Whitsunday Touch Football is excited to announce the start of the 2024 Season. 

The Season gets underway on Monday 22 January with a “Come and Try” night. 

There will be the opportunity for experienced players to ease back into the new season and for novices to try a new sport. 

Monday’s format is “Fast Four” promoting Footy is for fun, come as a team or on your own and we will find you a team.  

Games are of 10 minutes duration with teams of four players competing on half the normal field.  Each team will play a number of games during the night. 

It is a great way for beginning players to be introduced to the game. 

Monday 22 January at the Sportspark from 6.00pm. 

Newcomers very welcome.  We’ll make sure to place you in a team. 

Monday 29 January is the first week of grading games. 

Contributed with thanks to John Weeks.

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WHAT: Come and Try Touch
WHERE: Whitsunday Sportspark
WHEN: Monday January 22, from 6pm

2023 Juniors at the Fast4 Competition. Photo supplied

Although the threat of rain prevailed during the day, by the time that the fleet of 14 yachts lined up for the start of the weekly Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight race, a 10 knot south easterly breeze complemented the cloudy, but dry skies.

The fleet bunched up as they approached the starting line for the first start, with firstly Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) and then Matchless (Terry Stevens) bailing out to avoid other boats. This left just Bobby’s Girl (Mark Beale) as the sole premature starter, needing to return around the committee boat. This allowed Treasure VIII (Rob Davis) and QMS Ponyo (John Galloway) to lead the fleet away from the start. By the end of lap 1, Smooth Criminal held a slender lead over Bobby’s Girl, Little Black Jack (Karen Evans) and QMS Ponyo. As the fleet continued on the second lap, Little Black Jack made their move into the lead as Treasure VIII opened the gap to Wide Load (Shannan Hart) as they closed the gap to the boats ahead. At the finish, Little Black Jack took the honours, while a misjudged tack caused Smooth Criminal to hit the finishing mark and retire from the race. On corrected time QMS Ponyo took home the chocolates by one second ahead of Wide Load with Treasure VIII just 5 seconds back in third.

The Division 3 start was much more placid, with Shiraz (John Cable) making easy work of taking the Doyle Sails sponsored best start prize. Behind them Rossgo (Greg Hammon) and Riff Raff (Dan White) changed places several times during the race before Riff Raff finally got the upper hand, finishing a credible 85 seconds behind the faster Shiraz. Rossgo finished a further 20 seconds back. That result worked well for Riff Raff, taking the corrected time win over Norbert G (Mireille Morcos) and Rossgo.

The SML Prize, sponsored by Whitsunday Industrial Services, went to Shiraz, while the weekly special prize, sponsored by Soft Rigging solutions, went to Treasure VIII. In the teams event, the Blue Team (Bobby’s Girl, Wide Load and Shiraz) took the daily honours over Yellow, Purple and Green teams, all in equal second place.

The Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight series continues every Wednesday with racing commencing at 4:30. Limited crewing positions may be available. Those wishing to participate as crew need to be at the club by 2:30 pm (limited spots available). Full results are available at https://app.sailsys.com.au/club/85/profile?tab=results.

Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

On Saturday, 16 Cannonvale Cannons travelled to Ayr to compete at the Burdekin Sprint LC Meet.  Coaches, Mark Erickson and Rylee Erickson were very proud of the Cannons and their top efforts at the first carnival for 2024.  Congratulations to Harris Delac, aged 10 years won the 8 – 10-year-old boys Dash for Cash event.  Harris was very excited to receive $100 for winning the Dash for Cash.  Congratulations to Celeste Orenshaw, Tyler Bennett, Tora Delac and Jacob Bell who were also selected for the Dash for Cash races.  

Top performers who swam 3 or 4 personal best times: Tiana Bell, Millie Groom, Koa Harland, Andie Reynolds, Matilda Nicholes and Eric Mulliss. Eric Mulliss swam a massive 12.74sec PB in his 50m Butterfly race.  

Special mentions:  new club members, Mackenze and Tyler Bennett both swam 2 PBs. Mackenzie swam a super 50m Breaststroke taking 8.7sec off her previous best time. Tyler swam an excellent 50m Freestyle in 32.36sec to earn 3rd place.  

Jacob Bell aged 17 years won 50m Backstroke in a time of 31.35sec. Noah Maltby, aged 15 years won his 50m Breaststroke in a time of 34.19sec. Celeste Orenshaw achieved 2nd place for her 50m Butterfly in a time of 46.28sec and 3rd place in her 50m Breaststroke in a time of 51.02sec. One of Dylan Reynolds’ best swims included her 50m Breaststroke which she did a 3 sec PB. One of Tora Delac’s best swims was her 50m Butterfly which she swam in 32.76sec, 1.54sec PB. Ruby Harland swam 2PBs in her 50m Freestyle and 50m Backstroke. Nelson Malady swam a fantastic 50m Freestyle in a time of 35.39sec.  

Congratulations to all the Cannons!  

A big thank you to all the wonderful parents for assisting with officiating and managing the team.  

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Contributed with thanks to Raylene Rasmussen.

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Image: Cannonvale Cannons in Ayr. Photo supplied

Click for full image

Well, that break didn’t last long enough and being back at work doesn’t really feel any different from when we left.

2023 in real estate was what I would describe as a very consistent market of low stock numbers in both houses for sale and for rent. Whilst we understand this hasn’t helped some buyers and tenants, the majority of regional centres across Australia have seen the same trend regardless of rate hikes and potential for more this year.

We saw continued numbers of people move to Mackay and we saw an increase in house prices maintained through a lack of stock. Everyone is talking positively around our region again as buyer’s agents and investors from down south have ramped up their interest given the fabulous rent returns and positivity for the future. 

If it is any indication of things to come in 2024, in our first week of January we have had over 250 groups through properties, which is a number bigger than we had in the first week of December last year in the lead up to Christmas.

It’s certainly a strange market, but when people have nowhere to go to buy, they typically don’t sell, and this makes the market continue to be very tight and competitive. Last year and the first week of this year, we met buyers who have been watching the market and waiting for it to go down, believing that in the short term it cannot continue.

In January 2023, the median sale price for a house (realestate.com data) was $419,000 and by December it was $490,000 which means for those who waited for a drop, the value went up approx. $70,000 over this time. They either rented or lived at home, but inadvertently missed the opportunity to buy at a better price or gain equity over this time. I wouldn’t wait again this year if all indications are that it will continue this year.

Feel confident in knowing lots of people are buying and moving to Mackay, there is real stability in our economy, and we live in one of the most beautiful places on the east coast.

I may be biased but I have enjoyed everything it offers for close to 50 years and wouldn’t live anywhere else.

Ben Chick

Director, Explore Property

As we step into 2024, the echoes of the challenges faced in 2023 continue to resonate. The past year brought forth an array of hardships, marked by the relentless surge in the cost of living that burdened households across the board. Despite these struggles, resilience prevailed. Many local businesses, having weathered the storm of the pandemic, found their footing once more, demonstrating the tenacity and adaptability of our community.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into various sectors gained momentum, reshaping the landscape of industries from real estate to marketing. However, the rapid expansion of AI also raised pertinent questions. As businesses embraced automation, flaws within AI-generated content emerged, prompting contemplation about the balance between technological innovation and traditional methods.

Looking ahead, the new year stands as a pivotal time for our local charities. The rising cost of living has forced more individuals onto the streets, exacerbating issues of homelessness. Concurrently, the incidence of domestic violence has risen, necessitating increased support for vital organisations assisting those in need.

In the political arena, the upcoming local elections in March loom large. The prospect of new leadership within our Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regional councils sparks debate. Some argue for a fresh perspective, advocating for change and innovative approaches, while others stress the importance of continuity—a steady hand navigating the helm and ensuring the completion of long-term projects, thus fostering sustained growth within our communities.

The year 2024 holds a delicate balance between adversity and opportunity. As we navigate the challenges ahead, the insights shared by industry experts shed light on the path forward, offering a tapestry of perspectives that guide our community toward a brighter, more informed future.

For a marketing nerd like me, delving into a new year of tools and techniques is so freaking exciting. One of the best things about my industry, is that there is always something new and interesting to learn! But for most business owners, I totally understand how the continual changes in marketing make it feel more like a never-ending-grind, instead of a fun playground (so many toys!).

For 2024, there are just three things I think you need to focus on for your marketing. I know that makes it sound easy, but these things do take work. The payoff though – is worth it.

   1. Start with strategy (you cannot pass go or collect $200 until you do!)

No marketing channel, social network, or shiny new ad is going to make a lick of difference if you didn’t put any thought or planning behind it. Jumping onto a new trend, signing up to a marketing package or starting a new social media profile so that it feels like you are doing something is a complete waste of time if it doesn’t match your strategy basics – what are your marketing goals (to support your overall business goals), who is your audience for those goals, what key messages do you need to tell that audience to achieve those goals? When you figure this out, it unlocks everything else and makes your marketing activity useful and meaningful.

   2. Work that website (please, please, please open your mind to the potential here!)

Your website is for helping people find you, then helping the people who found you to figure out if you are a good fit for them, then converting those who do believe you are a good fit for them into customers. There’s a lot more but if you can please (please, please) just look at your website and review – does it do those three things for me? For those familiar with the terms “customer journey” or “sales funnel” – these are the first steps. Awareness, consideration, conversion – so crucial for a business, and your website can cover off on all of them. It takes thought and time, or you paying for someone else’s thought and time, but if you want a business in two years, five years, 10 years time – it’s 100% essential.

   3. Your marketing needs YOU (umm me? Why would I be important to my own marketing?)

Because as much as outsourcing marketing to your staff, AI (who doesn’t love ChatGPT??) or a marketing agency/freelancer can be super beneficial, it will never “work” without you. No one knows your business, your service, your clients, your industry the way that you do. We all have competitors, but they don’t have your unique blend of experience, ideas, skills, support and so on. If you want super effective marketing, especially when outsourcing elements of it (or all of it), don’t forget that you are still essential.

Here's cheers to a productive, successful, kick arse 2024 for all of us!

Jade McAuley

Founder, Rebel Nation

To say that 2023 was a difficult year for businesses is an understatement.  The world faced some significant challenges including ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East and uncertainty surrounding the geo-political environment in the Asia-Pacific. For any commodity sector this instability means a lack of confidence within the market.  Add to that widespread labour shortages, wildly fluctuating costs and unforeseen government interventions meant that business confidence understandably fell in 2023.  However, off the back of strong steelmaking coal demand, the prospect of significant renewable energy projects and the continuing focus on critical minerals and new initiatives through the Resources Centre of Excellence, our local resources sector and supply chain which the Resource Industry Network (RIN) supports, remains buoyant.

To support this the Queensland Resources Council released its State of the Sector figures in November 2023 showing that, within our region, a record number of people are working in jobs supported by the mining and energy sector.  The report shows that in the 2022/2023 Financial Year the resources sector now supports 85,000 jobs in the region.  This represents almost 80% of Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday’s total employment.  Translating that into monetary figures, the sector contributed over $18 billion last financial year to the Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday region.  That is 91% of the region’s total Gross Domestic Product.

What all this means is that even in the face of adversity the resources industry, along with its supply chain, continued to push forward in 2023, and subsequently benefiting the region.

Looking forward to 2024, I can see that the resources sector will continue to face challenges from instability across the globe.  On the positive side, domestically there are signs that labour pressures are starting to ease.  While we may not see improvements immediately in our region, there is hope that as the year progresses, we will see an increased availability of labour for the sector.

2024 will also be the year that renewable energy projects in the region move into the spotlight.  These projects will contribute to the continued operation of our mine sites as Queensland moves towards its net zero targets.  The region’s METS sector has the skills, knowledge and capability to play a significant part in the renewable energy sector.  Our businesses are well placed to benefit from any renewable projects that go ahead in our region.

Dean Kirkwood

General Manager, Resource Industry Network

Excitement and nerves.

Two words I would use to describe the feeling of shutting the door on my life in Darwin, jumping in the front seat of my 4WD and taking off on a 5-day drive across the country to start my life in Mackay.

The aircon was blasting as I left Darwin city, driving through Berrimah and Palmeston and onto the Stuart Highway.

Driving through the genuine outback and discovering the life that exists far beyond the street lights and pubs of the cities and towns is a wonderfully eye opening experience. Especially driving through a small town called Larrimah, if you know you know. I discovered a whole new world at places like Mataranka, Daly Waters, Renner Springs, Barkly and 3 Ways before crossing the border into Queensland.

I enjoyed a beer at Camooweal before making my way to Mt Isa for my first night breathing the fresh Queensland air.

As I pressed on further east, I figuratively shook hands with greatness at the Walkabout pub in McKinlay, the pub made famous by Crocodile Dundee.

A disastrous time at Longreach followed, but the Queensland spirit shone through, a bloke called Chris helped me out by fixing my roof racks, then, finally making it to this beautiful town of Mackay.

I genuinely look forward to becoming a part of this amazing place whether through the radio station, playing rugby, or just shaking hands at the pub.

I can’t wait to experience it.

My name is Jake, I'm part of the new breakfast show on Star 101.9 and you can hear more of the strange lives we live on Rach and Jake 5am weekdays on Star.

Beers soon,

Jake

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Catch the STAR Breakfast Show - Rach and Jake - from 5am weekdays, Mornings with Scotty from 9am, Afternoons with Kaley from 1pm, your drive home with Will and Woody from 5-7pm and the Hour of Power with Kyle and Jackie-O from 7pm every weekday!

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a fantastic and safe festive season and you all enjoyed a well-earned break.

2023 was a big year for Australia, and to say it was tough on everyone would be an understatement.

While the Albanese Labor Government was distracted by their divisive and costly Voice Referendum and the Prime Minister enjoyed what felt like more time overseas than time spent in Australia, the people of Dawson were hit with enormous cost-of-living pressures.

The Coalition and I fought hard in 2023 for the issues that are affecting our hard-working Aussies, such as

   • Calling for an ACCC inquiry into supermarket price gouging.

   • Easing the rising cost of fuel.

   • Pressuring the Albanese Labor Government to address inflation and try to stop interest rates from soaring through the roof.

   • Calling for action on the youth crime endemic.

   • Trying to save crucial infrastructure projects from funding cuts.

All while fighting to save our critical industries following unfair taxes implemented on farmers and miners; the ban on the use of commercial gillnets, which will see the livelihoods of our local fishermen and women severely impacted; and Labor’s proposed fair work amendments that will hurt local small businesses.

It seems that the penny has finally dropped for the Albanese Labor Government who has only just called for ideas from his Treasury and Finance officials on how to curb the cost-of-living pressures.

However, with no real plan and no guaranteed relief, it is my job as your Federal Member for Dawson to make sure that the Albanese Labor Government does what they say they will for the people who live and work in our electorate, and I take that job very seriously.

In 2024 I will continue to fight for cost-of-living relief, for the rights of our farmers who supply food and fibre to the entire nation, for local businesses, creating opportunities for tourism, for cheaper and reliable energy for all Australians, and for the safety of our residents who are being hurt by these ruthless young criminals.

I am committed to growing a stronger future for Dawson and I invite you to reach out if you have any federal issues impacting our beautiful region.

You can contact my office on 4944 0662 or via email at Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au.

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Andrew Willcox
Federal Member for Dawson

By Amanda Wright

In a heartfelt bid to combat domestic violence and offer respite to those impacted, Broken Ballerina Inc. is teeing up its first Charity Golf Day on August 2nd, 2024. This event will serve as a vital fundraiser aiding victims of domestic violence in the wider Mackay community.

The organisation, founded by Jules and Pete Thompson, aims to provide solace, resources, and support to those navigating the harrowing aftermath of domestic violence. With an absence of government funding, the Charity Golf Day serves as a beacon of hope for Broken Ballerina's mission to provide immediate assistance for those in need.

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Ausgroup employees joining for a great cause to support those impacted by domestic violence. Ausgroup is the dual naming rights sponsor of the inaugural Broken Ballerina Inc. Charity Golf Day. L-R: Andrejs Vanags, Maddy Botsman, Hope Winter, Hannah McNamara and Jules Thompson (Broken Ballerina), Isabella Byrnes, Jon Byrnes. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Putting For A Purpose

Broken Ballerina’s Charity Golf Day, hosted at Mackay Golf Club, will witness participation from both businesses and individuals eager to champion this noble cause. Ausgroup Industrial Services QLD Pty Ltd, a staunch supporter, has stepped forward as the dual Naming Rights Diamond Sponsor, exemplifying their commitment to aiding their local community and supporting causes close to the heart.

Jon Byrnes, the owner of Ausgroup Industrial Services (AGIS), resonates deeply with the cause, having witnessed the perils of domestic violence firsthand during his upbringing.

Jon is driven by a profound personal commitment to support causes that aid individuals impacted by such adversity.

“Domestic violence affects too many people in the community, and I was unfortunate enough to experience it myself as a young fella,” Jon shared.

“Supporting a charity like Broken Ballerina, which doesn’t receive government funding, is essential. They fill crucial gaps and provide immediate assistance to those in need,” Jon highlighted.

His sponsorship stands as a testament to the necessity of community involvement and corporate responsibility in battling such societal challenges and urges other local businesses to support the cause.

Based in Paget, AGIS specialises in providing a range of integrated services to major industrial facilities throughout Queensland. Their expertise spans diverse sectors like mining, ports, and mills with services such as advanced access and rigging, protective coatings and cleaning.

While the Golf Day holds a serious motive, it promises to be an enjoyable affair, aiming to draw both experienced and novice golfers, irrespective of skill level or gender. Jules and Pete have ingeniously devised a mix of prizes and incentives to entice a range of players, ensuring an atmosphere brimming with camaraderie and generosity.

“It’s not just for the blokes,” Jules said.

“We will have a mix of prizes for men and women and have a few fun tricks up our sleeve to make it a really fun day.”

One of the hopes behind this event is to procure funding for a dedicated premises for Broken Ballerina. As Jules emphasises, having a dedicated location would facilitate expanded outreach and essential services, ranging from those needing emergency accommodation to basic necessities, which can offer victims a new start and a secure haven for their children.

"We really need a premises to continue the work we do,” she said.

“It would help us to secure government funding and alleviate a bit of the struggle in constantly seeking community donations.

“At the moment it’s a 7-day-per-week job for me and all hours of the day and night.

“With a dedicated space partially manned by volunteers it gives a safe space for people to go when they need immediate assistance, whether it’s to grab an escape bag, grab essentials like clothing and toiletries or receive financial support towards food and accommodation.

“It’s this immediate assistance that is hard to come by in Mackay and we’ve been filling this gap for years.”

Jules sheds light on Broken Ballerina’s crucial role, citing the soaring demand for their services and the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable individuals escaping domestic violence. The funds raised from this event will directly aid these individuals, providing them with immediate resources and support.

"Just this week, we aided a lady from Townsville who fled domestic violence, seeking refuge in Mackay. People further afield are being directed to us for our support and we don’t have the large pool of funds needed to ensure safety for the most vulnerable in our community.

“It’s not uncommon for me to receive multiple calls for help every day.

“The rising cost of living is really putting pressure on a lot of families, people who may not have struggled in the past are feeling the pinch and that added stress at home is really showing through in the escalating violence we’re seeing.

“Then the mothers or fathers fleeing the violence are at risk of having their children removed by Child Services because they don’t have a permanent address.”

Yet, amid these daunting realities, Jules finds solace in the transformation stories of survivors. Testimonials from those who've turned their lives around and found sanctuary through Broken Ballerina are a testament to the profound impact of this organisation's work.

"At Legends on the Lawn, a young man approached Pete at our Broken Ballerina stand and made a donation. He told us about how we had supported him and his mother in the past, and how our assistance had been life-changing for them.

“It's moments like these that reaffirm the impact we strive to make and motivate us to continue our work," Jules reflected.

With the Charity Golf Day on the horizon, Broken Ballerina Inc. continues its relentless pursuit of being the guiding light for those ensnared in the shadows of domestic violence. The event stands not just as a golf tournament but as a collective effort to nurture hope, healing, and a new beginning for survivors striving for a brighter future.

The clubs will swing, the golf balls will soar, but most importantly, this event will propel hope and assistance to those in need, fostering resilience and triumph in the face of adversity.

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Broken Ballerina Inc. founder Jules Thompson (left) and Broken Ballerina committee member Hannah McNamara are teeing up hope for survivors of domestic violence. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

As we step into 2024, it's clear the road ahead might be a bit bumpy. The rising costs are making us all feel a little uneasy. But even in the midst of these challenges, it's essential to remember our blessings. Think about it – having food in the fridge, clothes to wear, a safe place to rest our heads – these are things many around the world can only dream of. Surprisingly, having these essentials means we’re actually living better than three quarters of the world’s population.

Money-wise, if you’ve got a little extra in your wallet or bank account, you’re in a privileged minority, the top eight per cent. Yet, as we navigate these financial pressures, it’s crucial to think about those who were already facing an uphill battle. The vulnerable in our community, who were already on the edge, may now find it incredibly tough to get by. With the cost of living soaring, more folks could end up without a roof over their heads. The charities that provide crucial support are also feeling the pinch; they need our help more than ever.

Consider the impact financial stress can place on people and how that can hurt charities. For one, people have less to give, so the coffers might start to run low. Unfortunately, the need for these services will increase, as more people are facing homelessness, there are more people battling anxiety and depression due to worry and the incidence of domestic violence increases. The charities who will need our help more than ever are those which assist the homeless, those who help with mental health and suicide awareness and those which help people fleeing domestic violence.

So, if you're in a position to give a little more, consider extending a helping hand. Whether it's through volunteering time, donating resources, or simply being there for someone in need, small acts of kindness can create ripples of change.

Amanda

In a tale that's got the town buzzing, a lawn superhero named Chris, also known as the "Knight with a Shiny Lawnmower," has emerged, spreading unexpected goodwill and a neat trim throughout the neighbourhood.

Michelle Steffens took to a community noticeboard on Facebook to share her unexpected encounter with this mowing maestro. Spotting Chris working his magic on a neighbour’s yard, she summoned his green-thumb prowess, hoping for a quick lawn fix. And boy, did he deliver!

Surprisingly, when Michelle asked about the going rate, Chris whipped out a heartwarming surprise—no charge! Yep, you read that right; it was a Christmas gift! Michelle was floored, praising Chris's parents for their top-notch upbringing and obviously impeccable lawn care lessons.

But wait, there's more! His sister, Ammie-Louise Wicks, swooped in to reveal Chris's secret identity—he's the grass guru at Kyki Support Services, known for not just being a lawn wizard but also a community superhero.

As the town's unassuming grass guardian, Chris has proven that sometimes the best gifts don't come wrapped in shiny paper but arrive on four wheels with a hum of lawnmower engines.

Kudos, Chris, for mowing your way into our hearts!

Wildlife Officers from the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation have conducted a thorough investigation following a report of a large crocodile leaping from the water and into a fisher’s tinnie in Jane Creek near Mackay on 31 December 2023.

Senior Wildlife Officer Jane Burns said the investigation included an interview with the fisher who confirmed the incident occurred close to the northern side of a small island slightly upstream of Jane Creek.

“A vessel-based site assessment of Jane Creek and the surrounding bay was conducted, and wildlife officers confirmed the presence of two crocodiles,” Ms Burns said.

“One crocodile was estimated to be around two metres in length, and the other was estimated to be less than one metre in length.

“Neither animal exhibited any dangerous behaviour, and they are not considered to be the target animal.

“During our thorough search of Jane Creek, we found no evidence such as slides or tracks or eye shine to indicate that a large crocodile had recently been at the location.

“Crocodiles are highly mobile, and they do use small creeks to rest while moving between river systems to find new territory.

“Although we didn’t confirm the presence of a large crocodile, there are crocodiles in Jane Creek and people in the area should be extremely vigilant at all times.

“Wildlife officers will continue to monitor for any further reports in the area.

“The greater Mackay region is known Croc Country, and people should report all crocodile sightings in a timely manner to the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation.

“Wildlife officers investigate every report we receive, and estuarine crocodiles that pose a threat to human safety are targeted for removal under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan.

“Remember, you are responsible for your own safety in Croc Country, and Mackay is known Croc Country and people must be Crocwise while near the water.”

Crocwise tips for people in Mackay:

   1. Expect crocodiles in all northern and far northern Queensland waterways even if there is no warning sign

   2. Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe

   3. Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night

   4. Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating

   5. The smaller the vessel the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks

   6. Stand back from the water’s edge when fishing and don’t wade in to retrieve a lure

   7. Camp at least 50 metres from the edge of the water

   8. Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near the water, camp sites or boat ramps

   9. Never provoke, harass or feed crocs

   10. Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead

With the 2024 Australia Day Awards on the horizon, the list of nominees has been unveiled, showcasing over 150 exceptional individuals and groups from eight categories. The Citizen of the Year and Volunteer categories boast around 40 nominees each, reflecting an outstanding display of community spirit and service.

These nominees possess dedication, leadership, and selfless contributions that have left an enduring impact on our communities. Their diverse initiatives, ranging from grassroots projects to transformative volunteer roles, highlight their commitment to bettering our region.

The Australia Day Awards serve as a tribute to these individuals whose efforts have gone above and beyond, embodying the true essence of Australian values. The winners will be announced and celebrated at a gala dinner at the MECC on Thursday 25 January.

As we eagerly await the announcement of the winners, it's imperative to applaud the remarkable achievements of all nominees.

Congratulations to the nominees for the 2024 Australia Day Awards. Your unwavering commitment and exemplary dedication to community service inspire us all. Best wishes to each nominee as they represent the pinnacle of excellence and service in our region.

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

   • Susan Allsop

   • Ivy Arici

   • Melissa Aylward-Gale

   • Colin Benson

   • Jacquie Camilleri

   • Kevin Casey

   • Vasiliki Comino

   • Lauren Costello/Brighter

   • Pat Crompton

   • Len Cunningham

   • Jennifer Dobson

   • Kimberly Doyle

   • Fallon Drewett

   • Trent Dyson

   • Dr Peter Gaden

   • Philip (Phil) Hall

   • Joanne Hamilton

   • Ann Hand

   • Phillip Hubner

   • Graham Jackson

   • Steve Jackson

   • Karen Jacobsen

   • Rob Kidd

   • Taylah Kolaric

   • Vicki Letti

   • Alan Macaulay

   • Christine McDonald

   • Toni McNeill

   • Natasha Mills

   • Keith Payne

   • Tegan Philpott

   • Peter Reedman

   • Margaret Ross

   • Therese Russell

   • Dr. Wendela Schimmer

   • Peter Schmid

   • Jay Shipston

   • Dr Kerry Summerscales

   • Jan & Trevor Swinbourne

   • Patrick Thaiday

   • Jules Thompson

   • Heather Majorie Tuckerman

YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

   • Baden Day

   • Jasmine Fuhlbohm

   • Krystopher Gakowski

   • Toby Rule

   • Tristan Turnbull

   • Bridget Wright

ARTS AND CULTURE AWARD

   • Karen Bishop

   • Baden Day

   • Karen Jacobsen

   • Lanna Mack

   • Sophie Reilly

   • Margaret Mary Ross

   • Sarah Rozekrans

   • Jay Shipston

   • Barbara Sleeman and John Linden

   • Patrick Thaiday

   • Bridget Wright

COMMUNITY GROUP AWARD

   • Australian Navy Cadets - TS Pioneer

   • Australian Street Aid Project/Chances Cafe

   • Jules Thompson - Broken Ballerina

   • Kimberly Doyle - Special Olympics Mackay Fire

   • Fallon Drewett - The Just Saying Project

   • Conservatorium Friends

   • Friends of the Mackay Birth Centre

   • Gumvalley Veterans and Natural Terrain Motorcycle Club

   • Happy Paws Happy Hearts

   • Hibiscus Coast District Scouts Adventurous Activities Team

   • International Polar Bear Club of Mackay

   • Mackay and District Italian Association

   • Mackay District Turtle Watch Association

   • Mackay Historical Society

   • Mackay Northern Beaches Neighbourhood Watch Group. HW Group

   • Mackay Pet Rescue Inc

   • Mackay RSL Subbranch

   • Project Booyah Mackay

   • Queensland Multicultural Lions Club

   • Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club

   • SNAGS

   • Trudy Crowley Foundation

   • Worldwide Rally For Freedom Mackay

ENVIRONMENTAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

   • Shelly Coakley

   • Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd Environment and Sustainability teams

   • Fay Griffin

   • Mackay District Turtle Watch Association

   • TristanTurnbull

LORI BURGESS COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER AWARD

   • Ivy Arici

   • Colin Benson

   • Krysten Butcher

   • Jacquie Camilleri

   • Kevin Casey

   • Vasiliki Comino

   • Lauren Costello/Brighter

   • Pat Crompton

   • Len Cunningham

   • Jennifer Dobson

   • Cameron Dorward

   • Kimberly Doyle

   • Trent Dyson

   • Jasmine Fuhlbohm

   • Dr Peter Gaden

   • Philip (Phil) Hall

   • Joanne Hamilton

   • Katrina Hoare

   • Phillip Hubner

   • Graham Jackson

   • Steve Jackson

   • Rob Kidd

   • Taylah Kolaric

   • Vicki Letti

   • Dorothy Lowry

   • CAPT Alan Macaulay AAC

   • Toni McNeill

   • Natasha Mills

   • George Newton

   • Keith Payne

   • Tegan Philpott

   • Margaret Ross

   • Therese Russell

   • Peter Schmid

   • Michele Shepherd

   • Barbara Sleeman and John Linden

   • Dr Kerry Summerscales

   • Jan & Trevor Swinbourne

   • Heather Tuckerman

SENIOR SPORTS AWARD

   • Kym Galea

   • Heath Galletly

   • Annalise Hand

   • Luke Jackson

   • Steve Jackson

   • Annalise Mawyer

   • Christopher Palazzi

   • Peter Reedman

   • Belinda Rule

   • TJ Straw

   • Ivan Walker

   • Julie Williams

   • Damon Woodbridge

YOUNG SPORTS AWARD

   • James Allen

   • Takiah Barrett

   • Jade Bounden

   • Ainsley Carey

   • Emmett Counsell

   • Makayla English

   • Kayce Hoani-Vincent

   • Charlotte McGuinness

   • Toby Rule

   • Zac Uhr