Mackay’s very own talented performer, Brenden Borellini has more than a decade of experience in performing for Crossroad Arts up his sleeve and a lifetime of impressive, memorable moments.

Over the years he has gained the title of Crossroad Arts Ambassador and Artist in Residence, recently receiving recognition, alongside co-creators Georgia Cranko and Alison Richardson for their work on the production ‘Breathe In’ at the Matilda Awards in Brisbane. ‘Breathe in’ brought home the Lord Mayor’s Award for Best New Australian Work and the award for Best Video Design.

A rumble was felt through the theatre as hundreds of feet beat the floor expressing their appreciation for Brenden's work on ‘Breathe In’ at the end of his acceptance speech for the Matilda Judges Award was possibly the greatest moment of victory on the night.

Brenden is a creative artist who happens to be deafblind, and played a major part in the development of the well-known production ‘Breathe In,’ showcasing his talent in performing arts whilst sharing his story with a valuable message of how he communicates and survives in an unfamiliar world.

Brenden communicates using tactile sign using the deafblind alphabet or a braille device that allows him to type on a keyboard and chat with those around him. His impact goes beyond the stage as he advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities, emphasizing that independence is a human right.

“It's important for people with disabilities to tell their own stories and make their own decisions.

“There are a few people who have no rights to make decisions and it makes me feel sorry for them,” Brenden explains.

Crossroad Arts Artistic Director, CEO and close friend, Autumn Skuthorpe, says Brenden is very independent and doesn’t like being bossed around, but jokingly says he is quite good at being the boss.

Brenden shares his interests and greatest life experiences, touching from the time he met Princess Diana and the royal family, to his multiple trips to Japan, specifically when he performed ‘Cry of the Curlew’ to the Japanese audiences, leaving a lasting impression wherever he went.

Brenden finds joy in various aspects of life, particularly in singing, performing, working and travelling, which he says inspires him to develop performing skills and sharpen his talents.

Crossroad Arts uniquely provides the opportunity for all individuals to get involved in the performing arts as it focuses on accessibility to those both performing and attending.

Autumn Skuthorpe says, “Crossroad Arts is such a unique organisation, we’re the only one of its kind in the region.

“Just echoing what Brendon was saying when he said access to the arts is a human right and it should be available for everyone.

“That’s what I love the most about Crossroad Arts, because it’s what we do.”

For an opportunity to see the award winning Breathe In, Crossroad Arts is hosting a film fundraiser showing the video on demand recording of the production at CQUniversity City Campus theatre. Tickets and information available at crossroadarts.com.au.

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Caption: Georgia Cranko, Auslan interpreter Holly Menzies and Brenden Borellini performing at ‘Breathe In.’ Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography

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Police have charged a 31-year-old Slade Point man after an alleged assault of a police officer on River Street, Mackay, on February 21.    

Police were called to a disturbance on Nelson Street around 2.10pm where it is alleged the man became involved in an altercation with another man.

The man left the scene prior to police arrival. However, officers were able to locate him on River Street where he allegedly threatened an officer with a weapon.

Officers resolved the situation and, in that process, a taser was deployed.

The man has been charged with one count each of serious assault of police officer whilst armed with a weapon, going armed so as to cause fear, and trespassing.

Bruce Highway Closed Following Serious Crash At Glenella

Emergency crews responded to a two-vehicle crash on the Bruce Highway at Glenella, where a 69-year-old driver sustained critical injuries after allegedly hitting the side of another vehicle.

The 69-year-old man driving a white Ford ute was rushed to Mackay Base Hospital in critical condition following the incident.

The Bruce Highway was closed for several hours on Monday, 26th February, after the serious crash near Glendaragh Rd occurred around 12:30 pm.

A white Isuzu truck was traveling south on the highway when it was reportedly struck on the left side by the ute, which allegedly had turned onto the highway from Glendaragh Rd.

Diversions were put in place, with northbound motorists advised to travel on Sugarshed Rd.

Community members have highlighted the intersection's dangerous nature, citing frequent close calls, and suggesting the need for a merging lane to allow safer access to the Bruce Highway from Glendaragh Rd.

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By Amanda Wright

Amidst the pulse of progress and the hum of ambition in the heart of Mackay, Mayoral candidate Laurence Bonaventura sat down with Mackay Life editor Amanda Wright to discuss his plan for the region—a vision steeped in foresight, and an unwavering commitment to community welfare.

Progress Through Transparency

Laurence Bonaventura's roots in Mackay run deep, tracing back generations to a legacy of resilience and innovation. Descended from a lineage of pioneers, his grandfather embarked on a journey from Italy to Queensland, where he toiled as a cane cutter. This legacy of hard work and determination laid the foundation for Laurence's own path—a path that led from the fields of his grandfather's labour to the helm of a thriving civil construction enterprise in Habana.

Amidst the tumult of the sugar slump of 1984/85, Laurence faced a defining moment to keep food on the table. The Prime Minister of the time announced that farmers couldn’t expect to survive off farming alone, so Laurence invested in an excavator. Initially intended to supplement his income by a modest 20 per cent, the excavator swiftly evolved into the linchpin of his civil works business, providing around 80 per cent of the business revenue within a decade.

"As someone deeply rooted in this community, I understand the challenges we face and the opportunities that lie ahead,” Laurence said.

“My goal is to leverage my experience and expertise to chart a course toward a brighter future for Mackay and its residents.”

His involvement in various community initiatives, including church leadership roles, the formation of youth groups, and the establishment of the Habana District Progress Association, aimed to leave a lasting impact on Mackay's social fabric.

Since assuming office in 2012, Laurence has witnessed firsthand the ebb and flow of governance in Mackay.

"From economic downturns to structural reforms, I have remained a steadfast advocate for transparency, efficiency, and accountability," Laurence noted.

Laurence initially held specific portfolios, including waste management, health, and regulatory services; this gave him an in-depth understanding of the issues that council and residents face. In 2016, the council restructured, assigning two councillors to specific areas; Laurence oversaw Northern Beaches to Midge Point. However, by 2020, this system dissolved, leaving no defined areas of responsibility—a situation Laurence aims to rectify if elected Mayor.

"In my assessment, the previous council structure lacked clear organisation and failed to provide adequate training for councillors," he remarked.

"This led to a situation where newly elected councillors lacked experience in key areas and faced challenges in fulfilling their roles effectively," he added.

Should Laurence secure the mayoral position, a pivotal aspect of his strategy entails appointing two councillors per area of interest. This approach would designate a lead councillor alongside a backup, ensuring continuity of service in the event of absence or illness.

"By implementing this system, we aim to mitigate bias, distribute responsibilities equitably, and facilitate targeted training to enhance councillors' expertise," Laurence explained.

“It prevents 'councillor shopping,' ensuring that residents address the appropriate councillors for their concerns.”

Laurence advocates for increased transparency and accountability within the council.

"It is imperative that the public has a clear understanding of where and how taxpayer funds are allocated," he asserted.

"As part of this effort, I propose presenting spending options for the 2025 budget to the public at least a month in advance for open discussion and feedback," he said.

"This inclusive approach ensures community involvement in decision-making processes, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the outcome.”

Laurence believes in providing good stewardship, so the next generation aren’t left with untenable debt.

“The long-term financial forecast needs to have a close eye kept on it,” he said.

“The projected debt figures for the next decade are too high in my opinion. We need someone who can make a difficult decision, but the right one, to protect the financial stability of this council and this region for future generations.”

Authorised by Laurence Bonaventura, 831 Mackay-Habana Rd, Habana

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Caption: Laurence Bonaventura explained areas of concern regarding Mackay Regional Council’s long-tern future forecast debt figures. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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The Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) Sarina Branch’s centenary celebrations will culminate in a three-day Craft Expo, March 8-10, at the Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds.

Kicking off on International Women’s Day, the Craft Expo is open to the public and will feature hands-on classes with world-specialist crafters from Australia’s largest craft event series, Craft Alive, as well as displays from craft retailers with the latest supplies, kits, and equipment.

Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has sponsored a series of QCWA centenary events for the iconic association of choice for women in Sarina, which last year included a High Tea and Race Day Luncheon.

The Craft Expo will provide opportunities for people to connect, learn, and be inspired, amplifying the impact of QCWA Sarina Branch, as it continues to empower and uplift generations of women.

QCWA Sarina Branch President Mary-Therese Watson is excitedly helping to plan the Expo, with the purpose of bringing together the wider community. She said the event can be as hands on or hands off as attendees like.

“The Expo will be the perfect finale for our centenary celebrations, as craft has always been a way that we’ve supported women to stay connected socially and keep active, which is great for their overall health and well-being.

“Community Bank Sarina’s support has enabled us to confidently hold several events to celebrate 100 years in the community – and we’ve even gained new members!

“We are truly for community, by community and with the Bank’s support, it makes our role of supporting and connecting local women much easier,” Ms Watson said.

Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May said it was important for the Bank to invest in this active group of Queensland women, who create opportunities for connection in the greater Sarina community.

“The vision of QCWA is to connect, collaborate and create an impact in communities, and this aligns with our values at Community Bank Sarina.

“It’s been wonderful to support the QCWA Sarina Branch and the enthusiastic work they’ve done in our community for a century, serving as a hub for local women and inspiring them through friendship, education, and advocacy.”

Ms Watson is looking forward to experiencing different craft activities at the expo, encouraging anyone of any age or gender to attend.

“This will be a great way for us all to broaden our horizons and bring our community together with craft.”

QCWA Sarina Branch together with Sarina Community Art and Craft are catering for the event.

Tickets for the Expo and bookings for classes can be made at www.craftalive.com.au/events/mackay/.

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Caption: Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has sponsored a series of QCWA centenary events including a High Tea

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Criminal charges brought by Queensland Police against anti-coal activist Coedie McAvoy returned to Emerald Magistrates Court earlier this week, almost a year after Mr McAvoy allegedly assaulted two workers at the Carmichael mine in central Queensland by forcing their work vehicle to stop and then attempting to drag the Indigenous environmental ranger from the car under the threat of subjecting the worker to “tribal law.”

Mr McAvoy was arrested after he allegedly assaulted the Indigenous environmental ranger and a Bravus Mining and Resources security guard as the pair went about their routine and lawful work on the Carmichael Mining Lease, near Clermont in central Queensland, on 27 February 2023.

Mr McAvoy was due to face a summary trial on 14 December 2023, but the matter was diverted to the restorative justice pathway, which later failed.

A Bravus Mining and Resources spokesperson said the alleged assault occurred when Mr McAvoy and an associate used a trail bike to block the track the workers were driving on, which forced them to stop.

It is alleged that Mr McAvoy then opened the door of the vehicle the Bravus workers were travelling in and attempted to drag the Indigenous environmental ranger from the vehicle under the threat of subjecting the worker to Mr McAvoy’s “tribal law.”

It is alleged that in a video of the incident the frightened worker is heard telling Mr McAvoy “I just want to do my job” as Mr McAvoy stands near him.

“Prior to the alleged assault, Mr McAvoy posted threats to social media asking our cultural heritage workers if they are willing to die for their job,” the Bravus spokesperson said.

“He also made threats that our workers “won’t be walking out” if they enter areas of our mining lease where he is camped on the mining lease without our permission.

“Mr McAvoy’s alleged victims suffered fear and shock following the assault and so this year of legal delays has been very trying for them. We continue to provide them with support.

“Like every law-abiding Queenslander, mine workers and cultural heritage workers at our Carmichael mine have the right to feel safe at work and go about their jobs free from intimidation, harassment, or violence.”

Mr McAvoy has been charged with two counts of common assault. Mr McAvoy has maintained an unauthorised protest camp on the Carmichael Mining Lease for more than two years.

“He opposes the mine, in contrast to the majority of Traditional Owners who negotiated an Indigenous Land Use Agreement with Bravus Mining and Resources and are working proactively with the company to manage cultural heritage and the environment at the mine,” the spokesperson added.

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Caption: Mr McAvoy outside Clermont Magistrates Court on 12 April 2023. Photo supplied: Bravus Mining and Resources

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Mackay welcomes a new era of medical expertise with the arrival of Dr. Wojciech Szubert, whose specialised focus on endometriosis treatment promises to elevate patient care in the region.

The enviable lifestyle we often take for granted was a big drawcard for the newest member of Mackay Hospital’s Obstetrics and Gynaecology team, Dr Szubert.

Dr Szubert, who is originally from Poland, relocated from the UK to Mackay with his wife and two children late last year.

“My wife and I, when we were in university, travelled through the southern states of the USA,” Dr Szubert said.

“We always had a dream of living in a subtropical or tropical climate.

“If you can imagine, we had to spend hard-earned money to go on holidays to lay in the sun for just a week and a half.

“And here you just have it at your doorstep every single day free of charge.”

After completing his medical degree in Poland, Dr Szubert moved to Scotland for further training.

“I did my foundation training, then worked in Accident and Emergency, then tried Obstetrics and Gynaecology and I loved it,” Dr Szubert said.

“I have been working in O&G now since 2010.”

Dr Szubert’s special area of interest is the treatment of endometriosis (a disease where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other parts of the body) and chronic pelvic pain.

“I completed a research degree on chronic pelvic pain at the University of Edinburgh, and then I completed another fellowship in Norwich learning complex endometriosis surgery.” Dr Szubert said.

Dr Szubert hopes to establish an endometriosis multidisciplinary team at Mackay Base Hospital who can work together on the management of complex cases.

“Approximately one in 10 women have endometriosis, and about one in 100 will have severe endometriosis,” he said.

“We’re all still learning about endometriosis and its management, but we are miles further forward from where we were 10 years ago.

“We have a great team here at the Mackay Base Hospital and I’m confident we will soon advance treatment options for our patients.”

Story by Mackay Hospital and Health Service

Mackay HHS will hold an event to raise awareness and understanding of the disease on March 15 during Endometriosis Awareness Month.

Women and girls wanting more information about the condition are invited to attend. It’s on at Mackay Base Hospital from 9am to 3pm in the alcove across from the Medical Imaging unit. 

About Endometriosis

Endometriosis is when body tissue like the lining of the uterus (womb), called the endometrium, grows in other parts of the body. The tissue responds to the hormone oestrogen released from your ovaries. It gets full every month and then breaks down when you have your period. This process can lead to pain, inflammation and scarring, causing organs to stick together (known as adhesions).

Endometriosis is a progressive and chronic condition, meaning it gets worse over time. It can be very painful and can affect fertility.

Source: healthdirect.gov.au

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New funding is now available to Central Queensland community groups and not-for-profit organisations in the Moranbah and Middlemount areas through Anglo American’s 2024 Community Grants Program.

Anglo American Australia CEO Dan van der Westhuizen said the company was committed to supporting the development of thriving communities in the Bowen Basin.

“The annual Community Grants Program is a vital avenue to ensure mining benefits are shared with local people, communities and economies in the areas where Anglo American operates,” he said.

“We’re committed to making a genuine difference by delivering sustainable value that makes a real difference now and in the future.

“We achieve this by actively backing projects that enhance people's livelihoods — improving health and wellbeing, employment, skills, and education — and fostering positive, long-term change for all stakeholders."

In 2023, 53 groups across Anglo American’s operational footprint shared in more than $562,000 in community grants funding for local sustainable development initiatives. Moura State High School was among those recipients, receiving $13,340 toward its Australian Business Week Program and Year 12 leadership camp – as well as installing four yarning circles.

Moura State High School Year 7 and 8 co-ordinator Doug Finlay said the yarning circles were officially opened in February with a traditional smoking ceremony and welcome to country gathering. He said the yarning circle idea came about as the school had been working closely with Hugh van Cuylenburg and The Resilience Project.

Anglo American, which operates five steelmaking coal mines across the Bowen Basin, began a partnership with the project in 2023 to help introduce resilience practices into schools across Moranbah, Middlemount and Moura.

“It made sense to have areas around our school where we could have a safe, positive space to engage in gratitude, empathy and mindfulness,” Mr Finlay said.

“Together with the Gangulu elders and Anglo American, we created four outdoor spaces for our students, parents and teachers to engage in conversations and social interactions – basically, to have a yarn.

“The circles were named using traditional language encompassing listening to one another, coming to sit and to look at oneself.

“The yarning circles have been actively used for classes, social gatherings and school events.”

Applications for Anglo American’s 2024 Community Grants Program are open from 1 March 2023 to 31 March 2024. For more information and to apply, visit the Community page on Anglo American’s website.

The successful applicants of the 2023 Community Grants Program include:

Moranbah

RACQ CQ Rescue Helicopter, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Moranbah Bowls Club, 4RFM Community Radio Station, Moranbah Junior Motorcross, Greater Whitsunday Alliance, Isaac Regional Charity Fund, Rainbow Collective, Hinterland Community Care, Oasis Life Church, Moranbah NAIDOC Committee, Moranbah Junior Golf, Moranbah Tennis Association, Moranbah Touch Football Association, Moranbah East State School, Moranbah State School, Legends of League.

Middlemount

Capricorn Rescue Helicopter Service, CTM Links, Middlemount Race Club, Middlemount Youth Services, Middlemount Community School, Barada Barna Corporation, Middlemount Community Sports Association - Swim Club, Middlemount Community Sports Association - Gym Fit, Middlemount Panthers Junior Rugby League Club, Moranbah and District Support Services, Middlemount Community Sports Association - Cricket, Middlemount Community Sports Association - Box Gully Trail Run, AG PTY LTD, Middlemount Golf and Country Club, Middlemount Community Sports Association - Tennis, Mulligrubs Playgroup.

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CAPTION: Moura State High School students (L-R) Liam Finlay, Quinton Dales, Janique Dales and Samuel Finlay, with former principal Jill Lees and Year 7 and 8 co-ordinator Doug Finlay

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Mackay Regional Council is hosting a Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Showcase to highlight some of the amazing talent, vision and creativity we have in our region.

This showcase celebrates the locally driven arts, cultural and heritage programs supported by RADF during the 2022/2023 program.

The showcase launch will be held in the Jubilee Community Centre from 5pm to 7pm on Friday, March 8.

It will feature works and project displays by Jan Ward, International Men’s Day Mackay, Lanna Mack and several others.

RADF recipient and performer Georgina Baira will provide musical entertainment.

Community Services Director Janine McKay said the event wasn’t just a demonstration of talent – it was an amazing networking opportunity and a great chance to learn more about RADF.

“RADF is delivered as a partnership between the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland and Mackay Regional Council,” Ms McKay said.

“A community funding pool is offered annually over three rounds, with more than $200,000 in total available to support the arts in our region,” she said.

“On top of the financial support, the RADF provides experienced mentors and promotional opportunities to successful applicants.”

The showcase launch is free to attend and open to all; however attendees are asked to RSVP online on the Eventbrite page or by calling the Arts Development Team on 49619554.

Should you have any questions or specific access requirements, please contact the team.

The RADF Showcase exhibition will remain open to the public until March 27 in the Jubilee Community Centre Foyer.

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The RADF Showcase will feature works and project displays by Jan Ward, International Men’s Day Mackay, Lanna Mack and several others. Photo credit: Leah McLean

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“The Federal Government’s target of building 1.2 million homes over the next five years will fall well short, if Australia’s chronic shortage of skilled trades people is not dealt with soon,” HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin said last month.

“HIA has lodged its pre-budget submission outlining key initiatives that could be taken by the Federal Government to ease the problems in the building industry caused by severe lack of trades people in the country,” said Ms Martin.
 
The HIA says it recognises the challenges brought about by the lack of skills won’t be fixed overnight but there are some measures that the Government could take to help ease the labour shortage.
 
“For instance, too often doing a trade or going into construction is seen as a lesser career option and we are calling on the Federal Government to instigate a widespread education program to better promote the substantive career opportunities that exist in the building industry,” Ms Martin added.
  
"To incentivise apprentices to continue with their training, a ‘tool bonus’ or ‘tool rewards program could be introduced consisting of $1000 tool bonus starter kit and a $500 supplement per year. This would help build up their tool kits and reward for year-on-year milestones through their apprenticeship.
 
 
Ms Martin said the building industry is keen to innovate and improve sustainable practices but to date this has resulted in more and more regulation being placed on building businesses. In addition, economic uncertainty leads to greater business risk for builders.
 
“We are therefore seeking support and dedicated funding to enable businesses to upskill themselves and their workers on major reforms, support for regulatory change and business education.
 
“A strong construction workforce is the only way that Australia will ever solve the problem of housing affordability. If the Federal Government is to realise its bold goal of 1.2 million much needed homes in five years, HIA strongly recommends the Government adopt the recommendations contained in the submission,” concluded Ms Martin.

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More than two million tonnes of trade have passed through the Port of Mackay in just seven months, underlying the publicly owned port's versatility and importance to the region.

The port has already clocked up 2.218 million tonnes of cargo, surpassing throughput in the same period of the previous financial year (2,070,495).

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb said the top three traded commodities were petroleum (1,115,656 tonnes) sugar (636,196 tonnes) and grain (223,221 tonnes).

“The strong trade performance at the Port of Mackay reflects its pivotal role as a leading service centre for agricultural and mining industries,” Mr Webb said.

“The port provides an essential connection between regional Queensland and the world boasting trading links to neighbouring countries in Asia as well as New Zealand and North America.”

As well as supporting the trades of today, the Port of Mackay is ready to play its part in supporting the Queensland Government’s Jobs and Energy Plan.

“As a publicly owned multi-commodity port, Mackay can play a role supporting the energy transformation underway through the importation of renewable energy infrastructure,” Mr Webb said.

“We’re continuing to invest in Port of Mackay infrastructure to boost our capabilities.

“The Port of Mackay can also help with the decarbonisation of the industrial supply chain, by moving break bulk and containerised cargo away from long-distance road travel.”

The Port of Mackay is one of four ports NQBP is responsible for, collectively facilitating around half of Queensland’s trade by tonnage.

“NQBP is one of Australia’s key gateways to trade, providing security, growth, and prosperity for our local North Queensland communities,” Mr Webb said.

“Our ports are flexible and capable of sustainably addressing the trade requirements of Queensland and the communities and stakeholders we serve.”

For further information on tonnage volumes for the Port of Mackay, visit NQBP’s Throughputs page online.

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Caption: Aerial view of the Port of Mackay

Grain is in the top three traded commodities at the Port of Mackay. Photos supplied: NQBP

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

With the crush behind us, many farmers are getting to the jobs that sometimes need to be put to one side during harvest.

Like taking care of Smartcane BMP accreditation and re-accreditation.

There are numerous growers undergoing their five-year re-accreditations. The program has grown over the years, and now 43% of Queensland’s cane country is operated under the sustainable Best Management Practice program.

It’s a standard that has been accepted by global sustainability programs like Bonsucro and Vive, and it has certainly turned out to be an approach to farming that has benefitted environment, grower productivity and profitability, and the state’s sugar trade.

A decade ago, CANEGROWERS determined that there was a growing need to introduce a Best Management Practice program that gave cane producers a framework to document and improve their management of any environmental impacts. By the time of the introduction of Reef Regulations several years later, many growers were already in a place where they could demonstrate positive practices.

Today, the Smartcane BMP program is part of a bigger sustainability picture. If we didn’t have it in place, today our niche in the world market could have been in jeopardy. Australian sugar is now at the forefront of documented sustainable sugar production, and that is attracting buyers from across food, fuel and fibre production, from traditional manufacturers to the emerging bio-commodities sector. The world is looking to our product, and that is a golden opportunity for growers and millers to invest in our production and capture this opportunity.

It is a must that we continue to increase our BMP accreditations as a part of meeting that market hungry for a sustainably produced, readily renewable feedstock.

Those early adopters are now re-accrediting for a second time, and we can be proud to say in the Mackay and Plane Creek districts that re-accreditations are at 100% of those growers in the program. There are over 200 fully accredited growers in the region, covering 34,354ha of cane land. It's good, but we can do better.

The program focuses on areas like fertiliser and chemical use: timing, rates, and documentation, but it takes in a whole raft of farming practices, like soil, irrigation and drainage and pest weed and disease management. These are the core modules, but growers can extend their learning and practice change through optional modules including natural systems management, farm business skills, workplace health and safety, and global sustainability standards.

It really is an outstanding program, and a worthwhile investment in your time and farming business. Growers working in the program are proving that they can produce an equal or higher volume of quality cane with fewer inputs, simply by getting the timing right and with more targeted application. And that is a substantial saving that goes back into the businesses’ bottom lines.

We know that there are lots of growers out there benchmarked in the program, who are using good soil management practices like SRA’s Six Easy Steps, or have engaged with positive programs like Project Bluewater, who have their Nitrogen and Phosphorus Budgets in order. It will be a small and relatively easy step to take that final step and accredit. We strongly recommend speaking with your productivity service and make the most of a great opportunity for your business, the industry, and the environment.

You can learn more about Smartcane BMP at smartcane.com.au.

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CAPTION: Our region’s Smartcane BMP officers do a fantastic job supporting growers to accredit. Steven Garrad and Lorelle Flynn at Mackay Area Productivity Services (MAPS), and Leahanna Lacey at Plane Creek Productivity Services. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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In an announcement that further boosts Queensland’s credentials as Australia’s emerging AgTech innovation capital, Brisbane has been named as the home of the AgriFutures evokeAG. global innovation event in 2025.

Connecting the global agrifood innovation community of investors, entrepreneurs, AgTech service providers and agribusiness professionals, evokeAG. provides a digital platform and premier agrifood tech event where farmers share their experiences, startups pitch their potential, scientists showcase their discoveries, global business leaders share their insights and industry experts debate their opinions.

The announcement came after a group of Queensland innovators and industry leaders joined more than 1,800 delegates from across the Asia Pacific attending this year’s event in Perth.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the Queensland Government has helped the state’s agricultural industry grow from $17.2 billion to an estimated $24 billion in value, supporting hundreds of thousands of good jobs for Queenslanders since 2015.

“AgTech is a strong part of the sustainable future of agriculture, solving problems and growing businesses,” Mr Furner said.

“Bringing this event to Queensland reinforces the Queensland Government’s commitment to AgTech and adoption.

“I have no doubt Queensland’s agriculture sector will make the most of this event and ensure next year’s evokeAG. held in Brisbane will be the best yet.”

AgriFutures Managing Director John Harvey said he looks forward to hosting the event in Brisbane.

“evokeAG. began as an opportunity to showcase the incredible agrifood tech innovation happening here in Australia, to hear from the rest of the world and to drive innovation in the Asia-Pacific region,” Mr Harvey said.  

Queensland Chief Entrepreneur Julia Spicer added that the state’s agriculture has an innovative culture.

“Our farmers have instinctively turned to innovation to solve some of the big farming challenges in Australia, including dealing with drought, floods, pests, soil quality, remote locations, livestock monitoring, and transport and logistics,” Ms Spicer said.

“This in turn is driving a strong homegrown AgTech sector – technologies and innovations developed for farming in some of the toughest conditions in the world.

“As someone who works closely with many regional communities to drive change and enhance economic opportunities in agriculture, I know that hosting evokeAG. in Brisbane next year is an opportunity to showcase the world-class AgTech that we create and harness across Queensland.”

The event will be held in Brisbane from February 18-19, 2025.

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The Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink had not been observed since 1981 and is known only from a single locality that is heavily grazed by cattle.

That is until the rare lizard was found last year for the first time in over 40 years living in north-east Queensland.

In early 2023, scientists from Queensland Museum and James Cook University were tasked with the challenge of finding the elusive Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink.

The surveys were part of research by the Resilient Landscapes Hub of the Australian Government’s National Environmental Science Program that is looking for highly threatened reptiles across Queensland.

Dr Andrew Amey from Queensland Museum Network, who led the expedition, said the goal was to find three species of skink which have very small distributions confined to the Mount Surprise area, around 500 kilometres northeast of Ayr.

“These lizards are all hard to find and seldom seen,” Dr Amey said.

“Two are part of a large group of skinks in the genus Lerista, which are only found in Australia and have adapted to sandy soils by reducing their limbs to essentially swim through the soil.

“It shows that parts of Australia such as grasslands and open woodland that are grazed by cattle can still host important biodiversity.

“It was an exciting moment to find all three skinks, but to find the Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink was an amazing discovery.”

The other two skinks were the Limbless Fine-lined Slider, which is found in the Undara Volcanic National Park, and the Mount Surprise Slider, which was only known from one paddock.

The purpose of the survey was to find if the species still existed and if scientists could find new populations elsewhere.

The small distribution of the skinks makes them vulnerable to damaging events such as bushfires, drought, invasive weeds and disease.

The Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink was recently listed as Critically Endangered by the Queensland and Australian Governments in recognition of this.

Dr Amey said animals like these skinks have an important role to play in our ecosystems.

“We need to know if these skinks have healthy populations or if they are declining,” he said.

“We can’t take effective action to protect them if we don’t know where they occur and what threats are impacting them.

“The only way to get this information is to go and look for them.”

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Caption: Lyon's grassland skink. Photo credit: Conrad Hoskin

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Landholder: Jeff Grech

Project:  Major Grants 

Program: Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Program

Location: Sandiford, Qld

Tonnes of Cane: 36,000 tonnes

Sandiford grower Jeff Grech is enthusiastic about his new minimal till adjustable three row billet planter. Jeff was able to purchase the planter with assistance from the Major Grants Project under the Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Program, funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Using the new planter, he minimises field traffic by simultaneously planting three rows directly into his knocked down legume fallow on permanent beds, reducing excessive land cultivation and compaction. This gentle approach to soil management enhances soil health by promoting better infiltration and minimising disruption to soil microbes. Additionally, it lowers the risk of erosion, contributing to improved water quality around the farm.

Looking back

The Sandiford farm was established by Jeff’s father in 1963 after relocating from the Habana area. Jeff now leads custodianship of the farm and has a deep ambition to pass it on to his son. Jeff vividly recalls his father toiling to manually cut the sugarcane – a stark contrast to the modern evolution of farm practices since then.

Reflecting on his father’s teachings, Jeff says there are a lot of things you cannot control such as the weather, mill performance, and market conditions. He follows his father’s advice to always focus on the things you can control, which for him is growing the best sugarcane crop possible using the best practices he can.

Over the years the farm faced significant erosion due to extensive land cultivation, prompting concerns about sustainability. To address this, green cane harvesting was implemented resulting in an immediate reduction in erosion. The transition to 100% green cane harvesting was swift, transforming once-eroded drains into grass-covered areas devoid of any signs of erosion. This marked the beginning of their journey which continues to evolve in a positive direction. Jeff is passionate about growing sugarcane and improving the soil and water quality so the next generation can farm this land successfully and sustainably.

Current practices

In 2023, weather conditions forced Jeff to change his harvesting plan with some paddocks being too wet for their planned early harvest. As a result, he had to leave one paddock unused in mid-winter because of the excessive moisture. Despite the challenges of growing a soy fallow crop in winter, Jeff decided to try it out and proceeded with the planting. While irrigation was necessary, the soy crop has thrived and will be incorporated into the soil in early 2024.

Jeff plans to replace the soy with a sun hemp fallow crop before planting sugarcane in April. He will then use his new three row billet planter to plant directly into permanent beds. The aim is to use raised beds for planting soybeans, followed by targeted bed renovation with a multi-ribbed cultivator, reducing soil disturbance and traffic. The double disc opener on the new planter, which will go through soybean stubble, can plant uniform depth throughout the paddock despite changes in the soil type and moisture levels.

The soybean will continue to break down releasing nitrogen into the soil as the sugarcane begins to grow. The combination of having two fallow crops fixes nitrogen, improves soil health, and reduces traffic and tillage. As a result, Jeff will be able to produce a better crop of sugarcane. An additional benefit is a reduction of chemical use as the legumes have reduced weeds while less till has prevented seeds coming to the surface to germinate.

Access to Major Grants has given Jeff the confidence to adopt usage of the three row larger planter. It provides the opportunity to plant when soil moisture and temperature is optimal in April.  This planter allows Jeff to plant 10 ha/day and complete planting during this short window. Once the cane is planted, herbicide is applied immediately to keep the grass from coming up. Jeff says he won’t touch that soil for another two months, believing that less is better, and the right timing is key. He says being able to plant early gives him an extra 30 tonnes/ha of cane.

While Jeff believes they get it right most of the time, there are always hiccups along the way. He is, however, confident profits will be up. The new planter has helped with a strong strike rate and although he was a bit nervous with the changes, he is confident these new practices are benefiting the farm and improving production. If the season goes well, he expects at the very least, 110 tonnes/ha on average across the farm.

“ The more you do it right, the easier it gets and the more you get it right.”

- Jeff Grech

Looking to the future

Jeff is hoping to have 100% of his farm working under this controlled traffic model in the near future. He aims to continue improvements, adopting best practices as they emerge. With his son returning to the area and joining him on the property, he has been reinvigorated and is excited to continue the journey.  

Jeff’s thoughts on land and water quality:

Jeff considers himself a steward of the land he lives on and believes that it is a privilege to be able to live and work here. He not only loves his farm, but also loves going out to the Great Barrier Reef and wants to protect it for future generations. If nutrients or chemicals applied on his farm end up at the Reef, then he sees it as a problem. Jeff wants those inputs to stay on his farm to improve the sugarcane crop.

“If there is something I am doing on my farm that is hurting the Reef, then it is also hurting my farm.” - Jeff Grech

Advice to others:

Jeff credits the growers living in his area as inspiration for trying new things. He says the growers around him are great at what they do. They feed off each other’s ideas and are constantly asking questions to learn from each other every day.

Jeff’s advice to those just starting the journey of adopting newer practices is to speak to your productivity services officers. He laughingly comments that he has Mackay Area Productivity Services (MAPS) on speed dial! Anytime he sees something that isn’t quite right or needs some help, they arrange a visit to advise on what to do. Jeff encourages other growers to engage in these types of grant programs to “get that one thing to make your farming practice just a little bit better.” He reflects that the grant process was so easy with the help of MAPS.

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As we approach International Women's Day, Resource Industry Network (RIN) is thrilled to be hosting its annual business luncheon to acknowledge women in the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region.

The global theme for International Women’s Day is "Inspire Inclusion,” reflecting a collective commitment to breaking barriers that may hinder women's presence and involvement in the workplace, and what we can do to bridge the inclusion gap.

The luncheon will feature reputed speaker Dr Catherine Ball, an associate professor, scientific futurist, visioneer, and company director working across global projects where emerging technologies meet humanitarian, education, and environmental needs.

Attendees will be engaged by the thought-provoking panel discussion and enjoy networking opportunities with accomplished professionals.

"We believe that creating an inclusive workforce is not only the right thing to do but is essential for driving innovation in today's business environment. It has also been proven that having women in the workplace increases safety and productivity," says Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at RIN.

"The reason our International Women's Day business lunch is a sell-out event three years in a row is because it invites the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region to come together, recognise the roles of women, and renew our shared dedication to refining more inclusive organisations."

This highly regarded event is for professionals of all genders passionate about advancing women's roles in the workplace. Whether you're a business owner, a team leader or a team player, we are excited to host you as we celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women across the region.

Early registration for our 2025 International Women’s Day is strongly encouraged since this year’s luncheon is sold out.

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EVENT DETAILS:

What: 2024 International Women’s Day Business Lunch
When: Wednesday, March 6th, 2024
Where: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, Halls 1&2
Time: 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

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