The Key To Breaking Domestic Violence Chain

Broken Ballerina Inc conducted its third annual Candle Lighting ceremony last Sunday at Eimeo Surf Club grounds in memory of murdered domestic violence victims.

The Mackay-based advocacy group has been established for five years with domestic violence survivor and founder Jules Thompson and husband Peter at the helm.

Their strong message to the community is “domestic violence isn’t acceptable for both men and women.”

Jules and Peter established the Broken Ballerina Foundation back in 2018 and commenced raising funds and awareness for survivors of domestic, family and sexual violence.

This was Jules’ way of helping victims as she faced her challenges alone and she wanted to show that there is a way out of the cycle and domestic violence.

Jules and Peter were joined at the Candle Lighting Vigil by committee members Maree Sturdy, Hannah McNamara and Queensland Police Service Domestic and Family Violence co-ordinator for Mackay District Rowena Lacey along with Whitsunday MP Amanda Camm, the Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence.

Twenty year old Hannah – a survivor of sexual violence – joined Sgt Lacey and Senior Sgt of Northern Beaches Police Mitch Benson as guest speakers at the event.

The tireless Broken Ballerina committee help to support Jules in her mission of making a difference in the lives of victims of domestic violence and disadvantaged people in our society.

Senior Sgt Benson expressed his gratitude for the invaluable role played by Jules and her organisation in assisting those in need.

“In regional areas like Mackay the Queensland Police work hard to provide assistance to victims of domestic violence. However sometimes we find ourselves confronted with limited services – it has been during these moments that Broken Ballerina becomes a lifeline for aggrieved persons,” Snr Sgt Benson revealed.

“Through their community engagement initiatives they equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to identify signs of domestic violence and offer support to those who may be experiencing it. Their work in prevention aligns with our overall vision of creating a safer community for all – free from the cycle of domestic violence” he added.

Sgt Lacey told the gathering that May is Domestic & Family Violence Prevention Month and an opportunity to raise awareness, encourage members of the community to support respectful relationships and promote a culture of non-violence.

“It’s up to neighbours and friends to support and protect victims and parents and teachers to work against the patterns which foster violence” she said.

Jules urged all parents to teach their children what is acceptable behaviour.

“I want to show people that whether they struggle with drugs or alcohol, if they are being abused or dealing with another traumatic situation, there is hope and there is help” says Jules.

‍

‍

Broken Ballerina committee members Jules and Peter Thompson, Maree Sturdy, Hannah McNamara and Sgt Rowena Lacey with Whitsundays MP Amanda Camm at last Sunday’s Candle Lighting Vigil for murdered domestic violence victims at Eimeo Surf Club

Queensland Police Service Domestic & Family Violence Co-ordinator for Mackay District Sgt Rowena Lacey with Senior Sgt Northern Beaches Police Mitch Benson

Broken Ballerina committee member and sexual violence survivor Hannah McNamara with boyfriend Adam Sane and her parents Marilyn and Paul McNamara at the Candle Lighting Vigil

Broken Ballerina supporters pay their respects at the Candle Lighting Vigil at Eimeo Surf Club

‍

Step aboard the adventure of a lifetime and set sail through the stunning Whitsundays, where dreams transform into reality. Locals know that this time of the year is a truly magical time to explore, with sun-drenched days blended with a cool ocean breeze.

But, did you know that as a local, you can claim some amazing deals and discounts by joining a secret club?

Ok, it’s definitely not so secret, but it is turtely awesome and, best of all, it’s free to join.

Intrigued?

Let’s see where this club can grant you access to, at a fraction of the regular price.

Get Ready For An Adventure

Picture yourself basking in the sun-kissed glory of Whitehaven Beach, its pristine shores beckoning you to dive into a world of pure bliss. Feel the exhilaration as you glide through the crystal-clear waters, immersing yourself in the vibrant coral wonderland of the Great Barrier Reef.

Get ready to unleash your spirit of adventure and embark on a journey that will leave you breathless, for Cruise Whitsundays is here to show you that the Whitsundays are not just a destination, but an enchanting way of life.

Exclusively For Locals (But You Can Invite Your Mates)

The Whitsundays – a paradise boasting Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island, and the Great Barrier Reef. It's a place where locals are blessed to call home, and now, Cruise Whitsundays invites you to share in the magic with their extraordinary Turtle Club. Experience year-round discounts on their Day Cruise and Resort Connection services, ensuring you and your out-of-town guests have the time of your lives.

Living in one of Australia's most incredible regions means you often welcome visitors from afar. Cruise Whitsundays understands the joy and expense that comes with playing host, which is why they've extended the Turtle Club discount to include your visiting family and friends. And the best part, Cruise Whitsundays allows you to enjoy these discounts all year round! Yes, even during school holidays! Helping you make it more affordable to keep the kids entertained.

Fun fact – for every local Turtle Club membership, you can invite five friends to join you for the same discounted rates. That means a couple could invite 10 friends to join them for a Whitsundays adventure, with each booking enjoying the same generous discount.

Unlock the benefits of Turtle Club membership* and enjoy the following discounts throughout the year:

• Immerse yourself in adventure with a remarkable 30% DISCOUNT on Cruise Whitsundays day cruises* for Turtle Club members and up to five additional adults and children.

• Journey effortlessly on Resort Connections to Daydream Island, Hamilton Island Marina and Hamilton Island Airport, with a 20% DISCOUNT on Cruise Whitsundays transfers for Turtle Club members and 1 companion.

• Fill up before your adventure and Savour culinary delights with a 10% DISCOUNT at the delicious Cruise Whitsundays Cafe, exclusively for Turtle Club members.

• Pick up some sweet merchandise and enjoy a 10% DISCOUNT at the Cruise Whitsundays shop.

• Additional incredible Local Love discounts throughout the year.

Day Trip Destinations And Island Escapes Await

Great Barrier Reef

Venture beyond the shores of the Whitsundays to Reefworld, Cruise Whitsundays’ extraordinary multilevel reef facility located at the breathtaking Hardy Reef, a mesmerizing 39 nautical miles from the coastline. Dive into an underwater world of wonders as you snorkel, swim, and explore the awe-inspiring ecosystem of the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you choose to embark on a diving expedition or opt for a ride in a semi-submarine or the underwater observatory, your encounter with this iconic Australian gem will leave an indelible mark on your memory. Indulge in a delectable buffet lunch and relish more time for exploration before bidding farewell to this majestic marine wonderland.

Whitehaven Beach

Prepare to be captivated by the crown jewel of the Whitsunday Islands – the enchanting Whitehaven Beach. Embark on a cruise through these picturesque isles and spend blissful hours on the dazzling white sands of Whitehaven. Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters or simply bask in the serenity of this pristine paradise. It's an essential Queensland destination that promises to leave you in awe of nature's unparalleled beauty.

Camira Sailing Adventure

Feel the wind in your hair as you set sail on the azure waters of the Whitsundays aboard the magnificent Camira, an impressive 85ft ocean-going catamaran. Dive into the underwater world, snorkelling alongside vibrant marine life. Embark on a hike to the lookout point, treating your eyes to the breathtaking vistas of Hill Inlet. Leave your footprints on the iconic shores of Whitehaven Beach and indulge in a mouth-watering BBQ lunch onboard. The Camira Sailing Adventure promises an unforgettable day filled with thrilling experiences.

Hamilton Island

Take a day to immerse yourself in the wonders of Hamilton Island at your own pace – the perfect opportunity to embrace the island's natural beauty. Embark on a hike through the scenic hills, explore the boutiques and galleries along the vibrant Marina Village main street, or simply unwind by the pool or beach, indulging in the true essence of island living. From tantalising dining experiences to vibrant shopping opportunities, Hamilton Island offers a plethora of choices to satisfy every wanderer's desire. Allow yourself to be swept away by the island's charm and let the rhythms of this tropical paradise rejuvenate your soul.

So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey, where adventure meets tranquillity, where you can discover your personal sanctuary amidst the beauty of the Whitsundays.

Turtle Club benefits are reserved for residents of the Port Douglas, Cairns, Townsville, Whitsunday, Mackay, Sarina, and Gladstone regions.

‍

Major Tenders Awarded For PDA Development

Mackay's Waterfront Priority Development Area will flourish with the announcement of two successful tenders last week at an ordinary meeting of council.

SMC Marine Pty Ltd was awarded the tender for the $2.44 million construction of the Pioneer River Floating Pontoon at the Bluewater Quay.

Woollam Constructions was successful in the tender for the $3.75 million design and refurbishment of 8 River Street (formerly Maria’s Donkey and more recently the Don Daniels restaurant site).

Together these will be the third major project in the Mackay Waterfront PDA. The first was the Queens Park redevelopment, followed by River Wharves, which is the first of three stages in the Riverside Revitalisation project.

Mackay Deputy Mayor Karen May said the revamp of 8 River Street would add to the appeal already added by the announcement of Red Dog Brewery at the old Ashtart site.

“Woollam Constructions will undertake a full structural refreshment of the building with the aim of refurbishing it as a food and beverage facility,” Cr May said.

“The building remediation will aim to enable the site to accommodate a variety of hospitality uses, such as café, restaurant, bar and function capabilities.”

The Pioneer River Floating Pontoon will be constructed by SMC Marine at the end of Brisbane Street, near the Bluewater Quay.

Cr May said the pontoon would enable a more centralised access to the river for commercial and non-motorised watercraft to load and unload for a day of recreation.

“By enabling more people to access our beautiful blue water river we are continuing to grow the liveability of our region,” Cr May said.

“This pontoon will promote access for river cruises, barbecue boats, and jet skis as well as recreational vessels such as kayaks and tinnies,” she said.

“The Mackay Waterfront project had been developed by council to improve the tourism aesthetic, liveability and economic activity in Mackay’s CBD and waterfront areas.

“Council’s Mackay City and Waterfront team are working with the community and local businesses to roll out a series of placemaking and activation activities across the city centre and waterfront areas,” she said.

‍

‍

This artist’s render of the Riverside Revitalisation project shows the floating pontoon, pictured top right near the Bluewater Quay, and 8 River Street in the centre

‍

The 2023 sugarcane crush is officially underway in the north of the state, with harvesters roaring into life across the Atherton Tablelands last week; as growers, harvesting crews and mill workers start the race to get Queensland’s 30 million tonnes of cane cut and crushed by the end of November.

Mackay’s mills are anticipated to fire up within the next fortnight.

"The weather is pretty spectacular at the minute. We have blue skies and cool temperatures, so perfect weather for harvesting," CANEGROWERS Tableland Chairman Claude Santucci said.

"The early cut cane from last year is looking really nice…if we can keep this weather and the mill has a good run, I'm hopeful we can have a pretty good 2023 season."

Tully Mill was the next cab off the rank when it fired up last week, with the remainder of Queensland’s 19 sugar mills coming online over the coming weeks.

Latest estimates put the crop at 30.55 million tonnes of cane, producing between 4 and 4.5 million tonnes of sugar, the majority of which will be exported to overseas markets in Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia.

With the world sugar price hitting record highs and forecasters predicting a drier winter this year, growers are optimistic that 2023 could be a bumper year for the industry, CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.

“Last year we were pretty optimistic going into the crush, with prices on the up and a great crop in the paddock, but unfortunately things didn’t pan out the way we wanted,” Mr Menkens said.

“Poor weather, workforce shortages, and poor mill performance in some areas combined to cause major disruptions that ultimately led to the crush running through Christmas and well into the new year in some districts, and around one million tonnes of cane left unharvested.”

Mr Menkens said there was a very positive feeling around the industry at the minute, with the industry on the verge of a transition to a range of new and growing opportunities in the bioeconomy that rely upon sugarcane for feedstock.

“The export of raw sugar will always be the foundation of our industry, but we know there are many other complimentary opportunities that are emerging for the industry and we hope that this coming season, combined with a strong price, will provide the basis for new and increased investment into these exciting projects.”

‍

‍

Harvesters are on the move and mills are a hive of activity as the sugar crush season readies itself throughout the Mackay region. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

‍

By Amanda Wright

‍

The Queensland Government has teamed up with Qantas to unlock the state’s potential to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), a critical component in airlines reaching net zero emissions by 2050.

Under a memorandum of understanding signed last week, the Queensland Government and Qantas will work together to further grow a local SAF industry.

This will include exploring how to fully leverage sugarcane and agricultural by-products for biofuels production and the potential for developing new feedstock sources and processes.

More broadly, the parties will focus on developing a Queensland-based SAF supply chain.

SAF is yet to be produced in Australia at commercial scale.

Qantas currently uses green aviation fuel sourced overseas and is targeting 10 per cent SAF in its fuel mix by 2030, and about 60 per cent by 2050.

In March this year, the State Government, Qantas and Airbus announced support for Jet Zero Australia to commence a feasibility study for a new biorefinery in Queensland, which could produce up to 100 million litres of SAF a year.

Deputy Premier Steven Miles said that growing Queensland’s SAF industry is one of those opportunities that will fuel Queensland’s economic future and contribute to decarbonisation targets.

“With our rich supply of feedstock and skilled workforce, Qantas, and the world, has recognised Queensland as an ideal location to establish an Australasian SAF supply chain,” he said.

CANEGROWERS Mackay CEO Kerry Latter said the Deputy Premier’s announcement is positive for the sugar industry.

“This is a great opportunity to have our own sustainable aviation fuel industry and develop fuel security in Australia by manufacturing here in Queensland with a sustainable, locally-grown product,” Mr Latter said.

“It has great potential to develop into an export product.”

Mr Latter added that the government has continued to talk up the Mackay-Whitsunday region as a primary focus for development as a primary bio-futures manufacturing hub, and its sugar industry as a feedstock.

“The important factor is that all in the value chain, from paddock to port are rewarded: this will give growers the incentive to invest and increase their production to meet the demand,” he said.

“Mackay holds a strong position in the biofutures space, having been home for the QUT Bio-commodities Pilot Plant at Racecourse mill, which has been a proving-ground for a range of processes and technologies.

“Mackay is well known for its large cane industry, excellent engineering and manufacturing sector, and port capabilities. We are central to sugar producing regions up and down the coast and so, although a greenfields location for fuel production, certainly offer logistical advantages transporting feedstock.

Mr Latter said the emerging SAF manufacturing sector, as with the emerging plant-based protein food manufacturing sector, both look to sugarcane products as a feedstock.

“There will be opportunities and high demand for the produce of all sugar-producing regions if the biofutures sectors are enabled to become as big as they could be.”

An Australian SAF industry could be worth $3 billion annually by 2030 and could create up to 15,600 jobs – mostly in regional areas – nationwide by 2050.

‍

CANEGROWERS Mackay CEO Kerry Latter

‍

Mackay Regional Council's 2023 Apprentice And Trainee Intake Program

Embark on a transformative professional journey with Mackay Regional Council's 2023 Apprentice and Trainee intake program. Gain invaluable on-the-job training, propelling your career towards a prosperous future.

Mackay Regional Council is offering an additional nine new positions as part of its 2023 Apprentice and Trainee intake.

Workplace diversity and flexibility are a major focus of the Apprentice and Trainee intake program.

Mayor Greg Williamson said, "The Apprentice and Trainee program offered by Mackay Regional Council provides a valuable opportunity for successful applicants to gain on-the-job training."

"Council is a fantastic place to work, and we encourage people from all walks of life to consider taking on a role in our workforce," Mayor Williamson added.

"This time round, roles will cover everything from event management to boilermaking and legal services – there is certainly something to pique everyone’s interest," he said.

"The apprentice and traineeships often lead to full-time work at Mackay Regional Council, and we are very proud to say we have many of our past apprentices and trainees still working here even 10 years later."

The mid-year intake is being coordinated by Hays Recruitment, with opportunities in a variety of industries at Mackay Regional Council, including:

● Business trainee

● Apprentice boilermaker

● Legal Services trainee

● Community Services trainee

● Event Management trainee

● Civil Construction trainee x 2

● Apprentice chef

● Apprentice plumber

Mackay Regional Council encourages applications from Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people, anyone re-entering the workforce, those from a non-English speaking background, individuals with a disability, impairment, or long-term condition, school leavers, or adult workers wishing to change careers or gain new skills.

Applications for the mid-year 2023 Apprentice and Trainee intake at Mackay Regional Council are open now, and more information can be found at mackay.qld.gov.au/traineeintake or at hays.com.au.

Applications close on June 9.

‍

‍

2022 Live Production Services trainee Eddie Tiller is now working full-time in council’s Functions and Events team at the MECC

‍

In Creating Safe Work Environments

With the theme of ‘Shifting the Focus: Step back and look at things differently’, Resource Industry Network’s 2023 Safety Conference delivered practical tools and information pertinent to workplace safety while sharing expertise and skills on how delegates can put their new knowledge into action in their own workplaces.

The annual conference remains a powerful tool in helping businesses create and maintain safe work environments and this year’s event was no different.

Taking place on Friday, May 26 at the MECC, the event delivered an impressive line-up of industry leading experts ensuring conference-goers left up to speed with the latest knowledge in their respective safety topics.

Guest presenters for the plenary sessions included safety expert, leading scientist and best-selling author Professor Sidney Dekker, safety leader Petrina Hilton, Sentis CEO Anthony Gibbs and Cameron Stevens from Pocketknife Group, who presented on the topic ‘Debunking what it means to use technology in WH&S’.

The 2023 Safety Conference also included a selection of breakout sessions on topics including Identifying and Managing Psychosocial Hazards in the Workplace; Using Recognition to Drive Improved Safety Performance; the Mackay Cutters Culture and how they look at things differently; the Management of Fatigue within a Contemporary Resources Setting; the Anger Rage Regret Program and the Qld Government’s Regulator update on managing risks for coal mine workers.

Resource Industry Network general manager Dean Kirkwood said it was no secret that workplace safety had been cast under a huge spotlight this past couple of years.

“Workplace accidents take an enormous toll on families, work colleagues and the extended community,” Mr Kirkwood said.

“Given the rate of workplace accidents experienced in our industry, it is even more critical that business and industry invest their time to attend.

“We consistently have great feedback from the day, and it is well supported by the mining houses, industry contractors and local suppliers, all striving for safer workplace outcomes.

“Safety is about leadership.

“If businesses want to achieve improvements in health and safety, effective engagement with their workforces is vital.”

‍

‍

Resource Industry Network delivered the 2023 Safety Conference at the MECC last month

Professor Sidney Dekker

Petrina Hilton

Anthony Gibbs and Cameron Stevens. Photos supplied

‍

Within The Wider Automotive Industry And What That Can Achieve

How many times have you heard employers say that “Kids today just don’t want to work” or “It’s impossible to find the right people”?

With Covid in the past, and as the new reality of business sets in, it is time to start asking different questions, of ourselves, our peers and our industry.

What can we do better? How do we learn from leaders within our industry?  Why do we need to judge industries that market to employees better?

The automotive industry for the most part has, undervalued the importance of growing stronger together.  There are organisations that are leading the way in change and direction.

Auto Ready Training and the Careers Expo run by the MTAQ and held locally at McCarthy Panel Works was attended by over 120 people.

Students, parents, teachers, trainers, suppliers, business owners and both local and state government representatives.

It is a true reflection of what ingenuity and positive push can achieve.

It is time to grow the Automotive industry together, reach out and get involved.

Over the course of the Easter holidays, 30 students had the opportunity to learn and understand about the workings around safety and mechanics of vehicles through hands-on experience with two qualified MTAQ trainers.

Daniel Yarnold, a student at Mackay Christian College said, “We’ve learned about safety, about mechanical components of a car – the brakes, electrical systems and so – we are pulling apart engines at the moment, and we are learning about crucial things we might need to know.

“I really enjoyed this week,” he added.

“I got to see the workplace, work with professionals from the industry and I am more interested in the industry now because I can see how it all works and get an appreciation of it.”

‍

Students from CQUniversity in Mackay recently tested their mettle in a workshop that challenged their metal fabrication skills. The task at hand? Crafting pot belly stoves from flat sheets of steel.

Courtney Pollard, a 25-year-old apprentice boilermaker at Mackay Sugar, expressed her delight in acquiring new skills and the gratification of seeing tangible results.

"To have something to bring home and be proud of is a huge highlight of being a boilermaker.

“I like the different variety of work we get to do in our training. It’s very refreshing learning new skills every day,” she said.

Meanwhile, Simon Nell, another student, brought some culinary flair to the workshop by treating his peers to sausages and a rack of ribs, cooked in his very own pot belly stove.

According to their instructor, Chris Weeks, the students approached the project with careful planning. In the initial week, they honed their skills in geometric development, learning how to draft various templates. In the following week, they put their designs into action, transferring the templates onto 5mm sheet plates and expertly shaping the steel through pressing and rolling techniques. The final stage involved assembling the parts and allowing room for creativity in designing doors, hinges, smokers, and lids for the stoves. Some students demonstrated exceptional inventiveness in their designs.

Weeks expressed his satisfaction in witnessing the students' progress and growth over the years.

“Once they see the finished product they are super proud and the best part about my job is seeing them progress over the years and ultimately transform into the young tradespeople of the future.”

The workshop not only fostered technical skills but also instilled a sense of pride as the students beheld their completed pot belly stoves, tangible symbols of their craftsmanship. With their dedication and creative spirit, these students exemplify the promising future of skilled trades.

‍

Fourteen Metal Fabrication students built pot belly stoves as part of the final week of their training at CQU Mackay

Devlin Robinson

Joshua Urmson

‍

It’s another JAM-PACKED weekend around Mackay and the Whitsundays!

There’s plenty to keep the family entertained around the district over the next few days.

The Mackay Hospital Foundation’s Family Fun Day is happening this Sunday from 10-2pm at BB Print Stadium, the Star team and I will be there so come and say hi!

I’ll also be at the BMA Mackay Marina Run on Sunday from 6.30am-9.30am gasbagging at the finish line. Remember there’s still time to register if you haven’t convinced yourself just yet to take part – it’s for a great cause with funds raised supporting the Leukaemia Foundation.

To get you ready for whichever run you’re taking part in – whether it’s the 3km kids dash, 5km fun run or one of the more advanced runs – I have shared my top 3 songs from my personal playlist that motivate me when I get out to pound the pavement.

1. Drake – Sticky: this one sets a good pace for me and honestly, I feel cool when I’m listening to it which means I can focus less on how much my legs are hurting and more on putting one in front of the other!

2. Doja Cat – Woman: If you’re looking to get your heart rate pumping this one has a rate of 108 BPM and if you want to go faster, move yourself to the track double time for a 216 BPM run.

3. Cardi B – Up: You’re probably starting to sense a theme here; my playlist is multiuse. You can use it to get ready for a night on the town or to motivate your workout. Cardi B’s Up has a very distinct rhythm and upbeat tempo that is a great song to put on when you feel yourself slowing down and struggling through the last legs of your run.

I hope that my list can assist you in crossing the finish line a little faster and with a bit more of a spring in your step!

Kaley

‍

Are you ready to tackle tax time?

From that morning iced coffee to grabbing the tools you need, it's important to know which of these expenses are claimable. Lucky for you, Porters Mitre 10 has your back with the ultimate guide to help you determine which expenses are eligible for claiming.

Let's start with protective clothing. As a tradie, personal protective equipment (PPE) is your trusty sidekick, and the best part is, it's tax deductible! Whether it's steel-cap boots, safety glasses, gloves, hard hats, and any other essential safety gear that shields you from work-related risks, you can claim them as deductible expenses. Safety first, folks!

Now, let's talk about tools and equipment.

Good news! You can deduct the expenses for the tools and equipment you need to get the job done.

If their value exceeds $300, you can claim a deduction for their depreciation over time. For costs under $300, you get an immediate deduction. That means your ladders, tape measures, hand tools, power tools, and all their useful accessories are eligible for tax deductions. Isn't that handy?

And for all the tradespeople who brave the great outdoors, there's a ray of sunshine for you too! You can claim a portion of the sun safety expenses directly related to your work. Sunscreen, sunhats, sunglasses – all the essentials that protect you from those harsh rays – can be included in your deductions. Stay safe under the sun!

By understanding and making the most of these deductible expenses, you can minimise your tax liability and potentially increase your tax refunds. Keep those records accurate, and don't hesitate to consult with a tax professional to ensure you're maximising your benefits.

Ready to stock up on all your tradie essentials? Head over to Porters Mitre 10 and explore our full range in-store. Your future tax refund will thank you!

‍

May Help Construction Industry Weather A Perfect Storm

Rising material prices, labour shortages, interest rate hikes and rainy weather have created a perfect storm for the construction industry in the past 12 months, sending many builders to the wall.

Of all these factors, weather is the one that most people would cite as being beyond human control. However, a new study from Australia and the UK  suggests this may not be the case.

Engineers from Aston University, Birmingham, and the University of South Australia (UniSA) have calculated the potential cost savings for builders using modular production techniques where much of the construction happens offsite in controlled conditions.

Buildings are produced in modules in a factory, using the same materials and building codes, but completed in about half the time, with less waste and no building delays due to poor weather.

The researchers produced a cost model that estimated the impact of weather by season on each building activity, including portions of the build (such as bathroom pods) up to the entire structure.

The savings come in at approximately AUD$40,000 (£21,000) on a build worth $6.4 million (£3.4m). This 0.6 per cent saving may initially seem minor but takes on significant meaning in the current climate where average construction profit margins are just 4.2 per cent.

The findings are published in the International Journal of Sustainable Building Technology and Urban Development.

Co-author of the paper Dr Ki Pyung Kim, a senior lecturer in STEM at UniSA, says weather is often identified as one of the top causes for delays and subsequent cost increases in the building industry, affecting 45 per cent  of projects worldwide.

“By removing many of the onsite activities and replacing them with modules built offsite, builders can minimise construction delays caused by weather, thereby keeping the costs from blowing out,” Dr Kim says.

Incessant rain in Australia’s eastern states throughout 2022 led to construction costs ballooning, according to the Property Council of Australia, exposing builders to unbudgeted increases and heavy losses.

However, rainfall is the not the only key weather pressure for the construction industry.

“There are many pressures on the construction industry right now, including lack of skilled labour, reductions in profit margins, lack of sustainable materials and low productivity. The financial implications of weather are rarely considered except in extreme cases as the client normally bears the cost,” Dr Kim says.

While modular construction techniques have several benefits – including faster builds and a more controlled working environment which protects high-quality materials from the weather – there are some drawbacks: a limited supply chain and lack of flexibility in both design and supply. The upfront costs of modular components are also expensive, but this needs to be weighed up against losses incurred by weather holdups.

“The global housing sector is dominated by traditional construction methods, but the industry is approaching a crisis point – particularly in relation to a skills shortage – that may force a change to modular and other offsite techniques,” Dr Kim says.

“The Federal Government has set a target of delivering one million affordable homes over five years from 2024. To ensure this target is met, Infrastructure Australia has mandated modular construction for 80 per cent of social housing projects by 2030.”

‍

Laffos Bar and Pizzeria is helping to ignite a compassionate movement that combines gastronomic delight with social impact. Throughout the month of June, Laffos will pledge a generous $5 from every large pizza sold to the Grapevine Group, bolstering their unwavering commitment to local suicide training and awareness initiatives.

The Pizza for a Purpose campaign will launch with a tantalizing pop-up restaurant extravaganza on Saturday, June 3, aiming to galvanize the community and raise awareness for the cause.

The funds raised by this noteworthy initiative will play an instrumental role in sustaining Grapevine's life-saving courses, including the invaluable free 3-hour safeTALK training. With these resources at their disposal, Grapevine can continue equipping individuals with the knowledge and confidence to identify warning signs of suicide and provide essential assistance to those in need.

Grapevine Group President, Debbie Knight, passionately emphasises the significance of this training for the community: "Training like this is vital for the community. It's all about being aware of the warning signs of suicide and feeling confident to assist someone who is struggling,” Ms Knight said.

The free group safeTALK sessions or 1-hour Suicide Mythbusters toolbox talks are also available and can be delivered at workplaces, sports or community organisations.

“Without our supporters we would never have been able to reach our milestone of having 6,500 locals go through the training program.

“Getting this many people in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions trained is a testament to how much the community cares about each other.” Ms Knight said.

Members of the public are encouraged to go down to Laffos on June 3 for a raft of pizza-eating competitions with all food supplied by Laffos.

From 9.30am selected children between the ages of 7 to 11 years will enter a pizza eating competition with the chance to win a $100 Caneland gift voucher prize. This will be followed at 10am by a supporter’s pizza eating competition with Pizza for a Purpose's valued sponsors. Then at 10.30am selected children from 12 to 16 years of age will have their own pizza eating competition and will also be in the running to win a $100 Caneland gift voucher prize. Between 11am and noon, 12 lucky Star 101.9 winners will have Laffo himself serve them lunch of pizzas and platters.

For more information on this competition, visit Star FM’s Facebook or www.star1019.com.au.

‍

‍

Mark (Laffo) Laffin

‍

Mackay recently celebrated National Volunteer Week (NVW), which is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering. I recently had the pleasure of celebrating with some of our volunteers during NVW and I have to say, what a sense of joy and kindredship was enjoyed by all (myself included). It was lovely to sit in the company of these wonderful individuals all contributing to their community in such a positive manner, and actually having fun! The joy of getting my hands in the dirt and planting daisies at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens was immeasurable and took the cares of the world away (at least in that moment).

It is widely known that being a volunteer has lots of benefits to the overall wellbeing of an individual. Volunteering can provide a healthy boost to your self-confidence, self-esteem, and life satisfaction and it can alleviate symptoms of depression. Doing good for others and the community, provides a natural sense of accomplishment. You can find friends, connect with your community, and learn new skills.

Our council recognises and values our many volunteers for their contribution, unique talents, skills, and knowledge to enhance the services we provide to the community. We have opportunities for you to join as a volunteer in any area of interest to you, the individual, whether that be within our libraries, museums, gardens, arts, or entertainment centre. All you need is a genuine interest, time, and a passion for your community.

Of course, there are many worthwhile organisations in our local community who would more than welcome the services of caring volunteers.

I truly believe our unpaid volunteers are often the backbone and glue that holds a community together. Volunteering allows you to connect to your community and make it a better place. Even helping out with the smallest tasks can make a real difference to the lives of people, animals, and organisations in need.

So, why not volunteer your time to a worthy charity, organisation, or service right here in our amazing community.  The benefits could just give you a whole new outlook on life, energy, and enthusiasm you didn’t know you had. You will get back far more than you give.

‍

Cr Pauline Townsend

Mackay Regional Council

‍

Women have made great strides in the workplace in recent decades, but they still face a number of challenges. Here are the top 5 challenges women can face. By understanding these challenges, employers can better support their employees to succeed.

1. Unequal pay. Women in Australia still earn less than men for doing the same work. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, women earn 81 cents for every dollar that men earn. This gap is even bigger for our indigenous women. For example, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women earn 63 cents and women from culturally diverse backgrounds earn 74 cents for every dollar that white men earn.

2. Lack of advancement opportunities. Women are underrepresented in leadership positions in Australia. According to a study by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, women hold only 25 per cent of senior management positions and only 15 per cent of CEO positions in ASX 200 companies. This lack of advancement opportunities is due to a number of factors, including unconscious bias, lack of sponsorship, and work-family conflict.

3. Sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is still a problem in the Australian workplace. According to a study by the Australian Human Rights Commission, 1 in 5 women have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace. Sexual harassment can have a devastating impact on women's careers, mental health, and physical health.

4. Work-life conflict. Women are more likely than men to be responsible for caregiving duties, such as taking care of children and elderly parents. This can lead to work-life conflict, which can make it difficult for women to balance their work and personal lives.

5. Unconscious bias. Unconscious bias is a type of prejudice that people hold without realising it. This bias can lead to women being treated differently in the workplace, such as being passed over for promotions or being given less challenging assignments.

These are just a few of the challenges that women face. It is important to remember that these challenges are not insurmountable. There are a number of things that can be done to address these challenges, such as:

• Enacting pay equity laws. Pay equity laws would help to close the gender pay gap.

• Creating more opportunities for women's advancement. Companies can create more opportunities by providing mentorship and sponsorship programs, and by developing flexible work arrangements.

• Providing training on sexual harassment prevention. Companies can provide training to help employees understand what constitutes sexual harassment and how to report it.

• Supporting work-life balance initiatives. Companies can support work-life balance initiatives by providing flexible work arrangements, such as online meetings, work-from-home days, and by offering on-site childcare.

• Raising awareness of unconscious bias. Companies can raise awareness by conducting training programs and by creating a culture of inclusion.

By addressing these challenges, we can create a more equitable and inclusive workplace for all.

‍