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The judging panel for the Submerged in Our Region Art Exhibition will have their work cut out for them this July with more than 125 creative works submitted across all art forms, including photography, mixed media, film, writing and sculpture.
 
Earlier this year the Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership put a call out to the community for creative works with a connection to local waterways, and the vital life and industries they support.
 
The Partnership was inundated with responses, and the stunning collection will now be exhibited as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts, open for public viewing from July 26th.
 
Seventeen-year-old Soraya Bartlett took a unique approach to her submission, combining the beauty of Eungella’s Broken River with a flair for fashion and design.

Ms Bartlett, who is a Year 12 student at Whitsunday Anglican School, said she chose to create a fashion piece to show the interconnection between humans and the environment.
 
“I was inspired by our local environment and specifically Broken River because of all the life that can be found there, including the animals and constantly moving water and natural environment,” she said.
 
“I chose a fashion piece because it can be worn by humans, and with textiles you can replicate a lot of textures and patterns found in nature.
 
“The sparkling blue organza symbolises the clear and pristine waters of the river, and natural calico was precision laser cut to resemble leaf veins.
 
“The pleated back of the piece represents a human spine to embody the interconnectedness of water, environment and life.”
 
Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership Executive Officer Jaime Newborn said it was great to see the exhibition theme resonate so strongly with the community.
 
“From the number and diversity of entries we received, it’s clear that our local waterways are a great source of inspiration to the community and are central to how we work, live and play,” she said.
 
“The community response to this exhibition reinforces how important it is to look after our rivers, creeks, beaches and reefs so we can continue to enjoy them long into the future.”
 
The Submerged in Our Region Art Exhibition will launch the evening of July 25th and will be open for public viewing from July 26th to 30th, 10am - 2pm at Gallery-31, located within CQUniversity’s Mackay City Campus. For more information visit www.healthyriverstoreef.org.au.
 

Soraya Bartlett with her Submerged in Our Region entry, Broken River Flow

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Last Thursday, on July 4, eight First Year Constables began their career as a Queensland Police Officers in the Mackay Whitsunday Police District.

All officers received initial training and orientation, along with meeting District Superintendent Graeme Paine and Inspector Andrew Godbold on the day.

The district welcomed a diverse group of officers, each bringing unique backgrounds and experiences to their new roles.

Six of the new Constables will be based in the Mackay region. Constable Georgia Cornwell, hailing from Preston in the United Kingdom where she previously worked as a vet nurse, joins the Mackay police station. Constable Jay Harrison, transitioning from a background in Workplace Health and Safety in Clermont, starts his service at the Mackay Northern Beaches police station.

Constable Lachlan Capararo, who comes from Newcastle with experience from a cemetery, will serve at the Sarina police station. Constable Cameron Kennedy, formerly an electrician from Kenilworth, joins the Mackay police station.

Constable Shaquiah Mackie, transitioning from a role as a store person in Coffs Harbour, also joins the Mackay police station and Constable Gianna Newman, previously a harvester from Stanthorpe, joins the Sarina police station. Others will be stationed in the Whitsundays.

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The Mackay Whitsunday Police District welcomed eight new officers to the region last week. Image source: myPolice Mackay Whitsunday

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All Tyres 2 U is excited to announce the launch of a new initiative aimed at promoting tyre safety within the community.
A mobile service truck will be stationed at various locations across Mackay, providing free tyre safety inspections for all vehicles.
The first "Pop Up Shop" event was recently held at Carlyle Gardens Retirement Village on Wednesday, 10th July, from 9am to Noon and Breezes Retirement Village 12.30 – 2.30.  Which will then be held on the second Wednesday of every month.
The purpose of this initiative is to assist both the older and younger generations who may struggle with basic tyre maintenance. Many people are unaware of how to check their tyres for issues like air pressure and wear and service stations no longer provide these checks.
Additionally, the self-serve air bowsers can be difficult to use, leaving many unsure of how much air to put in their tyres.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety of our community on the road,” said Michelle Adams, Manager at All Tyres 2 U.
“By providing these free inspections and valuable information, we hope to educate drivers and help them maintain their tyres more effectively.”
All Tyres 2 U invites everyone to take advantage of this free service.
Keep an eye out for their truck at various locations around Mackay in the coming weeks.
For more information, contact Michelle Adams on (07) 48 481 918, michelle@alltyres2u.com.au or visit alltyres2u.com.au online.

What to Expect From The Team At All Tyres 2 U:
   • Free Tyre Safety Inspections: Our team will inspect tyres for free, ensuring they are safe and properly maintained.
   • Information Cards: After the inspection, each driver will receive an information card detailing their tyre size, the correct air pressure, and the condition of their tyres.
   • Free Gifts: Every participant will receive a free tyre pressure gauge and a small gift as a token of our appreciation.
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All Tyres 2 U are kindly providing free tyre safety checks to ensure members of the public stay safe on the roads. Image supplied

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Hitachi Construction Machinery (Australia) Pty Ltd (HCA) is a leading manufacturer of mining and construction equipment in Australia and the exclusive distributor of Wenco International Mining Systems in Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, and Papua New Guinea.
Wenco, one of the world’s oldest and largest Mining Fleet Management Systems, has been providing solutions to the open-cut mining industry for over 25 years.
HCA will be exhibiting at the Queensland Mining & Engineering (QME) Expo on July 23-25, showcasing two of the most coveted machines in the mining and construction industries; the EX1200-7 and ZX17U-5 excavators. This event gives attendees the chance to experience the sophisticated design and legendary reliability of Hitachi machinery firsthand.
“Attending this event is a key move in HCA’s market leadership, reinforcing our commitment to the Queensland mining sector,” stating Sean Ryan, HCA’s General Manager of Mining.
HCA is proud of its diverse range of machinery, known for durability, reliability, versatility, and fuel efficiency. HCA provides comprehensive sales, service, and parts support to Australian customers through a national branch network and a 24/7 customer service contact centre.
Visit Hitachi on stands OS340, OS338 to experience the unparalleled quality and innovation of Hitachi machinery!
For more information, please visit www.hcma.com.au or phone 1300 HITACHI.

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Koolkuna means ‘a place of safety’
Kraus & Naimer has always been synonymous with quality. Since 1907 they have been leading the way in switchgear innovation. Maintaining high standards and quality products has seen K&N establish itself as an industry leader in the global market.
Kraus & Naimer’s Koolkuna range of low-voltage switch-disconnector classed visible contact load break isolators (available upto 132kW / 315A) have been innovatively designed using established mechanisms assuring reliability and safety.

Proof of Isolation can be confirmed in a number of ways, according to AS/NZS 60947-3 and Koolkuna has them all covered.

Our mission is to find the best possible solutions for our clients using our many years of knowledge, fast working methods and short ways within the organisation. Innovation meets tradition – this is not an empty phrase, but a reflection of our working philosophy. 

Visit Kraus & Naimer at the 2024 Queensland Mining and Engineering Expo to find out more.
 

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In a safety-first world, Incident Zero leads with groundbreaking innovation, setting new workplace standards for safety. Our ethos? Ensuring every worker returns home safely every day. The Safety HaloTM embodies this commitment, marking a significant leap forward in safety technology.

The Safety Halo uses low-powered red laser light to create a safety zone around machinery—a revolutionary concept developed over seven years. This brilliance combines human- eye biophysics, advanced laser engineering, and a dedication to global safety standards. The result? A resilient, bright, long- reaching laser system that thrives in harsh mining conditions, maintaining top safety standards.

What makes the Safety Halo unique isn’t just its technology, but its intuitive design that communicates safety universally. Its distinctive red zone instinctively warns of danger, transcending language and education barriers. Unlike systems reliant on driver input, the Safety Halo operates autonomously, ensuring safer human-machine interactions. It’s the most effective mobile plant exclusion system available today.

For more information on the Safety HaloTM, visit our website at www.incident-zero.com or call 1300 845 451.

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Specialising in the intricate field of revegetation and rehabilitation within the mining industry, MineMend draws upon its deep-rooted agricultural expertise with a primary mission of collaborating closely with clients to create safe and sustainable rehabilitated sites.

By leveraging their extensive knowledge and skills, MineMend transforms once-barren mining landscapes into biodiverse ecosystems capable of supporting native vegetation and grazing lands, with a focus on long-term sustainability for future generations of farmers and graziers to come.

At the core of MineMend's operations are their values of respect, integrity, cleanliness, focus, and excellence. These values guide every aspect of their work, ensuring that they uphold the highest standards of professionalism, environmental responsibility and community engagement.

Looking ahead to the next three years, by June 30, 2027, MineMend aim to rehabilitate more than 2000 hectares bi-annually across a diverse portfolio of over 30 mining sites throughout Queensland.

Through their steadfast commitment to these principles, MineMend continues to lead the way in sustainable land rehabilitation within the mining sector, making a positive impact on both the environment and the local communities they serve.

Transform coals mines into sustainable revegetated pasture by contacting MineMend today!

www.minemend.com.au
Socials: MineMend

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In the bustling heart of the Bowen Basin’s mining sector, the Queensland Mining & Engineering Exhibition (QME) stands as a monumental mining event, attracting thousands of industry professionals and enthusiasts to the Mackay Showgrounds from 23-25 July 2024.
Recognised as Australia's largest regional mining exhibition and the largest in Queensland, QME has been a cornerstone of the mining industry in Mackay for over three decades. It is a biennial event that no one in the mining industry can afford to miss.

A Showcase of Innovation and Excellence
QME 2024 promises to be a grand showcase of supplier innovation and excellence, highlighting the world-class capabilities of Mackay and the broader Central Queensland region. With over 300 leading industry suppliers, attendees will have the opportunity to discover the latest products and services tailored to the mining sector's evolving needs. This year’s exhibition will also feature a unique Engineering Pavilion and masterclasses specifically designed to provide practical, professional development for engineers.

Networking and Industry Insights
QME isn’t just about the exhibits and masterclasses; it’s a prime opportunity for networking and making invaluable connections. The event will host several social gatherings, including the QME Opening Party and the prestigious Queensland Mining Awards, in partnership with the Bowen Basin Mining Club (BBMC). These events provide a relaxed environment for attendees to connect, share insights, and foster business relationships that can lead to future collaborations.

A Glimpse Into the Future of Mining
The exhibition will feature cutting-edge mining technology and sustainable solutions, crucial for meeting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) obligations. Engineers and other professionals will have the chance to see large-scale mining equipment from industry giants such as Hastings Deering, Komatsu, and Hitachi Construction Machinery. The decarbonisation showcase will present the latest innovations paving the way for greener mining practices.

The Mining House Pavilion
For those eager to hear directly from the industry leaders, the Mining House Pavilion will be a highlight. It will feature Australia’s leading mining producers, including Anglo American, BHP + BMA, Bravus, BUMA, Glencore, Mackellar Group, and Whitehaven Coal. These companies will share their latest initiatives and provide insights into the future of mining in Australia.

QME 2024 is more than just an event; it's a convergence of minds, technology, and innovation. It’s where the future of mining takes centre stage, and industry professionals can experience firsthand the advancements shaping the sector.

Celebrating Excellence: The Queensland Mining Awards
This year’s Queensland Mining Awards, scheduled for 24 July, will celebrate a decade of excellence in the mining industry. With a record-breaking 70 entries, the awards will recognise outstanding achievements across eight categories, culminating in the prestigious Queensland Mining Contractor of the Year award.

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Catching the attention of the engineering industry, the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition (QME) has announced an engineering-exclusive masterclass series to be held at the 2024 event.

Alongside exhibitions, networking, and events, the 3 free-to-attend masterclasses will mark another reason for engineers across the sector to make their way out of the office and to the Mackay Showgrounds from July 23-25. The 2024 series will cover pragmatic approaches to supervision, practical hazard identification, and optimising belt conveyor systems.
 
The 2024 engineering masterclasses are relevant to different aspects of the role of engineers. In the session focused on supervision, Statutory Trainer and Assessor Hamish Beattie will speak to the broad number of personnel responsible for safety, welfare, productivity, and compliance. He will discuss how a mining organisation can plan for efficiency and profitability through effective supervision.
 
In a more practical workshop on bulk material handling, engineers will explore the role of belt conveyor component testing in designing and optimising conveyor systems, as well as typical issues and how they can be prevented.

Dr Priscilla Freire of TUNRA Bulk Solids, a non-profit specialised consultancy based at the University of Newcastle, says that the masterclasses planned for QME are designed to be practical, engineering-specific and made to complement some of the technologies on display at QME.

Speaking about the 2-hour TUNRA Bulk Solids workshop, Dr Freire says, "When you're attending an event like QME and being exposed to new technology, gaining an understanding of how the combination of material and components affects belt conveyor utilisation is important, especially to optimise and streamline your belt conveyor operations."
 
Entry to QME 2024 is entirely free, but the masterclasses require registration. The sessions will benefit engineers at every level, from students and graduates to management and site personnel. See the full program and register to attend at www.qmeexpo.com.au.

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A remarkable showcase of local talent mixed with deep-rooted culture is now on display at Jubilee Community Centre just in time for NAIDOC Week celebrations, marking a significant milestone in Leon Namai’s art journey.

The exhibition was officially unveiled last Friday in collaboration with local talents Donna Robinson and Tree Djinn.

Leon showcased a collection that captivated viewers with its fusion of cultural themes and contemporary expression. Reflecting on his trajectory, Leon recalled his artistic origins with a debut group show on Thursday Island during his TAFE years in 2003.

The current exhibition represents a culmination of growth and collaboration, particularly enriched by Donna Maree Robinson's guidance through the RADF program and Tree Djinn's creative contributions, notably highlighting elements like "Bunya" trees and electroculture rods.

The evening commenced with a warm Welcome to Country by Uncle Philip Kemp, honouring the cultural heritage of the "YUWI" People, followed by Tracy Heathwood, director of Artspace Mackay who officially opened the exhibition.

Leon extended a heartfelt gratitude to his supporters including Rebecca Cooper, Yoga with Bec, The Wilde Collective House of She and the Northern Beaches Our Community for their invaluable contributions. Their support, along with RADF, Arts Queensland and Mackay Regional Council, ensured the exhibition's success which will remain open throughout weekdays from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM until the end of July.

Leon sincerely invites the community to experience the vibrant celebration of art and culture at the exhibition.

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude and joy from the incredible support and turnout at the opening of my art exhibition,” said Leon.

“I warmly invite everyone to come and experience the celebration of art and culture during this special month.

“Thank you once again to everyone who attended and supported this event. Your presence and encouragement mean the world to me.”

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Visit Jubilee Centre during week days from 8.30am-4.30pm to view Leon Namai's vibrant fusion of cultural themes and contemporary expression, alongside collaborations with Donna Robinson and Tree Djinn. Photo source: Arts Mackay (Facebook)

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The Mackay Base Hospital courtyard was alive with cultural vibrancy during the NAIDOC celebrations held on July 4th, organised by the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Unit.

The event drew a large crowd who gathered to experience traditional dancing, singing, and ceremonial performances that honoured Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
Attendees were treated to captivating performances by the Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dance Troupe and the Mackay Torres Strait Islander Cultural Group, accompanied by the soulful tones of the didgeridoo played by Toasie Cora.

“Being a coastal town, some of the dances and stories relate to this area as well, it’s important that our younger generations get involved, Toasie Cora said.”

“Our theme this year is ‘Keep The Fire Burning’ and it’s important to show not only the community our young indigenous kids as well, that it’s still alive and to keep it going.”

Activities such as weaving demonstrations and Aboriginal rock painting engaged participants of all ages, providing opportunities to learn and appreciate Indigenous traditions.

The event brought together traditional elders, community members, hospital staff, patients, members of the Mackay Hospital and Health Board and police liaison officers. They joined in celebration and unity, enjoying the diverse cultural displays and interactive activities.
Gratitude was expressed to the Mackay Hospital Foundation and the Mackay Regional Council for their crucial support in ensuring the event's success.

Acting director of Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Health at the Mackay Base Hospital said “It’s absolutely important for all our staff here at the MHHS to celebrate NAIDOC, it’s a tremendous time to be able to share our knowledge and our cultures.”

NAIDOC Week is celebrated nationally from July 7 to 14

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Attendees gathered at the Mackay Base hospital court yard last Thursday to acknowledge and celebrate NAIDOC week. The theme of this year is ‘Keep The Fire Burning.’ Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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There are compliments and there are compliments.
When the compliment comes from your mum, it’s nice but … well you know, it’s from your mum.
Like the time I brought home a useless wooden box that I had “crafted” in a manual arts class at school. It was an ugly insult to the woodwork industry and had a stupid lid that wouldn’t close because the sides were uneven.
“Oh, darling that’s fantastic,” my mother said. Thanks mum.
The best, most credible compliments come from people who work and succeed in the same area as the person they are complimenting. Artists complimenting fellow artists, builders complimenting fellow builders, footballers complimenting fellow footballers.
I follow AFL footy and there is a specific compliment you sometimes hear when a footballer is asked his view on another player.
The compliment is: “I love the way he goes about it.”
There are some nuances to that compliment. The player being interviewed is not saying the other player is “the most spectacular”, “the fastest runner”, “the biggest kick”, “the highest mark”.
The comment, “I love the way he goes about it”, means that the player giving the compliment admires the discipline of the other player, the effort he consistently puts in, his focus on the small but important things (the one-percenters), his willingness to sacrifice his individual game for the benefit of the team, his desire to do the hard things (the tackling, the chasing) that don’t win awards but are vital for success.
Now I work in real estate and if I had to pick one agent to whom I would apply the term, “I love the way he or she goes about it”, it would be my friend and colleague Mick McLeod.
Mick works as a buyer’s agent as part of Ben Kerrisk’s team at Gardian and I love the way he goes about it because he is hard-working, consistent, determined, focused and always doing the best he can for buyers and sellers.
You will always see Mick armed with printouts of emails, texts and inquiries from buyers that he calls every day to follow up on private inspections and open homes and to try to match buyers with our listings.
Mick will work with buyers for months trying to find them a Gardian property that suits them. He is relentless but not pushy, so he sticks at the job but doesn’t make buyers feel that he is hassling them.
He is confident but not arrogant, so he has the self-belief you need to pick up the phone and make calls to strangers but his low-key, modest manner makes it a pleasant experience for everyone he deals with.
He is also even-tempered, a vital trait in a business with soaring highs and plunging lows that can make or break your day. If you bump into Mick and have a quick chat you wouldn’t know whether he has just sold a $1m property or whether that contract has just crashed. Stay calm and focus on the job.
Mick isn’t a flashy show-off but an insightful agent who understands and connects with people and follows the process that we know produces good, consistent results.
Anyone who works hard needs to be able to turn off and, if it’s late on a Saturday afternoon and the work’s been done you might spot Mick with a Great Northern in front of him with one eye on the last race at Caulfield and the other on the rugby league.
Later in the night there’ll be stories about growing up in Flaggy Rock and his days as a tearaway opening bowler … which means it’s time for you to go home.

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Around 3,000 people had an absolutely crab-ulous foodie, culture, art and nature adventure at the award-winning three-day 2024 St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend earlier this month.

Popular television personality Costa Georgiadis, Queensland’s food ambassador and professional chef Matt Golinski, Australia’s most loved First Nations dancer Patrick Thaiday, chart-topper Jeremy Marou from Busby Marou, Golden Guitar winner Brad Butcher and rising country star Loren Ryan were among some of the biggest drawcards.

The event is proudly brought to the region by Isaac Regional Council in partnership with the Koinmerburra Aboriginal Corporation, community, industry and government partners.

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Photo credit: Isaac Regional Council

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For me, school holidays looked a little different this time with my mum travelling over from Perth to visit, which was amazing.
We had a beautiful time visiting Bowen and just spending time together. She soaked up so many cuddles with the kids, and we created some great memories. I'm extremely grateful that she is able to travel from Perth to Mackay a couple of times a year. Yet, every time she goes, I feel like a little kid who gets upset and misses her mum.
I've always been terrible at goodbyes, but since having children of my own and watching them play with their G'ma, I find it so hard to say goodbye. Here I am, a 30-year-old woman with two kids, crying as I drive away from Mackay airport after saying bye. What’s wrong with me?!
The goodbye hits a little different this time as we aren't sure when we will see each other next, and it’s likely to be six months away. I understand six months isn't a lot to some, and my heart goes out to those who travel further and go longer between visits. But I think of how much little kids grow in that time, and how it’s just not the same having her not be at every birthday, Christmas, or important event in our lives.
Not to mention having a live-in babysitter so I can enjoy my coffee hot for once and actually finish a conversation with my husband. But for now, we have no answers for change, as we haven’t for the last ten years of living apart. Here I was, thinking that after ten years things would be easier or we would have figured out a way to live in the same state. Well, no, here we are.
However, the glass half full is, thank God for FaceTime, and I'm lucky we are all healthy and able to travel across Australia.
Anyone else living away from loved ones, I feel you!
In the meantime, it’s cold coffees. Haha.
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Rach

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