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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Mackay’s Careers Expo is back for its second year, offering an extraordinary opportunity for school leavers, recent graduates, and career-changers to gain invaluable insights into potential career paths. Whether you're a student on the brink of making pivotal decisions about your future, a recent graduate exploring your options, or a seasoned professional contemplating a career change or upskilling, this event is designed with you in mind.
Following the phenomenal success of its inaugural event, this year's expo promises to be even more comprehensive and enlightening.

The Mackay Careers Expo will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on August 15, 2024. This event is a must-attend for anyone looking to shape their future, be it by starting a new career, upskilling, or transitioning into a different industry.

Explore Endless Opportunities

This year, the expo features an impressive array of exhibitors. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with highly qualified representatives from prestigious organisations, many offering opportunities across the nation.

The Mackay Careers Expo isn't just for students; it’s an inclusive event that welcomes parents, experienced workers, and anyone considering a career change. It's a chance to explore new possibilities and get the latest information from experts in various fields.

Why Attend?

The current economic climate means more people are gaining an awareness of the importance of gaining new skills or upgrading existing skills, to open opportunities for advancement as one way to combat the rising cost of living. Whether you're looking to kickstart your career, make a transition, or simply explore new opportunities, this expo offers the resources, advice, and inspiration you need.

The Mackay Careers Expo is designed to provide attendees with practical, actionable information. Here’s what you can expect:

   • Expert Advice: Get insights from industry leaders on how to apply for courses, the costs involved, financial support options, and the qualifications required.
   • Career Options: Learn about current career and employment opportunities, trainee and apprenticeship programs, and options for adults to upskill and retrain.
   • Networking: Connect with professionals and educational providers who can offer guidance and support for your career journey.
Don’t Miss Out

The Mackay Careers Expo is an event that no one can afford to miss if they are serious about taking control of their future. Admission to the expo is free, making it accessible to everyone who is keen on making informed career decisions.

For more information, visit careersevent.com and click on Mackay Careers Expo.
Whether you’re a high school student, a university graduate, or a professional looking to pivot in your career, the Mackay Careers Expo offers the guidance and opportunities you need to make informed decisions and take the next step towards a fulfilling career.

This event is more than just a career expo; it’s a gateway to your future.

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Mineral Resources (MinRes) is a diversified resources company with operations in iron ore, lithium, energy and mining services across Australia.
For more than 30 years, MinRes’ passion for innovation, agile approach and ability to seize new opportunities has seen us grow into a leading ASX 50 company.  
Our wholly owned subsidiary, CSI Mining Services (CSI), is a leading provider of pit to port mining solutions for MinRes and Tier 1 mining clients.
CSI recently commenced operations in northern Queensland – providing haulage operations for a bauxite mine site in Weipa – and is recruiting MC drivers from Weipa, Cairns and surrounding areas while sourcing equipment and services through local businesses.
MinRes also has a range of fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) opportunities available in Western Australia, with direct flights from Brisbane to our Ken’s Bore and Wodgina mine sites.
We’re proud to be setting a new standard for employee experience, including resort-style accommodation, high-quality food offerings and a dedicated airline service that will offer a superior travel experience.
Joining MinRes comes with a range of benefits to keep you feeling happy, healthy and supported. This includes a competitive salary and bonuses, access to our employee share plan, career development opportunities and health and wellbeing programs.
To find out more about MinRes visit mineralresources.com.au

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Are you a recent or soon-to-be graduate looking to start your career in education? Or an experienced teacher seeking a change? We're currently seeking talented and enthusiastic teachers to join our growing kindergartens, schools and colleges! Applications are now open for full-time teaching positions for the 2025 school year. Apply today!
Catholic Education - Diocese of Rockhampton serves communities from Bundaberg in the south to Mackay in the north and west to Longreach at 17 locations across Central Queensland. 
Each year Catholic Education - Diocese of Rockhampton employs a number of graduate and experienced teachers in Catholic Kindergartens, Primary Schools and Colleges commencing at the start of each year.
In addition to permanent appointments occurring across the Diocese with growth in our schools and colleges, the expansion of the newly opened Catherine McAuley College includes new permanent teaching positions to be filled. Make a difference in the growth of a foundation college!  Applications are welcome from anyone who would support the school's ethos and possess the following are encouraged to apply:
   • Relevant tertiary qualification (or eligible to graduate)
   • Evidence of successfully passing the Literacy and Numeracy Test for Initial Teacher Education Students (for graduate teachers)
   • Appropriate qualities, knowledge and skills to provide a relevant and holistic education
   • Australian work rights
Generous incentives are available to successful applicants (based on location preferences) which include:
   • Competitive salary structure for Teaching staff - $84,077 - $142,764 (pending experience – includes Highly Accomplished (HAT) and Lead Teacher (LT) salary scale)
   • Superannuation of 12.75%
   • Access to salary packaging options to maximise employee benefits and salaries
   • 39 weeks of term time for a school year
   • Access to free Employee Assistant Program (24-hour counselling service)
   • Access to corporate health discounts with either Bupa or Westfund Health Insurance
   • Leadership development opportunities
   • $1000 travel subsidy per year (rural and remote incentive)
   • Subsidised housing (rural and remote incentive)
   • Relocation assistance (rural and remote incentive)
   • Isolated allowance payments and bonus payments (rural and remote incentive)
   • Modern facilities and resources
   • Access to long service leave after 7 years of continuous service (portability of Long Service Leave may also be applicable)
   • Deferred Salary Scheme
   • Induction process, professional learning programs and Early Career Teacher Support
For more information on the benefits of working in our rural and remote communities visit our website – https://www.rok.catholic.edu.au/careers/benefits-of-working-remotely/
To view our current vacancies, please visit – www.rok.catholic.edu.au/careers/working-with-catholic-education/
To speak directly with our recruitment team for an opportunity that suits you, please email teach@rok.catholic.edu.au or call 4994 8000.

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Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd (DBCT P/L) strives to be an employer of choice for the Mackay Region, constantly reviewing and improving what they offer their employees.

With the tight employment market, what is offered to workers has been a focus, and the good news is if people know they’d like to work at DBCT P/L, they have the option to sign up for job alerts so they can be notified about positions vacant.

DBCT P/L CEO, Steve Rae, said as well as being competitive for salaries and wages, employees had the advantage of being home after every shift.

“Being located just 30 minutes south of Mackay means you don’t have to do DIDO or FIFO. We’ve also worked hard with our shift workers to ensure those on shifts have rosters that allow for work/life balance,” Steve said.

“We also have an excellent employee proposition, meaning we have great offerings for our people to access.”

Some of the benefits of working for DBCT P/L include:

   • Minimum of five weeks annual leave (pro rata)
   • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
   • Employee rewards program for discounts for goods and services
   • Health and wellbeing program
   • Employee Family Day and Christmas Party
   • Bonuses
   • Novated Leasing
   • Professional development support and opportunities

With a significant level of maintenance work underway at the terminal, DBCT P/L and their contracting partners are looking for more workers on a regular basis.

Steve said it had previously been harder to get a job at DBCT P/L due to the low turn-over rate, however, expansions to both workforce and contracting positions, along with retirements of long-serving employees, has meant there have been more vacancies.  

“In particular, we’ve been looking for people in the maintenance space such as planners, engineers and supervisors.

“We’ve been hiring tradespeople and professionals, so the best way to know if there’s a job that’s a fit for you is to sign up for job alerts via the employment page on our website.”

Steve said DBCT P/L had not only worked hard to offer great rewards to its employees, but to also be a company that its people are proud to work for.

“We have strong cultural and sustainability plans to guide us for how we look after our workers, our community, and our environment, as well how we operate as a business.

“Our sponsorship program aims to support the liveability of Mackay by funding a wide range of organisations, events and programs in the region.

“We even have a dedicated employee sponsorship program that provides funding for organisations and events with an employee link.”

People can find out more about job alerts, what DBCT P/L offers employees, and about their recruitment process at dbct.com.au

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In a thrilling conclusion to the first-ever GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race, Grant Warrington's Supermaxi Wild Thing 100 claimed line honours, setting a record time of 35 hours and 35 minutes. The race, which covered a 520-mile course, saw Wild Thing 100 achieve an impressive average speed of 17.5 knots.
The inaugural GCCM Line Honours Perpetual Trophy was presented on the docks at Mackay Marina Village. The presentation was made by Drew Jones, Past Commodore of Southport Yacht Club, and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson.
Greg Alders’ Crowther 50 catamaran, Top Gun, followed Wild Thing 100 across the finish line, arriving a few hours later at 2:41 AM.
Grant Wharington, the skipper of Wild Thing 100, praised his team for their exceptional performance.
“What a great new ocean yacht race the GCCM Gold Coast to Mackay race is.
“The Wild Thing 100 sailing team set a new race record for the 520-mile course in just over 35.5 hours, logging an average of 17.5 knots through the water.
“The crew did an excellent job of sailing the boat, and a special thanks to boat Captain Theo and his first mate Patrick for preparing the boat perfectly for the race.
“A big thank you to Southport Yacht Club for hosting the event and the city of Mackay for a rousing reception on our arrival.
“This is a race we will definitely come back for in the future with trade wind sailing getting warmer every day.”
Adding a touch of excitement to the race was a special “race within a race” involving Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, City of Gold Coast Councillor Shelley Curtis, and Gold Coast City Marina (GCCM) COO Andrew Chapman. The three VIPs competed in an 18-knot challenge from Cavill Avenue to the Gold Coast Seaway before taking a symbolic ‘step off the stern’ into the water.
Mayor Greg Williamson expressed his excitement about participating in the event.
“It was an honour to be on board GCCM Arctic Blonde at the cannon, and while stepping off the stern was a bit nerve-wracking, I was well looked after by everyone on board and in the pick-up boats,” Mayor Williamson said.
He highlighted the economic benefits of the race, with an expected injection of more than $750,000 into the local economy.
“This race brings huge economic benefit to our region. The race is an official qualifier for the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race and so is an added incentive for those boats already heading north for the Hamilton Island and Magnetic Island race weeks.”
The race, sponsored by the Invest Mackay Events and Conferences Attraction Program, aimed to showcase the region to locals and visitors alike. Prizes for the race winners included Sarina Sugar Shed’s award-winning rum and liqueurs, because sailors love rum of course!
The event marked a significant milestone in Australia’s yacht racing calendar and promised to be a recurring highlight for years to come.

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Wild Thing 100 at the start of the GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race. Photos supplied: Wild Thing Yachting

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson took a ‘step off the stern’ at the start of the inaugural Gold Coast to Mackay Yacht Race. Photo credit: Salty Dingo Media

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Mackay local Ricki is not afraid of hard work, in fact, he’s happy to “put his back into it” - or so to speak.
Diagnosed at the age of 24 with degenerative facet arthropathy in his lower spine, Ricki needed to adjust his way of work.
“I was installing safes at the time when my back issue became apparent, and I found myself in constant rehab. After this extensive treatment to get me back on my feet, I was left with no other choice than to find a job that didn’t involve manual lifting,” said Ricki.
“I moved around and tried to find other work but that never lasted too long, as the employers at the time showed me little flexibility with the roles – I either did it or got out. The thing is, I’m an active person and I can do heaps of things. I just needed to be given the chance to show them what I could.”
“I did odd jobs to help make ends meet, all while trying to seek assistance through employment agencies, but they too really struggled to find me suitable employment,” added Ricki.
Within two weeks of arriving in Mackay for a fresh start nearly two years ago, Ricki landed a new role through leading Disability Employment Services (DES) provider, CoAct/Community Solutions.
Community Solutions is a member of the CoAct network. For more than 25 years, CoAct has united and powered locally-embedded community and employment for-purpose service providers to amplify their social impact.
“They listened to me, and what I could do, and how I wanted that job to see me through to retirement.
“Within no time, they’d found me the perfect role. I drive the forklifts, I do palletising, and now I’m a supervisor – it’s the best job I’ve ever had. I wish I had found it when I was first diagnosed,” confirmed Ricki.
Commencing with Reward Hospitality, Ricki said he felt supported by both CoAct/Community Solutions and his new employer.
“They were always asking me how I was going and if I needed anything. They understood my predicament and treated me like any other employee – with respect and without judgement.
“I have now built that up to five days a week and I am loving my new outlook on life as I now have self-worth and feel like I am contributing to society like anyone else,” added Ricki.
It’s stories like this one, CoAct/Community Solutions Mackay are keen to share with the locals whilst exhibiting at the upcoming Mackay Careers Expo on Thursday August 15.
Since commencing the DES contract in 2018, Mackay’s CoAct/Community Solutions site has placed nearly 500 customers into meaningful positions.

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Amateur golfers put their swings to the ultimate test, hoping one shot in the outback would make their millionaire dreams come true. The Outback Qld Masters Golf Series, renowned for its unique charm, saw curious characters lining the fairways, with players citing the resident kangaroos as true-blue Aussie markers keeping score, and curious crows flying away with golf balls.
Wayne Berginey, a member of the Pioneer Valley Golf Club at Mirani, returned home triumphantly as the championship winner in the annual Outback Qld Masters Golf Series for 2024. Winning the Series Championship in the men's A grade division (Brolga Division) was a proud moment for Berginey, capping off a challenging and exciting tournament. Berginey proved to be one of the most consistent competitors across the series of weekends in the outback, finishing with 117 points.
The series commenced at Birdsville on 15th-16th June, then advanced to Boulia, Winton, Barcaldine, Charleville, and finally Quilpie on 21st July. Participants from Queensland, Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia joined in the fun, battling the elements and wildlife alike. The experience included fending off crows intent on pinching golf balls at Birdsville and Boulia, adding to the unique challenges of the tournament.
Every Saturday night, players enjoyed dinners under the stars with live entertainment, fostering camaraderie and unforgettable memories. A $10,000 hole-in-one was up for grabs each weekend until it was won, but the final weekend at Quilpie featured the ultimate challenge: a $1,000,000 hole-in-one. Players had one shot to claim the prize, but once again, the money remained unclaimed.
Launched in 2019, the series aims to enhance the profile of Outback Queensland and boost tourism within the regions. As the sun set on this year’s tournament, the excitement of the finale of the 1,650-kilometre golfing adventure was palpable.
Locations for the 2025 Outback Queensland Masters have been announced, with the series set to tee off on 21st June. The six consecutive weekends will feature stops at Mitchell, Augathella, Blackall, Alpha, Richmond, and will culminate with the Million Dollar Hole-In-One for some 'golf in the Gulf' at Karumba.
Minister for Tourism and Sport, Michael Healy, expressed his enthusiasm for the event.
"The Outback Queensland Masters is a unique event on Queensland’s calendar, and I’m excited to see the schedule for next year’s tournament, which tees off in June 2025. It’s terrific to announce the six new locations that will host next year’s event, spanning iconic must-see locations, from Mitchell through to its finale in Karumba for the famous ‘Million Dollar Hole-In-One’."
As the anticipation builds for next year's tournament, the Outback Queensland Masters continues to offer an unparalleled blend of sport, adventure, and community spirit.

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A lot of golf balls were lost to the crows       
Each sand green location was different
Winners group left to right: B grade winners (Bilby division) Garry Meek from Nth Rockhampton Golf Club and Natasha Mason from Jerliderie Golf Club (NSW), and A grade winners (Brolga division) Wayne Berginey from Pioneer Valley Golf Club and Robyn Clayton from Goombungee Golf Club (Qld).     
Final weekend at Quilpie

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James Cook University (JCU) is committed to top-quality teaching, learning and research that delivers practical benefits to communities, industries and the global environment. Our students and researchers are equipped with skills and knowledge to meet the demands of the workforce in the Tropics and throughout the world. Graduate with confidence when you study at a university ranked in the top 2% in the world.¹
Ready today for tomorrow
Field trips, clinical placements, practicums, and internships — no matter what you study, JCU provides opportunities to build your job-ready knowledge and skills base. Gain hands-on experience in Outback cattle stations, remote health clinics, the heart of the Daintree Rainforest or the depths of the Great Barrier Reef.
Kickstart your career through study incorporated with real-world practice. JCU prioritises practical experience and our academics maintain strong industry links that provide you with extensive placement opportunities. You’ll gain valuable work experience and build a network of leading industry professionals in your field.
About JCU Mackay
JCU Mackay provides a world-class education for healthcare professionals in nursing and pharmacy, as well as being one of the university's clinical training sites. Both the Bachelor of Nursing Science and the Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) are offered at JCU Mackay campus locations. Small class sizes and personalised support from teachers fosters the development of highly-skilled graduates.
The JCU Mackay campuses have been named Ngudya Yamba (pronounced nood-ja yum-ba), meaning ‘place of knowledge’ in the Yuwi language.
Industry-ready graduates
A JCU degree empowers you to make an impact. Our courses are aligned with professional standards through close partnerships with industry leaders. These connections provide students with opportunities for course-related work experience, internships and placements in real-world settings. Graduates emerge ready to kickstart their careers. That’s why JCU is ranked #1 in Queensland for full-time employment outcomes.
With multiple pathway programs into our undergraduate degrees, there’s a place for you at JCU.
A five-star experience
We are independently rated five stars for full-time employment, graduate starting salary, and student-teacher ratio for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Excel in your studies and future career through the support of academics and staff committed to student success.
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¹ Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024
² The Good Universities Guide 2024

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The Mackay Aeroclub is thrilled to announce the "Wings and Wheels" Trivia Night, set to take place on Friday, 16th August 2024. This fun-filled event invites all trivia enthusiasts and community members to join for an evening of camaraderie, challenge and entertainment.

Designed to attract those who have a passion for their machines, whether it be motorcycles, cars, or aircraft, this night is perfect for all enthusiasts.

Rhys Bowman, President of the Mackay Aeroclub, shared his excitement about the upcoming event.

"Our 'Wings and Wheels' Trivia Night is a fantastic opportunity for community members to come together and enjoy a friendly competition.

“We're looking forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones, where the evening promises to be a great mix of fun, laughter, and a bit of friendly rivalry.

“It's also a wonderful chance to showcase our club's vibrant spirit and the strong community connections we cherish."

Teams of up to five members can be formed on the night, making it easy for everyone to participate. The bar will open at 4:30 PM, offering a perfect chance to relax and socialise before the trivia begins at 6:30 PM. Adding to the evening's enjoyment, a BBQ sausage sizzle will be available, providing a delicious treat for all attendees. Entry to the event is free, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun without any cost.

The Mackay Aeroclub invites everyone to come along, test their trivia knowledge and enjoy a great night out.

For more information, please contact the Mackay Aeroclub.

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the Mackay Aeroclub club house is open every Friday night for drinks, sunsets or have a go on the flight simulator

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Community Solutions (Endeavour)
Phone: 1300 621 499
Email: csteam@communitysolutions.org.au
Website: communitysolutions.org.au

Dalrymple Bay
Phone: 07 4943 8444
Email: enquiries@dbct.com.au
Website: dbct.com.au

Sodexo
Phone: 1800 763 396
Website: au.sodexo.com

JCU
Phone: 1800 246 246 446
Email: enquiries@jcu.edu.au
Website: jcu.edu.au

Catholic Education
Phone: 1800 228 433
Email: reception@rok.catholic.edu.au
Website: rok.catholic.edu.au

Mineral Resources
Phone: 08 9329 3600
Email: reception@mineralresources.com.au
Website: mineralresources.com.au

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Momentum. It’s a thing in physics, sport, business and life.
Now I’m not going to attempt to give a physics lesson but, basically, if you have a big, fully loaded concrete truck rolling down a steep hill … that fella’s got momentum.
In sport, when your team is on a roll, you’ve scored the last few tries or goals, the ball is bouncing your way and everything is clicking, you feel unbeatable. You’ve got momentum.
In business, when you have goals and a plan and the team to produce the results, you are on your way. When you get the details right and the world starts to notice you and want to use your services, you are getting traction. When word of mouth spreads and customers start coming back, you’ve got momentum.
In life, when you get the mix right with your health, relationships, work, leisure and enjoyment of the world you’re lucky enough to be living in, things start to click. You get up early, do some exercise, eat healthy food, focus at work, engage with friends and family and enjoy being with your partner … you’re on a roll. You’ve got momentum.
Momentum is also an important thing in real estate. Yes, it’s important in a business sense for a successful agency such as Gardian. But I’m talking here more about working for a seller, getting the best result for your client.
There are different ways of negotiating and doing a deal. It depends on the circumstances. Sometimes an offer has come in low and you can’t do a deal with that person because the offer is too far from the mark. Being willing to walk away can be a good negotiating tool in those situations because it can call the buyer’s bluff.
Or that low offer might lead to a slow, strategic discussion that methodically builds to a point where you finally find out where the buyer is in terms of their best price.
But in the very strong market that Mackay finds itself in, momentum plays a big role in getting deals done.
There is a lack of supply and a great deal of demand, both from local people looking for somewhere to live and from investors who feel this city is underpriced.
When we list a property for sale, the interest is immediate.  Local people want to inspect the property straight away and investors want answers to questions about rates, body corporate, rental returns ASAP.
The offers come early and, for buyers and sellers, it is a quick, intense ride to when a deal is done … often in a day or two.
That’s the momentum. Sellers need to realise that the issue is not how long they have been on the market, it is how long the buyer has been in the market. Buyers who have missed out on earlier properties are ready to go and want to get a property.
There’s a pack and they are hunting.
This is when the seller needs to understand that the momentum will create the best result. The buyers feel the competition and they put their best offers forward. This is not the time for a seller to cool their heels and think, “We’ve only been on the market for three days”.
It’s hard to stop that concrete truck rolling down the steep hill. It’s tough to beat your team when they are working like a well-oiled machine and they’ve scored the last three tries. They have momentum.
When selling real estate, competition creates the momentum. It’s not like a concrete truck rolling down a hill, but it’s still best not to step in front of it and try to stop it.

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In the ever-evolving facilities management sector, Sodexo stands as the number one Energy & Resources village services provider in Australia. Sodexo’s workforce is as diverse as the opportunities available across different roles and skill sets, from entry-level positions such as cleaners and service attendants to specialised roles including chefs, bus drivers, tradespeople, and management personnel.

Zach Phillips, a Senior Village Manager at a remote camp in Central Queensland, shares his journey from an entry-level chef to a senior managerial role within Sodexo. "I began as a chef and gradually saw how my skills could carve out a corporate career. Sodexo has been a remarkable platform for growth," Phillips states.

His move from owning a business and globe-trotting as a private chef to trying his hand in the Energy & Resources sector highlights the diverse opportunities for individuals from all walks of life. “It's been an amazing journey, and I'm excited to keep growing and learning at Sodexo.”

“If you're looking for career pathways within the mining industry, be ready to be flexible and patient," says Philips. "It's important to involve your family and make the most of your time together when you are home." Sodexo helps its employees by providing a structured approach to work-life balance, addressing the challenges and rewards inherent in this dynamic industry.

Sodexo offers a prime opportunity for those looking to embark on a new career journey. The company facilitates on-the-job traineeships, accreditations, and visa sponsorship opportunities to help employees thrive in their own way.

‍Apply Now!

au.sodexo.com/careers

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Hi Everyone,

It turns out that newspapers are a pretty good material to fashion all sorts of accessories, including skirts, hats, bowties and even pirate’s eye patches!

This is what we discovered anyway when our team joined the Great Barrier Reef Festival’s (GBRF) Rotary Street Parade on Saturday afternoon.

This was the first year we’d participated, and we had so much fun that we are already planning our outfits for next year!

Walking the Airlie Beach main street with the rest of the crew and our trusty distribution truck emblazoned with our branding was a very proud moment.

It was fantastic to be part of the event – handing out lollies to children with their hands eagerly outstretched, waving to the crowds and feeling ignited by the community spirit that embodies this fantastic local event.

The GBRF is a wonderful fixture in our annual events calendar, which made their recent announcement even sadder to digest.

As I am sure many of you are aware, a community chat post set alight rumours that this would be the last GBRF.

Fortunately, we were able to speak with the organisers who confirmed this was just a rumour, however, they announced that increased support was desperately needed in order for the event to continue into the future.

You can read the full story on page 3.

Most of the stress for organisers seems to be financial and I wonder if it would be possible for the already generous Council to find a few more dollars somewhere.

It seems that we are often hearing of events being cancelled these days, whether it be music festivals or community celebrations – and lack of funding is often the reason behind it.

So too are the resources, most importantly the volunteers.

Could you volunteer your time to help with the workload? The GBRF look for volunteers all year round, perhaps you could be part of the reason the event becomes more feasible for the selfless souls who keep it running each year.

Rach

Quote of the Week:

“No-one is you and that is your power” (Anonymous)

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Last week, a grateful daughter and father took to Facebook to express their heartfelt thanks to Prosocial Support Services and its owner, Shae Patterson, for their exceptional assistance.
Angela Hampton asked the community if anyone had a wheelchair they could borrow for her terminally ill father, John Sharples.  John sadly has stage 4 prostate cancer, and the doctors have given him 2 months to live.
Angela was unsure how to get her father, who was traveling from Brisbane, aboard the boat where they live. Without a car to transport her father, she thought having a wheelchair would make the process much easier.
Shae and Prosocial Support services jumped to the rescue and not only offered Angela and John a wheelchair but offered to transport it to them, as well as picking him up and dropping him off from the airport.
Angela expressed her gratitude to Shae:
“Not only did Shae offer to lend us a wheelchair for no cost, she also went and picked him up from the airport, and then organised for her sister to pick him and the wheelchair up from the marina and take him to the airport.”          
This act of kindness allowed the family to spend some much needed quality time together, and Angela said her dad said it was “the highlight of his life.”    
Shae wanted to let everyone know that the Whitsunday Prosocial Support Services, who are Independent support workers assisting NDIS and non-NDIS clients, are here to help.

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