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Six months after its release, the Government’s Energy Roadmap is beginning to deliver on its promise of more affordable, reliable and sustainable power across Queensland. The plan aims to put downward pressure on electricity prices while strengthening the state’s energy system through continued investment in coal, gas, renewables and storage. It also focuses on unlocking new supply, including exploring gas potential in the Taroom Trough and progressing key infrastructure projects. Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki said the roadmap was already achieving results. “The Roadmap is our plan to deliver new supply in the right places, at the right time, while keeping the lights on and putting downward pressure on prices,” Treasurer Janetzki said. “Power prices in Queensland are set to drop by about 10 per cent next financial year, in contrast with prices soaring under Labor by 19.9 per cent in a single year after the former Government failed to properly maintain power plants.” Since mid-2025, more than a gigawatt of new storage and renewable energy has become operational, with further developments underway. Market interest has also surged, with more than 50 parties engaging in proposals for new gas-fired generation projects. “There’s been overwhelming market interest with more than 50 parties engaged and over 10 gigawatts (GW) of prospective gas-fired generation identified across 17 projects, highlighting Queensland is open for business for new energy investment,” he said. The roadmap also includes initiatives such as the Investor Gateway and North West Energy Fund, designed to attract private investment and support long-term energy security across the state.
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Mackay Base Hospital has become one of three sites across Australia recruiting patients for a clinical trial investigating a potential new drug treatment aimed at improving recovery time following concussion. The clinical trial will assess the safety and effectiveness of an investigational medication designed to treat concussion and potentially support faster recovery for those affected. Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Senior Staff Specialist (Emergency) and Principal Investigator Dr Sunday Sofola-Orukotan said concussion was a very common condition which could happen to anyone, anywhere, but was more frequently associated with contact sports such as football. “It’s very common with sporting activities and the rate of presentations of head injuries increases during the rugby season,” Dr Sofola-Orukotan said. Trial sub-investigator and Mackay HHS senior medical officer (emergency) Dr Olurotimi Akinola said concussion presentations in the ED could also be the result of falls and trips. “We see it very often in elderly patients,” Dr Akinola said. “That’s why a study like this is important because it gives us the opportunity to investigate whether a new treatment may improve a patient’s recovery outcomes.” “Generally, most patients with concussion recovered within a few days, but some experienced persistent symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and concentration and memory issues,” he said. “We see people with post-concussive syndrome who have had ongoing symptoms for months and it's affecting their livelihood and day-to-day activities,” Dr Akinola said. There are currently no approved pharmaceutical treatments for concussion available in Australia with recovery focused on rest and symptom relief. This clinical trial would investigate the safety and efficacy of a new drug in the treatment of mild traumatic brain injury and trial participants would receive either the investigational drug or placebo alongside standard care. During his training in Nigeria, Dr Sofola-Orukotan had been involved in another clinical trial and collected data for a study into reducing bleeding in traumatic brain injuries. “This study is very similar to what I’ve done before so I see it as an opportunity to bring this type of research to the Mackay region to benefit our patients,” he said. Anyone interested in learning more about the clinical trial can contact the Clinical Trials Unit on 4951 7561 or email mackay-clinical-trials@health.qld.gov.au Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) trial sub-investigator and senior medical officer (emergency) Dr Olurotimi Akinola, clinical trials nurse Alta Neethling and senior staff specialist (emergency) and principal investigator Dr Sunday Sofola-Orukotan. Photo supplied
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A caesarean birth can be planned, unexpected, calm, chaotic, welcomed, or deeply emotional. For many women, it is all of those things at once. Yet while there is often plenty of discussion about the birth itself, far less attention is given to what comes next… recovery. April is C-Section Awareness Month, a timely reminder that caesarean birth is not the “easy option,” nor is recovery something women should simply be expected to push through in silence. A caesarean is major abdominal surgery, performed at the same time a woman becomes a mother or welcomes another child into her family. In the days and weeks afterwards, women are often navigating pain, fatigue, sleep deprivation, feeding demands, changing hormones, and the enormous responsibility of caring for a newborn, all while healing from surgery. Many mums are surprised by how vulnerable they feel. Tasks that once seemed simple, like getting out of bed, laughing, coughing, lifting the baby capsule, or walking through the supermarket, can suddenly feel challenging. Yet because caring for a baby doesn’t pause for recovery, many women push on long before their body feels ready. What often goes unspoken is that healing continues well beyond the first six weeks. While the skin may appear healed relatively quickly, deeper layers of tissue continue to recover for months. The abdominal wall, scar tissue, core muscles, breathing patterns, posture, and pelvic floor can all be affected. Some women notice numbness around the scar, tightness, pulling sensations, back pain, weakness, bladder symptoms, or discomfort when returning to exercise. Others simply feel disconnected from their body, particularly their scar, and unsure where to begin. Scar care is another area many women are never taught about. Once the wound is fully healed and your medical team has cleared you, gentle scar massage can help improve mobility, reduce sensitivity, soften tightness, and support comfort as the tissues recover. Silicone therapy is also widely regarded as a gold-standard treatment for scar management, helping optimise scar healing and appearance. Early guidance can make a significant difference, particularly if the scar feels raised, tethered, numb, sensitive, or uncomfortable. These experiences are common, but they are not something women need to “just put up with.” One of the biggest myths around caesarean recovery is that if the baby is healthy and the scar looks fine, everything must be okay. But recovery is about far more than appearance. It is about how a woman feels in her body, how she moves, how she functions, and how confidently she returns to daily life. This is where support can make a meaningful difference. Pelvic health physiotherapy can help women recover strength, confidence, and comfort after a caesarean birth. That may include gentle core rehabilitation, scar mobility work, breathing retraining, guidance for safe return to exercise, lifting strategies, and addressing pelvic floor symptoms such as leaking, heaviness, or pain. Just as importantly, it can provide reassurance. Many women feel relief simply hearing that what they are experiencing is valid, understandable, and treatable. As a women’s health physiotherapist, I often meet mothers months or even years after their caesarean who say, “I thought this was just how it would be now.” But it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve had a caesarean birth, recently or years ago, and something still doesn’t feel quite right, a check-in with a qualified health professional can be a helpful next step. Your body has been through something significant, and it deserves care. This C-Section Awareness Month, let’s broaden the conversation. A caesarean birth is still birth. Recovery still matters. And mothers deserve more than being told to bounce back. Because healing well isn’t a luxury after birth — it should be the expectation. Text Box 2, Textbox Women's Health Physio Mackay admin@whphysiomackay.com.au 0476 616 324
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A duck walks into a newsagency, approaches the counter and asks the newsagent: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent says: No, we don’t have corn. There’s a grain store a few doors up the street and they sell corn.” The duck says “okay, thanks” and waddles out. The next day the duck walks into the newsagency, approaches the counter and asks the newsagent: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent says: “No, as I said yesterday, we don’t sell corn but the grain shop up the road sells it.” The ducks says “okay, thanks” and leaves the shop. The next day the duck waddles into the newsagency and approaches the newsagent and says: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent is now sick of it. Exasperated, he says: “Look, mate we don’t sell corn! We are a newsagency! We sell cards and newspapers and lotto tickets. We don’t bloody well sell corn! If you want corn, you go to the grain store up the street and get your corn there.” The next day the duck walks into the newsagency. The newsagent sees him and thinks to himself, “right, if this friggin’ duck asks for corn again, I am gonna go off”. The duck waddles up to him and says: “Have you got any corn?” The newsagent is furious and has had enough. Now he’s shouting: “LISTEN MATE. WE DON’T SELL CORN! I’M SICK OF THIS. IF YOU COME INTO MY SHOP AGAIN AND ASK FOR CORN I AM GONNA GRAB YOUR HEAD AND NAIL YOUR STUPID DUCK BILL TO THIS COUNTER! The ducks says, “okay, thanks” and leaves. The next day the duck walks into the newsagency, goes up to the counter and says to the newsagent: “Have you got any nails?” The newsagent shouts in frustration: “No I don’t have any nails!!” The duck says: “Okay, do you have any corn?” Now that is one very annoying duck. In life, I try not to be as annoying as that duck. But there are some annoying things I do that I can’t eradicate. One of them is consistently turning up to photo shoots for a property I am listing. I use the same photographer for every listing and she is very good and knows what is required. Yet I turn up. Not on a two-bedroom unit I do for most houses because, even though I know the photographer is very good, I still need to tell her about the importance of certain features. I need to stress how important the shed is, how vital it is that we show how wide the side access is for buyers needing access for a boat or a caravan. Even if there isn’t a shed, I have to say something. “Listen I know there’s no shed but there is really good side access and look at all the space in the yard to put a shed. If you take a photo from over in that corner of the yard I reckon people will be able to see the side access and also the space that’s available for the shed in one picture.” It must be very annoying for a highly professional photographer who has done it thousands of times. It’s the same inside the house. I say things like: “If you take a photo from this angle in the family room, people will be able to see the lounge, dining and part of the kitchen and get a feel for the space.” Annoying. I know most agents consider attending the photo shoots a waste of time and maybe they’re right. For me, we only get one chance at a first impression and that’s the photos so let’s make sure they’re right. Even though the poor photographer has to turn up to a property and see that stupid duck waiting.
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A brighter future for Queensland’s sugarcane industry was the focus as more than 100 growers and industry leaders gathered in Mackay last week for the inaugural Sugar Cubed conference.
The two-day event featured a lineup of expert speakers, many at the forefront of innovations in the sugarcane industry and the Australian bioeconomy.
Jet Zero CEO Ed Mason, Qantas Head of Sustainable Aviation Fuel Graeme Potger, KPMG Origins CEO Laszlo Peter, Coca Cola’s Head of Sugar Procurement Pete Greenwell, and head of Evidn behavioural science Dr John Pickering were among the speakers who shared insights.
The program covered a variety of topics, from the development of a sugarcane-based Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) industry in Queensland to strategies for creating a more profitable future for growers and improving market access for sustainably produced Australian Sugar.
Practical challenges around research and development, farm productivity, and harvest and mill reliability were also discussed.
Attendees participated in field trips, including visits to local sugar mills, farm tours, and a trip to Mackay’s bulk sugar terminal and biorefinery.
CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens emphasised the aim of Sugar Cubed was to provide growers with an annual industry event where they could come together to learn and discuss challenges and opportunities.
“There are so many vital and evolving aspects of our industry,” Mr Menkens said.
“From technological advancements to variety development, harvesting constraints, milling sector sustainability, opportunities in sugar supply chain traceability, marketing and trade access, the emerging bioeconomy, the list is endless and the opportunity to work together as an industry is now.
“But until now, we’ve never had a major forum where growers could come together to learn about and discuss these issues and explore the opportunities together.
“The Sugar Cubed Conference, which has been developed by CANEGROWERS, aims to address the big issues growers want to discuss and see how we can work collaboratively across the industry to bring about success for everyone.”
The conference kicked off with field trips on 8 May, followed by keynote speakers and panel discussions at the Mackay Rydges Suites on 9 May.
L-R: Pete Greenwell - Head of Sugar Procurement for Coca-Cola EuroPacific Partners (the largest purchasers of sugar in Australia), Matt Kealley – CANEGROWERS Membership and Innovation Manager, Graeme Poyger – Qantas Head of Sustainable Aviation Fuel, Ed Mason – Jet Zero CEO and Founder, Shannon Guy – QSL Grower Services Manager
Field trips across key sugar-growing locations in the Mackay region. Photos supplied
One Hundred women gathered at the Hinchinbrook Shire Hall in Ingham for the 2024 Women in Sugar Australia (WISA) Conference from 28th to 30th April with the theme “Women Powering Agriculture.”
There were plenty of opportunities for the attendees to reminisce, renew acquaintances, and meet other like-minded women in agriculture, whether they were the ladies who worked alongside their husbands on the farm, or those who work in industries or companies that support the sugar industry.
A Meet and Greet on Sunday evening started the lively conversations of the women who were eager to network with ladies from Bundaberg, Mackay, The Burdekin, and Herbert River Districts.
On Monday we heard many inspirational speakers telling their stories about their association with business and how they managed to arrive at where they are today, and others that informed us on how the businesses that they work for can assist the sugar or agricultural industries.
The (Women in Sugar Herbert) WISH President, Leah Russo, welcomed all to the conference and was the Master of Ceremonies for the day. Leah is Board Member of Canegrowers and she thanked the Canegrowers organisation for the support that has been given to her to achieve her goals and she encourages more women to stand for election, as she said “There is nothing that they can’t achieve.”
Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor, Raymond Jayo pointed out that during the War years, many women were involved with the physical tasks on the farm as many of the men signed up to defend our country. Women have always supported their husbands in some way, and now with mechanisation there are many female haul-out operators and many have farm management roles. Mayor Jayo also informed us that the CEO of the Hinchinbrook Shire Council is the first female to take on this role in the shire. Women often bring different opinions to the boardroom along with their aspirations of perfection.
Ellen Cox, from Green Collar informed the audience about “Introduction to Reef Credits”, Clean Air, Clean Water, Biodiversity, and Healthy Soils.
“Sweet Future Taking Off” was presented by Pia Piggott from Rabobank. She said it is “Not Easy Being Green.” She reported on Sustainable Aviation Fuel and Sugarcane stockfeed. Pia also gave a quick overview of the Sugar Marketing.
Jodie Mittelheuser, the Chief Financial Officer of Queensland Canegrowers, topic was “Women in Business and the Power of I”. She spoke about her journey to where she is today. Challenge, resilience, respect, confidence and patience are tools that are needed to achieve, she was labelled as a “Perfumed Steamroller” but over time she has been accepted and the title has been removed. She endured many business and family adversities which she has been able to overcome. Her message was “Be able to recognise when you need help.”
The Conference guest speaker was Kate Lamason CPA. She has a career spanning the seafood industry. She is passionate about fostering inclusivity and diversity in the seafood industry. She is a Co-Founder and Director of Little Tuna.
Lisa Hewitt from Elders Rural, outlined the qualities of people you need in Agricultural Industries. In the administration roles, 47 per cent are women. There is a push to change the title from “Women in Agricultural” to “People in Agricultural.”
Anita Davina and Dr Charissa Rixon from Metagen Australia, spoke on the “Simple Solutions to manage nutrient efficiency”.
Karen Edgerton and Lawrence DiBella represented Townsville Lime and Gypsum featuring “What’s your PH.” Lawrence presented the seven Steps, Understanding the importance of soil, testing and monitoring, understanding nutrient availability, crop-specific PH, calcium and magnesium requirements, adjusting soil PH, calcium and magnesium levels, review the impact of the action and maintaining Soil PH.
Nina West from Wilmar Sugar's topic was “Engaging the next generation of women is sugar”.
On Tuesday the group assembled at RSL Ingham and boarded a bus to visit CD Nursery. Colleen Way gave us an account of the history of their establishment and an in-depth explanation on tissue-cultured sugar cane. We were able to see the various stages of the plants. This was followed by a tour of their green houses. She also specialises in growing Tassel Ferns.
It is CANEGROWERS NETWORK Mackay District’s turn to host the WISA conference in 2025 and a tentative date has been set for 31st March and 1st April.
Contributed by Mary Wallace
Ladies from the Mackay Canegrowers Network
Tassel Ferns
Painting in the Paddock
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Century 21 Coast to Coalfields is now open servicing Mackay and Morabah, QLD, under the leadership of seasoned real estate professional Luke James Curtis.
With over 14 years of industry expertise, Luke and his experienced team are keen to offer a quality service and experience to buyers and sellers, along with high quality property management. They can even help with home loans.
Luke expressed the following on what he hopes to accomplish with this new office, "Our vision for the new Century 21 Coast to Coalfields office is to revolutionise the Mackay property market.
“Backed by the Century 21 brand and fuelled by our passion for excellence, we're excited to redefine what it means to be a real estate agency in Mackay".
CEO of Century 21 Australasia, James Bell expresses excitement about this new venture, anticipating the positive impact it will have on the local real estate landscape.
"It's very exciting to see a new era of exceptional real estate and property management services coming to the Mackay region.
“We're proud to have such a dynamic team become part of our network and we look forward to seeing them go from strength to strength."
Century 21 Coast to Coalfields Mackay promises unparalleled real estate services, covering everything from transaction complexities to securing financing for various assets.
Situated in the heart of Mackay within the Century 21 Plaza building, the new office will serve as a centralised hub for delivering exceptional service. Supported by a dedicated team of agents who share his vision, Luke ensures clients receive top-notch guidance and results.
With a focus on personalised attention and comprehensive solutions, the office sets a standard for excellence in the industry, where every client's needs are met with professionalism and efficiency.
Their aim is to make your real estate experience seamless and stress free. They’re new and eager to go over and above for you!
3 Towns, 3 Medals Up For Grabs!
VOTING CLOSES TODAY!
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Three towns in the Whitsundays are in the spotlight this week having all become finalists in the Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards.
Bowen, Airlie Beach and Collinsville have all been nominated in a different category so it is possible that all three could come home with a gold award if they receive the most amount of votes.
Tourism Whitsundays, Bowen Tourism and Business, Whitsunday Regional Council (and your favourite weekly newspaper!) are all asking everyone in the community to cast their votes today before voting closes at 5pm so the Whitsundays has a chance of bringing home triple gold!
Voting for the Queensland Top Tourism Awards closes at 5pm today (Friday 17th May) and all residents are encouraged to take the time to vote for all three towns so the Whitsundays has a chance to bring home three gold medals in their respective categories.
Bowen has been nominated for the Top Tourism Town award because it has a population of more than 5000.
This is the fourth time Bowen has been a finalist for this award and it is hoped this will be the year they bring home the accolade.
Meanwhile, Airlie Beach is a finalist in the Top Small Tourism Town Award category for a population between 1,500 and 5,000.
Having won gold in this category for the last two years in a row, it is hoped this year will be a trifecta.
Finally, this is the first time Collinsville has been nominated and it is a proud moment to see them immediately become a finalist in the Top Tiny Tourism Town Awards, for a town with a population under 1,500.
Bowen Tourism and Business was instrumental in putting the submission together for Collinsville and are hoping the small town will get the recognition it deserves.
Jenn Honnery, Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business said they are very proud to see both Bowen and Collinsville make the finals as top tourism towns in Queensland.
“Over the past few years Collinsville has become a favourite stop for RVs and truly punches above its weight when it comes to delivering a rich and engaging experience for visitors,” she said.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy agreed, saying she hopes all three towns bring home an award.
“We are proud of our towns and our entire region and would be super excited if the three Whitsunday towns could all come home with Gold,” she expressed.
Tourism Whitsundays CEO, Rick Hamilton encouraged locals and visitors alike to vote for The Whitsundays towns.
“We have the opportunity to claim all three titles!” he said.
“Winning all three categories would highlight the incredible diversity and unforgettable experiences The Whitsundays offer and put us, once again, on the national stage."
Mayor Ry Collins added that he’s thrilled to see the Whitsundays' towns represented across all categories in the Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards.
“This recognition not only celebrates the beauty of our region and the unique experiences we have to offer, but also the dedication of our local community and businesses in creating unforgettable memories for visitors,” Mayor Collins said.
“I urge everyone to cast their votes and support our towns as we aim for a clean sweep in showcasing the best of what the Whitsundays has to offer."
Queensland residents and visitors are encouraged to cast their votes for their favourite destinations before voting closes on Friday May 17th at 5pm.
Presented by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the awards recognise outstanding regional communities that excel in providing exceptional visitor experiences.
Queensland winners will be announced in a function in Brisbane on June 7.
State winners will progress to the national Top Tourism Town Awards later this year.
Last year Airlie Beach tourism operators gathered to celebrate the announcement that Airlie Beach had won the Top Small Tourism Town Award for the second time in a row. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Hi Everyone,
I was at the gym chatting to a fellow step-class participant earlier this week when we got talking about volunteering for committees.
She told me a hilarious story about a P&C sausage sizzle committee meeting years ago when her children were young – the group of volunteers were all fussing and overthinking the little details so much that she asked a simple question:
“How much are we aiming to fundraise?”
To which she was told, $150 – and, without thinking, she whipped out her purse and handed over $150 to the shock and awe of the rest of the volunteers.
“There you go!” she said, before walking out with a smile on her face.
Despite this lady’s calamitous experience volunteering, we all know how rewarding contributing to our community can be – in fact, if you have any spare time there are many local groups, events and charities that would appreciate your support.
One of these is the Great Barrier Reef Festival which is holding a Meet and Greet at Boaty’s in Airlie Beach this Tuesday at 5pm – go along to find out more!
Over the years I’ve been part of the Whitsunday Writers Festival committee which sadly lost its founder Gloria Burley when she passed away several years ago.
Last year I was approached by a small group of people hoping to re-start the festival and I was thrilled to re-join what I think will be an amazing revival of a special local event.
A big thanks to Richard and Julia Evans for being the festival convenors and doing the majority of heavy lifting to re-establish this fantastic event – they have created an incredible ‘festival model’ which will be used now and into the future.
They have also been able to secure some amazing authors including the popular Sally Hepworth who will be hosting a special festival High Tea.
Early bird tickets are selling fast so make sure you gather your book-loving pals and reserve your spot by visiting whitsundayswriters.com.
We’d love to see you there!
Rach
Quote of the Week: “Think before you speak. Read before you think” Fran Lebowitz
For four years now Oceana Little has been selling plants for pocket money and her entrepreneurial spirit has become quite well known in the community, giving her the affectionate nickname of ‘plant girl’.
Growing almost any variety of plants and vegetables, Oceana has grown lettuce, tomato, capsicums and many others.
When they reach a good size, she then sells her plants for $1 or $2 for some pocket money and she loves doing it.
With her reputation for loving plants, many people in the community have started donating plants or seedlings to Oceana so she can continue her legacy as ‘plant girl’.
This kind gesture, however, has left Oceana with an over-abundance, so she decided it was time to spread the love of nature within the community by offering some of the plants and seedlings to anyone who might like them.
She has started to give her seedlings away for free to either kids or adults, whoever wants to take them!
Oceana has grown up knowing that it’s good to give and it was entirely her idea to give the seeds away for free.
Her mother said, “it’s good to pass things on when other kids could make use of it, and she’s grown up knowing that.”
Oceana’s mum posted on Facebook advertising the giveaway and they still have some left if anyone would like any.
Oceana Little is giving away some extra plants and seedlings to members of the community. Photo supplied
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By Paul Gellatly
Bowen’s harbour and foreshore area, and Abbot Point, will be priority areas in master planning for the region by the new Whitsunday Regional Council.
Mayor Ry Collins, a month after being sworn in, was addressing Bowen Chamber of Commerce's May meeting to describe his vision for the Whitsunday region in his first term.
The new mayor is planning to bring his considerable experience in agriculture, construction, the public sector and industry to bear on his new role and says he has identified opportunities in the Whitsunday region.
He also says there is considerable scope to increase the level of co-operation between the council with industry, government and business for the benefit of the entire region.
"This region is not a collection of towns but a vibrant community," he said.
Mr Collins said the new strategy for the region was being readied in the lead-up to the state election later this year, with a focus on economic development. He said there was an "appetite for partnerships" in new projects.
"We want to see development opportunities progress," he said, with Bowen Harbour being one of the major priorities.
Also of concern for the strategy was Abbot Point, where the Gilmour Space rocket base and a hydrogen production facility were located.
Chamber Chairman Bruce Hedditch had complained that Gilmour Space's Eris rocket launch from the spaceport "is being held up by paperwork."
"Bowen is becoming frustrated and is looking to the new council to support projects," Mr Hedditch said.
Mr Collins said there "is continuing opportunity around our harbour and foreshore area, and around Abbot Point," while Mr Hedditch noted that "Bowen Harbour businesses are yet to get an extension of their leases to 2033 as part of the new mayor's town plan strategy, which currently is being formulated. It is heading in the right direction."
Mr Collins said the relationship with the State Government would be a major priority of his new council. He also said he would head to Canberra in July in an effort to step up engagement with the Federal Government.
He would travel to Brisbane in early June to meet with the Transport Minister and the Premier to discuss issues including the Bowen jetty project, presently being considered by jetty leaseholder North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), which is leading the plan to redevelop the jetty as NQBP prepares to open a new tug base closer to Abbot Point. Mr Hedditch said the chamber is concerned about the direction that the project is going. "We wanted to keep what we have and rebuild it," and he appealed to the new council for any help.
New Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins visits Bowen. Photo credit: Paul Gellatly
• Federal Government released Tuesday night
• $9.3M surplus announced, 1st back-to-back in a decade
• Power Bill Relief – all households receive $300 rebate
• Cost of Living Relief - Tax Cuts on average $1,888
• Publicly Funded Paid Parental Leave increases $106 a week
• Rent Assistance - $250 a Fortnight for welfare recipients
• Reduced Prescription Costs - no-one pays more than $31.60
• Student Debt Wiped - $3 million debts removed
Tax cuts set to ease the cost of living, $300 energy bill rebates, rental assistance for welfare recipients and reduced costs of prescription medication – these are just some of the key outcomes of the Federal Budget released by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on Tuesday night.
Despite these national game-changers, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, is frustrated that our region has once again missed out allocations that were awarded to other areas.
The biggest point of contention for Mr Willcox is the Bruce Highway, where funds were given for upgrades both north and south of the region and to a new in-land highway, but nothing to fix the issues we currently have on our main road.
“The Bruce Highway is how we get our products to market and how we get our supplies up from the city, it’s a lifeline for us,” expressed Mr Willcox.
“They’ve given money for the Bruce north and south and money for the new inland Bruce, but I want to fix what we’ve currently got.
“Our section of the Bruce is rated the worst in the whole of the Bruce Highway, so I’ve been pushing for some money for that but, once again, we’ve missed out.”
Another budget decision which will directly affect the Whitsunday region is the Environmental Management Charge (EMC) which will see tourism operators having to incorporate this new fee into their prices.
“They’ve increased the EMC so that’s going to make it more difficult for our tourism industry in making our visitors pay more,” he explained.
“The tourism operators are world-class operators, but they have to pass their costs on.”
Despite his disappointment, Mr Willcox says that he will continue to constantly push for projects and funding to explore every avenue he can.
“I’ll be going through the whole of the budget and trying to identify what buckets have the money to then see if I can get some of that for my people. They contribute so much, we deserve to have some of that money coming back,” he stated.
“I’m not putting the white flag up or giving up, I’ll be constantly trying to look for what we can do, putting business cases forward and lobbying for my people to make sure we can get our fair share.
“I’m not being greedy here, but I want something. We’re the biggest sugar growing area in the country and 80% of our sugar is exported, that’s export dollars growing Australia’s economy.
“We’ve got over half a billion dollars of horticultural crop in Bowen, there’s export there too. That’s money for the country, so where is the money generated here coming back to us?
“Even though this has been a slap in the face for us, I won’t be giving up. I’ll be following this through and, every time there’s an opportunity to stand up for the people of Dawson, that’s what I’ll be doing.”’
Rumours have abounded about the impending closure of much-loved local venue, Banjos Bar and Grill which has been a staple for residents of Cannonvale for many years.
Speculation has been rife about this sudden news with staff allegedly being given notice just weeks before the closure.
A representative from business, however, confirmed this week that they are hoping the matter could be resolved if the right lease agreement comes into place.
Negotiations with the landlord, Whitsunday Shopping Centre, are currently underway.
Due to this uncertainty, Banjos will indeed close this Friday 17th May, but it is hoped this will be a temporary measure before a new lease can be agreed upon.
Kids from around the region had the opportunity to meet and get a free coaching session from their local heroes at the Mackay Cutters Rookie Clinic which took place at the Whitsunday Sportspark last Friday.
At the Clinic, the kids were coached by players and were put through drills to sharpen their rugby skills.
The afternoon was filled with laughs and knowledgeable insight for the youngsters before ending the session with a fun game of touch and a free sausage sizzle.
The Cutters were in Airlie Beach ahead of their Saturday night match against the Burleigh Bears which saw hundreds of people attend to show their support.
The sunset created a beautiful backdrop for the start of the match in front of the Airlie Beach crowd.
Burleigh Bears pulled an early lead in the match but the Mackay Cutters narrowed the gap with a converted try.
The Cutters displayed some great defence in the second half but unfortunately couldn’t hold the Burleigh Bears out forever.
The final score was 12-28 to Burleigh Bears.
The Bears now sit top of the table and the Cutters are in sixth.
The Mackay Cutters hosted a Rookie Clinic at the Whitsunday Sportspark last Friday.
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
It was all action in the match between Mackay Cutters and Burleigh Bears
Photo credit: Mackay Cutters, Ben Van Moolenbroek.
More than 400 people attended the Mackay Mayor’s Ball on Saturday evening, including Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins who said he was thrilled to be a part of the event.
He also announced that the Whitsunday Mayor’s Ball will likely be held at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre in September, and that Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson will of course be invited along with the new Isaac Mayor, Kelly Vea Vea.
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP and his lovely wife, Raylene, were also in attendance on the night along with four members of the Mackay and Whitsunday Life team.
The theme of the evening was Iconic Mackay and Channel 7’s Weekender host Chris Parsons was the evening’s emcee.
In addition, Luke Curtis from Century 21 Mackay, was the event’s auctioneer who did a fantastic job in hosting the charity auction.
Last year the event raised over $100,000 for charity and organisers are hoping to raise more this year, with final figures expected to be released next week.
Funds raised at the event will be donated to two incredible local charities this year – the Australian Street Aid Project and Grapevine Group.
While charity was at the event’s heart, so too was a night of dancing and merriment.
There was entertainment by Mango Junction and then ball-goers enjoyed further live music by the world-class Elton John Experience.
Raylene Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Rachael Smith Editor of Whitsunday Life Newspaper, Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, Mackay Deputy Mayor Belinda Hassan, Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins with his wife Mel, and Ruby Gorlick from Whitsunday Life Newspaper. Photo credit: Liz Andrews
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Inspiring young local, Macy Lewin, who regularly assists at Proserpine YouthSpace was thrilled to discover last month that she was the recipient of the Peries IGA Proserpine Local Hero Award.
Unaware of being nominated by her stepfather, it was a huge surprise when she walked into her local IGA on a Sunday afternoon to find out, not only about the nomination, but also that she’d won.
Macy said she is very proud of herself and that it is a good feeling knowing her work is getting recognition.
The IGA Local Hero Award recognises the contribution a person or group that takes time to better the local community.
At Proserpine YouthSpace, Macy mentors the local youth and helps them with a variety of activities.
She also assists with mentoring youngsters and helping them with issues they find challenging, giving advice on how to best communicate with their parents and others.
Macy also helps with activity planning and assisting the young children with the different activities YouthSpace hold.
Coordinator of YouthSpace, Renee Buckley, is proud of Macy for winning the award.
“We are very proud of Macy, we know she’s a wonderful role model here and it is really nice to see her get some recognition for that,” said Renee.
“We’re grateful because IGA gave us a donation as well as Macy getting the award.”
As part of the award, the non-for-profit organisation received a cheque of $500, which YouthSpace will be using to fund future programs.
Proserpine YouthSpace is a neutral and welcoming space for local youth, it provides guidance, support, referrals and a safe space for young people to hang out.
It also offers workshops that inform children about important issues like alcohol and drug abuse and homelessness.
Macy Lewin being presented IGA Local Hero Award. Photo supplied
Youth Rep, Macy Lewin and YouthSpace Coordinator, Renee Buckley
Macy helping kids with their activities
YouthSpace group
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
The main street of Airlie Beach came alive with the footstep of 150 soldiers on Saturday morning.
The soldiers from the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment (3CER) from Townsville marched down the main street with bayonets, drums and vehicles, and it was an amazing spectacle for the whole community to enjoy.
The soldiers were halted by a Senior Police Officer for a special ceremony where they were granted their right of entry.
The parade then continued along the main street and concluded at the Airlie Beach Foreshore.
A community gathering was then held where Mayor Ry Collins said a few words about this spectacular event.
Photo credit: Daniel Heggie
‘Getting Free Media for Your Business’ (7:30am-9:00am, 13 June) will be an interactive discussion with local media outlets and experts providing tips and techniques to increase media coverage of your business and good news stories.
The Chamber’s Vision for the Whitsundays project – that aims to articulate an economic future for the region informed by business for business – will be launched Thursday 15 August at a breakfast function, where key insights and recommendations will be discussed.
The Chamber will once again host Meet the Candidates event for the Queensland State Election (6:30pm-8:30pm, 3 October) providing the business community the chance to discuss economic development and business challenges with candidates.
Coinciding with Queensland Mental Health Week, the ‘Mental Health Check Up for Your Business’ (7:30am-9:00am, 11 October) will showcase programs and resources available to business owners to support wellbeing and explore ways to identify and better manage our health.
The Chamber’s Annual General Meeting will be a breakfast function on Thursday 7 November, including a keynote presentation from a guest speaker.
The year will close with a joint industry festive networking event with Tourism Whitsundays on the last Thursday in November.
Most events will also include an update on Chamber news and developments, with the opportunity for local businesses to discuss priorities and new ideas.
These events will be held in various locations in Proserpine, Cannonvale, and Airlie Beach. Visit their website for more information.
Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
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Last Friday I had the pleasure of attending the first annual Mackay Issac Whitsunday (MIW) Major Industry Projects Forum held in Mackay, aimed at highlighting the significant infrastructure projects set to transform the neighbouring regions.
Hosted by Regional Development Australia (RDA) Greater Whitsundays, this gathering brought together local leaders, government officials, and industry stakeholders to candidly discuss ways to enrich our communities and strengthen our economic prosperity.
The collaboration at these types of events allows us to discuss upcoming industry opportunities and forge partnerships that will drive progress in our region. There was a huge emphasis on learning from the past, candidly discussing past ventures and how to navigate future challenges.
Inspired by the insights gained from the Industry Forum, I am optimistic for the future of the Whitsunday region but as always, it will require perpetual hard work, collaboration and a shared commitment to our goals.
Sadly, it’s the end of the road for two of the region’s beautiful fig trees. The tree at Mullers Lagoon in Bowen was removed for the safety of our residents after it split and fell for a second time due to damage sustained by Tropical Cyclone Kirrily earlier in the year.
While those things are out of our control, I’m frustrated to hear that the fig tree adjacent to the amenities block on the Cannonvale Foreshore has been subject to an act of vandalism. Based on an arborist’s report and the presence of strategically placed drill holes around its trunk, indicating a deliberate poisoning attempt, we are left with no alternative but to remove the tree to ensure public safety.
It's disheartening to see such disregard for our natural environment, especially when acts of vandalism result in the loss of cherished landmarks like this tree that has been on the foreshore for many years. I encourage anyone with information to contact Council or the Whitsunday Police.
Proserpine’s Renwick Road shared path upgrade is progressing well and will see 1065 metres of footpath increased to 3 metres between Gardenia Street to Stanbury Street. This project enhances the local active transport network and encourages safer and more accessible routes for residents.
The shared path will predominately be constructed above existing open drain, including the installation of new culverts that will improve the streetscape and enhance the experience for pedestrians and cyclists.
Of particular significance is its close proximity to the school, facilitating safe commuting for students and teachers.
Finally, I’m thrilled to say the Freedom of Entry Parade was a huge success with hundreds of people turning out to see the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment receive the Freedom of Entry to the Whitsunday Region.
It was a great honour to have had the opportunity to grant the Regiment the privilege of exercising Freedom of Entry to our region - the first time in history that such a tribute has been conferred in the Whitsunday Region.
Thank you to the parade executive, the Queensland Police Service, those involved in planning the event and to everyone who went to witness such a wonderful occasion.
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