More than 70 per cent of students visiting a school dental van in the Mackay region last year needed a filling because of tooth decay.
Sugary foods and drinks combined with poor oral hygiene contributed to 4583 fillings being done by school dentists across the district.
Mackay Base Hospital Dental Unit director Dr Ronel Bornman said the mobile dental vans were unfortunately only seeing about 23 per cent of school children who are eligible for the free service. During Dental Health Week (August 5 to 11), Mackay district parents are being encouraged to ensure they are taking vital steps to care for their children’s teeth and gums, including regular dental checkups.
It was important school children aged 4 to 16 visited the dentist regularly, even if they don’t appear to have any problems with teeth, Dr Bornman said.
“Visiting the dentist regularly every 12 months helps in the prevention, early detection and management of tooth decay,” she said.
“An intact healthy tooth is stronger than a filled one, so it was important to try and avoid fillings due to tooth decay.
“Good oral hygiene is one of the most important factors in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Cleaning teeth twice a day, enjoying a wide variety of nutritious foods and choosing water over sugary drinks can all help to prevent decay and the need for fillings.”
Flossing teeth and fluoride were also important to prevent tooth decay which could have a big impact on nutrition, growth, and development in children, negatively influencing a child’s quality of life.
“Taking a child to the dentist regularly and when there are no obvious problems with their teeth, allows them to get to know their dentist, have a positive experience and make future visits more familiar,” Dr Bornman said.
The Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) school dental vans are a free service which visit local schools regularly. Children enrolled at school from Prep to Year 10 with a current Medicare card are eligible for treatment. Appointments for a public oral health service at Mackay HHS can be booked by phoning 07 4885 6444.

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Elisha Bennetts, age 3, and Mackay HHS oral health therapist Miriam Tiare at Victoria Park School Dental Clinic

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A wonderful young boy by the name of Samuel Hollywood recently received a new wheelchair to enhance his mobility and independence, however, the Hollywood family still faces critical challenges that require community support through donations.

At just five weeks old, Samuel was diagnosed with Aicardi-Goutières syndrome, a rare disease that has left him severely intellectually and physically disabled. He battles chronic illness and complex medical needs every day which requires full-time care and specialised equipment.

Samuel's mother left her job to become his full-time caregiver, placing financial strain on the family which now relies on a single income.

As Samuel grows, his need for suitable transport becomes more pressing.

Although they have secured a new wheelchair for Samuel, the family now urgently needs a suitable vehicle to transport him safely and comfortably. With three siblings and two parents, a seven-seat vehicle is essential to accommodate the whole family.

The Hollywood family aims to purchase a Kia Carnival van which will be modified to allow Samuel to remain in his wheelchair while traveling. The NDIS covers the cost of these modifications but the initial purchase of the vehicle is a significant financial burden.

Ultimately, the NDIS will not release the modification funds until the vehicle is purchased, thus the urgency.

The Hollywood’s are reaching out for donations to help them secure this critical transportation.

Your generosity will not only provide Samuel with practical transportation but also enable him to access the community, attend medical appointments, therapy sessions and participate in his special kindergarten program.

To donate, please visit gofundme.com and search for ‘support samuels journey to mobility and independence’ or follow ‘Samuels rare life’ on Facebook.

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The Hollywood family humbly ask for your generosity to help them secure the means for Samuel to experience the world with greater ease and independence. Photo source: Samuels rare life (Facebook)

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On Saturday, 3 August 2024, a tragic incident at the Byerwen mine infrastructure site west of Mackay resulted in the death of a worker. Initial reports suggest that the incident involved a pick and carry crane, though the exact cause remains under investigation.
QCoal confirmed the fatality of Chris Schloss, a long-serving, senior, and well-loved member of their team. The company stated that the incident has shocked the entire organisation, and they are focused on supporting Chris’ family and affected staff during this difficult time.
QCoal Group Executive James Black said the QCoal family has suffered a devastating loss.
“Chris has been part of the QCoal family for many years and has been integral in developing Byerwen since its launch. Our thoughts are with Chris’ wife Amanda, his children, and all their family at this terrible time,” Mr Black said.
“The death of such a long-serving, senior, and well-loved member of the QCoal team has left us in shock. His family is coming to terms with this tragic news, and we are supporting them through this difficult period. We are also providing support for our staff on site and across the organisation as we navigate this incredible loss.
“Chris is survived by his five children—Magan, Thomas, Kate, Memphys, and Zara. He was an active member of our campaign to preserve the Byerwen camp, and his family has requested that his image and words not be removed from this effort, honouring his commitment to the cause."
Police are investigating the incident, and both RSHQ and QCoal have stated that their comments will be limited until more details become available.

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Chris Schloss lost his life at the Byerwen mine site near Glenden last weekend. Photo supplied: Qcoal

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From Mackay’s iconic cane fields to the naturally beautiful beaches of the Whitsundays and the resource-rich landscape of the Isaac, locals across the region have a great reason to crack a cold one in celebration as they mark the extraordinary achievement of returning more than 400 million drink containers for recycling through Containers for Change.

Natalie Roach, chief executive officer of Container Exchange, the not-for-profit that runs Containers for Change, said the milestone highlighted the region’s commitment to protecting the local environment while ensuring no container goes to waste.

“Having now returned 400 million empties since 2018, residents in Mackay and surrounding regions have contributed to a cleaner environment, keeping every single one of those containers out of landfill or from ending up as litter,” Ms Roach said while in Mackay to meet with local refund point operators.

“Containers for Change has also made a significant injection to the local economy, with the community benefitting from jobs created at our local refund points, and the 10-cent refund for each container returned.

“Since 2018 Containers for Change has now returned more than $40 million to the pockets of the region’s households, charities and community groups.”

Ms Roach said that while local container recycling efforts were commendable, there were still more opportunities for residents and organisations in Mackay to cash in with Containers for Change.

“Unfortunately, each year millions of containers across Queensland are still ending up in rubbish bins heading for landfill, meaning those 10-cent refunds are literally going to waste,” Ms Roach said.

“We want no container to go to waste, which is why I am urging all Queenslanders to start collecting their empties and experience the benefits of Containers for Change for themselves.”

Containers for Change is leading the way as the first container recycling program in Australia to include glass wine and spirit bottles, providing more opportunities for central Queensland households, charities and community organisations to actively participate and raise money through 10-cent refunds.

“The 10-cent refunds can really add up, helping to ease some of the cost-of-living pressures households are currently facing, and if you don’t need the refund yourself, it’s a great way to donate to your chosen charity, community group or even your local school P&C,” Ms Roach said.

“Best of all it has never been easier to get started on a container collecting journey and help keep this iconic destination litter free.

"Customers can visit our website or download the Containers for Change app to find their nearest refund point, sign-up for a member number and watch their refunds grow”.

For further info on Containers for Change in Queensland, visit www.containersforchange.com.au/qld.

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Hanly Dental Studio, led by Dr Tim Hanly, has recently opened in Mackay with a mission to transform patient experiences and elevate the standard of dental care throughout the region.
Located on Brisbane Street and across from Sydney Street Markets, the state-of-the-art facility is changing common dental experiences through a combination of innovative technology and a patient-focused approach, ensuring exceptional care in a comfortable environment.
After nine years practicing in the Mackay region, Dr Hanly knew that it was time to establish the family-owned clinic to provide more dental options and support the prevention and education of oral care for all of his patients.
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to give more people a healthy, functioning and aesthetic smile. It has been my family’s dream to open a clinic in Mackay and have the platform to make a difference in more people’s lives,” he said.
Along with a warm and welcoming environment, Hanly Dental Studio offers a focus on the importance and role of teeth in overall health whether through general dentistry, children’s dental health, emergency dental, implants, snoring and grinding dentistry, or cosmetic dentistry.
“We understand that many people experience anxiety and self-consciousness when visiting the dentist and our focus is on supporting and building confidence in our patients. We’re particularly proud to be able to build strong relationships with our patients and offer a caring and understanding environment that allows them to choose the oral care that’s the right fit for them.
For me, I get the most enjoyment from being able to take a patient from being in pain or not being able to chew or eat comfortably, then correcting these issues and giving them their quality of life back. It’s very rewarding to be able to help people in that way,” he said.
Dentistry runs in the family with Dr Hanly’s wife Rocky also a qualified Dentist. She has been busy helping to set up the business behind the scenes and will be a familiar face in the clinic, outside of looking after their young family – plus, welcoming their second baby in December!
Dr Hanly said that it was a very exciting time for their family and they were looking forward to providing a positive experience to patients and supporting their access to whatever outcome they’re hoping for.
“Whether it’s through promoting good oral hygiene and health, or creating a natural smile through cosmetic dentistry, we are dedicated to supporting each patient’s goals,” he said.
Hanly Dental Studio is offering an opening special of a check-up, x-ray, and clean for just $189 - saving over $100.
For more details and to book, visit hanlydentalstudio.com.au or phone (07) 4942 9733.

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CQ Rescue announced a significant milestone last week as the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) stepped up to become their new naming rights partner. This partnership marked only the second time in CQ Rescue’s history that a naming rights agreement had been granted. The relationship between CQ Rescue and BMA dates back to 1996 when CQ Rescue was first established. Over the past 28 years, CQ Rescue has saved more than 12,000 lives, a feat made possible by the support of its valued partners.
Tim Healee, BMA CQ Rescue CEO, expressed his excitement for the new partnership.
“BMA has been a cornerstone of our support for many years, and this new chapter as our naming rights partner is a testament to the strength and depth of our relationship.
“This announcement marks a significant milestone in our shared commitment to saving lives and to serving the entire region with some of the best aeromedical service available.”
BMA Asset President Adam Lancey said BMA was privileged to become the naming rights partner of the BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter after proudly supporting the service for almost three decades.
“With our shared commitment to safety and ensuring our people return home to their loved ones, this is a fantastic opportunity to come together and continue our support of the local communities where we live and work.
“The health and safety of our people is our first priority; however, when the unthinkable occurs at home or at work, it’s critical services such as the BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter that are often the first to respond.”
With the introduction of new AW139 helicopters, BMA CQ Rescue will now be able to fly faster and further, enhancing their ability to save more lives.
Lisa Martin, BMA CQ Rescue General Manager, also warmly welcomed the new partnership.
“BMA’s unwavering support has stood the test of time and has been instrumental in advancing our mission and making a positive impact in our community.”
Locals are encouraged to stay tuned for an invitation to BMA CQ Rescue’s AW139 arrival event, celebrating the new era for emergency chopper service, where every life matters.

Members of BMA and CQ Rescue come together to celebrate the announcement of BMA as the new naming rights partner for the BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter Service. Photo credit: BMA CQ Rescue

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Last Saturday evening, Cheree Ridolfi hosted a delightful #ForkCancer Longest Table event.

Inspired by the heartbreaking impact of a sudden cancer diagnosis on her daughter-in-law's uncle, Tony, Cheree organised this cocktail attire dinner to raise funds and bring together guests who share a passion for the #ForkCancer initiative. The night featured a variety of delicious home-cooked dishes accompanied by fine wines, beer and ginger beer on tap. After dinner, a lively auction took place with numerous items sold to support #ForkCancer research.

Including Cheree’s prior fundraising efforts, the event raised a total of $5,017, all of which will be matched by the Longest Table organisation, which will go directly towards those in need in the fight against cancer.

Image of Cheree’s daughter-in-law's, uncle, Tony. Image supplied

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Schools from across the Mackay and Whitsunday Isaac region are ready to take part in a unique program that will inspire students in the fields of STEM, science and sustainability using local waterway data.

Students from Whitsunday Anglican School had the opportunity to take part in the Healthy Rivers to Reef Innovation Challenge and work with real-world data and scientists to design solutions for the future.

The program helps to apply new technologies to show students how their solutions could support a sustainable and prosperous region.

The one-day workshops were led by Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership in collaboration with STEMPunks Education, thanks to support from local Partners and the Queensland Government—Engaging Science Grants.

Chris Buswell, STEMPunks Head of Education said the workshops would encourage ‘design thinking’ for problem solving.

“We know this is predicted to be a key skill in workplaces of the future,” Mr Buswell said.

“The program will help students explore new STEM skills and immerse themselves in real-world problem solving, with a focus on creativity and innovation. ”

Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership Executive Officer, Jaime Newborn, said the Partnership was proud to support the program and provide real-world data.

“The Partnership produces our region’s annual waterway health Report Card, based on a huge range of data, more than $4 million worth annually,” she said.

“It is exciting to now see students in our region use this information from data providers who are committed to learning more about local waterways.”

Students were eager to navigate the Healthy Rivers to Reef challenge using virtual reality and tech tools including Micro:bit coding, Smart Sensors and even Minecraft prototyping skills.

Principal of Whitsunday Anglican School Andrew Wheaton said, “As a school we have a strong commitment to developing skills in STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics.

“These are the skills that are so important for the future world as we prepare our students to be confident and leading into their respective fields when they leave school.”

The program also explores and promote STEM Careers, providing a chance to hear from STEM Professionals about their career journey and insights.

Workshops will be delivered to ten schools in the Mackay and Whitsunday Issac region in 2024/25.

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Principal of Whitsunday Anglican School Andrew Wheaton with Manager, Environment (Operations) of Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Ricci Churchill and Jaime Newborn, Executive officer for the Healthy Rivers to Reef partnership.

Whitsunday Anglican School students had the opportunity to engage in the Healthy Rivers to Reef Innovation Challenge last Thursday, which encourages them to work with real-world data and scientists to design solutions for the future. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Last weekend, the Woollam Art on Show Awards 2024 brought the Mackay art community together in a celebration of creativity and talent. The event, which spanned from August 2nd to August 5th, showcased over 250 works from local and interstate artists, reflecting the rich tapestry of artistic expression in the region.

The prestigious Overall Winner of the Woollam Art on Show Award, with a prize of $3,000, was Bradley Short for his piece "Plein Air Study Eungella."

Local artist Sam Pennisi won the Local Artist Award with his work "Banksia Banquet," earning a prize of $1,200.

In the Easel Painting Award category, Catherine Clark Dowden took first prize of $1,000 for "Like My Mama," while Bonny Shore's "Across the Bay" and Loren Boyd's "The Opening Act" received Highly Commended and Commended awards, respectively.

The Daly Bay Works on Paper Award saw Andrea Michele Chapman win first prize with "Billy and his Kid," and Pamela Berrigan secure second place with "King of the Bush." Katherine Murray’s "Keswick Island" was commended in this category.

Susi Muddiman OAM, Director, Gallery & Visual Arts at HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast and a highly esteemed guest judge, expressed her delight in being part of the event.

“It’s lovely to be here in Mackay and really nice to see how much community enthusiasm there is for big art prizes like this.

“Events like this bring people together and it’s a celebration of creative talent and spirit within the region,” she said.

When asked about her judging criteria, Ms Muddiman said, “I often look for a narrative to see if the work is telling me a story. My eye is drawn into it, and I can follow where it’s taking me.

“Perspective is really important, and sometimes it’s about the expression that the artist puts into the application.”

Art On Show coordinator Melissa Broadhurst highlighted the event’s growth over the years.

“This is our 18th year, and it’s grown significantly.

“We’re very proud of this event… it really brings the community together.”

The event also featured live demonstrations and activities by local artists' groups, including Pioneer Potters, Mackay Art Society, Printbank Mackay and the newly introduced Mackay Yarn Bombers.

Artspace Mackay's curator, Lauren Turton, hosted a floor talk on artists' books, sharing insights and highlighting the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection's treasures.

All 250 paintings on display are available for purchase.
Please contact  artonshow@mackayshow.com.au for further enquiries.

Susi Muddiman OAM, Director, Gallery & Visual Arts at HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast and a guest judge
Art On Show coordinator Melissa Broadhurst
The winning masterpiece from Bradley Short, called “Plein Air Study Eungella” - awarded $3,000. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Recent monitoring of restored wetlands at Alligator Creek near Mackay has shown thriving populations of native fish communities, including juvenile barramundi. This success follows comprehensive restoration efforts, which have transformed the once shallow, weed-infested wetlands into vibrant ecosystems.

The restoration works have included improving fish passage through the implementation of rock fish ladders, constructing deep pool refuge habitats, revegetation, and improved grazing management. Before these efforts, the wetlands were often dry and overrun by hymenachne, an invasive aquatic weed that reduces dissolved oxygen to levels unsustainable for aquatic life.
The restoration project was designed by Matt Moore, Fisheries Ecologist at Catchment Solutions, with funding from Reef Catchments NRM via the Australian Federal Government Reef Trust.  
“When people think about water quality, they often think about nutrients and pesticides and forget about oxygen. However, many coastal wetlands in North Queensland don’t have enough oxygen to sustain aquatic life. This is a major issue that has largely been forgotten about.'"
The work included creating deep pool refuge habitats and adding large hardwood logs to increase habitat complexity.
Moore explained, "The deep pools help manage invasive weed problems, as these prefer shallow areas. The refuge pools with logs provide cooler temperatures during the summer and help baby barramundi survive the dry season before migrating back to saltwater habitats to breed.
“Improving connectivity and ensuring good water quality means we have healthier populations of iconic barramundi. These are important to coastal Queensland communities, sustaining recreational, commercial, and Indigenous fisheries and playing a vital role in aquatic ecosystems as top-order predators, including helping the fight against pest fish populations."
Reef Catchments Senior Project Officer Carlos Bueno explained how important wetland restoration is to the fish breeding cycle.
"Barramundi breed in saltwater before their juvenile offspring undertake a lifecycle-dependent migration into freshwater wetlands at approximately 50 mm in length.
“At this small size, they are weak swimmers, so fish barriers like weirs, road causeways, and pipe and box culverts often block this critical migration, reducing barramundi populations and impacting aquatic ecosystem health. Remediating barriers with rock fish ladders allow baby barramundi to reach wetlands, which they use as nursery habitats for the first few years of their life before migrating back to saltwater to breed."
The wetland restoration works have been a collaborative effort with local grazier and sugar cane farmer Paul Bradford, demonstrating that improving wetland health and barramundi populations can go hand in hand with farming.
MrBradford commented, "This project shows that sustainable farming and wetland conservation can coexist and benefit each other."
This successful restoration project at Alligator Creek is a testament to the effectiveness of targeted ecological interventions and highlights the critical role of improving farm management practices to enhance water quality runoff. (e.g. fencing and off-stream watering points).
By adopting better farm management techniques, significant reduction of pollutants (fine sediments, nutrient and pesticides) entering waterways can be achieved, thereby supporting healthier wetland ecosystems. Such efforts not only benefit wildlife but also contribute to the well-being of local communities who rely on the ecosystem services provided.

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Matt Moore holding juvenile barramundi (young of the year) recorded during electrofishing surveys at the wetlands. The baby barramundi use the restored wetlands as nursery habitats for the first few years of their life before migrating back to saltwater

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Before and after; showing some of the restored wetlands. Photos supplied

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Juvenile barramundi and tarpon on the measuring board sampled via electrofishing monitoring in the wetlands

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The voices of 1000 rural women are being sought for a groundbreaking new documentary on Australia’s rural, regional and remote women.
Rural Daughters, the feature-length documentary by award-winning CheekyMac Productions, will follow the personal journeys of some of Australia’s most inspiring rural women in their efforts to overcome barriers, effect change and live a successful, purpose-driven life in the regions.
In addition to their stories, a nationwide 1000 Rural Women Survey has been developed to capture the experiences of rural women on a broad range of topics from natural disasters, health and domestic violence to societal attitudes, racial prejudice, Tall Poppy Syndrome, community life, leadership and female role models.
The documentary and survey is the brainchild of producer, director and writer Danielle McAlpine Johnson, herself a rural woman from Gippsland, Victoria. Mrs McAlpine Johnson aims to garner more than 1000 survey responses to provide a statistical snapshot of rural women.
Surveying 1000 rural women is a bold target, but we hope women take this opportunity to tell us about their lives and be a part of a collective voice in the Rural Daughters story,” she said.
“These women are the backbone of rural Australia and we are putting our heart and soul into telling their stories - how they overcome adversity, find purpose, break limitations and lead in their communities in the most unique and innovative ways.”
The survey has been developed by Federation University’s Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre, together with CheekyMac Productions - both organisations led by rural women. Commissioned by the Community Enterprise Foundation, the survey is expected to be the largest and broadest of its kind.
“Our involvement in this documentary is an opportunity to showcase that a regionally-based university can make a difference with regional communities and, in particular, advocate for rural women on issues that matter,” CERC Professor Joanne Porter said.
The documentary and survey results are expected to be used to inform policy and develop educational resources in Australian schools.
The survey is available online between August and September and available at cheekymac.com/rural-daughters
To request hardcopies, contact CERC@federation.edu.au

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Firefighter Mick Forde from the Sarina Fire Station recently provided a glimpse into the life of a firefighter. He shared both the rewarding and challenging aspects of his job, shedding light on the dedication required for this demanding role.

"The most rewarding thing about being a firefighter is that we get to make a difference in our community and give back," Mick stated.

"The most challenging part is seeing people on their worst days and still having to give 100%.”

Mick has been an auxiliary firefighter for eight years, which means he has a full-time job at Dalrymple Bay coal terminal but remains on call 24/7 to respond to emergencies, anywhere, at any time.

"When our pager goes off, we leave everything behind - our family, our current work - to serve our community," said Mick.

The past financial year was the station’s busiest yet, with over 250 jobs throughout the Sarina region.

Mick emphasised the importance of being a tight-knit team, much like the Sarina Fire and Rescue crew.

"It's a tight crew. Everyone gets on, knows their job and understands that what you might see and do isn't always pleasant, but you are always making a difference."

Sarina firefighters also love to participate in the annual Lolly Drop to the Sarina Township on Christmas eve with other responders such as Police, Ambulance and SES.  

Mick says “it not only brings a lot of joy to the kids of Sarina… but also to us that participate in it.”

Sarina Fire Station is currently recruiting auxiliary firefighters. These are paid, casual positions for individuals who hold regular jobs but carry a pager to respond to emergencies.

Training is held once a week on Mondays to maintain and update skills. Applicants must live within a four-minute drive from the fire station, have a manual C-class license (with the ability to obtain an MR license within 12 months), maintain an average level of fitness and work efficiently and safely within a team.

If you meet these criteria and are interested in this position, please message ‘Sarina Fire Station’ on Facebook with any questions or visit between 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm on Mondays.

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A rewarding scholarship program delivered by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank officially opened, August 1.
Community Bank Sarina now welcomes applications for the Sarina State High School Senior Schooling Scholarship Program for students entering Grade 11 in 2025. This is an incredible opportunity for students who want to thrive both academically and in their personal lives.
Brock Raward, a recipient of the high school scholarship in 2022 and 2023, completed school last year and is now pursuing an engineering degree at CQUniversity.
"The high school scholarship was a tremendous support, allowing me to focus on my senior studies and continue my community involvement," Brock said.
The Senior Schooling Scholarship provided financial support to cover the cost of essential expenses, including the Year 12 Resource Scheme, instrumental music fees, an English Drama play, and the Brisbane State Honours Ensemble Program (SHEP).
"SHEP was an incredible experience that I could not have afforded without the scholarship," Brock said. "I was lucky to join the state’s best instrumental students for an intensive 4-day program, learning and performing multiple pieces."
"These activities have helped me grow as a person and leader," he said
Brock continues his involvement in various community activities including coaching tennis.
Celebrating Brock Raward’s success reminds us of the broader significance of scholarships. They not only provide financial support but also nurture future community leaders. By supporting education and community involvement, these scholarships empower young people to make a positive impact.
Brock’s story shows the profound benefits of the Community Bank Sarina Scholarship. With its support, students have gained added benefits and grow personally, as well as contribute to their communities. We are incredibly proud of Brock Raward and eager to see his future achievements. He is testament to how vital it is to support and encourage our youth in our community.
Applications close on September 1. Email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au for an application pack.

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Brock Raward was a recipient of the high school scholarship in 2022 and 2023 delivered by Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied

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The Sarina Museum, located at The Field of Dreams Parklands (Railway Square) Bruce Highway, Sarina, is currently closed.
The museum was closed in late July, 2024 following vandalism, which caused a lot of damage, including broken glass, debris, and damage to displays and artefacts.
The vandalism was reported to the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and the site made safe.
As Sarina Museum was the next stage of a Museum Collection Rationalisation Project, council decided to keep the museum closed until the rationalisation project concludes, with a plan to open afresh in March, 2025.
Council’s museums routinely close from December to March each year due to low demand/visitation.
The decision was made to close earlier as it would be difficult to undertake the collection rationalisation work and, at the same time, keep the museum in a state suitable to remain open to the public.
Sarina Museum volunteers agreed they’d prefer the museum closed while the rationalisation process is undertaken.
Any updates regarding the expected re-opening in April, 2025 will be updated on council's website and also communicated through council’s communication channels, including social media.

The Sarina Show and Rodeo marked its 60th anniversary last weekend, commemorating six decades of fanfare, flavours, and family atmosphere that have made it a beloved event among locals and visitors since its inception in 1964.
The 2024 Sarina Show and Rodeo, held on 3-4 August, featured displays and exhibits, stud cattle, prime cattle, and ring events. The always popular rides and the excitement of sideshow alley delighted attendees. Saturday night saw fireworks and a rodeo, followed by live music, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Mackay Regional Council councillor Karen May expressed pride in the local tradition.
“The Sarina Show and Rodeo is such an important event in our region that promotes community connection and celebrates our local fine arts and agricultural achievements,” Mrs May said.
View more photos in our online gallery at mackayandwhitsundaylife.com
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Photo credit: Photos by Nell (Tanell Thomsett)

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