Mackay Base Hospital’s use of voice to text software will feature on the international stage at a Sydney conference next week.

Chief Digital Director Medical Services Dr Pieter Nel has been selected from more than 950 submissions to present at MedInfo23, a world congress on medical and health informatics.

The former director of the Emergency Department has found a new passion in health information and supporting improved healthcare through technology. His presentation focuses on how Dragon Medical One is freeing up clinicians to spend more time with patients and less time typing up notes.

“Speaking at an international conference this size was always on my bucket list, so it is a huge honour to have been chosen,” Dr Nel said.

The conference will be held 8 – 12 July 2023 at the International Convention Centre in Sydney and is expected to attract more than 3000 Australian and international delegates. Dr Nel said he was excited to share data that quantified the benefits delivered by digital hospital technology. Data from the Dragon Medical One rollout shows that an average of one hour of clinical time is released a day for patient care.

Mackay Base Hospital has 419 licences under the Patient Flow Intensive Program for the recognition technology across the hospital including mental health, emergency, allied health and intensive care.

“Using this software is improving clinician satisfaction and reducing stress. It’s a big thing to be able to take your allocated breaks and to often go home on time.

“Any technology that supports the satisfaction of our clinical staff is important.

“It’s also going to be a fantastic opportunity to showcase Mackay Base Hospital as a progressive place to work,” Dr Nel said.

The conference is presented by the Australasian Institute of Digital Health on behalf of the International Medical Informatics Association.

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Chief Digital Director Medical Services Dr Pieter Nel and MBH Emergency Department Senior Medical Officer Dr John Hadok discussing the benefits of Dragon Medical One voice to text technology in saving time on administration tasks and enabling clinicals to spend more time caring for patients

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New Commercial Quotas Cripple Local Mackerel Fishers

By Rachael Smith

New fishing quotas that were introduced on July 1 have dramatically reduced the amount of mackerel permitted to be extracted by commercial and recreational fishers in the Whitsundays.

Most significantly impacted is the local mackerel fishing industry which has had their quota reduced from 600 tonnes to just 165 tonnes for the 2023 fishing season.

The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries said that the decision was made to “ensure recovery of Spanish mackerel stocks” that have dipped below 17 per cent of the estimated original biomass.

But local seafood restaurateur, Kev Collins, said that the new rules will be “Armageddon” for the fishing industry and that local Mackerel stocks are, in fact, plentiful.

“There’s Mackerel everywhere – they’re like fleas on a dog!” said Mr Collins.

“The truth is they get extra brownie points with UNESCO if they reduce quotas – they simply don’t want an extractive industry in a national park.

“They have an agenda which is to get rid of commercial fishing by cutting quotas.”

Mr Collins states that 33 per cent of the Marine Park has been a green zone since 2004 and that they were told this zoning was intended to bring the biomass back up to 100 per cent.

“It’s been 19 years! – How can it still be at 17 per cent?” he said.

“Mackerel are a common fish and the evidence used to create this 17 per cent has already been debunked.”

Mr Collins refers to a recent independent report by the Queensland Seafood Industry Association (QSIA) which he says found Mackerel stocks to be plentiful.

Trevor Draper, who has been a Mackerel fisherman in the area for 52 years said that there are plenty of fish out there, but they are not allowed to go anywhere near them.

“I’ve just about given up fighting as we’ve never won anything – there are plenty of Mackerel out there, but they are all in the green zones and we are not allowed anywhere near them,” he explains.

“These new rules have hit like a bomb – every one of the reasons they are using are a blatant lie, there is not one word of truth in any of it.”

Mr Collins added that there are other areas where sustainable commercial fishing takes place – he cited Indonesia where a similar size area to the Whitsundays has been fished and replenished naturally for generations without harsh quotas.

“They are the same size as us and are consistently taking 12,000 tonnes of Spanish Mackerel,” he said.

“They’ve been collecting data since 1992 and they still have enough.”

While the Mackerel industry is impacted now, Mr Collins warns that other types of fishing will soon follow.

“They are going to ban all in-shore netting by November as well,” he said.

“This means we won’t have any local Barramundi, Whiting, Brim, or Mangrove Jacks.

“I refuse to serve imported fish in my restaurant, so we are having to completely review the way we operate.

“We have lost 12 million serves of fish a year with these new rules!”

Mr Collins states that the reason for the in-shore netting ban does not make sense.

“They say that the nets are a threat to the dugongs, turtles and hammerheads, but last year they made a rule that fishers have to stay with their net,” he explains.

“That way, if a turtle gets stuck, they can let them out.”

“All these decisions are for the Green votes and the city seats – no-one is thinking about lost jobs and our local history which is also going to be lost.”

With the trade becoming increasingly unviable, there are less and less people starting out as Mackerel fishers and those that are already in the industry are left with redundant licences, challenging quotas and wasted investments.

“I feel sorry for the young guys – poor buggers – trying to make this work these days there is no compensation, and the licences? – who knows what they are worth?” said Mr Draper.

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Spanish Mackerel quotas for commercial fishers have been reduced from 600 tonnes to 160 tonnes this season. Stock image supplied

Caption: Kevin Collins owner of Fish D’vine in Airlie Beach, Trevor Draper, Mackerel Fisherman of 52 years and Matt Calder owner Fishi, a fresh seafood supplier.

Mackay's Channel 7 Building Sold

Mackay's iconic Channel 7 building has been successfully sold in a historic deal, marking a significant milestone for the local property market. Blacks Real Estate and Colliers International, the driving forces behind the sale, are delighted to announce this exciting development that paves the way for future growth in Mackay's bustling CBD.

The negotiation of the sale was a result of the collaborative efforts of Peter Wheeler, Managing Director of Colliers International, and Greg Lewis, Director of Blacks Real Estate Mackay.

Nestled in the heart of Mackay's CBD, the Channel 7 building stands as a living testament to the city's vibrant history. Since its launch as MVQ6 on August 9, 1968, this architectural gem has witnessed numerous milestones and technological advancements. It holds the distinction of being the first to introduce a videotape machine and full-scale colour transmission, revolutionising the television industry's production and consumption practices.

However, the significance of the Channel 7 building goes far beyond its technical achievements. It serves as a poignant symbol of the community's deep connection and acts as a reminder of the region's rich television industry history. Its story stretches back even further to March 1960 when Mackay Television Development Pty Ltd was established, marking a pivotal moment in the local media landscape.

Mr Lewis confirmed the building had been sold to an out-of-town investor who already owned other property in Mackay prior to this sale.

“This sale demonstrates the confidence in Mackay from property owners who already own property here,” he said.

He confirmed the approximately 1400m2 building will be renovated for long-term leases.

“The lease areas can also be downsized to multiple smaller tenancy, with the luxury of a total of around 30 onsite car parks at the rear of the building and a two car or light truck secure loading dock.”

Comprising a two-level office building and a warehouse/garage, the Channel 7 building once served as the proud home of Channel 7. Its commercial designation as "CC2, City Mixed Use Precinct" under the Mackay Regional Council zoning plan further solidifies its importance within the local context.

The successful sale of this cherished property not only acknowledges its historical significance but also ushers in exciting possibilities for future development in the heart of Mackay. It is a momentous occasion where the preservation of local heritage converges with the ever-evolving landscape of real estate in the city. Its recent sale marks a significant chapter in its timeline, further highlighting its local importance and the immense potential it holds for future development.

For those interested in leasing this prestigious property, Blacks Commercial welcomes inquiries.

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Mackay’s Channel 7 building on Victoria Street has been sold. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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By Amanda Wright

Stepping onto the vibrant canvas of Mackay's cultural landscape, MP Leeanne Enoch, the Minister for Treaty, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Communities, and the Arts, embarked on an artistic expedition last week. Accompanied by the Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert, the Minister's visit was a brushstroke of exploration, highlighting the city's artistry and fostering a deep connection with the community.

During her visit, Enoch and Gilbert immersed themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Mackay. A stop on their itinerary was Crossroad Arts, an organisation dedicated to inclusive arts programs and practices. The Minister was visibly impressed as she toured the performance venue and marvelled at the ongoing exhibition called HeART(Beats). This thought-provoking exhibition aimed to raise awareness about accessibility and emphasized the importance of incorporating access into everyday practices. Minister Enoch encouraged visitors to experience the exhibition firsthand, which will be open until August 4th.

Continuing their cultural expedition, the MP’s visited backstage of the groundbreaking performance titled 'Breathe In' at Crossroad Arts, meeting lead performer Brenden Borellini, who also serves as an artist in residence and ambassador, along with second lead performer Georgia Cranko.

'Breathe In' showcased the organisation's commitment to accessibility, with each performance accompanied by captions, Auslan interpretation, and audio description. The Minister commended Crossroad Arts for their dedication to fostering creative expression and inclusivity among artists with and without disabilities.

The MP’s also had the pleasure of participating in Lunchbox Yarns, an initiative held in collaboration with the Department of Treaty, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Communities, and the Arts, and Mackay Regional Council. Led by gifted musician Namarca Corowa, this engaging program featured ukulele lessons and celebrated the artistic talents of First Nations artists. The Minister expressed her appreciation for the initiative, which was made possible through the Regional Arts Development Fund.

Lastly, the Minister paid a visit to the Neighbourhood Hub, a vital community centre connecting residents with external services and providing programs and food relief. Acknowledging the centre’s significant role in supporting those in need, Minister Enoch commended the Mackay Neighbourhood Hub and its dedicated team for their invaluable contributions to the local community.

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1 MP’s Leeanne Enoch and Julieanne Gilbert visited the Neighbourhood Hub, Crossroad Arts and Lunchbox Yarns during Minister Enoch’s cultural visit to Mackay last week. Photos supplied

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Hiding behind a blanket of welcoming palm trees, a tropical oasis awaits, transporting you to another world mere minutes from the centre of Airlie Beach.

Kipara Tropical Rainforest Retreat is ideally located at Jubilee Pocket, close enough to everything you could want for your Airlie Beach adventure but far enough to experience a quiet escape in the rainforest.

With over 20 years of history, Kipara Tropical Rainforest Retreat welcomed new management last year, with the installation of brand-new accommodation options completed in December 2022 offering everything from spacious queen rooms for a romantic couple’s getaway to two-bedroom villas for family and group adventures.

The retreat rests on three tiers of paradise, with each one feeling more and more removed from the outside world.

Close your eyes and tune into the relaxing rustle of tree leaves and the beautiful calls of local birdlife while making friends with the local wildlife, with goannas and ‘Kipara’, an Australian Aboriginal term translating to Bush or Scrub Turkey in the Luritja Tribe dialect, also calling the retreat home.

While it feels like you’re nestled in a world away from your own, Airlie Beach is only two kilometres away, making Kipara the perfect base to experience the best of everything the Whitsundays has to offer.

With Shute Harbour in one direction and Airlie Beach in the other, Kipara is ideally located no matter what adventure is enticing you.

The kind, helpful and informative staff can assist you to find the perfect tour or experience to make your holiday one to remember, whether it’s exploring the Whitsunday islands, snorkelling over the Great Barrier Reef, indulging in a beachside shopping spree or enjoying a relaxing drink in one of Airlie’s many lively bars.

For those wanting to experience everything the retreat has to offer, there are board games, table tennis and bikes available for hire, with the pool area undergoing exciting renovations expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks.

Embrace the beauty of Airlie Beach and surround yourself in nature at Kipara Tropical Rainforest Retreat.

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Almost one hundred passengers were left stranded at Whitsunday Coast Airport on Tuesday evening after their Jetstar flight was cancelled due to an engineering issue.

With limited local accommodation options due to already high occupancy rates over the school holidays, the passengers were left with nowhere to stay.

Fortunately, our local community-owned and Council-operated airport were able to provide them with a “safe and dry” place to stay for the night.

Whitsunday Coast Airport Manager, Craig Turner, said that he and his team were on-hand until 1am Tuesday night and returned at 6am to assist passengers.

“It was an unfortunate situation, but our priority was to ensure that people were looked after in a safe and controlled environment,” he said.

“Our only focus was to lessen the impact on visitors, we just went into fix-it mode, offering free water and help with anything they needed.”

The Airport Café, Taste Whitsundays, was open until 11pm that evening and re-opened at 6am to serve coffee and breakfast rolls.

Airport security was also extended overnight.

“The whole team – from the café to the cleaners and security staff – I am so proud of all of them,” said Mr Turner.

“There are two ways to look at a situation and collectively we banded together to make the best of it.”

A Jetstar statement said they had been unable to fly in an engineer to fix the problem on the plane that evening due to bad weather.

When they realised passengers were stranded, Jetstar said they put on a special flight that night to try to fly passengers who couldn’t find accommodation to Brisbane.

Unfortunately, this flight was unable to land in Proserpine due to fog.

By midday on Wednesday the majority of passengers had checked into flights and Mr Turner said he anticipated everyone would be able to transit from the airport over the course of the day.

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Hi Everyone,

It’s great to be back in the Whitsundays after a week in the snow – it’s always exciting going on holiday, especially skiing, but returning home and seeing the sparkling blue sea always reminds me how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful part of the world.

It was my first time skiing the Australian Ski Fields and the first time my six-year-old son had put on a pair of skis. We enrolled him in a full-day ski-club lesson, after which he returned excited and triumphant, his teacher saying he had done a wonderful job on the magic carpet kiddie slope.

The following day, however, we needed to get him up the chair lift for the slightly longer, but equally flat, kiddie run.

Faced with this new challenge and outside his comfort zone, he was adamant he would not go up the chair lift. The more I insisted, the more he started to cry until a full-blown meltdown ensued.

We then spent 10 minutes with me looking like the worst mum in the world trying to drag a terrified child up the lift.

Eventually, we stepped out of the thickening crowd and took a breath.

After much thought I told him that if he ever wanted to see technology again for the rest of his life, he would be coming up the chair lift with me right now.

I have to admit it was not my proudest moment, but it worked.

Within seconds I could see the fear of losing technology give way to resigned fate and the next thing I knew, he had allowed me to help him put his skis back on.

A minute later we were on the lift. Ten minutes later I had him between my legs skiing gently down the mountain. An hour later he was in front of me whizzing down the slope by himself, singing a song and asking to go again and again.

It was one of the best days of my life.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Don’t live the same year 75 times and call it a life” (Robin Sharma)

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Community minded local Greg Smith hosted a Cancer Council Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea last Thursday.

Taking place at Fitness Venue in Cannonvale, and servicing people pre and post workout and other community members, the morning tea saw over 30 people attend, raising $675 between monetary donations and fundraising for the donated raffle.

The Whitsundays Lions donated the big raffle basket, full of goodies including biscuits, chocolates, and self-care items, with the Whitsunday Quota Club and Tropix Photography also donating raffle prizes.

Guests were welcomed with a massive array of sweet and savoury treats, tea, coffee, and a few rounds of trivia to round out the morning.

Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea is Cancer Council’s annual fundraising appeal, where money donated goes towards three central pillars - research, support, and prevention.

Research investment has increased survival rates of 49 per cent in the 1980s to 69 per cent today.

Due to donations gathered from Biggest Morning Teas, Australia and the Cancer Council is set to be the first country to completely eliminate cervical cancer by as early as 2028.

Cancer Council supports the close to 150,000 Australians currently living with cancer, by providing practical and emotional support via the help line, funding accommodation, transporting patients and their carers to treatment, and offering financial and legal advice to people affected by cancer.

The third last pillar of donations is funding prevention campaigns as one third of cancers are preventable.

These campaigns include SunSmart Schools, Bowel Cancer Screening, Anti-Smoking Campaigns and Cervical Cancer Screening.

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Big turnout for community Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea fundraiser. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

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Mackay Regional Council is seeking proposals for the construction of key water infrastructure in Bloomsbury.

The call for tenders is for the construction of an 11-kilometre water main from Midge Point to Bloomsbury.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the project was a significant investment in water infrastructure and would improve water quality and supply for residents in the area.

“We are excited to provide the best possible long-term solution for residents in the Bloomsbury region,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We are currently having to regularly cart water to Bloomsbury to service this part of the region,” he said.

“This, of course, is not sustainable long-term and we are pleased to be able to provide a solution for the region.”

In recent years the network has seen major improvements including the installation of a new water main in Midge Point as well as the Kelsey Creek Water Treatment plant upgrade.

Interested parties can refer to QTenders for more information.

Works are expected to commence late 2023 and are proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Building our Regions program and Mackay Regional Council.

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An 11-kilometre water main is set to be constructed from Midge Point to Bloomsbury

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A New Zealand man, who became unwell whilst snorkelling, was airlifted to safety from Hardy Reef last week and taken to Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition.

The 59-year-old man had been swimming at the popular tourist destination which is located 80km north-east of Airlie Beach.

At about 1pm on Thursday, June 30, the man reportedly became unwell after returning to the vessel and alerted the crew who made the 000 call.

The crew were instructed to transfer the ill man by tender to Reefworld for further medical assistance.

RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter was then despatched with a doctor and Critical Care Paramedic on board.

It flew direct to a floating pontoon at Hardy Reef, not far from Reefworld.

The chopper hovered overhead as the medical team, including a paramedic and rescue crewman, were winched down onto the pontoon and then transferred to Reefworld by boat to assess the patient.

The helicopter continued to orbit Hardy Reef as the medical team worked to stabilise and relocate the patient to the floating pontoon by boat in order to prepare for a winch.

Within 20 minutes of arrival at scene, the paramedic and patient were winched up into the helicopter in an ARV (Air Rescue Vest) off the pontoon, followed after by the rescue crewman.

The patient was flown to Mackay Base Hospital arriving just before 4pm in a stable condition.

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By Amanda Wright

Construction at Seaforth Esplanade is progressing smoothly, with an anticipated opening in September, weather permitting. The 5.77-hectare reserve is being transformed into a vibrant recreational asset to cater to the needs of residents and visitors.

Sharing project update photos, Mackay Regional Council reported that progress includes the completion of shade structures, installation of new barbecues and furniture, and the shaping of the waterplay area. Amenities construction is well underway, with only the interior fit-out and decorative screen fitting remaining. The senior playground equipment is in place, while the junior playground is awaiting equipment installation before softfall is installed. Landscaping is currently underway, further enhancing the natural beauty of the area.

The Seaforth Esplanade project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government's Works for Queensland Program in collaboration with Mackay Regional Council. The reserve, known for its ocean views and open spaces, is a beloved destination for residents, campers, and weekend market visitors.

This transformation aims to create a vibrant recreational space that caters to the diverse needs of the community. The project's progress indicates a successful endeavour that will provide residents and visitors with a refreshed and enjoyable environment.

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Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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In the last two months, 12 businesses in Cannonvale have been robbed in a crime wave that is uncharacteristic for this usually quiet and peaceful Whitsunday suburb.

The latest in this series of community break-ins took place at Ride Whitsunday, located on Shute Harbour Road, two kilometres from the Paluma Road-Abell Road intersection in Cannonvale, on Sunday, July 2.

The alleged perpetrators smashed their way through the front entrance, breaking through the glass door allegedly using a brick or a rock, which was possibly taken from the garden bed outside the business.

Over $16,000 worth of equipment was stolen from the premise, including smith cycling eyewear, cash, personal items and two bikes.

A spokesperson from the business said they were devastated by the break-in.

“We have good (CCTV) footage of them, but they’re fully clothed with no skin showing,” he explained.

The morning after the robbery, the staff were not able to leave the building, as the locks had been destroyed.

“We can’t lock up,” the team member explained.

“We’ll be trying to clean up and organise and then try and track down the bikes.”

One of the stolen bikes is an Ascent Pulse 29 in Jet Black, and the other is a Turbo Kenevo SL Comp, a $10,499 e-bike that is currently not operational and cannot be used until turned on at another dealership.

Tasty Chinese, located on Shute Harbour Road, just metres from the Whitsunday Police Station, was another victim early last week, with only minor damage caused and a big clean-up for staff.

“We didn’t lose anything, just a mess,” said a Tasty Chinese team member.

These two incidents are the latest in a string of robberies that include nine business break-ins in the Carlo Drive industrial estate at the start of June and two separate additional break-ins at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, just weeks apart.

Whitsunday Police arrested a 29-year-old Cannonvale woman as part of Operation Mackay Irving, on June 10, and she was later charged with 32 offences, relating to break-ins and attempted break-ins at businesses and other properties.

However, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre was subject to another break in last week, resulting in damage to exterior doors and office locks.

The crime wave does not seem to be limited to businesses however, with some Cannonvale residents taking to social media to vent frustrations and keep other residents informed of seemingly ill-intentioned trespassers on their property in the early hours of the morning.

One such post shared a clear image of a man walking onto private property at 3.33am and prompted others to share similar footage, potentially of the same individual visiting their home earlier in the week.

This post has been inundated with other residents sharing similar experiences.

“My car got broken into last night in Deloraine area – apartments! Keep an eye out,” said one post.

“I have had two break-ins and two small things stolen from my house in Cannonvale over the last couple of months. It’s horrible knowing that while you sleep, people are peering into your house. The police are trying to find some serial thief. At least they are patrolling, trying to catch the people,” shared another.

Police urge residents to remain vigilant and keep a record of any details, including descriptions of people and vehicles, times, and locations, in order to provide an accurate report for police.

Image captured on a home security system of a trespasser at a Cannonvale home

Ride Whitsunday is one of many businesses targeted in recent crime wave

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

Fuel prices still linger over the $2 mark, a fact you can’t help but grimly note each time you visit the bowser. So why hasn’t ethanol taken off? We have the feedstock, and the push is on in the world for fuels to be sourced from renewable feedstocks like sugarcane.

E10 is a blend of unleaded petrol and up to 10% ethanol, and is the more popularly used ethanol blend in the Australian market. E85 is suitable only for purpose-built vehicles. Bioethanol is made from molasses and has a multitude of uses across printing, beverages, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and, of course, fuel.

While it was put about – largely by the fossil fuel industry – that there could be damage to vehicles resulting from its use. I can say from my personal experience, that I used E10 in my ute and happily drove another 100,000km before selling it on. Worked well.

Ethanol is mandated for use in NSW and Queensland only. The Queensland mandate, enshrined in the Liquid Fuel Supply Act 1984 requires that 4% of the total volume of regular unleaded petrol sales and ethanol-blended fuel sales by liable fuel retailers must be biobased. That has been in place since 2017 and moved from 3% to 4% in 2018.

What we need to see nationwide is State and Federal Government mandating of bio-based fuels. It would build industry, build fuel security, and ease pressure on Australian household finances.

We recently had a tour group from the Brazilian sugar industry visit CANEGROWERS Mackay, and they were astonished to hear that bioethanol fuel in Australia received only light support from government. In Brazil, there is stronger control over domestic fuel prices, with the government subsidising ethanol production, and varying the ratio of sugar and ethanol production based on global markets. Use is high, cost is low – the equivalent of $1AUD per litre.

India is also increasing ethanol production. By 2025, it will have ramped up to 6Mt of sugar diverted to ethanol.

It’s a global shift for sugar-producing nations, and we don’t want to be behind the eight-ball and playing catch-up.

Australia could be strong in this space, too, as we work towards increasing tonnes of sugar produced per hectare and recognise the potential of the established sugarcane footprint in meeting a world hungry for renewable resources to produce its foods, fibres, and fuels.

Wilmar Plane Creek Bioethanol Distillery has been producing since 1927 – that’s almost 100 years. Surely, its moment is truly here. It is the state’s only bioethanol plant, producing 60 Megalitres every year- that’s enough to cheaply power 400,000 cars on E10 for four years.

That amount of bioethanol has the potential to offset 50,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions- the same as taking 15,000 cars off the road. And that’s just from one distillery.

There have been some strong announcements from the Queensland Government in recent times around developing the sustainable aviation fuel sector, but it would be good for all to see expansion of domestic bioethanol fuel production and consumption. The new bioethanol-fuelled buses are a great start, but it would be good to see more vehicles on the road - of all types - powered thus.

Beyond taking control of our own fuel security, there are multiple opportunities in the biofuel space, and people knocking at the door to connect with our capabilities in sustainable sugar production, a stable economy, and outstanding engineering and research capabilities.

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Every year, Wilmar’s Sarina Distillery produces 60 megalitres of ethanol derived from cane, enough to run 400,000 cars on E10 for four years.  Picture: Wilmar

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Rural Aid supports the National Rural Health Alliance (NRHA) and its call for better funding for the bush in the wake of new research showing rural Australians are missing out on $6.5 billion annually in healthcare access.

The NRHA-commissioned research reveals that each person in rural Australia is missing out on nearly $850 a year of healthcare access, equating to a total annual rural health spending deficit of $6.5 billion.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said living and working in the bush was challenging at the best of times and too often people in rural communities were forced to sacrifice access to basic services.

“The NRHA, through its research, has quantified the gap. Now we call on government to act swiftly to close the gap,” Mr Warlters said.

Alliance Chief Executive Susi Tegen said the report looked at health spending from a patient’s perspective, reflecting the alarming day-to-day realities for rural Australians unable to access equitable care.

“Over 7 million people, who make up nearly a third of Australia’s population, experience a greater burden from illness and early death, in part due to inadequate funding for their healthcare. This is despite the significant contribution they make to Australia’s economy,” she said.

Resources and rural industries alone generate around 80 per cent of Australia’s exports, excluding the extra contribution of rural-based services and manufacturing. The value of agriculture, fisheries and forestry exports is $76 billion, while commodities exports are worth $497 billion – a collective value to the nation of over $500 billion, courtesy of rural Australia.

“Rural communities need government to be more flexible and introduce block or genuine support funding to provide multidisciplinary care for patients. These communities know how to collaborate – they do it every day – but costs of access and delivery are higher, so the delivery of healthcare will be different and broader. It does not fit into the model available to urban people,” Ms Tegen said.

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New regulations for a Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa came into place on July 1 and Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, says he is concerned how it will impact the agricultural sector.

Currently 80 per cent of the harvest labour force in horticulture consist of WHM visa holders and there are more than 137,000 backpackers in Australia on this visa who are providing valuable labour across multiple sectors, including hospitality, tourism, and agriculture.

As of July 1, the cost of the WHM visa increased from $130 to $640, making it the highest visa fee of its kind in the world.

The Government is also considering reducing the WHM visa to one-year and removing any regional work requirements.

Mr. Willcox said towns like Bowen, Ayr, and Home Hill rely on backpackers following the harvest trail to work in essential industries and support small businesses by spending their money locally.

“To ensure my region can feed the nation, backpackers are essential in getting our crops picked,” he said.

“By making the Working Holiday Maker visa almost five times more expensive it will discourage backpackers from coming to Australia, which means fewer workers helping out in agriculture and hospitality jobs and fewer visitors supporting our tourism businesses.

“If Labor reduce the backpacker visa to just one year and remove the regional work requirements it will devastate our local economy as well as other regional economies around the country.

“We love backpackers in Dawson and the Coalition supports our successful Working Holiday Maker program.”  

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Andrew Willcox is concerned changes to the Working Holiday Visa will impact the agricultural workforce. Photo supplied

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