Who doesn’t love a good cane fire? Many visitors to our district are keen to witness a burn and farmers often receive phone calls asking if /when there is going to be a cane fire. While a cane fire is a magnificent sight to behold, they generate an incredible amount of heat. Caution is important for both farmer and onlooker alike.
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To burn or not to burn?

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Initially, most of the sugarcane crop was cut green, with residual trash (green leaf matter) burnt on the ground. Burning prior to harvest was allowed in some mill areas where there was a high infestation of rats to reduce the exposure of hand cane cutters to leptospirosis (Weil’s disease), a potentially fatal disease spread by rat urine. But, after mass industrial action in August 1935 when 2000 sugar cane cutters and mill hands in North Queensland went on strike for nine weeks, burning became commonplace.
Labour shortages during World War Two led to widespread use of pre-harvest burning to speed up harvesting. Rising post-war labour costs saw burning become a standard practice to increase the output of manual (hand) cutters. This left only the stalks and tops thereby reducing the leaf matter, making it easier to cut by hand and to load the cane. Early mechanical harvesters in the 1960s were designed for the burnt system and were not well adapted to harvesting green. Burning persisted as standard practice until 1976 when a very wet season delayed harvesting operations in North Qld. This prompted growers to experiment more with mechanically harvesting green cane to avoid deterioration of burnt cane where it can be condemned if left too long in the paddock (5-7 days in our district depending on conditions). This deterioration of sucrose or CCS (Commercial Cane Sugar) reduces the commercial value of the cane making the milling process unprofitable. In Proserpine, this remains a significant consideration due to highly unpredictable weather patterns.
Soil is another factor resulting in the decision to burn or not. Some soils are difficult to manage if the cane is not burnt. If cane is harvested green and then it rains, heavy soil can become sour or waterlogged as the residual trash holds in the moisture. The wind and sunlight can’t penetrate the trash to dry the soil out. For the same reason, a farmer may also choose to burn paddocks that are low and/or not well-drained. Increased moisture retention can result in yield loss or poor regrowth of cane (ratooning). Farmers who plan to plough out and replant the same paddock immediately after harvesting will often burn the cane to get rid of the trash thus making replanting much easier.
Districts with high yielding crops, such as the Burdekin, have largely avoided green cane harvesting because of harvesting difficulties in high yielding, lodged crops. A substantial amount of water applied when irrigating also somewhat negates the benefits of retaining a trash blanket for moisture retention in this area.
Resistance to the practice of burning cane has mounted over the years. The “Proserpine Guardian” (June 25 1998) reported that the region’s sugar industry was under siege with the increasing threat of court action due to excessive smoke and ash fallout (referred to as “black gold” by locals for obvious reasons) allegedly affecting people’s health. These days only 5-10% of the Proserpine crop is burnt. While the cost of harvesting green cane is greater than burnt cane, the subsequent soil health advantages and moisture retention benefits of green cane harvesting remain important for long-term sustainable sugarcane growing.
Having said all that, a “good burn” does eradicate lots of vermin! And there is no doubt that it IS spectacular!
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Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum and Brendon Nothard (Canegrowers Proserpine).

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Originally from England, Ruth came to Australia to restart her journalism career and was thrilled with the opportunity to pursue her passion in one of the most beautiful locations in the country.

Ruth brings a whole lot of experience to the team; she studied a Social Research Masters at University and an Undergrad in Politics, then covered the UK General election for Sky News in London.

Having fallen in love with the fast-paced nature of the newsroom, Ruth said it was a lot of fun to be back in a deadline driven environment.

“It’s similar to here but slightly different because Sky News was more TV based but I am definitely enjoying writing for a newspaper,” she expressed.

In her spare time Ruth loves to scuba dive and she is looking forward to experiencing new adventures during her time in the Whitsundays, especially while out on the water.

Before her position at Mackay and Whitsunday Life, Ruth worked in Sydney for MG Motors as an office manager.

She has only been in the Whitsundays for two weeks but is already meeting members of the community and loves writing full-time.

“I’ve landed a job that I really wanted and I’m really happy with that,” Ruth added.

The team at Mackay and Whitsunday Life are happy to have Ruth on board too and would like to warmly welcome her as part of the team. If you see her out and about, we hope you do the same!

Ruth Puddefoot Mackay and Whitsunday Life new Cadet Journalist, Photo credit: Norina Jane

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Earlier this month, Zonta Club of the Whitsundays hosted a changeover meal to appoint Marlene Reiffel as their new President over the 30 members in the charter. The meal was followed by Zonta’s monthly meeting, where Marlene chaired the meeting for the first time.
Marlene mentioned her predecessor Dianne Truman, who provided “three years of wonderful service to the club and community”.
Marlene also expressed excitement for the wonderful, but busy year ahead and enthused that she is “really looking forward to facing the challenges in the charter”. She continued, stating that she was “very honoured”, but also, “aware of the large responsibility” that comes with being the president of Zonta.
In Zonta’s monthly newsletter, Marlene emphasised that she hopes the year to be fun and rewarding, knowing that they are, “working together to improve the lives of other women and girls out there who can use a helping hand.”
Marlene stated that she enjoyed the change-over meal, revealing how it was a “beautiful evening”, and everyone is “very dedicated to Zonta”.
The change-over happens once a year, and a nomination committee appoints the new president. The nomination committee gauges interest in the position and then has a formal vote, if there is more than one candidate. Whilst Marlene was the only candidate up for election this year, the whole club had to agree on the nomination—a huge congratulations to Marlene for becoming this year's president.
If you are interested in becoming a member of Zonta, Marlene encourages you to get in touch with her: marlene@cpq.com.au.

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New President of Zonta Marlene Reiffe.

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This month’s Ask An Expert with Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry asks: What is the one thing I need to know about financing my small business? 
 
Chamber members responded:
 
Fiona Erquiaga of Smooth Sailing Financial Consulting says “You need a solid understanding of your business cashflows – your current position, historic financial performance, future plans, and cashflow forecasts – so to highlight your finance requirements and how they will be managed.”
 
“Also be mindful of your credit score. Ensure your accounts are always within limits, bills paid on time (including the ATO). This demonstrates to lenders that you are a reliable and low risk borrower,” said Fiona.
 
“Don’t be in a rush to obtain debt” says Gus Walsgott, of the North Queensland Small Business Financial Counselling Service.
 
“In an ideal world, your small business will be able to sustain itself through free cashflow. Use savings to start your business. As the business matures, cashflows should become more predictable so obtaining and servicing debt will become a more tenable proposition.”
 
“Once operating, if you are dipping into savings or obtaining short term loans, a serious review of your business is required. Ask yourself, what is the demand for your product or service and how can your businesses deliver at a price point that creates suitable profits? These points are critical for new and potential businesses,” says Gus.
 
Both Fiona and Gus urge business owners to always seek professional advice to get a solution tailored to your needs.

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Fiona Erquiaga of Smooth Sailing Financial Consulting
Gus Walsgott, of the North Queensland Small Business Financial Counselling Service. Photos supplied

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The Your Say Whitsundays portal is an essential tool used by the Whitsunday Regional Council to gather community input on a wide range of initiatives, from infrastructure projects to policy changes. Your thoughts and feedback help shape the decisions that affect our community, leading to better, more informed outcomes. Join the #OurWhitsunday community today by registering on the portal and have a say in shaping a better, more informed Whitsunday. https://yoursay.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/

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Have you ever stopped to think what would happen if your family’s income stopped due to someone dying, getting sick or having an accident?

The loss of wages might be manageable for retirees or people later in their working lives who have brought up their kids, paid down their debts and built up their super and passive assets.  For families with younger kids, bigger debts and lower super balances it may well be disastrous.  Centrelink benefits don’t cover home loan payments and hungry mouths to feed, let alone building for eventual retirement.  You may have some basic cover in your super, but have you ever sat down and worked out if it is enough or even too much?

There are solutions to the problem in Personal Insurances.  These are separate to Health Insurance which covers medical costs, these provide money to the family to keep going.  There are two main types of Personal Insurances, Lump Sum Cover and Income Protection.

Lump sum Cover provides a large lump sum of money to sort out your finances in the event of something major happening.  You can insure for a payout in the event of Death, Total & Permanent Disability (TPD) and Major Medical Trauma, things like cancer, heart attack and stroke.  You need to work out how much is required to keep a roof over the family’s head and provide for ongoing income to get through in the event of each of these things happening to either partner.  The amount required is always different as it is based on your personal situation regards debts and existing super balances and family situation.  You need to consider covering not just the working parent but also any non-working parents as if something major happens, the worker may need to come home or change their job.

Income Protection provides an ongoing monthly income in the event of being off work due to sickness or accident.  The variables are how much you will be paid per month, how long you have to be off work to start getting paid and how long you will be paid for if off work for an extended period.  Considerations are how much sick leave and cash reserves you have and if you have TPD cover.

The key with personal insurances is to know where you stand.  What cover do you have now, and do you need to top it up or reduce to save premium and know how things will pan out.  Like all insurance you hope you’ll never need to claim but you sleep better knowing you have some cover in place, especially at that stage of life where you have lots of financial commitments.

If you think you could benefit from a discussion with a Financial Planner, give us a call on 49467359 of visit www.eclipsefp.com.au   There’s no obligation, the first meeting is free and all fees are spelled out clearly in advance.

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I am excited to announce that Council has partnered with Jobs Queensland in launching Workforce Planning Connect.
 
This initiative brings a range of workforce planning data and resources to help our local businesses and organisations develop effective workforce planning strategies.
 
In today's rapidly changing economic landscape, having a robust workforce plan is more crucial than ever.
 
Our partnership with Jobs Queensland aims to provide the tools and insights needed to access the skills and workforce our region requires to thrive.
 
Workforce Planning Connect will support our Whitsunday community by assisting businesses to have the right people in the right roles, ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.
 
By utilising these tools, our local employers can build a resilient and adaptable workforce, positioning the Whitsunday region as a leader in economic growth and innovation.
 
I encourage all business owners, HR professionals, and community leaders to take full advantage of the resources available through Workforce Planning Connect.
 
Together, we can ensure that our workforce is equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive our region forward.
 
By investing in our workforce, we are investing in the future prosperity of the Whitsunday region. Let's seize this opportunity to build a stronger, more dynamic community that is ready to meet the demands of tomorrow.
 
The Whitsunday Regional Council is also now one of 48 organisations who have joined the Small Business Friendly (SBF) Program to enhance the operating environment for small businesses.
 
For more information on how your business can benefit from Workforce Planning Connect, please visit the Whitsunday Regional Council website or contact our Economic Development team.

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Middle managers are expected to do more today with less. More productivity, efficiency, effectiveness, reporting, personability vs shrinking budgets, employee shortages, and less time to plan.
How are you helping your middle management cope, let alone thrive??
Without time to plan, middle management is left coping with an increasingly reactive environment. Some people thrive in reactive environments, however, usually your business doesn’t.
Managers come in all shapes, sizes, personalities and skillsets. Do you know what suits your manager and what stage of your business’ development your manager is suited for?
For consideration - do they:
·        Balance task-oriented vs relationship-oriented leadership?
·        Prefer 1:1 discussions or address the team as a group?
·        Intuitively step into difficult discussions with respect, or snap at workers when things go wrong?
·        Thrive with goals, KPIs or feel stifled with this framework?
·        Are they motivated by goals or motivated by their values?
·        Prefer tried and tested systems, or love to change things up?
·        Prefer brain-storming with their team or problem-solving alone?
·        Trust quickly, or rely on others to build trust mechanisms over time?
·        Need constant sense of achievement, or happy to chase long-term goals
·        Crave change and innovation, or prefer the comfort of ‘rinse and repeat?

Understanding, strengths, weaknesses, likes and dislikes sets us up for success.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking your managers know their strengths, and know what they are doing?

So many leaders believe providing autonomy is the work environment everyone wants in order to thrive. When in fact, it creates a culture of ‘winging it, looking over my shoulder to see what everyone else is doing, feeling like no-one cares about me’.

A culture of feeling undervalued and underappreciated. They may not say it to your face, but this is how they feel and at Shiift we hear it every week.

2022 research shows the most common reasons for feeling dissatisfied at work are ‘feeling undervalued’ and ‘lack of respect from management’. Consequently, over 90% of employees currently state they won’t quit if given development opportunities.

Investing in your people is an investment in your business – psychologically, emotionally, and financially.

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Recently, I was lucky enough to have an incredible outer reef experience with Red Cat Adventures.  

From start to finish, the whole trip was filled with memorable moments.

Our skipper, Reece, made the experience fun, informative, and safe. His passion for The Whitsundays and marine life was truly inspiring.

The journey to the Reef was comfortable, with the option of relaxing in the enclosed cabin or enjoying the view from the open-window hutch. I took the opportunity to meet fellow adventurers and make new friends, which made the time fly by.

We visited two amazing snorkeling locations.

The first, Hook Reef Lagoon, felt safe and supportive for snorkelers of all levels. Back on the boat, we enjoyed a delicious lunch while soaking up the sun on the top deck. Our next stop was the eastern side of Hardy Reef, where we were treated to a truly magical underwater experience.

The diverse marine life and incredible visibility left me in awe. On our journey back, we were surprised by a display of wildlife, including a sea snake, turtles, sharks, dolphins, and whales. It was a breathtaking sight that left everyone on board amazed.

I am so grateful to Red Cat Adventures for providing such an unforgettable experience. Huge thanks to Reece and the crew for making the day so special.

If you're looking for an adventure that ticks all the boxes, I highly recommend Red Cat Adventures for an outer reef experience you'll always remember. 
 
Contributed by Jade Richardson, Membership Coordinator, Tourism Whitsundays 

Jade and the Red Cat crew
Customers enjoying snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef

Photos supplied

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The new easy-to-use yet powerful chainsaw from Stihl is available at Bowen Small Motors & Cycles, with the whole community invited to come on down and check it out.

The new 172 and 182 chainsaws from Stihl are newly improved models of the 171 and 181.

The predecessor was extremely popular at Bowen Small Motors & Cycles and with winter here, it’s the perfect time to purchase.

“The 172 and 182 are good for normal homeowners that like to cut timber and go camping,” said Bowen Small Motors & Cycles Service Manager Stephen Firth.

“Stihl has improved them a bit and made them more efficient.”

“They now meet the emission rules and there’s a computer diagnostic which is a new thing that they've added to it, and it makes it easier to use.”

The computer records all information; run times, how many times it has been used, and speeds up diagnostic systems ensuring the product performance is better.

Both models also have an anti-vibration system which reduces the vibrations at the handles, allowing the user to have pro-longed use without the long-term effects vibrations can have on the body.

To reduce maintenance, there is also a compensator acting as a control system in the carburettor.

It uses pressure compensation to ensure that engine performance, exhaust gas quality and fuel consumption remain relatively constant over a long period of time.

The 172 costs $349 and the 182 costs $449 and both are available now at Bowen Small Motors & Cycles.

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Service Manager Stephen Firth, Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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On Saturday, 22nd June, Bowen's McKenna Hall was transformed by dozens of beautiful white dresses, gloves, heels and corsages. Here, gathered 14 debutantes for the St Mary’s Catholic Parish Debutante Ball in Bowen, where the ladies were ‘formally introduced’ into society.
The ladies and their partners arrived from St Mary’s Church, in a school bus, to the winter wonderland themed evening, that was decorated with snowflakes, balloons and fairy lights.
The ladies spend weeks preparing for the event, including, learning and practising their dances for the evening (taught by local volunteers), searching for their gowns and getting their hair and makeup done.
Federal member for Dawson, Andrew Wilcox was in attendance and commented that everyone looked “absolutely stunning”.
“Congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this wonderful occasion together from the team of volunteers who provided dance lessons to the decorators of the hall and everything in between. And, of course, to the mums and dads and carers who encouraged and organised their young people to be part of this very special, age-old tradition.”
The night included presentations and a formal dance program in front of an audience of 150 family, friends and community members. There was also a speech from Sister Judith Foster from Townsville, a live band called ‘Hot, Hot, Hot’ from Mackay and a light supper for everyone to enjoy.
The event has been held uninterrupted for over 90 years and is Queensland’s longest consecutively run debutante ball.
Organiser of the Debutante Ball, Raynee Bidgood, said that the evening was “lovely”.
“Everyone enjoyed themselves, the debs had a great time and that's what matters”.

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Start the financial year in style as the highly anticipated MG3 hits MG Bowen’s showroom and is now available throughout the Whitsundays.

“The MG3 is Australia’s best-selling light hatchback at the moment and it’s now got a brand new generation model,” said Marketing Manager Angus Outram.

“It’s a small little hatchback and the newest model has got massive technology upgrades.

“Massive upgrades to the infotainment system; Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and all the features you'd expect in a brand new car.

“It’s got bold styling; it is a very good looking car.”

Popular amongst first time car buyers due to its low price, Angus expects this new model to be popular as well.

The old MG3 started at $18,990, but this newest generation has more technology, and is priced at $25,948 Drive Away for the Excite Petrol.

The all-new MG3 is available in both Petrol and Hybrid models, with the hybrid’s rated at 4.3L/100KM and it starts at $30,068.

MG customers receive a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

“Considering that reliability is a very important part in people's purchasing decisions, having the peace of mind of a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty is quite good,” exclaimed Angus.

“For people in Airlie Beach and Bowen that are looking for something super affordable locally, they have to resort to a used car, so it's great that they have a new car option with warranty and all the good things that a new car has.”

MG Bowen has been in the region for almost a year now and they have many happy customers, and you could be the next one with your brand new MG3 hatchback.

Be sure to pop into Bowen MG at 98 Herbert Street to pick up your new wheels.

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MG3 Hatchback, Photo supplied

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Jenn Honnery, Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business has newly been appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bowen Gumlu Growers Association.

Ms Honnery loves Bowen and the Whitsundays and looks forward to starting her new position.

“Right now, I am looking forward to getting out and catching up with the growers themselves, and certainly learning more about crops that I haven't had much to do with,” said Ms Honnery.

“I am excited to learn more in this space and see what projects we can continue to deliver that helps everyone out.

“It's a great opportunity to work with growers directly on supporting the industry.

“The horticulture industry in Bowen, Gumlu and up to Burdekin region, is quite big. It's Queensland's largest winter crop of vegetables.

“So, if you're eating a tomato in winter in Australia, chances are it came from Bowen.”

President of Bowen Gumlu Growers Association Carl Walker said, “We are very fortunate that she (Jenn Honnery) decided to apply because it is very hard to find good people who can actually work in our industry because the industry is extremely diverse.”

“It is extremely difficult at times because it's ever changing, our industry is never the same two days in a row.

“Our new mayor, Ry Collins was our CEO and obviously we've lost an extremely good person with Ry but we're very fortunate enough to have someone who's equally as passionate to take over his role as CEO of the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association.

“We look forward to Jenn putting her stamp on the position. The growth of our organisation going forward is in very good hands.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy said, “We are delighted that Jenn will be head of the Local Growers Association.”

“We’ve always worked closely with the organisation which supply us with farming maps for our Bowen and Collinsville Visitor Guide.

“We wish Jenn all the best in her new role and look forward to her continuing her voluntary position as chair of Bowen Tourism and Business.”

Bowen Gumlu Growers Association are a regional industry body that represent the interests of their members, horticultural growers, producers and associated agribusinesses in North Queensland.

Their mission is to support and be a voice for growers and to lead a sustainable future for the horticultural industry in North Queensland, and their vision is to have a strong cohesive horticultural industry in North Queensland that enhances the communities in which we live.

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CEO of the Bowen Gumlu Growers Association Jenn Honnery. Photo supplied

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"We can't help everyone, but everyone can help someone"

In a heart-warming gesture, a local business has jumped on board to offer a helping hand to those in need by providing a clothes rack of warm jumpers and essential items for winter – completely free of charge. Given the rental and financial crisis, many people are left grappling for money with others forced to sleep on the street.

In light of this, IDEAL Placements Mackay have provided a Community Rack on display at the front of their business to “help the less fortunate people and families struggling with no warm places to live or able to afford new season clothing.”

The kind company posted to their Facebook page in an attempt to spread the word so that those who are struggling can access the items free of charge and with no communication necessary.

The post read: “Located out the front of our building (70 Sydney Street) is a clothes rack with coats, dressing gowns, oodies, cardigans, etc. - where anyone is welcome to collect or donate items throughout the day!

“Please, if you'd like to donate something, feel free to come and replace anything that's been taken or bring it into the office for us to add to the rack.

“If you are struggling or need some warmer items - feel free to pop by and take something, no fees or no communication necessary - you can just take what you need.”

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IDEAL Placements Mackay have kindly offered a selection of free jumpers and warm clothing for those who are unable to buy new items due to financial strain. Image supplied

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Last night, tragedy struck in South Mackay with a devastating homicide that claimed the life of a 34-year-old woman and left a 66-year-old man seriously injured. Emergency services were called to the scene at 4.36pm where the incident unfolded at Robb Place.

Initially, the area was placed under an emergency declaration as police launched a comprehensive search for the alleged perpetrator and residents were urged to remain indoors while the operation was underway.

The boundaries under the Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA) included Robb Place, Paradise Street, Archibald Street, Kindermar Street and Denton Street.

Investigations revealed that the 31-year-old assailant who was reportedly armed with a firearm approached a woman who was seated in a vehicle outside her residence. The attack was said to be unprovoked and with no prior connection between the suspect and the victim.

Police authorities confirmed that “It is understood the pair were not known to each other, however resided on the same street.”

Paramedics arrived to find the woman with critical head and chest wounds, sadly pronounced deceased at the scene.

Devastatingly, two children were also in the vehicle at the time, but they managed to escape unharmed, fleeing on foot from the scene.

Shortly after, another victim, a man in his 60s was also shot after trying to intervene. He sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds to his sternum and hand and was transported to Mackay Hospital under the care of Critical Care Paramedics.

The suspect fled the area and police later tracked the Mitsubishi Triton to a service station along the Bruce Highway near Hilton Street, where the 31-year-old man was taken into custody without incident.

The emergency declaration was lifted later in the evening as police assured the public that there was no ongoing threat.

The 31-year-old man has since been charged with murder and attempted murder and is scheduled to appear before the Mackay Magistrates Court today, on June 20.

This tragic incident has shaken the community to its core, leaving residents deeply devastated by the senseless act of violence. Many express disbelief that such a tragedy could occur in their hometown, likening it to something out of a movie rather than reality.

Our sincere condolences go out to all who were affected by this tragedy.

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Photo Credit: Queensland Police Service

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