The Whitsunday Sailing Club is set to host the spectacular Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition from August 1-5, showcasing a diverse array of paintings, photographs, and sculptures created by 58 talented artists from the Great Barrier Reef region.

Curated by a distinguished panel of judges including Sandra Guy, Visual Arts Teacher, renowned artist Bonney Bombach, and Whitsunday Regional Council representative Cr Jan Clifford, the exhibition promises to captivate art enthusiasts and visitors alike.

Cr Clifford commented, “I was honoured to be part of the finalist selection panel and view the submissions of so many incredibly talented artists. I’m looking forward to seeing the Finalist artworks on display in the exhibition”.

Highlighting the event is the prestigious $3000 Whitsundays Regional Council Acquisitive Art prize, where all exhibited artworks are eligible to compete.

The winning artwork will be proudly displayed as part of the Council’s art collection, serving as a lasting testament to the creativity and spirit of the Great Barrier Reef community.

Guest Judge, Lauren Turton, Curator of Artspace Mackay, will view the exhibition and select the winning artworks.

The exhibition opens with an exciting awards ceremony on Thursday, August 1st at 6.30pm, offering members of the public a chance to witness the unveiling of this year's exceptional artistic talents.

Admission is free throughout the exhibition period, concluding on Monday, August 5th.

Local schools are invited to participate in special educational tours, fostering a love for the arts among the younger generation.

The Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition not only showcases the incredible talent of local artists but also underscores the importance of preserving our natural heritage through art.

This event not only celebrates artistic excellence but also the vibrant culture and stunning beauty of the region.

This celebration of creativity and community spirit is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.

Visitors to the gallery will be able to submit their vote for the best artwork, the winner receiving the Bendigo Bank’s People's choice award valued at $1000. You be the judge!

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Guest Judge Lauren Turton Curator of Artspace Mackay, Photo supplied

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For decades Medical Doctors in Bowen have delivered babies, cared for children and adults, managed or referred urgent or troubling situations, and ensured the health, dignity, welfare and peace of mind to the townspeople.

To express heartfelt appreciation for the local doctors the ‘Thanks Doc’ event will showcase and praise the local doctors.
 
The whole community is invited down to the Larrikin Hotel for a fun evening which includes canapés, beverages and live music.

Tickets are $30.

What: Thanks Doc
Where: Larrikin Hotel
When: Saturday 24 August at 5.30pm

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This week has been marked by the shocking and tragic events surrounding the attempted assassination of former President Donald J. Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. It's a stark reminder of how life can be lost in the blink of an eye and the importance of treasuring every moment. President Trump is very fortunate to be alive, having turned his head at the precise moment needed for the bullet to only graze his ear. Tragically, a life was lost—that of a true American hero. Corey Comperatore a volunteer firefighter, and devoted father, was struck by one of the gunman’s bullets and he reportedly died saving his family.
While these events might seem detached from our slice of paradise here in Mackay, they serve as a reminder that life is fragile and precious. Since my own journey with cancer, I have found more moments to appreciate nature’s beauty, seeing more sunrises and sunsets than usual. The simple joys—like watching my son’s face light up on a park swing—now fill my heart more than ever before. These special and simple times have become daily reminders to find happiness in the simple pleasures of life.
There’s plenty of free fun to be had this weekend at the Wiseley Wine and Food Day! We have an entire page on 24 with everything you need to know, I’m particularly keen to see the thousands of bubbles at the Bubble Canteen.
Also in this edition, we share the inspiring story of Cheree Ridolfi, a kind-hearted Mackay local with a passion for making a difference in the fight against cancer. This August, Cheree will be hosting a #ForkCancer Longest Table event to raise funds for life-changing cancer research. Learn how you can support Cheree on page 4.
Additionally, don’t miss Hannah’s exclusive on page 8 about a new, free nasal spray available in pharmacies that can save lives.
Life is precious, and in times like these, we are reminded of the importance of community, support, and love.
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Amanda

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Since 2016, Sew Create Donate Inc. in Mackay has been a dedicated group of volunteers who sew, knit and crochet handmade blankets and other essential items for those in need within the community.

Their contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of individuals supported by the Neighbourhood Hub, who have expressed deep gratitude for the donations of toiletry bags and other necessities.

With compassion woven into every stitch, each blanket represents countless hours of dedication from volunteers who wash fabric, cut patterns and meticulously sew or crochet each piece with love. These handmade creations provide comfort and warmth to those facing challenging circumstances, offering a tangible reminder that the community is there to support those in need.

The Neighbourhood Hub has benefited immensely from these thoughtful donations, ensuring that community members facing adversity have access to essential personal care items and comforting blankets.

Expressing deep gratitude for the thoughtful donations of toiletry bags and other essential items they received, The Neighbourhood Hub posted to Facebook, showcasing the heartfelt gesture as a reminder of the outstanding support within the community.

“Your generosity helps us support those in need within our community, ensuring they have access to essential personal care items.

“Thank you for making a difference and contributing to the well-being of our community members, your kindness and support are truly appreciated!

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Sew Create Donate Inc gifted multiple hand-crafted blankets and toiletry bags to The Neighbourhood Hub to support members of the community in need. Image source: The Neighbourhood Hub (Facebook)

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Mackay is going LIVE for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games with a special celebration site to be activated at Bluewater Quay.
The activation is part of statewide celebrations where Queenslanders will gather for special events backing our Aussie athletes and marking our own ‘8-Years-To-Go’ milestone as hosts of the 2032 Games.
Olympics and Paralympics LIVE events will ignite the Olympic spirit from the Gold Coast to Cairns and west to Longreach during Paris 2024.
Bluewater Quay will be a hub for locals to enjoy free broadcast coverage on 27 – 28 July, and then 31 August to 1 September.
Additional LIVE sites will be activated across the state throughout the Games including the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Rockhampton, Longreach, Townsville and Cairns.
Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee President Andrew Liveris said, “Queenslanders will be right behind their Olympic and Paralympic teams as they go for gold in Paris and it’s fantastic that so many local communities will be able to share in the excitement as part of Olympics and Paralympics LIVE sites.

“The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be shared across Queensland and these LIVE sites are just a taste of what’s in store in the years ahead, as we celebrate sport together,” he added.

“I congratulate all involved in bringing the Paris 2024 Games to life, from Cairns to Coolangatta.”
The LIVE sites will feature Nine Network big-screen Games telecasts as well as special events backing local athletes and inspiring future Olympians and Paralympians, including those who may compete on home soil in 2032.
LIVE site activities in Mackay are being supported by the Queensland Government and Mackay Regional Council.
Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace said that the lighting of the Olympic and Paralympic flames in Paris will ignite the Games spirit right here in Queensland as we count down to our 2032 Games.
“Olympics and Paralympics LIVE sites will be the perfect place for our Queensland communities to get together and show their support for our inspirational athletes,” she added.
“Our LIVE sites will activate just days after we celebrate our own milestone of 8-Years-To-Go until the start of our Games on 23 July 2032.
“Mackay locals will be able to celebrate at a special LIVE site at Bluewater Quay.”
Mackay Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan said that the Mackay region is excited to be hosting a Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics LIVE site.
“Council is currently working with the community to activate the Bluewater Quay with food vendors, a big screen and seating on July 27 and 28 for the Olympics LIVE event and we have booked Saturday, August 31, after the Bluewater Fling, and Sunday, September 1, for the Paralympics LIVE screenings,” Ms Hassan added.
“We hope that the community really get behind this activation and use the opportunity to come down and enjoy the beautiful location beside our blue water river.”  

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By Hannah McNamara

Meet Cheree Ridolfi, a kind-hearted Mackay local with a passion for making a difference in the fight against cancer. This August, Cheree will be hosting a #ForkCancer Longest Table event to raise funds for life-changing cancer research.  

By hosting this event, Cheree aims to gather friends, family and community members to a fun-filled feast, all while raising crucial funds for a tangible cause. With nearly 444 Australians receiving a cancer diagnosis each day, Cheree is dedicated to raise funds for research in hopes of finding better treatments to work towards the best outcome of all - a cure.

The official date for her event is Saturday, 27 July 2024 but participants can host their tables anytime until 31 August 2024, making it convenient for everyone to join in and support the cause.

Cheree's journey in fundraising began seven years ago with her participation in the Million Paws Walk. Over the years, Cheree has committed herself each year to supporting various causes, including organisations that hold personal significance.  

Following her brothers passing, she successfully raised over $4,500 for the mental health initiative, Black Dog, and she continues to remain an inspiring cornerstone in the community for her ongoing fundraising efforts.

Cheree's dedication to cancer fundraising this year has been driven by another cause close to her heart as her daughter-in-law's uncle undergoes a second round of treatment for his unexpected cancer diagnosis, following a sudden heart attack.    

“He’s quite close to all of us, he’s been a massive part of our family over the last seven years and was massive in my son and daughters-in-law's wedding,” Cheree said.

“Cancer has surrounded us unfortunately and it just seems that every year you can raise money for a different reason,” she added.  

Witnessing the impact of cancer on loved ones has only strengthened Cheree's determination to raise funds that support vital research and provide hope to families facing similar challenges.

With the support of the community and sponsors, Cheree has bought a range of auction items using her own resources to ensure a successful fundraising event. She hopes to exceed her fundraising goal of $1,000, which will be matched and doubled by the organisation behind the Longest Table initiative if she reaches $5,000.

Cheree emphasises that every dollar counts towards making an impact in someone's life and could potentially fund an entire treatment to support families during such challenging times.

“It’s so gut-wrenching to think ‘what can I do’ and you just wish you could do so much more, but every dollar raised counts.

“I’m hoping to reach $5,000 so it can be doubled, because that will mean a whole treatment for somebody, and their family will get to stay with them in the hospital.”

As preparations for the Longest Table event continue, Cheree invites everyone to donate, participate and celebrate together on 27 July 2024. Beyond raising crucial funds, the event is an opportunity to come together, share stories and offer support to those affected by cancer.

Last year, Cheree hosted a successful Pink Luncheon Day, featuring a lively auction with pink-themed attire and items. Reflecting on the event, she describes it as not only fulfilling but also ‘a lot of fun’.

Unlike her previous daytime events, this year, she envisions an evening of elegance and camaraderie in cocktail attire.  

Cheree said, “This year I chose the longest table as it’s something different, a lot of the ones I’ve done in previous years have been during the day and I wanted to make it something special at night time and do a cocktail attire, this one’s going to be a lot of fun!”  

Her event promises an evening of nibbles, drinks and lively auctions, creating an atmosphere where support and compassion thrive.

By joining her Longest Table event, you're not just attending a meal, you're contributing to life-saving research that brings hope to countless individuals and families across Australia.

“Cancer can rip a family apart, but it can also bring a family together.”  

In a display of community kindness, local businesses and sponsors such as Keeping it Real, Epiroc, Debbie's Seafood and The Golf King Superstore have generously contributed to her cause with discounts and vouchers.  

If you wish to donate, please visit www.thelongesttable.com.au/fundraisers/chereeridolfi or scan the QR code and search for: Cheree Ridolfi.

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Cheree Ridolfi will hold a #ForkCancer Longest Table event on July 27th to raise vital funds for cancer research. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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In 2006, a young Constable Marshall Roper was among the inaugural roster at the newly opened Mackay Northern Beaches police station. After previously serving at Mackay station, Roper dedicated the remainder of his career to the Northern Beaches and Marian police stations in the Pioneer Valley, retiring in October 2022.
This week, the Mackay Northern Beaches police station proudly welcomes him back as he embarks on his "second" career as a Special Constable. With his extensive operational experience, Roper is expected to be a significant asset to both the station and the local community.
Welcome back, Marshall.

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One of the first photographs taken in 2006 at the launch of the Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station
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Special Constable Marshall Roper starts the next stage of his policing career at Mackay Northern Beaches Police Station. Photos supplied

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Opinion Piece
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox said Labor’s new mandatory emissions reporting is yet another attack on Australian farmers and will impose costly regulatory burdens.
 
“In a cost-of-living crisis, this reckless policy making is going to see an added cost of $2.3 billion to farmers, which will ultimately increase the cost of fresh food and produce nationally, and will be passed onto consumers at the checkout,” Mr Willcox said.
 
Under the new reporting requirements, farmers and businesses will have to report their indirect greenhouse gas emissions right along their supply chain that aren’t being generated by the company directly.
 
Mr Willcox explained that large reporting entities could pass their risk down through the supply chain, with banks factoring in farmer’s emissions data into lending decisions, or supermarkets could require farmers to report their emissions, even though farmers don’t have the science to do so.
 
“There are currently no standardised methods for calculating land and livestock emissions in Australia, plus there are no real alternatives available for lines used in their operations, such as fertiliser and diesel that have the same value or impact,” he said.
 
“This is yet another demonstration of the Government’s contempt for farmers and is punishing these hard-working Aussies, despite our farming industry already having some of the best land management practices in the world.”
 
Mr Willcox said the reporting requirements are going to impose significant compliance costs with accounting and recording on-farm emissions.

“And with these increase costs, we will see them being passed on at the checkout, making the cost-of-living and cost-of-food crisis worse for our families,” he added.
 
“Our Aussie farmers are already drowning in green and red tape, and this will add even more complexity to that and unfairly increases the burden on our farming industry.
 
“This policy has the potential to push some farmers and small businesses out of business altogether, and there are legitimate concerns about how this data will be used, who it will be shared with, or if some industry groups might be discriminated against.
 
“In Australia, we can support our farmers and fulfill our international climate commitments at the same time, without creating reckless and harmful policies such as this.”

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selectability, officially opened the doors to its new Mackay Mental Health hub last Wednesday, on July 10 2024.

The newly established Mental Health Hub consolidates selectability’s services from three locations across Mackay into a larger and more adaptable space on River St.

Over 100 attendees, including local government representatives, service providers and community members gathered to explore what the new facility had to offer.

selectability General Manager of Mackay, Sue-Ellen Weedon said that delivering services from a central location would help to break down barriers for those seeking support.  

“selectability Mackay is committed to ensuring locals have access to the high-quality mental health services they deserve,” Sue-Ellen affirmed.

“Trying to navigate mental health services is daunting for many people, so having a range of services available in one facility will allow us to better respond to community need.

“It will also bring a lot of fantastic benefits for our current consumers including more activities to choose from and extended operating hours.”

selectability delivers tailored one-on-one support and group programs like the Mackay Clubhouse, which is an initiative designed to help individuals build capacity and improve their mental well-being. 

“We provide services through the NDIS and other state and federal government programs.

“You don’t need a referral - drop in and see the team, have a tour of the new Mental Health Hub and find out how we can support you,” Sue-Ellen added.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson, welcomed the opening of the new Mental Health Hub.

“It is great to have a new central location for Mackay residents to connect and access a range of vital mental wellbeing and suicide prevention services,” Cr Williamson said.

If you are in need of assistance or would like to know more about this organisation, please visit www.selectability.com.au.

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selectability opened its doors to their newest Mental Health Hub last Wednesday, offering a wide range of new equipment and services to better mental wellbeing. Photo credit: selectability

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If you knew that a free, over-the-counter nasal spray could save someone from an opioid overdose in just minutes, would you carry one with you?

Now accessible at most pharmacies, is Naloxone (also known as Narcan), a medicinal nasal spray used to reverse or reduce the effects of opioids, with its makers claiming it can be used in a safe and harmless way, with no negative side effects.

It’s also available completely free of charge.

Naloxone offers a “quick and accessible treatment” that is designed to stabilise an individual experiencing an opioid overdose, anywhere, at any time, before further medical attention attends the scene.  

Opioids encompass a variety of drugs, including synthetic opioids like oxycodone (OxyContin®) and hydrocodone (Vicodin®), alongside substances such as codeine, morphine, heroin and numerous other illegally laced street drugs.

Major concerns have been raised specifically for those consuming high dosages, with studies suggesting that prescribed opioids contribute to a shocking amount of roughly 75 hospitalisations and two deaths per day.  

A local mother by the name of Amber Stead is determined to spread her knowledge of Naloxone throughout the community, in hopes of reducing the amount of drug overdoses in the region.  

Amber raises major concerns as a mother and says that, “People are dying needlessly without knowing that a tiny nose spray, free to all, could have saved the sons and daughters that they now mourn.”

“The new opioid hitting Australia starves the body of breath quickly so the use of Narcan can make the difference between an ambulance making it or not,” she said.

“Things have changed, drugs are so dangerous now and I just want people to know that they have an option instead of watching people die in front of them.

“I think if we can be bold enough to have a sharps container on the wall, we can be brave enough to put out a notice that you can access Narcan.”

Amber says she is happy to be a “Nanny Narcan” to speak out and publicly raise awareness about the nasal spray in areas where it may be needed most, particularly for the night life in popular clubs, pubs and parties where a simple spray up the nostril could mean the difference between life or death.

“I’m having these conversations with my grown children, so that when they go up town or to a party, they can carry it with them knowing that they could potentially save someone’s life,”  

“If you know you’re in a situation where you or someone you know is using, be drug smart and carry it with you,” Amber remarked.

Just as a home needs a fire extinguisher, Amber, along with professional pharmacists and medical advisors suggest that Naloxone should be a normalised part of a safety plan or first aid kit that is easily accessible in all homes and venues. The small size of the nasal spray allows for convenient storage in a glovebox, handbag, or even a pocket.

Local Pharmacist Manager, Danielle Thompson from United Chemists West Mackay, says that Naloxone can save lives and is a device more locals should have on hand as a safety precaution, in case of an emergency.  

“It’s simply a nasal spray that you spray into the nose and it immediately reverses the effects of the medication, and it can be lifesaving,” Ms Thompson said.

“It’s free, it’s available to everyone, you can take two boxes at a time and it’s all confidential.”

Due to the rising issue of drug overdoses, The Government has made Naloxone free for all to access over the counter in hopes of reducing the number of deaths caused by the drug.

“There has been an increase in overdoses from people taking illegal street drugs which those drugs are being mixed with very strong opioids and there have been a number of deaths because of it,” Ms Thompson said.

“Likened to having a fire extinguisher at home – you hope you’ll never have to use it but it’s there as a safety precaution in case you do.”

While the nasal spray is said to be life-saving, medical advisors say that calling an ambulance for further medical attention is still required.

“It doesn’t matter who you are, everyone could be in a situation that requires fast action in the current drug climate - just having one in every home would save hundreds,” Amber added.

 

If you require further assistance, please reach out to the following numbers:
Lifeline - 131114
Drug Arm - 0749441173
Narcotics Anonymous- 0473633066 or 1300652820
Beyond Blue- 1300224636
Nelson St Mental health – 49683893

Danielle Thompson, Pharmacist Manager from United Chemists West Mackay. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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“Things have changed, drugs are so dangerous now and I just want people to know that they have an option instead of watching people die in front of them.

“I think if we can be bold enough to have a sharps container on the wall, we can be brave enough to put out a notice that you can access Narcan.”

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Mackay Police have charged two people following investigations into a number of alleged drugs and weapons offences in Mackay late last week.
Around 2pm on Friday, July 12, officers executed a search warrant at a River Street unit in Mackay, where they allegedly located several firearms, including three rifles, a handgun, a homemade firearm, a taser and several rounds of ammunition.
Police also seized drug utensils, quantities of cannabis and cocaine, and cash.
The recent arrests, led by officers from the Mackay Tactical Crime Squad were executed as part of Operation Kelly, an ongoing operation aimed at targeting drug and firearm offenders in the area.
A 24-year-old Mackay man was arrested at the scene and has been charged with six counts of unlawful possession of weapons, two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of producing dangerous drugs, possessing anything used in commission of a crime, possessing utensils, possessing tainted property, authority required to possess explosives, and assaulting a watchhouse officer.
He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on August 23.
A 19-year-old North Mackay woman was also arrested at the scene and has been charged with six counts of unlawful possession of weapons, two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of producing dangerous drugs, receiving tainted property firearm/ammunition, possessing anything used in the commission of a crime, possessing utensils, and authority required to possess explosives.
She is due to reappear before Mackay Magistrates Court on August 23.
Acting Senior Sergeant Troy Hayward said the operation has brought significant charges over the past week.
“Operation Kelly has seen officers infiltrate known repeat offenders across Mackay and remove dangerous drugs and firearms from our streets.
“Illegal firearms and illicit drugs have no place in our community, and we will continue to target offenders and do everything we can to protect members of the public and keep the community safe,” Acting Senior Sergeant Hayward said.
Investigations are continuing with more arrests likely.

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Sleepbus, a charitable organisation dedicated to providing safe sleeping accommodations for those experiencing homelessness is bringing its life-changing sleepbus service to the QME Exhibition this weekend.

Founded on the belief that sleep changes everything, sleepbus ensures that people facing homelessness have a secure place to rest, offering a temporary refuge until they can transition to more permanent housing solutions.

‘Each sleepbus has up to 20 secure, climate controlled, individual sleep pods with a lockable door and toilet. Everyone is looked after with overnight volunteer caretakers and CCTV surveillance, we also have under bus storage for belongings, and pets are welcome to stay also’

At the heart of sleepbus is its readiness to collaborate with local authorities and emergency services, ensuring that their resources are directed where they are most needed during crises. This collaborative approach enhances the effectiveness of disaster response efforts, providing a crucial lifeline to those affected by calamities. Sleepbus RESPONSE aims to alleviate the immediate shelter needs of frontline workers and disaster victims during natural tragedies such as fires or floods.

Sleepbus is currently progressing with the development of two buses for Mackay - one standard blue service bus and a pink women-only sleepbus. Additionally, an extra bus for Sarina is in the works, with sleepbus Founder Simon Rowe stating that “the goal is to have them completed by the end of the year.’

As sleepbus prepares to showcase their service at the QME Exhibition, they are actively seeking community support in the form of donations and volunteers. These contributions are vital in sustaining and expanding their mission to provide emergency shelter and support to vulnerable populations during times of crisis.

By participating in the QME Exhibition, sleepbus aims to raise awareness and garner community backing to ensure that no one faces homelessness without a safe place to sleep.

The pink sleepbus will be on display at the QME Expo on the 23rd, 24th & 25th of July at the Mackay Showgrounds.

Simon encourages all to “Come find us and have a look, you just can’t miss it, it’ll be a bright pink bus and any interest and support will be greatly appreciated.”

Your support is crucial in helping them continue their mission. Sleepbus relies solely on public donations, as they do not receive any government grants.

To learn more about sleepbus and how you can contribute to their efforts, visit www.sleepbus.org

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sleepbus will display a pink women’s-only bus at this years QME expo in hopes of raising funds to continue their mission of supplying a safe space to sleep for not only the community, but Australia-wide. Images supplied

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Take a virtual look into what Mackay has to offer at the Greater Whitsunday METS Innovation Lounge at QME 2024.
Mackay Regional Council is pleased to again partner with local and state government stakeholders and industry bodies to highlight the latest in technological innovations at QME from July 23 to 25.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said virtual reality and AI technology would feature at this year’s METS Innovation Lounge.
“A feature at the stand this year will be the 360-degree 3D video, which will promote the Mackay region based on council’s Discover Mackay website, with the themes of Live, Work, Invest and Explore,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Attendees can view the video through VR headsets,” he said.
“For the first time, the Innovation Lounge will also feature an AI phone agent, which is an expert on our region.
“The AI phone agent, called Maddy, will answer questions about the region, provide information about current and future industries and even tell you where to get a cup of coffee.
“The AI phone agent, developed by local company A-Tech Industries, will demonstrate the type of technology that is available to assist small businesses in their day-to-day operations.”
Mayor Williamson said QME 2024 is on track to be the largest QME in more than a decade.
“Council is committed to supporting Prime Creative Media, who recently acquired QME, to showcase Mackay’s METS sector to a national and international audience,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We look forward to working with Prime Creative Media to deliver QME in Mackay in future years,” he said.
“The METS and mining sector is a huge contributor to our local economy, and we want to continue to shine a light on our region as the hub of mining and METS in Queensland.
“QME is a signature event on Mackay’s calendar and one that council is proud to support.”
Greater Whitsunday METS Innovation Lounge partners are Whitsunday and Isaac Regional councils, Resource Industry Network, Resources Centre of Excellence, Greater Whitsunday Alliance, Department of State Development and Infrastructure, Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water and Trade and Investment Queensland.
Visitors to the stand can also meet some of our region’s outstanding METS businesses, including MyneSight, Gricon Industries, CQG Consulting, iCutter Industries, D&T Hydraulics, Stemsafe and JCW Drafting.
The Greater Whitsunday METS Innovation Lounge can be found at stand A616 at QME at the Mackay Showgrounds.
Drop by for a coffee and a chat or visit the stand for Cocktail Hour, with cocktails from the award-winning Sarina Sugar Shed.

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Decarbonisation Accelerated project has partnered with the Queensland Mining & Engineering and Exhibition (QME) to facilitate a one-day program focused on Mining and METS on Wednesday July 24.

This event is set to bring together leading minds and key stakeholders to explore real-world examples of decarbonisation challenges and opportunities across the mining industry and its supply chains.

The program will facilitate the exchange of ideas, innovations and strategies to drive the decarbonisation agenda forward. With a focus on actionable insights and collaborative approaches, the program is designed to empower industry leaders to make significant strides in reducing carbon footprints.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance Chief Executive Officer Ms Kylie Porter said the key message of the QME Decarbonisation Accelerated Program is to encourage the mining supply chain to embrace decarbonisation as an opportunity to transform and remain competitive.

“Session themes will focus on circular economy, post-mining land use, and decarbonisation leadership to help delegates understand the scale of decarbonisation opportunity.”

Ms Porter said attendees will see industry leaders share their ‘why’ and strategies for reducing carbon emissions.

“Across the Greater Whitsunday region, mining is the largest exporter, generating regional exports estimated at $43.475 billion and it is also the largest employment sector supporting more than 18,000 jobs.

“Decarbonisation is high on the agenda of both mining companies and government priorities, and businesses need to be prepared for the changing landscape,” Ms Porter said

Some of the event highlights include keynote addresses from BHP Vice President Climate Graham Winkelman; renowned environmentalist and post mining land revival specialist Dr Peter Whitbread and circular economy company, COREO CEO Ashleigh Morris.

Resources Centre of Excellence Chief Executive Officer Mr Steven Boxall said decarbonisation cuts right through the Australian resources sector.

“As an epicentre of mining activity, the Greater Whitsunday region will play a significant leadership role in paving a way to a low carbon future in mining.

“The program provides an opportunity for QME delegates to learn from industry leaders in mining and its supply chain about navigating the complexities of this once-in-a-lifetime industry shift.”

“That’s why we see the QME Decarbonisation Accelerated Program as a significant component of QME 2024 and we look forward to helping facilitate these important discussions in our region,” Mr Boxall said. The full day program features three sessions,

Leadership in Action: Embedding Decarbonisation across the Resources Value Chain; Beyond Extraction: Innovations in Post-Mining Land Revival and Circular Horizons : Redefining value chains for sustainable mining.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network while engaging with video content showcasing advancements in decarbonisation efforts.

By registering for this FREE event, you will enjoy a suite of showcases and conversations on global mining decarbonisation, while enjoying morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and refreshments throughout the day.

What: Unlocking Decarbonisation Opportunities : QME and Decarbonisation Accelerated Project join forces
When: Wednesday, July 24th, 2024, 10:15am - 3:30pm
Where: 500 Pavilion, Level 1, Mackay Showgrounds, Milton Street
To Register: Visit the Decarbonisation Accelerated website

Discover the Path to Sustainable Mining at QME's Decarbonisation Accelerated event on July 24th at Mackay Showgrounds

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
With a delayed start to the crush, it is imperative that mills now settle down to a strong and consistent crush rate.
We should be far ahead of current percentages of the crop processed, which is still markedly below 10% in Mackay and Plane Creek. There are growers in both milling areas who, at the time of writing, have not been able to cut. This is plainly unacceptable. The season start has been dogged by poor weather, industrial action and continuous mill breakdowns.
Many growers have a large percentage their crop of forward priced. That means, they have a commitment to getting their crop away, and contractual arrangements mean that they carry all the risk should they not have their full 2024 crop harvested.
Prices are reasonable, but down by several hundred AUD a tonne compared to the dizzying highs of 2023. That reasonable price should continue on a trend of world supply not meeting consumer demand. World sugar prices are driven by a variety of factors, including stock and money markets, weather influences, crop health, government policies and reserve bank actions, to name but a few. But on the whole, the primary drivers are the sugarcane crops of the big three sugar producing countries: Brazil, India and Thailand.
Brazil’s crop estimate this year has been reduced. Although harvest has progressed well, there is a reduced CCS and cane supply, impacted by dry conditions. Nonetheless, to give a sense of scale, at the start of July, Brazil’s season to date has seen 189 million tonnes of cane crushed of an estimated 605 million, with 49.38% going to sugar, and the remainder to ethanol production. Brazil’s government maintains fuel security for the nation by subsidising and setting an adjustable quota on ethanol production.
In contrast, Australia’s annual production is around 4 million tonnes of raw sugar from 35 million tonnes of cane. Despite our smaller production levels, Australia remains an attractive market because of our stable supply chain and stronger sustainability credentials than many other sugar-producing nations.
India is now into its growing season, with the monsoon having a late onset this year. Rainfall is improving in most cane growing areas, but there is a reduced production estimate for 2024/25 at 34.5Mt of cane. The country retains the bulk of its sugar for domestic use and has been increasing its ethanol production.
Thailand has had some years of drought, which had led to growers exchanging cane production for the more drought-resilient cassava. This year, there has been improved rainfall which, combined with a still buoyant sugar price versus a declining cassava price, may entice growers there to return more land to sugarcane production.
Growers continue to contend with high cost of production, largely driven by high fuel and fertiliser costs, but with many other influencers in the mix- such as insurance, rates and land costs. And the many sundries of small business.
People see the big numbers associated with the world sugar price, but the way growers market their sugar can mean that growers are not necessarily receiving that very high price for sugar. Growers maintain an approximate two-thirds interest in the sugar produced from their cane. This is called Grower Economic Interest (GEI). Of that, the grower can forward price a good percentage of their crop up to three years out.
Forward pricing offers security in a fluctuating market that does have some deep troughs. We only have to go back to as recently as 2020 and the influence of Covid 19 to see the price drop to $AU355/tonne of sugar, to the GFC of 2008 to see around $200, and a range of troughs associated with drought years and economic events. In the early to mid-80’s we saw years of low prices, bottoming at a cataclysmic $77.85/tonne in June 1985.
So, being aware of our cost of production, growers will lock in good prices that sit above that. It might mean missing the super peaks of the market, but equally, hopefully avoiding those price troughs. It offers good security for the business cash flow in the long-term.
But it does all depend on the millers successfully processing the crop.

Growers retain an economic interest in their sugar as it moves to market. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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