The Finch Hatton Trail has added a fascinating piece to its historical repertoire. Mackay Sugar, in a gesture reflecting both heritage preservation and community engagement, recently donated a decommissioned locomotive turntable to the Mackay Regional Council.

This turntable, once an integral part of rail operations, has found new life as a decorative, curved section along one of the trail's foot and bike paths. The ingenious repurposing of this railway artifact within the mountain bike trail project speaks volumes about the evolution of history into modern recreational spaces.

A turntable, reminiscent of iconic tales from locomotive lore akin to Thomas the Tank Engine adventures, traditionally facilitated the directional change of engines. Positioned at the terminus or home base, these mechanisms were pivotal in manoeuvring trains—a nostalgic nod to the bygone era of rail travel.

Mackay Sugar's association with this turntable has roots in the 1980s when it was acquired from the Mt Charlton line. This relic, once part of the Queensland Rail corridor, became a prized possession within Mackay Sugar's infrastructure following the company's acquisition during the Cattle Creek operations.

The integration of such historical remnants into contemporary recreational spaces is a testament to Mackay's commitment to honouring its past while embracing progressive initiatives.

The transformation of a relic from the railroad into a feature along the trail encapsulates the beautiful synergy between preserving heritage and fostering community spaces for all to enjoy. As the trail winds through its picturesque routes, this new addition adds an intriguing chapter to its tale, inviting visitors to explore the unique blend of past and present along its paths.

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Mackay Sugar recently donated a decommissioned locomotive turntable to Mackay Regional Council, which has been repurposed as a decorative, curved section in one of the many foot and bike paths within the Finch Hatton mountain bike trail project. Photo credit: Mackay Sugar

Yearning to create a tangible impact in your community this year? Consider becoming a Ronald McDonald Family Room volunteer and contribute to supporting families in the Mackay region with sick or injured children during their most challenging times.

Volunteers at the Ronald McDonald Family Room embody a set of values that revolve around friendliness, reliability, and creating a comforting atmosphere for families utilizing the Mackay Base Hospital's Ronald McDonald Family Room.

Your role as a volunteer includes various responsibilities that significantly aid families in need:

Creating Comfortable Spaces

Volunteers welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds warmly and compassionately into the Family Room. Your presence alone contributes to establishing a welcoming environment.

Hospitality and Support

Providing basic hospitality services such as preparing beverages and assisting families in utilizing kitchen facilities forms a crucial part of your role. Your help ensures that families can focus on their child's well-being without worrying about trivial tasks.

Maintenance and Cleanliness

Engaging in light housekeeping tasks, such as tidying up communal areas and occasionally making beds in the nap room, helps maintain a clean and serene space for families seeking respite.

Reliability and Positive Representation

Commitment is key. Being dependable, fulfilling shifts, and maintaining a respectful and courteous attitude while representing the Charity positively at all times are integral aspects of volunteering.

Willingness to Learn

An open mind and a willingness to learn are valuable traits in your volunteer journey. Embrace every opportunity to grow and improve within your role.

The Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital serves as a haven for local families seeking a moment of reprieve while attending to their child in the hospital. Instead of rushing to cafes or homes for basic amenities, families can drop by for a rejuvenating coffee, a refreshing shower, laundry assistance, or simply a peaceful moment to gather their thoughts.

Your dedication as a volunteer directly contributes to easing the burden on these families, offering them essential support during challenging times.

Becoming a Ronald McDonald Family Room volunteer is not just about lending a helping hand; it's about being an anchor of support for families navigating through difficult moments. Join us in making a difference in 2024.

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Volunteers from Mackay’s Ronald McDonald Family Room

Kath Ryan has a deep and abiding connection with Mackay’s health service.

Even when she sits in her home at Seaforth, she is immersed in our region’s nursing history courtesy of the timber she salvaged from the old nurses’ quarters in Mackay.

“I took some time off and my husband and I got on the tools to build a house together on our property,” Kath recalls.

“This was back in 2003/4 and about that time we were pulling the old nurses’ quarters down here.

“I didn’t want them to go, because I’m an old nurse and I’d have liked to see them stay.

“So I got the job of co-ordinating that project.

“It was a terrible building, but it had a lot of history, and I like to hang on to history.

“I bought a lot of the timber and spent the first three months of my time off getting the timber home and pulling out nails; they were all really old nails because it was built in the early 1900s.

“All of the frame of our house is hardwood from the original nurses’ quarters.

“And then there's Oregon pine beams, and I bought a whole heap of floorboards and I put them on the walls.

“I sanded them back, hours of laborious labour. “

This testament to the services of nurses past illustrates Kath’s ongoing dedication to her profession.

“I started nursing in 1972 and my husband and I were just doing a bit of travel when we came here in 1975,” Kath said.

“I had an interesting start (at the Base hospital); I came to see the matron at the time and she said ‘we don't have any jobs so it’ll be at least six weeks before you hear from me’.

“So I literally drove home, which was about four or five minutes away; the phone was ringing and it was matron saying ‘can you start this afternoon?’”

Kath has literally ‘done it all’ over the past 51 years.

She has held nurse unit manager positions, managed rural sites, advanced to nursing director medical role and was also the project co-ordinator for the build of the new Mackay Base Hospital from 2012.

She has also incorporated stints of community nursing, spent a number of years in Mt Isa, and attempted to retire a couple of times.

But different circumstances kept drawing her back.

“We had just literally finished building the house, and the CEO rang me up and said ‘we need your help for a little bit’,” Kath said.

“I was really passionate about building a new hospital, that it was what Mackay needed.

“So I came on board and helped out for a bit, then the job came up as permanent.

“I absolutely loved that project because it was something that I knew could benefit our district, attract staff and provide that environment that people wanted to come to.

“Because once people came here, what Mackay has to offer is phenomenal.”

Kath then attempted retirement again, but it was not meant to be.

“I had made a commitment to myself that I would finish my nursing career where I started, which was at the bedside,” Kath said.

“So I went back and worked in the nursing pool.

“Then dear old COVID stuck up its head, and I ended up being one of the testers down at the Showgrounds.

“Those nurses that I worked with down there, I've got the utmost respect for.”

Now in what she believes will be her final chapter in nursing as a mask fit-test coordinator, Kath is enjoying the opportunity to invest time and care into our staff.

“I look back at my nursing career and think I have been such a lucky person,” Kath said.

“I've worked in every aspect of health, from community to mental health; I did my midi (midwifery) here and delivered 503 babies in my time.

“Coming to Mackay for three months and staying for 30 odd years has been the best thing I ever did.

“Because I felt like I could give back to the community in a way that I wouldn't have been able to in bigger towns, and I love that.”

She has her beloved horses, dogs and cattle, as well as her husband, three daughters and eight grandsons to share retirement with.

But she’s not going anywhere just yet!

“This is one of those jobs (mask fit-testing) where I can help make staff safe,” Kath said.

“Staff are very important to me, and I get to see staff across the health service, every level and speciality.

“I get to talk with them and it's a real pleasure.

“I said I wanted to finish up at the bedside.

“My bedside now is with the staff.”

By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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A testament to dedication: Kath Ryan, a beacon of nursing excellence with 51 years of unwavering service in Mackay's health sector. Photo supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

Mackay school leavers and those looking to upskill or change careers have been encouraged to enrol in the hundreds of Fee-Free TAFE places available for 2024.

Fee-Free TAFE in Central Queensland in 2024 is being delivered by CQUniversity and Deputy Vice-President for VET Peter Heilbuth said CQU TAFE was ready to meet the region’s training needs.

“Fee-Free TAFE has the potential to change lives here in Central Queensland,” Mr Heilbuth said.

“With Fee-Free TAFE, the pressure that can come with deciding to study a qualification is no longer an obstacle – allowing people to truly follow their dreams.”

The Fee-Free TAFE courses on offer for 2024 are:

Certificate II in Horticulture (On-campus)

Certificate III in Horticulture (On-campus)

Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management (On-campus)

Certificate III in Business (Online)

Certificate IV in Entrepreneurship and New Business (Online)

Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (Online)

Certificate IV in Project Management Practice (Online)

Diploma of Leadership and Management (Online)

Diploma of Project Management (Online)

Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care (Online and placement)

Certificate III in School Based Education Support (Online and placement)

Certificate III in Community Services (Online)

Certificate III in Individual Support (On-campus)

Certificate IV in School Based Education Support (Online and placement)

Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention (Online and placement)

Certificate IV in Community Services (Online)

Certificate IV in Mental Health (Online and placement)

Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care (Online and placement)

Assist Clients with Medication Skill Set (On-campus)

Certificate III in Visual Arts (Online)

Certificate III in Accounts Administration (Online)

Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping (Online)

BAS Agent Registration Skill Set

Accounting Principles Skill Set

Certificate III in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care (NOW AVAILABLE On-campus)

Certificate III in Health Services Assistance (On-campus)

Certificate III in Dental Assisting (Online and placement)

Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Practice (On-campus)

Diploma of Nursing (TQ, CQU & Mater Education) (On-campus)

Certificate III in Information Technology (On-campus)

Diploma of Information Technology (Online)

Certificate III in Laboratory Skills (On-campus)

Certificate II in Hospitality (On-campus)

Certificate II in Cookery (On-campus)

Certificate III in Tourism (Online)

Certificate III in Hospitality (On-campus)

Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (Online)

CQU TAFE Careers Expos will be held in Rockhampton, Mackay and Gladstone on 17 January 2024.

For more information on Fee-Free TAFE visit https://www.cqu.edu.au/study/course-fees/tafe-student-fees/subsidised-training/fee-free-tafe  

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Horticulture is one of the course areas available for Fee-Free TAFE in 2024

Babies and young children are more susceptible to heat-related illness than adults. Their bodies cannot easily adapt to changing temperatures.

The younger the child, the quicker they will start to show signs of dehydration or heat stress. Sick children need special attention in hot weather, even for minor illnesses such as a cold or hayfever.

Stay hydrated and well nourished

   • Ensure your child has easy access to plain water and encourage them to drink it, even before they become thirsty.

   • Children 5–8 years of age should aim to drink 1 litre of water per day.

   • Children 9–12 years of age—1.5 litres per day.

   • Teenagers and people 13+—2 litres per day.

Babies

   • 0–6 months: rely on breast milk or formula, so offer milk more frequently. Water or other drinks are not needed unless recommended by a doctor.

   • 6–12 months: need food and fluids in addition to breast milk or formula, so give small amounts of cooled boiled water after or in between milk feeds.

   • over 12 months: need solid foods and drinks, continue breastfeeding or formula, or give full cream milk via a cup. Offer cooled boiled water after or in between meals.

Monitor your child’s urine rate

   • Babies: monitor the number of wet nappies. If your baby has fewer wet nappies than usual in 24 hours, see a doctor or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice.

   • Young children: urine should be a light straw colour. Dark urine may be a sign of dehydration and indicate the need to drink. If you are concerned, see a doctor or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice.

Tips for keeping children cool

   • Dress children in loose fitting, single layered, cotton clothing.

   • Avoid taking your child outside between 10am–3pm.

   • Use a suitable sunshade on your baby's stroller.

   • Ensure children wear broad-brimmed hats and SPF 30+ to avoid sunburn.

   • Children may experience nappy rash when it is hot—avoid using talcum powder, keep area clean and dry.

   • Never leave your child in a hot car or give them your keys to play with.

For tips on staying safe in the heat, visit www.health.qld.gov.au/heatsafe

She’s pushed trolleys, worked at Maccas, waited tables and cleaned toilets of a ‘grotty old’ Melbourne pub.

And like most aspiring musicians, Patty Preece has also experienced the life of being a struggling muso.

But from humble beginnings, the now music maestro has added a Masters degree to their repertoire - and it’s been a long road to getting there.

“I think it’s about having passion for what you are doing and believing in yourself and your art form,” Patty explains.

“We often talk about creating a reality TV show called artist survivor – where everyday people have to live a day in the life of an artist. 

“You have to go to this gig – you won’t get paid for it. To get there you have to drive six hours and the last hour is on a dirt road. There’s no food or accommodation for you – but you’ll get really great exposure! 

“I have countless stories like this – playing really weird gigs for exposure. It has been an uphill battle at times, but this is the stuff you can’t learn in a classroom – you really have to experience it.”

Patty, who is also on a journey of identity, has had an incredibly colourful adventure to get to where they are today.

“When I left high school in Mackay I wanted to go to the big city and be an elite athlete. I trained for a couple of years at the Queensland academy of sport and represented Queensland in hockey,” she says.

“I also had a stint playing Gaelic football and was named in an honorary Australian side at the national titles. I could bench press, pull up and do a mad handstand, but I was studying Occupational Therapy at the time and just felt that a life in sport didn’t hold as much meaning for me as caring for and working with marginalised groups in my community.” 

So, Patty ‘ditched’ her sporting life and worked for years in mental health. 

“My first gig out of uni was at the Forensic Mental health facility at The Park in Wolston. This was a real eye opener and helped me to see the outcomes of structural injustices. I started a music group here – we would play guitars, sing and write songs…whatever the day needed. It was catharsis, community and connection. It was this job that led me to becoming a music tech.” 

Patty said the groups they were working with were writing some great original songs. 

“I really wanted to record them but recording studios at the time were expensive and not so accessible. So, I decided to study a diploma of music industry technical production at TAFE on the Gold Coast. I bought myself a home recording setup and just fell in love with the process of capturing music.” 

Patty says that although a music career wasn’t always on the horizon, she’s always been a listener and lover of music.

“Like most of us – a Sony Walkman and a Salt-N-Pepa cassette was all I needed to escape.” 

“I lost my dad when I was 12 years old and this was such a hard age to do anything, let alone process grief and emotions...music was that place that I could go to, to help me understand my feelings or to just escape them.”

She’s also always loved playing music.

“At primary school I learnt to play trumpet first (after the recorder, of course) and then drums at high school. 

“In my first band as a grown-up - Bertha Control - I developed a clear association with music and identity and its role as a potential agent for social change. The band had a riot grrrl ethos writing songs about oppressive social structures and playing at political rallies around Brisbane. We also believed in encouraging women’s participation in the music industry. I recorded and played on our second studio album Songs of Sedition (John Howard had just brought in the sedition laws at the time).” 

Patty now puts her performance energy into the duo Ironing Maidens - formed with partner Melania Jack in Byron Bay a decade ago.

“Ironing Maidens was originally the capstone project for my Bachelor or Audio Production at SAE. I had just read about the amazing work of Daphne Oram and Delia Derbyshire – both BBC radiophonic electronic music pioneers – and I was keen to explore how instrument design could shape my music practice.”

At around the same time, Melania was editing together some old vintage footage of a housewife ironing, for a film clip for Shiny Shiny. 

“She cut the downward motion of an iron hitting an ironing board to the beat, so that it appeared as though the ironer was making a sic beat,” Patty recalls.

“Melania then said to me ‘do you think we could make an instrument that did that? Bang on the ironing board to make a beat’? From there, I learnt the basics of electronics and programming and made a series of iron instruments. We wrote some kooky songs and created a live gig, theatre-inspired electronic music band. We’ve been playing and touring ever since.”

In addition to her musical passions, Patty is also a respected member of CQUniversity’s School of Education and the Arts.

“I have been working for CQU for six years now. I relocated from Byron Bay to Cairns to take on the role of creative arts technician and associate lecturer for the Bachelor of Creative Arts course. During COVID, the course was phased out and I now teach into the Bachelor of Music program,” Patty explains.

When not teaching, studying or performing - Patty can be found mentoring the next generation of artists. 

“Mentorship and knowledge-sharing form the cornerstone of my professional ethos,” Patty says. 

“I'm a big fan of programs that bridge knowledge gaps, empower aspiring talents, and offer guidance in navigating the ropes of their chosen fields. These mentorship initiatives are like secret weapons for personal and professional growth, helping nurture the next generation of artists and keeping the artistic flame burning strong.”

By Isis Symes, CQUniversity. For the full story visit cqu.edu.au/news/1102482/maestro-masters-music

After leaving high school in Mackay, Patty Preece represented Queensland in hockey before discovering her true path to music. Photos supplied

Patty Preece (left) and partner Melania Jack in Ironing Maidens

Amid recent news surrounding the former owner's liquidation, Grazing Goat Cafe, nestled on Wood St, assures its patrons of uninterrupted service and thriving business under new ownership. Current owner Renyee Bencsis emphasises that the cafe remains unaffected by the previous owner’s financial setbacks, assuring customers of business as usual.

The popular cafe was initially founded by accountant Michael Harris. Recent ASIC filings revealed that Harris' personal company, Sureline Investments Pty Ltd, previously operating as The Grazing Goat Cafe, faced debts totalling $247,297.05 to various creditors, with a substantial portion owed to the Australian Taxation Office.

However, crucially, since its sale to Mrs Bencsis and her husband, Adrian, in October 2022, the cafe operates as an entirely separate entity from Harris.

"A lot of people don’t know it’s under new ownership and will presume it’s closing. This is the last thing we want," stated Mrs Bencsis, urging patrons to understand that Grazing Goat Cafe continues to thrive and accommodate diverse culinary preferences, shifting from its paleo origins to cater to a broader spectrum of dietary preferences.

Grazing Goat Cafe remains a bustling food haven, offering a diverse menu suitable for various tastes and dietary needs. While the cafe's initial concept centered around the paleo lifestyle, it has evolved to provide an inclusive dining experience, accommodating a range of dietary preferences.

“We have a pet friendly space with water bowls for dogs; and a dedicated kids corner for drawing and playing. We are finalising our new dietary dedicated menus for GF, vegetarian, vegan, and seniors also have a discount menu to order off. That way no one has to guess if the meal is suitable for them.”

As the cafe perseveres under new ownership, Mrs Bencsis urges community support for this family-owned business, serving its patrons with the same dedication and culinary excellence.

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The Grazing Goat Cafe on Wood Street. Photo credit: Hamish Wright

Mackay will play host to the 2024 Australian Regional Tourism Convention, taking place from 9th to 11th October 2024. This announcement signifies the council's commitment to advancing regional tourism and fortifying the area's tourism industry, driving economic growth and opportunities.

“We are excited to be working with Mackay Regional Council to deliver the 2024 ART Convention,” said Joel Chadwick, Australian Regional Tourism Chair.

"The convention is renowned as the preeminent event for industry stakeholders to share insights, network, and collaborate. With the recent surge in attendance, attracting over 200 delegates in recent years, it is evident that the interest in growing Australia's regional tourism sector is on the rise," continued Mr Chadwick.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said it was an exciting coup for the region to host this prestigious event.

“We know that Mackay is the best place in Australia to live, work and invest, and what better way to show off our fantastic region than by hosting the Australian Regional Tourism Convention,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Our tourism businesses are integral in driving investment into our communities, supporting sustainable growth and job creation,” he said.

“We have some outstanding, not to mention award-winning, tourism businesses here and council is committed to supporting them to shine so they can promote the liveability of the region.”

The Australian Regional Tourism Convention is a must-attend event for local councils, regional tourism organisations, tourism professionals and government personnel wanting to contribute to the future of regional tourism in Australia. Every sector of the tourism industry is invited to attend the convention and take the opportunity to collaborate and investigate solutions to shared challenges while shaping the future of Australia’s regional tourism.

Regarded as the most significant annual event for anyone engaged in regional tourism, the convention provides delegates the opportunity to connect, share ideas and engage in robust discussions around opportunities and challenges being faced by the industry.

For more information visit the Australian Regional Tourism website www.regionaltourism.com.au

Congratulations to Peyton Simpkin from Chelona State School, who was awarded the 2023 Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Community Citizenship Student Role Model Award for Grade 6.

Peyton was chosen as she demonstrated consistent effort and application across school pursuits, showed respect and concern for others and participated actively in school and community activities beyond set requirements.

Chelona SS Principal Mrs. Brown presented Peyton with an award and a $50 bank account voucher.

Peyton Simpkin

Aiming High

Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Board Director Rainee Shepperson was pleased to be able to present Carmila State School student Winston Shields with the Grade 6 Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Community Citizenship Role Model Award for 2023.

Winston was nominated for his dedication to school pursuits, his engagement with the local community and being courteous to peers. Winston received an award and a $50 bank account voucher.

Winston Shields

Wildlife Officers from the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) have removed a one metre crocodile from a chicken coop at a home north of Mackay.

Wildlife Officers were called to the Cape Hillsborough home about 9am on the 8th January after residents found the small estuarine crocodile in their yard.

The residents had initially thought the reptile was a goanna, but upon closer inspection realised it was a small crocodile and reported it to the department.

Fortunately, all chickens and pets living on the property have been accounted for.

DESI staff placed the crocodile in a large PVC tube for transport to the department’s facility in Mackay, where it will stay until wildlife officers can secure a new home for the animal at a licensed farm or zoo.

Senior Wildlife Officer Jane Burns said crocodiles can be highly mobile, especially during summer and following wet weather.

“While it isn’t unusual to see crocodiles around Mackay, it is unusual to find one in someone’s backyard,” she said.

“This is a good reminder to everyone in Croc Country that crocodiles can turn up in unexpected places, so it’s important to always be Crocwise, and report all sightings to DESI as soon as you can.”

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Residents reported the crocodile to DESI after finding it in their backyard. Photo credit: Department of Environment, Science and Innovation

The crocodile will be re-homed in a licensed farm or zoo

You're in - you have your first full time job but now you need to learn to save. Here's how to budget your salary for the first time. The key is to start small and be consistent. Knowing exactly where your money goes each pay will give you control over your finances. You know what position you’re in and you’re better prepared to make informed financial decisions.

Start small

Leaving yourself a bit of wiggle-room is the golden rule of budgeting. So, start small with your savings. It keeps you focused, motivated and won’t feel like a total blow out if things don’t go to plan one week.

Streaming services

Option-paralysis aside, streaming services like Netflix, Stan and Spotify are so accessible that we sign up to them in the blink of an eye. Most services offer ‘family’ discounts so see if your friends are down to buddy up with you on an account so you can all save a few coins.

Lunches

Buying lunch at work every day adds up – quick. It can cost upwards of $20 or $30 a day just for coffee, lunch and a snack. While bringing your lunch to work every day isn’t always possible, doing it just two days a week can save you upwards of $200 a month.

Make swaps

This is a big one for the budding saver. There are endless swaps you can make to free up some cash in your budget, without it cramping your style. Some examples include choosing generic brands where possible in your grocery shop, and getting a reusable coffee cup for cheaper coffee shop trips (plus, it’s better for the environment – bonus!).

Stay home

This sounds so cliché but it’s fun. Promise. Next time you’re planning a night out with your friends for dinner, have them over instead. Put each friend on drinks, snacks or dessert duty and throw on some tunes while you whip up your favourite dish for your people.

Don’t forget that you’re essentially learning a new habit. And the key to creating a successful habit is consistency. Put a set amount into your savings from every pay, no matter how small, and be mindful every time you make the transfer.

It might feel like a process to start with, but seeing the figure grow month by month will motivate you to keep going. And with time, adding to your savings will become as second nature as stopping for your morning coffee. If you’d like to open a dedicated savings account, or talk more about budgeting and saving, contact us at Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank on 4943 2634.

NOTE: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS GENERAL ADVICE ONLY. READERS SHOULD SEEK A TRUSTED PROFESSIONAL’S ADVICE ON FINANCIAL MATTERS.

The Australian South Sea Islander community made a significant contribution to Australia's sugar and cotton industries' development.

Between 1863 and 1904, an estimated 55,000 to 62,500 Islanders were brought to Australia for labour on sugarcane and cotton farms in Queensland and northern New South Wales.

Known as 'Kanakas' (a Hawaiian word for 'man'), these labourers often faced forced removal from their homes, a practice referred to as 'blackbirding' (where 'blackbird' was synonymous with slave).

They hailed from over 80 Pacific Islands, including Vanuatu (then known as the 'New Hebrides') and the Solomon Islands, as well as from New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Kiribati, and Tuvalu, primarily consisting of young men and boys aged 9 to 30 years, with relatively fewer women and girls among them.

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South Sea Islanders riding on Cane Trucks in the Farleigh Mill District in 1886. (JOL#366989). Shared by the Facebook page, ‘Have you seen the Old Mackay’

In the heart of Mackay's thriving sugar industry, the 2023 Mackay Sugar Apprentice of the Year Awards mark a celebration of excellence and dedication. These awards honour individuals who have demonstrated outstanding proficiency in boilermaking, electrical work and fitting. They represent the promising future of an industry deeply rooted in Mackay's heritage.

Among the winners are:

Jarrad Jones - Boilermaking Apprentice of the Year

Lachlan Iturbe - Electrical Apprentice of the Year

Caleb Cappello - Fitting Apprentice of the Year

Gordon Gear - Frank Marchetti Apprentice of the Year

Congratulations to the deserving winners of the 2023 Apprentice of the Year Awards. Their dedication, determination, and outstanding abilities are a testament to their bright futures and the remarkable contributions they will continue to make to the sugar industry.

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Jarrad Jones - Boilermaking Apprentice of the Year

Lachlan Iturbe - Electrical Apprentice of the Year

Caleb Cappello - Fitting Apprentice of the Year

Gordon Gear - Frank Marchetti Apprentice of the Year

Wilmar Sugar and Renewables have recently welcomed a trio of new apprentices to their team at Plane Creek Mill, representing a significant addition to the Mackay region's trade workforce.

The new apprentices completed their two-week Safe Start program earlier this month before beginning work at their respective sites.

Training Superintendent Daniel Shipard said the two-week Safe Start program prepared the new apprentices for what life would be like in Wilmar’s mills.

“It’s about getting them to understand Wilmar’s safety requirements and procedures, as well as giving them the basic skillset they require to enter their relevant workshops,” Mr Shipard said.

Hendrikus Voigt, specialising in fitting and turning at Plane Creek Mill, expressed his enthusiasm for this career opportunity with Wilmar. He said he chose to do an apprenticeship with Wilmar because he believed it would set him up for a strong future.

“I’m looking forward to learning more skills in the workshop and getting my hands on the big lathes. It just blows my mind how big they are and I can’t wait to get to work on them,” Hendrikus said.

Mr Shipard said he was excited to bring the newest intake of apprentices into Wilmar’s operations, across the key trades of electrical, fitting and turning, boilermaking and diesel fitting.

“They’re going to be a huge asset to our organisation and we can’t wait to see them grow over the next four years of their apprenticeship.”

Wilmar is one of North Queensland’s largest apprenticeship providers employing about 140 apprentices at any one time.

With an impressive completion rate exceeding 95 percent, Wilmar's apprenticeship program exemplifies success in empowering future trade leaders.

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Work Coordinator Brett Wilshere instructs Plane Creek fitting and turning apprentice Hendrikus Voigt on working with lathes

Wilmar’s new apprentices, back from left, Adam Facey, Liam Abell, Eddison Olney, Connor Hamilton, Henry Fallon, Graeme Jeffrey, Braden Laidlow, Logan Pott, Hugh Barnicoat, Hayde Munro, Bailey Marini, Lochlon Winston and Damon Drochmann. Front, from left, Lane Corlis, Harry Moschella, Hendrikus Voigt, Meg Westwood, Kane Kirkwood, Jayme Farr, Dekota Cutuli, Kohan Mau, Cadey McMurray, Jake Skinner, Sabine Turner and Lachlan Erba. Absent: Shaun Iwaszczyn, Danae Scothern, Tomas Mitchell, Rylan Weston, Jared Forsyth and Cooper Hare

As the calendar resets and the New Year unfolds, it presents an opportune moment for introspection, growth, and personal transformation. The concept of unlocking your best self isn't merely a cliché; it's a journey toward building resilience, fostering self-discovery, and embracing reinvention.

Resilience, the cornerstone of this journey, embodies the ability to bounce back from adversity, navigate life's challenges, and emerge stronger. It's not about avoiding difficulties but about facing them with courage, adaptability, and a resilient spirit. The New Year provides a canvas to cultivate this resilience, to fortify the mind, body, and spirit against life's inevitable ebbs and flows.

Building resilience is a multifaceted process that involves various practices and approaches. Here are five steps to cultivate resilience and how they can assist in navigating everyday challenges:

1. Developing a Growth Mindset

Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Acknowledge that setbacks are part of life and see them as chances to learn. When faced with the challenge of exercising on rainy days, a growth mindset helps reframe it as an opportunity to try indoor workouts, fostering adaptability.

2. Cultivating Self-Compassion

Treat yourself with kindness during difficult times. Recognise that everyone faces challenges, and it's okay to feel overwhelmed. When encountering stressful work deadlines, practicing self-compassion helps reduce self-criticism, allowing space to focus on tasks without added mental pressure.

3. Building a Supportive Network

Foster relationships with family, friends, or support groups. Strong social connections provide emotional support and perspective during tough times. When dealing with personal relationship setbacks, a supportive network offers a safe space for discussion, advice, and emotional comfort.

4. Practicing Mindfulness and Stress Management

Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into daily routines. Mindfulness helps manage stress, promotes emotional regulation, and enhances mental clarity. When facing everyday stressors, mindfulness techniques assist in maintaining a calm and composed mindset.

5. Setting Realistic Goals and Taking Decisive Action

Break larger goals into smaller, achievable steps. Prioritise tasks and take proactive steps toward your objectives. When struggling with motivation to exercise or facing work deadlines, setting achievable daily goals creates a sense of accomplishment and motivates consistent progress.

Building resilience equips individuals with the tools to navigate daily challenges:

   • Motivation for Exercise in Adverse Conditions: Resilience fosters adaptability, allowing you to find alternative workout routines or see rainy days as an opportunity for different physical activities, maintaining consistency in your exercise regimen.

   • Handling Stressful Work Deadlines: Resilience encourages a problem-solving attitude, helping break down complex tasks into manageable components. This approach aids in maintaining focus, managing time efficiently, and handling pressure effectively.

   • Navigating Personal Relationship Setbacks: Resilience promotes emotional balance and self-awareness. It enables individuals to process emotions constructively, communicate effectively, and seek support when facing relationship challenges.

Building resilience empowers individuals to navigate life's trials with adaptability, and a positive mindset, making every challenge an opportunity for growth and self-improvement.