Mackay is mourning the loss of a young life after tragedy struck Glenella on the evening of 24th March. Eighteen-year-old Bucasia woman Mia Ryan passed away following a serious traffic crash at the intersection of Glenella Richmond Road and Holts Road, leaving family, friends, and her local dance community heartbroken.

Mia, the driver of a Nissan Micra, was initially transported to Mackay Base Hospital in critical condition but sadly passed away the following day. The driver of the other vehicle, a 53-year-old Andergrove woman in a Nissan Navara, was treated for minor injuries. Police and the Forensic Crash Unit are investigating the circumstances and have urged anyone who witnessed the crash or has footage to come forward.

Mia was a cherished member of the Centre Stage Dance Company. The studio shared heartfelt memories of her, saying, “Mia will always be a much-loved member of our Centre Stage family. She was always happy and always ready for fun but was also so caring and admired by so many of the dancers that she worked with as an assistant teacher on Tuesdays and Thursdays.”

Having graduated from Centre Stage in 2025 after 15 years of dancing, Mia had been keen to return to the studio on some Thursdays this year.

“Mia will be missed more than words can express by her Senior team, the dancers she assisted and by her teachers. Mia loved the studio and we loved her,” the dance school commented.

Mackay Life extends our deepest condolences to all affected by the loss of this beautiful young soul.

Photo source: Centre Stage Dance Company

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Donations raised at Life Publishing Group’s sold-out Enchanted Garden fundraiser in October 2025 are currently being distributed, with a total of $56,000 shared among seven charities doing vital work across North Queensland.

This week, a cheque for $8,000 was presented to Jacquie Camilleri, founding director at the Trudy Crowley Foundation.

The Trudy Crowley Foundation is a Mackay-based charity providing vital support to individuals and families affected by cancer, with a strong focus on ovarian cancer awareness.

Established in 2018 in memory of local woman Trudy Crowley, the organisation is dedicated to ensuring no one faces cancer alone. Through its community centre, the foundation offers free services including access to specialist cancer nurses, counselling, support groups, and practical resources such as a wig library.

By delivering holistic care and raising awareness, the foundation continues to play a significant role in supporting the health and wellbeing of the Mackay and Whitsundays community.

Jacquie explained that the foundation is currently planning a new facility, and that this donation would go toward that effort.

“We are trying to save desperately for our palliative care unit, and we have quite a lot of money in the bank,” she explained.

“We're trying to buy some land, so then we can go to the governments, federal and state, and try and get grants from them to actually help build the building. We have now just got our project board in place.”

The palliative care unit will be built with care, run on the foundation’s principal that no patient suffering with cancer, or person in their life, should feel alone.

“Trudy's dream has now become our vision, and our vision is going to become a reality,” Jacquie said.  

“It'll be an eight bedroom facility with one room designated for children.

“That's a hard thing to talk about, but it's a reality of life; we would love to get what they used to call a cold cot. They're now called cuddle cots, for the little ones that pass, so the parents can spend time with them... We're going to have a chapel, and we'd like to build a doctor's house so we can actually have the doctor on site.”

These big plans are on track to become a reality; thanks in part to those who donated to support this impactful organisation, on track to change end-of-life care in our region.

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After heavy analysis, Net World Sports has named Mackay’s Marina Run the third best half-marathon in Australia for elite runners.

The outfit analysed 75 of the country’s most prominent races based on how technical, environmental, and logistical features align with different runner experience levels, with Mackay Marina Run cinching bronze behind second place winner, Tasmania’s Point to Pinnacle and number one The McGrath Launceston Running Festival, also in Tasmania.

“It successfully delivers a balance of performance and atmosphere, combining competitive pacing opportunities with strong crowd energy that helps runners push through the later stages of the race.” Net World Sports reports.

“The event scores below average for course difficulty (17.8/100). The total elevation gain is 155 metres; there are 15 sharp turns and 15 straight sections that exceed 400 metres.

“Race day conditions are also moderate. There are mild average temperatures (19.6°C) and good air quality (AQI 25), meaning runners can push their pace without overheating- even though humidity sits high at 73%.

“Participant feedback is very positive, driven by a sentiment polarity of 0.9, a scenery score of 10/10, a crowd support score of 9/10, and an expert suitability rating of 8/10. Together, these contribute to a Sentiment and Review Score of 92.2/100.”

Contributed with thanks to Net World Sports

1- Popular Mackay half-marathon ranked 3^rd in Australia. Photo supplied.

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Mackay local author Khloe Ann explores the balance of darkness and light beyond the human eye, weaving fantasy with spirituality, culture, and authentic Aussie roots in her debut novel, Proskynima.

The fiction tale intertwines the mystery of Greek mythology with a foundation of Christian values, as characters navigate physical life while confronting deeper spiritual elements of light and darkness. At the centre of the story is Athena, a young woman faced with choices that test both faith and identity.

Khloe Ann is a quiet achiever, humble in her ways yet wonderfully creative, and that sincerity carries through the pages of her debut novel.

Remarkably, the journey into writing only began recently.

“I only started writing last year,” she said.

What followed surprised even her.

“Before I knew it, there was 70,000 words on a manuscript, and I was like, wow, where’d that come from?”

Khloe explained that the characters seemed to develop naturally as the story unfolded. Drawing inspiration from her faith, she said the story reflects the balance between good and evil that many people experience in their own lives.

“There was no inspiration really other than just my own Christian walk,” she said.

To build the world within the novel, Khloe undertook extensive research, particularly into the rich history of Greek mythology.

“I did a lot of research and I fell in love with the town and the city I wrote about,” she said.

After just one year of stepping into the writing world, Khloe has already attracted interest within the industry, with publishers expressing enthusiasm about her work and future manuscripts.

A former healthcare worker at Mackay Hospital, she now balances writing with family and community life, embracing the unexpected path storytelling has opened. An active member of Australian writing groups, including the Queensland Women’s Writing and Queensland Writing Centre, her short stories and charitable entries, such as The Last Plastic Fork, have gained international attention.

Despite the growing momentum, Khloe remains humble and grounded.

“I’m so thankful for the support of the readers, and my family and friends.”

She hopes the story will resonate with a wide range of readers, particularly those interested in faith-based themes blended with imaginative storytelling.

And for readers who enjoy the first edition, she is already working on a sequel.

“I’m hoping to have a manuscript by the end of the year,” she said. “It will become a series… so stay tuned!”

Her advice to other aspiring writers is simply to, “Just start writing – put the words on page first – then edit.”

“I’m not aiming to be big. I’m not aiming to be great. I just want to write, and I want to connect with people – that’s why I started this journey.”

She hopes to connect with audiences at her meet-and-greet / book signing event in Airlie Beach on April 11, from 10am to 2pm, at the Beach Book Boutique. Fans and new readers alike are invited to meet Khloe, ask questions, and pick up a signed copy of Proskynima.

For more information or to purchase a copy, visit www.khloeann.com.au or follow @writtenbykhloeann. The Last Plastic Fork is also available at www.habitatpress.com.

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Council has launched Amplify Mackay, a new initiative designed to strengthen the impact of events across the region.

The initiative aims to connect events, businesses and the wider community in creative and collaborative ways.

Economic Development and Growth Strategic Advisory Committee (EDGSAC) Co-chair Cr Nathenea MacRae said events played a vital role in driving economic activity and creating vibrancy across Mackay.

“When events come to Mackay, they don’t just fill a calendar – they fill our accommodation, our cafes, our restaurants and our local businesses,” Cr MacRae said.

“They create energy, connection and opportunity right across our community,” she said.

“Amplify Mackay is about growing and marketing those flow-on opportunities.

“Businesses can jump on Mackay Events, click the Amplify Mackay link and then submit an offer.

“Offers can be things like themed menus, eyecatching displays, limitedtime specials or exclusive experiences that tie in with one of the up-coming event periods.

“Your activation will then be listed on the Amplify Mackay page on the Mackay Events website, boosting your visibility and further adding to the buzz around Mackay’s big drawcard events.”

Cr MacRae said the themed event periods created opportunities for local businesses to get involved in new and creative ways while tapping into the larger promotion around drawcard events coming to the region.

“Amplify Mackay is about more than just events,” she said.

“It’s about collaboration. It’s about creating a vibrant, connected community where businesses, organisers and residents all have the opportunity to be involved and benefit.

“During the May event period, for example, Mackay will come alive with major sporting and music events, attracting more than 12,500 people to the region, including 6500 visitors from outside the area.

“Now’s the time for businesses to start brainstorming how they can capitalise on huge drawcard events like Legends on the Lawn and the NQ Games.”

EDGSAC Co-chair Cr Belinda Hassan said council had already seen strong success through the Mackay Events Calendar (Mackayevents.com.au), which had become a central platform for locals and visitors to discover what was happening across the region.

“Building on that success, we’ve now taken the next step with the launch of two new initiatives designed to further support our events sector and local economy,” Cr Hassan said.

“The first is Amplify Mackay, and the second is the Event Organiser Marketing Toolkit, a practical resource developed to help event organisers and businesses better promote their events and reach wider audiences," she said.

“The toolkit provides practical resources, branding assets, marketing guidance and readytouse materials to help grow and promote successful events.”

Now is the time for local businesses and the community to explore how they could best use the resources and offerings available on the Mackay Events website to capitalise on Mackay’s booming event economy.

For more information about Amplify Mackay, the Event Organiser Marketing Toolkit or upcoming events and initiatives, visit mackayevents.com.au

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49 year-old Matthew Brand was sadly located deceased on Wednesday 25th March following a three-day search across Finch Hatton and Pioneer Valley bushland.

Matthew was reported missing from Finch Hatton on Saturday 21 March, and appeals were made to the community for any information.

The search was begun soon after disappearance, with the Police and family reporting concerns for Matthew’s welfare, stating “his disappearance is out of character and [he] suffers from a medical condition which may cause confusion.”

Searches were being conducted across rough terrain in the Pioneer Valley when Matthew’s body was discovered by an SES volunteer, before midday on the Saturday.

An ex-army veteran, Matthew served in Afghanistan and Timor. His family have described him as “Loyal and funny… A man full of life, ready to tackle any adventure.”

Information surrounding the cause of death has not been revealed.

Following the search, family member Shona Brand, shared: “Thank you to all of those involved in his search. We appreciate everything you have done in giving us answers even though they weren’t the ones we were had hoped for. Your work is truly amazing and Matthew would be grateful.”

The community will be sending condolences to Matthew’s loved ones.

1 – Army Veteran Matthew Brand was sadly found deceased following a three-day search.

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Sunshine, coffee and community spirit were in abundance at the recent Cuppa with Your Neighbour Northern Beaches event.

Locals gathered to enjoy fresh brews while children and families explored the nature play area and made the most of the multipurpose court at the Northern Beaches Community Hub Stage 1A. Visitors also took the opportunity to stop by the mobile library van, thanks to Mackay Regional Council Libraries.

Colourful community bunting, kindly provided by Northern Beaches Our Community, added to the welcoming atmosphere.

Photo source: Community Programs Team

More than 150 community leaders gathered in Mackay last Tuesday night for the Daly Bay Respect Launch, standing together against domestic and family violence.

The event featured speakers Deputy Mayor Karen May, Vanessa Fowler OAM, sister of Allison Baden-Clay, and Bob Atkinson AO, APM, former Commissioner of Police.

The Rotary Club of Mackay said the evening was a powerful moment for the community.

“At the Daly Bay Respect Launch, more than 150 community leaders came together to say NO to Domestic and Family Violence — and YES to respect,” the Rotary Club said.

“Together, we are building a community where respect is the standard — not the exception.”

Councillor Alison Jones said the Daly Bay Respect Launch drew a strong crowd and great speakers, reminding the community of the importance of speaking up.

“Say no to domestic and family violence. Together we save lives,” Cr Jones said.

She also encouraged people to start with everyday actions, including calling out sexist jokes and recognising that disrespect and intimidation are not acceptable.

“Violence and control will not be tolerated in our homes, schools and community.

“Awareness is not enough, action is needed. 1 out of 4 women have endured DV since the age of 15,” she said.

Community members are encouraged to wear purple on Fridays in May and stand together at the Respect in Every Step March on Friday 29 May.

Photo sources: Councillor Alison Jones, myPolice Mackay Whitsunday, Cr. Nathenea MacRae and Rotary Club of Mackay

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University of the Third Age Mackay continues to thrive as a community organisation offering a wide range of interests and activities for retirees across the region. Part of a worldwide network, the Mackay branch currently has more than 670 members.

The group recently held its annual Open Day in February, attracting more than 200 visitors keen to learn about the organisation and the activities available. Various interest groups set up display tables, giving visitors the opportunity to speak with members and sign up to join.

The Mackay branch offers a broad range of creative, active and cultural groups, providing opportunities for retirees to stay engaged, learn new skills and connect with others in the community.

Greg Williamson attended the event to show his support, along with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton.

The lucky door prize was won by member Janet Humphreys.

Contributed with thanks to Liz Springall

1) Mayor with U3A President Muriel Kilcullen

2) Movie Buffs Convenor Glen George chats to visitor

3) Committee members Iris Harvey and Judy Morris chat to visitor

4) Paul and Rosemary Sumner displaying work from the Art Group

5) Janet Humphreys winner of the lucky door prize. Photos supplied

Members of the Mackay VIEW Club marked International Women’s Day with a special “Bring a Friend Day” celebration at Mackay Surf Club.

A total of 63 women attended the event, which highlighted the club’s “Give to Gain” motto, celebrating the contributions of members who support their community each month. The day also proved successful for the club’s growth, with four new membership applications received.

Club president Elizabeth said the theme reflected the spirit of VIEW members.

“2026 is all about giving to gain – and VIEW members live this every day. Through volunteering, fundraising, and friendship, we create opportunities not just for Australian children in need, but for ourselves and our communities,” she said.

Guest speaker Alice Ruddell from Empower Health and Physio shared insights on the importance of “Balancing the Scales” to support both emotional and physical wellbeing.

The event also featured raffles, money boards, a trading table and a shared lunch, with the group finishing the day with a spirited rendition of “I Am Woman”.

Social events and monthly lunch meetings help raise funds for The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, which provides financial, educational and personal support for students experiencing disadvantage.

For more information about VIEW Clubs of Australia, visit view.org.au or contact club president Elizabeth on 0438 715731.

Mackay VIEW Club members and their invited guests, celebrate International Women’s Day with Guest Speaker, Alice Russell from Empower Health and Physio. Photo supplied

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The Mackay branch of the Older Women’s Network is celebrating a remarkable milestone this year, marking 30 years of friendship, support and connection for women across the region.

Founded on April 3rd, 1996, by 12 women, the group has grown into one of the largest and longest running branches in Queensland. Today it has around 100 members and continues to meet weekly, offering women a welcoming place to connect, learn and socialise.

Convenor Ruth Sargent, who has been a member of the group for over a decade, said the network had become a cornerstone of community connection for many women over the years.

“We started on the 3rd of April in 1996 and 12 women started it,” Ms Sargent said.

“We have been one of the biggest groups in Queensland for quite a long time.”

Ms Sargent said the weekly meetings are built around creating a supportive and engaging environment where members can enjoy each other’s company while also gaining valuable information.

“We mainly provide fun, friendship and information,” she said.

Guest speakers are regularly invited to share insights on topics ranging from health and finance to community services, alongside social activities that encourage friendships and connection.

Reflecting on the group’s success over the past three decades, Ms Sargent said she was proud to have been part of the journey since the beginning.

“It’s been extremely successful and I’m still shaking my head,” she said.

Her own decision to join the group more than 30 years ago proved life changing.

“It’s been the best thing I ever did for myself. It’s given me confidence and lots of friends.”

Ms Sargent said many women find the group not only provides friendship, but also helps them discover services and opportunities within the community. As the group celebrates its 30th anniversary, Ms Sargent hopes more women will consider joining.

For more information, visit ownqld.org.au/branches/mackay/

1 - Ruth Sargent has been part of the Mackay Older Women’s Network for over a decade, describing the group as “the best thing I ever did for myself,” giving her confidence, friendship and a strong sense of community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

2 - The Mackay branch of the Older Women’s Network celebrates 30 years of friendship. Photo supplied

There was time for reflection, tears and team farewells last month at the Sarina Hospital as Pauline Maude took her final walk through the wards as the director of nursing.

She is cruising towards a well-earned retirement, as well as a milestone celebration.

“I started my nursing training in 1977 and there's a cruise next year in September for our group, about 12 of us, to celebrate our 50-year anniversary,” Pauline said.

“We trained in Parramatta in Sydney; a couple of nurses now live in America, one in England and some on the NSW north coast.

“I was also a student nurse when Westmead Hospital (Western Sydney) was being built which all started with just four wards on two floors.

“As my 18 months there rolled on, we saw theatres come online and the emergency department. We actually saw that hospital come to be.

“I think that's probably where my interest in redevelopments and models of care started, because it has been there all the way through when I reflect on it,” she said.

There have been many other projects and places to call home in the years that followed as Pauline’s career took her north to Queensland and through to the tip of the Northern Territory in Arnhem Land.

She was the nurse unit manager at Maryborough Hospital and set up birthing services at St Stephen’s Private Hospital in Hervey Bay.

“We were having 1000 births a year at Maryborough Base maternity; that was my grounding in midwifery,” Pauline said.

There was a switch to Corrective Services and the establishment of prison health services at Maryborough, as well as a later stint in human resources management at Townsville’s prison.

“We had a couple of months to commission the Maryborough prison, set everything up, recruit all the staff; so it was the service delivery and operational commissioning side of things.

“It my first little dabble in it and it was fun,” she said.

Other highlights in a busy career include models of care reviews when Maryborough services were transitioned to Hervey Bay, stints in Stanthorpe and Bourke, and the planning of ED redevelopments in Bowen and in Gove (Arnhem Land in NT).

It was this consistent development theme that eventually led Pauline to Sarina in 2021 for the build of the new hospital which opened in April 2024.

Caption: Director of Nursing Pauline Maude took her final walk through the wards of Sarina Hospital in March. Photo supplied

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The Mackay Regional Council are calling upon residents to join a community-driven project to try and eradicate a highly invasive species- the Indian Myna Bird, also known as the Common Myna.

The Mackay Indian Myna Bird Action Group (MIMBAG) recently received several traps that were built by members of the Mackay Men's Shed Inc. These will be loaned to residents free of charge to try and catch as many of the pests as possible.

Member of MIMBAG committee member and Birdlife Mackay, John Morris said there’s been an increased awareness of the scale of the problem in recent months and now is the time to take action.

“These pests pose significant threats to native bird species – harassing and evicting them from their nests, killing native young and destroying eggs,” Mr Morris said.

“They also pose a significant biosecurity and economic threat to our local agricultural sector and human health.

“What we need now is for members of the community to come along to learn more about how to trap the birds and get involved in our community trapping program.

“MIMBAG is currently working through the process to become an incorporated group, which may allow us to access funding for things like additional traps and to cover the costs of humane euthanisation.”

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said Indian Myna birds have established large populations along Australia’s eastern seaboard.

“Like the cane toad, the species was brought into Australia to try and control insects.  They first arrived in the 1860s to control pests in market gardens in Melbourne,” Mayor Williamson said.

“They were then introduced to northern Queensland to try and control pests in sugar plantations,"

The species is a prolific breeder, with each mating pair laying up to 15 eggs per year.

Modelling shared by the Dubbo Indian Myna Control Program details the exponential population growth from just one breeding pair.

“From those two birds, their young and future generations can produce more than 90,000 birds within six years,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Those figures are really alarming and show the importance of community action.”

A number of councils across the country have implemented trapping programs to reduce the number of pest birds in their area.

1- The Indian Myna, also known as the common myna, is an invasive species harming native birds. Photo supplied.

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

The Mackay region, the heart of Australia's sugar cane industry, is bracing for a challenging season as soaring fuel and fertiliser costs threaten to squeeze already narrow profit margins. While the region's cane fields stretch from the Pioneer Valley to the coast, their future prosperity depends on more than just rain and sunshine – it now hinges on global input commodity prices far beyond local control.

Fuel and fertiliser are essential ingredients and form the backbone of sugar production. Tractors and harvesters run from dawn to dusk, and nutrients are critical for a healthy crop. Both of these inputs have seen sharp price rises over the past month, driven by international supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions directly attributed to the Middle East conflict. As a result, Mackay's cane growers are facing operating costs that some say are the highest in living memory.

The link between fuel and fertiliser prices and farm profitability is direct. Increased input costs mean growers have less cash to invest in maintaining and upgrading equipment, applying irrigation, or hiring workers. Many are now considering how they can cut back on inputs, which could impact yields and, ultimately, the amount of sugar produced in the region. This creates a cascading effect, threatening jobs not only on farms but also in the mills, transport, and supporting industries.

Going forward, another challenge is the stubbornly low price of sugar on the global market. While the cost of getting the crop out of the ground is rising, what growers are paid for their product hasn’t kept pace. This imbalance is unsustainable for many family-run farms that are already operating on tight margins.

It must be remembered that sugar is one of Mackay’s lifeblood; when farmers struggle, it ripples through the entire community – from the local service station and the chemist to schools and small businesses. We need to be mindful of how quickly things can deteriorate if the current cost pressures aren’t addressed.

Some relief may come from advocacy for government action. CANEGROWERS and other industry groups have been calling for longer-term strategies to insulate the industry from global input price shocks. However, these measures take time, and many growers are looking for more immediate solutions.

This is where local councils have a role to play. As councils across the Mackay region prepare for their annual budgets, there’s growing concern among cane farmers about the prospect of land rate rises. Local councils have their own financial pressures, but it must be seriously considered that a rate rise could be the straw that breaks the camel's back. If there’s ever been a year to put rate rises on hold for growers, it is this year.

It’s a sentiment echoed by many in the industry. A pause on land rate increases, even temporarily, would provide a measure of relief and signal solidarity with the region's growers during a period of genuine hardship. After all, the survival of Mackay's sugar industry is not just a matter for cane farmers – it’s a community issue that affects everyone who calls the region home.

As the 2026 crush approaches, the challenges facing Mackay's sugar industry are real and immediate. The combined impact of rising fuel and fertiliser prices and low sugar prices means every dollar counts. Local councils, as they finalise their budgets, are being urged to seriously consider holding off on any land rate rises. It could make all the difference for one of Australia's most important agricultural industries.

Harvester and haulout tractor. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) is now accepting applications for its 2026–27 Community Fund, providing $100,000 to support initiatives across NQBP’s port communities of Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point (Bowen) and Weipa.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Brendan Webb said the Community Fund reflects NQBP’s commitment to investing in initiatives that respond to real community needs.

“Our port communities are home to organisations doing important work every day,” Mr Webb

said.

“The Community Fund is one way we can help turn good ideas into practical outcomes - supporting initiatives that improve wellbeing, strengthen connections and make our communities more resilient.”

The NQBP Community Fund is open to not-for-profit community groups, organisations and registered charities.

The Fund supports events, programs and activities that align with NQBP’s strategic themes, values of Care, Connection, Courage and Curiosity, and its vision to be a leader in responsible port trade, where Queenslanders thrive for generations.

Applications that respond to an identified community or environmental need, and that promote the principles of diversity and inclusion, are encouraged.

Previous Fund recipient Debbie Knight, President of Grapevine Group said the support had enabled the organisation to deliver targeted suicide-prevention awareness initiatives across the region.

“Support from the NQBP Community Fund allowed us to deliver our Be Suicide Alert this Christmas campaign, helping to educate the community about suicide warning signs during a time of increased risk,” Ms Knight said.

“The funding supported radio advertising, billboards and social media, directing people to local support services and resources through the Grapevine Group app.

“Raising awareness saves lives, and this support helped us reach more people with vital information when it mattered most.”

Applications for the 2026–27 NQBP Community Fund are now open and will close on Friday April 17, 2026, with successful applicants to be announced in June.

For more information and to apply, visit www.nqbp.com.au.

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