creative community, proving that when business and the arts come together, incredible things can happen.

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Ben Ranson, President of Mackay Art Society with artist Jan Cunningham and Woollam Constructions' CEO Craig Percival.

Woollam Constructions' CEO Craig Percival steps in as major sponsor, saving Mackay’s Art on Show Awards and ensuring its continued celebration of local artists. Photos supplied

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The Salvation Army is rallying the Mackay community to get behind this year’s Red Shield Appeal, a vital local fundraising drive aimed at supporting those doing it toughest in our region. Now in its 61st year, Australia’s longest-running door-knock appeal hopes to raise $38 million nationwide to fund life-changing services.

“The last few years have been incredibly tough for the hardest hit in our community, and for many that shows no sign of slowing down,” said Rendle Williams of The Salvation Army.

“We see so many people grappling with increased stress and uncertainty as everyday living has become unaffordable, leading to housing stress, financial hardship and an inability to get by.

“At the Salvos we are privileged to support those in our area experiencing hardship, but we cannot do this without the ongoing and loyal support of the community,” said Mr Williams.

The funds raised in Mackay for the Red Shield Appeal will stay in the local community and will be used to meet the specific needs faced by the most disadvantaged and vulnerable.

Earlier this year, The Salvos released their Social Justice Stocktake; a survey which polled over 16,000 Australians and provided national, state and electoral reports highlighting the biggest issues faced by communities. Within Queensland it was found that 76.8 per cent of people identified the issue of housing affordability and homelessness as the top concern for the community, with the second being financial hardship and inclusion (60.6 per cent)."

“We can’t do our work in the community without you.”

The Red Shield Appeal culminates in the Red Shield Weekend (May 24 and 25), and there are a number of ways to get involved throughout the month of May- volunteering by collecting at local shopping centres and other locations, door knocking, online fundraising, organising a collection at your workplace, school or sporting event and making a donation.

For more information, or to donate, reach out to your local Salvos by calling 13 SALVOS or visit salvationarmy.org.au/red-shield-appeal. You can also donate in person at any Salvos Store.

Fast Facts
The Salvos have provided:
• Assistance to one person every 17 seconds
• More than 1.76 million sessions of care to over 250,000 people in need
• Over 1.1 million bed nights to those who needed accommodation
• More than 1.5 million meals to those who accessed our homelessness services.

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The Salvation Army is urging Mackay locals to support the 61st Red Shield Appeal, raising vital funds to help those facing housing stress, financial hardship, and disadvantage in our region. Photo supplied

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Beware the bunny
His tail so funny
His soft and fluffy face
If you follow him down
To the hole in the ground
You might never know God’s grace.

I love a fluffy bunny as much as the next person, but their prevalence at Easter is smoke and mirrors hiding the truth.

The truth of Easter is harsh!  There are whips and nails, a crown of thorns, blood, death and betrayal.  Friday was the day that Jesus was nailed to a cross.  He had done no wrong, healed many, and preached about love and forgiveness.

On Sunday something unexpected happened.  Jesus’s body was no longer in the tomb.   He was alive!  We are told in a letter from St. Paul of Tarsus that eventually more than 500 people witnessed his resurrection, who were still alive at the time of his writing.

The resurrection proves why Friday is GOOD.  On Good Friday Jesus died to pay the spiritual debt of the sins of the world.  Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, proving that all he said was true.  He said that he came to bring us life.  There is now only one thing between us and God and that is our free will.  It is always up to us to choose.

Will we follow the way of life?

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Grassroots changemakers across regional Queensland are being invited to put their hand up, with Bravus Mining and Resources opening applications for its 2025 Community Partnership Program. The initiative offers grants to not-for-profits and local groups driving positive change in their communities.

Bravus Mining and Resources Head of Community Kate Campbell said the Community Partnership Program was a fundamental part of the business and its Carmichael mine near Clermont in central Queensland.

“We’re proud to operate in regional Queensland and always seek to back our local communities and the things that are important to the 1,200 workers at our Carmichael mine,” Ms Campbell said.

“Our Community Partnership Program and the local charities and activities it funds is one of the ways we add to community vibrancy, on top of the economic value of the jobs we support and the opportunities we create for businesses.

“Round two of the 2025 program is now open with a total of $25,000 available to not-for-profit businesses, groups, and associations across central and north Queensland to pay for practical things like a first aid kit for a sports team, gardening tools for a community garden, or equipment to help care for local wildlife.

“If your local group has a great community initiative, we encourage you to jump onto our website, look at the guidelines and criteria and, if you qualify, put in an application.”

Ms Campbell also congratulated the Fitzroy River Fish Stocking Association, the Mackay Junior Motocross Club, and the Charters Towers Rodeo Association who were awarded a grant in round one of the program.

"We’re now in the seventh year of the Community Partnership Program and the quality of the applications we receive continues to show the rich fabric of life in regional Queensland," she said.

"We’re excited about the opportunities this new round of grants brings and how we can support some
outstanding projects that will make a real difference to the places our people call home.”

Mackay Junior Motorcross received $7,500 to supply and install nine flag marshal signalling point shade structures at the track.

To learn more about the Bravus Mining and Resources Community Partnership Program or to apply, visit https://www.bravusmining.com.au/sustainability/communities/community-partnerships/.

The full list of recipients in round one of the Bravus Mining and Resources 2025 Community Partnership Program is:
• Clermont Gold Cup Campdraft organising committee, Clermont
• Kirwan State High School – F1 in Schools Program, Townsville
• Fitzroy River Fish Stocking Association, Rockhampton
• Salvation Army, Townsville
• Charters Towers Rodeo Association, Charters Towers
• Mackay Junior Motocross Club, Mackay

Applications for round two close on 15 June 2025.

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The Clermont Wombat Festival is one of more than 100 regional Queensland organisations Bravus
Mining and Resources has supported through the auspices of its Community Partnership Program

Mackay Junior Motorcross received $7,500 to supply and install nine flag marshal signalling point shade structures at the track. Photos supplied

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Dedicated Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) piano student Donald MacGregor has taken the stage by storm at the 2025 Basel Junior International Piano Competition.

Hosted in Japan in 2025, the renowned online music competition attracted participants from around the globe, with Donald achieving international recognition when he was awarded the Outstanding Performance prize in the 13-15 years category.

“I almost didn’t believe that I got the prize at first. It was my first international competition, and first proper recording of a piece,” Donald said.

“My results from the Basel International Competition, have given me more confidence in pursuing music as a career, however, I want to try and get the highest ATAR I can, which would open many doors for other opportunities.”

Currently a Year 11 student at Mackay Christian College, the budding musician balances school with his musical studies under the guidance of CQCM Director Professor Judith Brown AM.

Professor Brown was also received the Teacher Award at the Basel International Online Music Competition.

“I was first introduced to CQCM by my former piano teacher in preparation for my LMusA Piano Comprehensive (Solo) where you are required to present a program of pieces and complete a general knowledge exam.

“When I started with Professor Brown, rather than playing just four or five exam pieces, we worked on several a year, both from the LMusA syllabus and from outside the syllabus.

“This exposure to all kinds of pieces allowed my technique to improve at a very high rate, especially with the pressure of having to learn to play the pieces at a much faster pace.

“My passion has developed exponentially, with my greatest interest in piano now being the works of Franz Liszt - who composed the work I played for the competition.”

During his studies at CQCM, Donald has achieved his Associate of Music Diploma (AMusA) in piano and classical guitar, and an Associate of Music Diploma (AMusA) in Cello, with distinction.

In 2025 he is working towards his Licentiate of Music Diploma (LMusA) in piano, cello and guitar.

Professor Brown highlighted CQCM’s commitment to providing artistic opportunities to students like Donald living in the in the regions.

“CQCM is a place where regional students can study with some of Australia’s best and most experienced teachers,” Prof Brown said.

“They can work towards exams with entities such as the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB), as well as strive for national and international recognition through participation in competitions and prizes."

Professor Judith Brown AM was a member of the Queensland Advisory Committee of the AMEB for several years, and in 2025 Dr Peter McKenzie assumed this important position.

Their knowledge and experience in many musical styles enables them to guide a variety of students to success on the international stage.

“With the help of Professor Brown, I hope to enter the 2026 Takamatsu International Piano Competition in Japan, which is held every four years,” Donald said.

“I am excited to see what else I can achieve under her guidance.”

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Mackay piano prodigy Donald MacGregor has won international acclaim at the 2025 Basel Junior Piano Competition, inspired by CQCM mentor Professor Judith Brown AM. Photo supplied

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

The results of our grower survey last year made it quite apparent that growers who market with Wilmar
believe that the market information we provide is one of the most important services of our Grower
Marketing team.

One way we keep growers up to date is via shed meetings and information sessions which we recently
held in Proserpine, Ingham and the Burdekin.

It’s always thoroughly enjoyable for the team to get out and about, meeting with growers, learning more
about their businesses and hearing what works for them.

With the current turmoil in global markets, it was a timely update given the uncertainty within the world. It
was also a great opportunity to have our Risk Manager Bevan Patterson up from Brisbane to review the
current Wilmar forecasts on global demand and supply, and try to make some sense of the chaos.

Currently we forecast a small net surplus in sugar for the upcoming season which is highly dependent on
Brazil delivering another record crop of 42 million tonnes of sugar. Harvest is about to get under way in
Brazil and the dry start to the year may result in yields underperforming current forecasts.

As Brazil accounts for nearly three quarters of global seaborne trade, any slip in production could see a
surplus turn into a deficit, and higher prices.

The global market turmoil triggered by the tariff tit for tat has caused the AUD to be extremely volatile as
traders analyse the impact on a trading nation like Australia. It is not often that we see the AUD below 60
cents and it has masked some of the drop in the #11 sugar price fall.

In better news, our 2024 season pools and allocation account continue to outperform, and we will soon
release our quarterly performance and comparative analysis for January to March. Keep an eye on your
inbox for that later this month. The analysis continues to show that growers are significantly better off by
marketing with Wilmar, irrespective of the mechanisms used for GEI sugar pricing.

After a few days out of the office and in the regions catching up with our growers, it is great to see the
sun shining and the fields drying out. We hope the rainy days are behind us, and we will soon see a hive
of activity out on the farms as planting begins.

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Proserpine growers Jeff Ruddell (left) and John Mau (centre) chat with Wilmar Grower Marketing
consultant Shirley Norris at the Proserpine information session. Photo supplied

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Five local businesses have been forced to shut their doors and face hefty fines after a major crackdown on illicit tobacco and vape sales in Mackay.

Illicit tobacco and vape products have been seized and stores closed in raids across Mackay as strict new laws were enforced in the region for the first time.

The Mackay Public Health Unit (MPHU), a division of Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), has confirmed that over the past three weeks, eight unlicensed tobacconists who were found selling illicit tobacco and vapes had stock seized, and five of these faced forced closures.

Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Director of Public Health Brigid Fenech said the raids were executed following significant planning since new legislation came into force in September 2024.

“This sends a clear message that illegal tobacco sales will not be tolerated in the community,” Ms Fenech said.

“Our public health officers will continue to be vigilant to ensure retailers of tobacco, vapes and other smoking products comply with the law.”

Entry powers were enacted, and searches executed with the assistance of the Queensland Police Service on tobacco stores across the city.

Under strict new laws, the stores were hit with on-the-spot fines, ordered to close for 72 hours and contraband including nicotine vapes and illicit tobacco known as chop chop, was seized.

Other contraband found in the raids included vape liquid refills, illegal cigarettes, ice pipes and bongs.

Under these powers, Queensland authorities can now enforce an on-the-spot 72-hour closure on premises operators found to be repeat offenders of selling illicit products or operating without a smoking product licence.

Penalties have also increased, with retailers facing up to two years' imprisonment and employees fined up to $32,260 if they are found to be working in a store supplying smoking products during the closure order period.

Penalty infringement notices will be issued with summons to appear in court for charges under the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act and the Medicines and Poisons Act.

Seizures since 20 March 2025 included:
• Loose tobacco (chop chop) – 39.7kg
• Illegal vapes – 1620
• Illegal cigarettes – 132,941
• Bongs – 475
• Ice pipes – 208

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Five Mackay tobacconists have been shut down and face steep penalties after raids uncovered the sale of illicit tobacco, vapes, and other contraband under newly enforced laws. Photos supplied

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This Mother’s Day, show mum how much she means to you with a gift she'll treasure forever. As a special thank-you, the first 200 shoppers who spend $50 at specialty stores or $100 at Coles, Kmart, or Woolworths and visit our pop-up during selected hours on Thursday and Saturday will receive a FREE Louenhide bag.

To make your gift extra special, enjoy gift wrapping services from Thursday, May 8 to Saturday, May 10, with all proceeds supporting the Mackay Hospital Foundation. With a vibrant mix of brands catering to every style and budget, Mount Pleasant Centre is the perfect place to find the ideal gift for Mum this Mother’s Day.

www.mountpleasantcentre.com.au

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