Mackay’s flagship International Women’s Day celebration, the Zonta Mackay & Area International Women’s Day High Tea, returns once again as a sell-out, affirming its place as one of the most anticipated gatherings on the social calendar.

For 33 years, Zonta has championed the empowerment of women and girls both locally and globally. This year, organisers are thrilled to announce a reimagined High Tea, transformed into a garden party inspired setting with a grand entrance, exquisite florals, and Instagram-worthy moments at every turn.

The morning will unfold as a celebration of leadership, achievement, and aspiration, inspired by the 2026 UN International Women’s Day theme: Balance the Scales. Guests will be immersed in an atmosphere of elegance, warmth, and connection, and will delight in a traditional, impeccably presented high tea. Inspiring guest speakers, aligned with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, will share their stories, while attendees can engage in raffles and a highly anticipated silent auction, supporting Zonta’s ongoing initiatives.

From scholarships to awards, these programs provide tangible support to local women and girls, while also contributing to global projects. Remarkably, two thirds of the funds raised remain in the region, directly nurturing and empowering women and girls across Mackay.

A highlight of the event is always the Young Women in Leadership Award, recognising a local young woman making a meaningful impact and demonstrating extraordinary promise. According to organisers, listening to these speeches and witnessing the passion of emerging leaders is among the most stirring moments of the day, offering a glimpse of the future and a chance to celebrate the next generation of changemakers.

Adding a playful and personal twist this year, guests are invited to bring their own teacup and saucer, whether vintage, elegant, quirky, or delightfully outrageous. This charming detail allows attendees to express their personality and flair, with prizes awarded for the most creative cups.

Attendees span generations and backgrounds, united by a shared purpose of connection, support, and empowerment. With tickets already completely sold out, the event reflects the enduring love Mackay holds for this celebration of women.

The Zonta Mackay International Women’s Day High Tea promises to be more beautiful, more inspiring, and more heartfelt than ever, yet at its heart, it remains a celebration of women, a sanctuary for connection, and a platform to honour the remarkable achievements of today and the limitless promise of tomorrow.

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With Carolyn Fritz From Moranbah Discount Tyres & Mechanical

Never one to be intimidated, Carolyn Fritz, director of Moranbah Discount Tyres & Mechanical, is excelling in a male-dominated industry, leading a community business that is recognised on a national level for its exceptional practice.

In 2024, the business brought home a prestigious Australian Small Business Champions Award for Automotive Mechanical Repairs, as well as becoming a finalist in the Business of the Decade Awards, set aside by their professionalism, care, and ethical practice.

“It shows that regional businesses can be as good as their city brothers,” Carolyn states, citing her incredible team as being a core part of their success, some of whom have been part of the MDTM team for over 12 years.

“It’s about empowering your staff,” Carolyn explained. “Making them feel like family, not just another number in a system.”

The company is well and truly a ‘local’ business, with Carolyn having lived in Moranbah for over 40 years, but that didn’t stop her from dreaming big. Established in 2005, MDTM have consistently expanded and invested in growth strategies, with an eye set firmly on the future and the community’s growing needs.

Now, they have eight main divisions, making the business a one -stop shop for all auto electrical, mechanical and tyre requirements.

“I genuinely believe we offer the best service possible in our industry,” Carolyn says.

“For example, providing local families in the community a complimentary vehicle pick-up and delivery , and a car wash with every service. This is what we consider the base level of our client care.”

As her business has grown, Carolyn has sought out ways to give back, partly by supporting the local youth, employing school-based trainees and apprentices from Moranbah State High School.

Recognising that women don’t tend to get enough exposure to mechanical care information, they also initiated a “Women, Wheels and Automobiles” service that provides free information sessions covering what to do in a vehicle breakdown, how to change a tyre, basic vehicle terminology and how to jump-start a vehicle. This program has proved so popular that they also conduct the sessions at Moranbah State High School for Year 11 and 12 students.

Carolyn says it can be daunting, setting out to work in a male-dominated industry, but she advises any aspiring automotive businesswomen not to hold back.

“I had times when men tried to intimidate me or influence me,” she says, explaining that her much-needed business management and people skills were sometimes overlooked by those who judged her for not being trade qualified.

“I wanted to empower them, but they didn’t want to empower me,” she said. “So I empowered myself.”

Now, Carolyn’s setting out to inspire more women to make their dreams come true.

“Never say never, whatever people say,” she recommends.

“Just be confident and stick to the task.”

Simple advice that can build a business empire.

What advice would you offer young aspiring business women?

It’s important to have your home life right. Then everything else is right, too. With 5 children, my husband and I needed to figure out routines and processes, sharing responsibility so that when one of us couldn’t be there, the other stepped up. I couldn’t have done it without him. Also, tough times don’t last. Tough people do.

Describe yourself in 3 words:

Confident, determined, caring.

tyres-mechanical.com.au

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The air at Move It Chiropractic doesn’t carry the usual sterile hush of a medical clinic; instead, it hums with vibrant energy, a space that feels more like a wellness retreat for the soul. At the heart of this Mackay practice are two women who have turned professional collaboration into a local art form: Dr Suzanne Kippen and Remedial Therapist Teresa Abela.

Suzanne, a Mackay local who returned home after completing her chiropractic degree at Murdoch University, provides the clinical heartbeat of the practice. Her approach blends integrity with deep-seated expertise, underpinned by her values as a leader.

“Independence, drive, and a passion for chiropractic have shaped me into the leader I am today,” she says. “Leadership to me is about having the right support, caring, and listening, and respecting everyone on your team.”

Teresa, with twenty years of hands-on experience, brings an intuitive, seasoned touch to every session, guided by her commitment to kindness.

“You just never know what is happening in someone’s world, so we always aim to be kind to each other, as well as everyone who walks through our doors,” she says.

“Building each other up, whether male or female, boss or colleague, is essential. If you’re not doing that, something’s not right.”

Together, they operate in seamless harmony. Suzanne restores alignment to the spine and nervous system, while Teresa works through the muscles and connective tissues that support that structure. It is a complementary dialogue, each treatment enhancing the other, creating a holistic path to resilience and vitality for a community that works hard and plays harder.

Chiropractic and massage care are essential for everyone. In a world where long hours, physical strain, and stress are the norm, these treatments restore balance, relieve tension, improve mobility, and maintain overall wellbeing. Every adjustment and massage is a step toward stronger posture, an increase in range of movement, and renewed energy.

Beyond the adjustments and massage oil, it is the culture these women have built that defines the practice.

“We like to encourage each other to be the best we can possibly be,” says Suzanne.

Their partnership is marked by mutual respect and a healthy dose of playful banter.

“Teamwork is extremely important in business. We also like to have a bit of fun and laugh here and there,” they add, noting that a thriving team creates thriving patients.

Trust and integrity are non-negotiable.

“Once you lose your trust, you have nothing,” they say. “We have a strong team here – we enjoy each other’s company and we’re big on communication. I think that’s what makes us a great team,” says Teresa.

For both ladies, leadership is defined by service – to each other, to their team, and to their community.

Suzanne credits her mother as a source of inspiration, while Teresa draws strength from her daughters. Together, they demonstrate that skill, compassion, and collaboration can elevate both a practice and the people it serves.

“Here at Move It Chiropractic, it is our family caring for your family,” says Dr Kippen.

With Barb Blackhall from White Picket Real Estate

When Barb Blackhall launched White Picket Real Estate in 2022, it was the cherry on the top of a lifelong real estate career.

Barb believes that in business, you should find what you love and stick with it; for her, that happened at the age of seventeen.

When she entered real estate, she immediately knew that it was the career she wanted to pursue, and so she committed to learning the industry inside out. Barb worked across sales, property management, commercial and business management until she had the versatility and know-how she needed to launch her own operation.

Now, White Picket Real Estate just keeps growing.

“Starting an independent business from scratch is no easy task," Barb says.

“Initially, I just focused on sales from a home office. I shortly branched out into rentals and moved into a shopfront office in town.”

With the move came the acquisition of a talented team.

“I’m proud to have Mary-Ann Said—undoubtedly the best property manager in Mackay—working alongside me and heading the rentals division of the business,” Barb states.

"Our rent roll has grown organically and now supports a small property management team. Last year, we further branched out into commercial leasing with Melanie Hartmann, who has many years’ experience in this area leading the commercial division.”

As the business grows, Barb is intent on keeping each division attentive and focused.

“We are proud to be a small, locally owned company,” she says.

“It means all our clients receive personalised service individual to their needs. Our reputation is everything, and we are proud of the positive feedback and referrals we constantly receive from our clients."

Barb’s personal focus is mainly directed towards sales, thriving on the challenge of achieving the best possible outcome for her clients. It’s a goal she routinely smashes, having set record prices in several suburbs of Mackay and the district.

The region is one she holds in high regard, having been born and raised in Mackay, growing up on a cane farm in Palmyra. Barb particularly loves the Pioneer Valley, where she raised her boys, Brady and Jed, who are now adults and have remained in the region.

In a testament to how much Barb loves what she does, when asked where she wanted to be in 5 years, she replies, “I’ll stick with what works and continue to do what I have been doing for the last four years."

As to the secret for her success? Barb advises that the best thing to do is to just be yourself. If you are honest, driven and have your client’s best interest at heart, you will succeed.

White Picket Real Estate stands as proof of that.

whitepicketrealestate.com.au

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Mel Pollock made a pivot to real estate two and a half years ago, bringing a diverse skillset as she joined the family business: First National Mackay, Sarina & Nebo.

After watching the business evolve over 20 years, growing from Sarina to Mackay and Nebo, Mel felt drawn to get involved as a Sales Agent.

Since she joined, the company has been decorated with two diamond awards for highest Residential Revenue in Queensland, 10^th in State for QLD Transaction and Settled Sales, and A Top Agent Real Estate Award for Bucasia. Contributing to these awards was a highlight of Mel’s career.

Born in Mackay, Mel moved to Brisbane in 2004 to gain a double degree in Oral Health before working as a dental hygienist and dental therapist. Next, she travelled all over the world, before moving to WA where she became a Special Needs Assistant.

Moving back home, Mel saw took the opportunity to change careers, a risk that paid off.

“I love people, the hustle and the strength it takes to put yourself out there in a position not always highly regarded.” Mel says.

“I want to change that.”

Outside work, Mel can be found at the beach with her hounds, watching her son play sports, or having a boogie on the dance floor. An avid footy fan, she and her husband are sponsors of the Mackay City Hawks Footy Club .

Who has influenced you most in your life?

My nan- she was full of energy, a very hard worker and volunteer. Not only that, she had the best sense of humour and lit up a room with her confidence and quiet influence. She took me under her wing, and I loved being around her.

What does International Women’s Day mean to you?

That I am part of a bigger picture. The women before me have paved the way to now, and I hope that we can do the same- I have seen my mum, nan and two sisters forge their way into long serving careers and leadership positions- we are no longer in the shadows, we are seen.

www.fnrealty.com.au

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The Reinvention of ALDI Through Clever Marketing

For decades, Aldi was the quiet achiever of retail. Efficient, affordable and a no frills brand. But somewhere along the way, the world changed and instead of trying to keep up, Aldi rewrote the rules.

What followed wasn’t a rebrand in the traditional sense. It was a perception shift. One driven not by bigger budgets, but by sharper thinking.

Where many retailers tried to disguise value behind premium aesthetics, Aldi did the opposite.

Rather than apologising for being affordable, it reframed value as intelligence. Campaigns like “More for less at Aldi” didn’t just promote savings they rewired behaviour. Aldi became the starting point, not the compromise.

During rising cost-of-living pressure, this clarity, built trust. It positioned Aldi not as the cheapest option, but the most honest one.

The shift was subtle but powerful, from budget brand to smart shopper’s choice.

At some point, Aldi stopped sounding like a supermarket and started sounding like a brand.

Its tone turned self-aware. Witty and occasionally absurd, embracing humour, something many retailers in this space avoided.

In a category known for safe, forgettable advertising, Aldi became memorable simply by being human.

That thinking extended in-store. The now-famous middle aisle evolved into something more than merchandising. It became discovery, anticipation and entertainment. In an era where attention is fragmented, Aldi found a way to make grocery shopping feel unexpectedly fun and therefore, memorable.

Aldi also found a way to connect with consumers beyond their weekly grocery list. Fashion and merch launches created hype, bringing shoppers in for an array of items from ski gear,  oversized sprinklers and giant animal plush masks . The surprisingly random buys, offered for a limited time, provided reason for shoppers to make a special trip and in doing so discover the wonder of Aldi. This unpredictability drove excitement, social-media conversations and frequent visits, turning randomness into a retail strategy.

Good Different , Aldi’s tag line was the perfect way to reframe the brand, proving yet again commitment to their marketing approach.

The lesson in Aldi’s evolution isn’t about supermarkets. It’s about conviction. The brand didn’t reinvent its product, it reinvented perception by doubling down on what made it different and expressing it with confidence.

In a marketing landscape crowded with overproduction and imitation, Aldi proves a simple truth: clarity beats complexity. The brands that win aren’t always the loudest or the most lavish. They’re the ones that know exactly who they are and refuse to apologise for it.

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Meeting the seasonal labour demands of the sugarcane harvest is a challenge every year. CANEGROWERS Mackay has been stepping up for almost two decades, delivering practical training courses each May that get new workers behind the wheel.

The industry skills development program – the annual Haulout Driver Training – has once again been funded by the Queensland Government through its Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.

“Registrations have opened for Haulout Driver Training today. We have been running these on-farm courses for almost 20 years. For most of that time, it has been funded through the Queensland Government, for which we are very thankful,” said Mackay Canegrowers Chairman Joseph Borg.

“That ongoing support recognises the value in skilling twenty new harvest workers every year, giving them the opportunity to get behind haulout vehicles alongside experienced grower trainers, learn driving skills, harvest procedures, and, most importantly, safety.”

Thanks to the funding, there is no charge to participants, with support provided to obtain work in the industry, with growers and contract harvesters actively seeking employees.

“It’s a four-day boot camp with real-life grower trainers, getting behind the wheel of tractors. On top of that, we have an accredited trainer-assessor on-site, taking trainees through RTO-backed units towards the Cert II Agriculture,” said Mr Borg.

For the 2026 training, Mackay Canegrowers is working with RTO Ausintec Academy Pty Ltd and local accredited Trainer Assessor Earl Nielsen, who has successfully delivered the course in the past.

Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm and Member for Mirani Glen Kelly have shown strong support. “It’s great to see programs like this delivering practical training and real pathways into employment for local jobseekers,” Ms Camm said.

“Our sugar industry is the backbone of many regional communities, and initiatives like Skilling Queenslanders for Work help ensure we have a skilled local workforce for the future.”

A success story from the 2025 course was Samantha Honey, a 42-year-old single mother of two. “I didn't really have any skills or anything,” Samantha said.

“When the Haulout Driver Training course came up, I knew the cane hauling was six months, so I was like: I can give that a go.”

With guidance from experienced grower trainers, she quickly mastered tractor driving. Samantha secured work within a fortnight and will return to the same harvest contractor for the 2026 crush. “I would just say give it a go… it’s actually not as hard as you think it is,” she recommended.

Get in touch with Mackay Canegrowers to express interest in Haulout Driver Training.

Twenty places are available for two courses starting May 12 and 19, with an orientation on May 11. Contact Mackay Canegrowers on 4944 2600, email mackay@canegrowers.com.au, or visit www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au under the training tab.

Contributed with thanks to Mackay Canegrowers

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Queenslanders are being urged to have their say on a new plan aimed at tackling the growing impact of feral pigs across the state, with consultation now open on the draft Queensland Feral Pig Management Action Plan 2026–2031.

The plan, released by the Queensland Government, provides a framework for coordinated, localised action to reduce feral pig populations and protect both agricultural production and the natural environment. Feral pigs are estimated to cost Queensland producers around $95 million each year through production losses and direct control costs, while also causing widespread environmental damage.

Glen Kelly MP said it was vital that producers and landholders contribute to the consultation process to ensure the plan is practical and effective.

“It’s important those with the knowledge of feral pig management contribute to the plan, because it’s those on the ground with the knowledge of managing feral pigs that can provide crucial input to make the plan better,” Mr Kelly said.

He said feral pigs caused extensive damage to crops and fences and had a severe impact on agricultural production, as well as significant environmental consequences.

“This is before we even consider the environmental impact that these feral pigs have, they destroy ecosystems, and in the electorate of Mirani I know that they get down to the beaches and eat turtle eggs, so the benefits of bringing feral pigs under control has benefits that don’t just flow into our primary producers,” he said.

Mr Kelly noted that while six new feral pig coordinators had been appointed across Queensland, there was still no coordinator between Rockhampton and Mackay.

“With feral pigs becoming a massive problem in the electorate of Mirani, I’ve been pushing for one to be placed here in our region to support our producers and reduce the impact that feral pigs are having in Central Queensland,” he said.

Consultation on the draft plan is open until 12 March 2026, with submissions accepted online, by post, or via email.

CAPTION: Mr Kelly says its important for producers to make a submission to the draft plan to ensure that it is effectively addressing the problem of feral pigs. Photo supplied

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Flood recovery efforts in Clermont and across the Isaac region have been reinforced this week, with federal representatives meeting local leaders and producers as support measures roll out for flood-impacted farmers.

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins travelled to Queensland to inspect recovery efforts following the North Queensland Monsoon Trough and ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji. As part of her visit, she held a roundtable in Clermont with Isaac Regional Council, local property owners, grain producers, livestock operators and transport agencies to discuss the shift from immediate clean-up to long-term recovery.

Under joint Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the Albanese and Crisafulli Governments have announced support including $21.5 million in Disaster Recovery Grants of up to $75,000, $11.3 million for a Primary Producer Support Package, $7 million for emergency fodder assistance, concessional loans of up to $250,000, and freight subsidies.

“Flooding like we’ve seen in North and Central Queensland has a terrible impact on farmers and primary producers, who are not only critical to regional economies, but to our food security,” Minister Collins said.

“North and Central Queensland, including in the Isaac Region, is home to some of the world’s most in-demand beef products, which is why it’s critical to support impacted farmers and producers to get back on their feet.

“Meeting with farmers, primary producers, and agricultural businesses in the Isaac Region was an important opportunity to see the clean-up efforts firsthand, and to reaffirm our Government’s commitment to supporting them at every stage of recovery.”

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea welcomed the visit.

“We appreciate the Minister making the time to be in region to hear first hand from our community,” Mayor Vea Vea said.

“It’s important to hear directly how policies and legislation set in Canberra is working for people in their own backyard.”

Farmers can access further information through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority and the Department of Primary Industries.

Charolais Beef Cattle Standing Calmly Their Stock Photo 2427618903 | Shutterstock

CAPTION: $21.5 million in Disaster Recovery Grants will be allocated to support local primary producers in North and Central Queensland. Photo source: Shutterstock

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Many of us are familiar with ‘Blest be the tie that binds’, a lovely hymn about sharing each other’s joys and woes. But these blessings can be a mixed bunch, hilariously so in Kucom Theatre’s newest offering, a season of one-act plays opening on 12^th March. In The Ties That Bind, a variety of relationships - family, friends, and marital connections – one by one, come under the microscope. And some of them are ever so slightly questionable …

For Whom the Southern Belle Tolls, by Christopher Durang, directed by Anzjuli Venter:

You don’t need to be familiar with The Glass Menagerie to enjoy this parody of what is arguably Tennessee William’s best-known play. Fading Southern belle Amanda (played by Kristyn Everett) is trying to prepare her mentally fragile, hypochondriacal son Lawrence (played by Kucom newcomer Toby Drage) for the arrival of a ‘feminine caller’ - but Lawrence is terrified of people and obsessed with his collection of glass cocktail stirrers. His younger brother Tom (Hayden White, also making his debut with Kucom) likes going to the movies where he repeatedly encounters sailors who need lodging (preferably in his room). And the ‘feminine caller’ Ginny (Richelle Hodson) turns out to be not quite what was expected. Amanda tries to face everything with ‘charm and vivacity,’ but sometimes she just wants to hit somebody.

Looking at the Alps, by Yvette Wall, directed by Maureen Coleman:

Trin and Sally, now in their 70s and both widowed, are best friends who have been sharing the same house for nearly forty years. Sally (played by Tessa King) jokes that she is the ‘bionic woman’ – she has two artificial hips and is getting ready for her second knee replacement - and Trin (Bronwyn Grannall) is a cancer survivor, ‘missing a couple of major body parts’, but that doesn’t stop them from fantasising about being their own version of Thelma and Louise and having sex with Brad Pitt. As they reflect on their past adventures and old wounds are re-opened, they dream up one final, daring plan, testing their lifelong bond in ways they never expected. Funny one moment and deeply moving the next, Looking at the Alps is a joyous celebration of friendship, resilience, and the courage to assume control of your own story—no matter where it takes you.

The Problem, by A R Gurney Jr, directed by John Irvine:

The final offering in the program is a deliciously quirky, shrewd, sardonic piece about the sex life of a college professor (played by Ben Clutterbuck) and his wife (Anzjuli Venter). Or maybe it’s the lack of sex life – according to the wife, they haven’t made love in ‘five years, more or less … give or take a month or two’. Which explains why they may have a problem, because her husband doesn’t seem to have noticed that she is obviously hugely pregnant! In a very funny but increasingly absurd and convoluted dialogue, the level of their apparent inability to communicate with each other is ratcheted up again and again as one reality gives way to another. The story takes some imaginative swerves, right up to the final twist. Warning: contains sexual references that may induce laughter.

What: The Ties That Bind

Where: Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove

When: 12th, 13th, 14th, 19th, 20th, 21st March at 7.30pm, with a matinee on Sunday 15th March at 2pm

Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/the-ties-that-bind

Many know Corissa Ivory as an established makeup artist. Those who truly know her, however, know she wears her heart on her sleeve, leads with compassion and is always ready with a laugh, both in and out of the salon.

This year marks 20 years of Funk It Up, after two decades of glamour, growth and memorable moments shared with the Mackay community.

“20 years has flown,” Corissa reflects.

“I still remember every special day, every occasion, every location.”

When she pauses to take it all in, she admits it’s “quite an overwhelming emotion.”

While her talent has opened doors to remarkable opportunities, including fast-paced runway events she describes as “the most fun, most adrenaline-filled, highlights of my life,” Corissa is quick to redirect the spotlight to her biggest supporters.

“I couldn’t function without them,” she says of her team.

Many have stood beside her for 10 to 15 years.

“The care is there and the friendships are still solid. Without my team, without my clients, there’d be no Funk It Up still here… I would have crashed and burned a long time ago.”

The salon itself hums with personality and vibrancy.

“We love it when we’re all together. It’s very fun, like home, and loud,” she laughs. “It’s very loud.”

Yet beneath the energy in the room is something far more important – connection.

“I don’t want to be a façade, and I’m definitely not in it for the money. I just want everyone that walks through these doors to feel beautiful and heard.”

For two decades, connection has remained at the centre of Funk It Up.

“I think how you make people feel is probably the most important thing that you can achieve in your day,” Corissa says.

“For me, knowing I’ve achieved that means more to me than anything.”

When clients open up in the chair, she considers it sacred, and a true honour.

“For someone to share something with you is the greatest compliment that you can have as a person, because it means they trust you and they feel comfortable with you… I just love that.”

From pamper parties, now nearing the 800 mark, to more than 1,500 weddings, Corissa has been present for her clients most cherished milestones.

“Highlights for me are being present in those moments,” she says. “I want people to leave here feeling like they’ve had the best experience.”

Watching young girls grow from pamper party guests, into graduates, and even brides has been a full circle moment for the team at Funk It Up to witness.

“I really do love what I do.”

Behind the businesswoman is a devoted mother and wife.

“I’ve made it pretty clear to everyone that he comes first,” she says of her son Logan. “My business isn’t my baby. He’s my baby.”

She credits her husband, and even the partners of her team, for the unseen support that keeps the wheels turning, especially during the whirlwind of wedding season and busy Saturdays. On Sundays, she dedicates her time to her son and husband, recharging for another successful week ahead.

As for the future, renovations may be on the horizon, but the heart of Funk It Up will remain unchanged. As the exclusive Mackay stockists of Australian professional makeup brand Harlotte, she remains “so humble and grateful” for the loyalty that has defined the business with others in the industry.

And at 20 years strong, Corissa isn’t slowing down.

“I have no plans to finish up anytime soon. At the moment, the joy is still here. We still love it.”

Perhaps that’s the secret — not just beauty, but belonging.

“I want to say a huge thankyou to my clients and team members – I couldn’t have done these last 20 years without you!”

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Erin Ryley, Branch Manager of Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, left corporate banking and found purpose, leading a local branch that makes a tangible impact in its customers’ lives.

Erin didn’t set out to build a career in banking; she fell into it.

“I started as a teller at 17, and what began as a job quickly became something much bigger,” she explains.

“I realised I loved the pace, the people, and the impact you can have on someone’s financial future. Early on, I had a young male manager who showed me what leadership shouldn’t look like. Instead of being discouraged, I set a goal: I would become a branch manager by 24 – and I achieved it.”

Now, Erin spends her days leading and building strong teams that genuinely help people make confident financial decisions.

“It’s not just numbers,” she affirms; “it’s trust, relationships and community.”

During her years in the industry, Erin has seen banking shift from transactional to relationship-driven. She’s learned that what customers want is authenticity, trust and businesses that genuinely deliver on their promises.

So that’s what she and her teams do; they deliver professional financial services that have genuine local impact, reinvesting profits back into community grants, sponsorships and local initiatives – creating a cycle of support that benefits everyone.

“What makes it special is the shared ownership mindset,” Erin explains. “Customers aren’t just clients – they’re part of something bigger. Every home loan, deposit or account contributes to funding local projects, students, sporting groups and charities.

“It’s banking with purpose – where financial success and community success go hand in hand.”

Erin’s career has taken her all around Queensland, and she managed many branches before settling in Sarina. Her family even recently lived in Seattle, USA, for 2 years – before moving back to the Mackay Region – which she now considers home. Outside her career she spends every moment with family – her loving husband, 3 beautiful kids and her mum – swimming, kicking the footy and walking their 2 dogs.

Looking ahead, Erin sees herself continuing to grow within the organisation and deepening the impact she has on the community she serves.

“I’m passionate about strengthening relationships and ensuring we consistently deliver on what we promise,” she says.

“For me, success is about sustainability – building something meaningful, earning trust, and creating lasting impact for both our customers and our community.”

When asked about the wisdom she would offer future businesswomen, Erin’s advice was clear:

“Self-belief is non-negotiable. If you don’t back yourself, no one else will. Long-term success starts with deciding you’re capable – even before you feel ready.

“Have the courage to set clear goals, to speak up, to walk into rooms where you might feel out of place – and to treat senior leaders as people, not titles. When you stop being intimidated, you start building real relationships.

“And finally, consistency is key. Success isn’t built in big moments. It’s built in the quiet discipline of showing up, following through, and staying focused on where you’re headed.”

What are your top tips for leadership?

Back yourself. Be Intentional. Stay in the room

Describe your personality in three words.

Energetic. Ambitious. Outgoing.

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International Women’s Day is a time for celebration, for much has been achieved to advance and support women in terms of opportunities and choices. It’s also a time to reflect on our personal journey and what really matters.

Are you living life on your own terms, based on what really matters to you?

When we engage with women (and men) on career conversations, the focus is not about jobs, salaries or status, it’s far more simple and directly personal. The big question is -

‘What type of life do you want to live?’

Career is more than work – it’s not only how we spend a lot of physical time, but also the time we spend thinking about work and the associated emotional energy.

When you pause and consider life in the context of career, work becomes more about purpose and meaning and progressing towards your ideal thus impacting your choices.

If we consider life in seasons and relate to career – early career is often about establishing ourselves and gaining momentum, whereas later seasons may prioritise balance. Career is less at fever pitch and the preference may be time with family and friends. For example, from an age demographic, the life we want to live in our 20s may be different to the life we want to live in our 40s.

How can I align my career to build the life I want to live and enjoy my personal definition of success?

Before polishing the résumé or leaping to the next opportunity, pause and reflect on ‘what’s the ideal life you want to live?’ and then ‘how can I align my career to the life I want?’.

Focus on what’s important to you for where you are at and where you want to be. Use your values as a starting point. If purpose and service matter to you, a high paying role with little purpose may eventually leave you wanting. If flexibility is important, then a rigid structure may be suffocating.

If you are clear on your values, you will evaluate opportunities not just by what they offer on paper, but by how they align with the life you want to live.

At CareerForce Australia, our focus is on supporting women (and men) to explore the big questions and chart a Career by Design – choosing the life you want to live. If you would like support with navigating your next steps, visit CareerForce Australia’s website or get in touch.

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With Dani Melville, Women’s Coach From Mackay MMA (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu)

On the mats at Mackay MMA, strength isn’t measured by size or force. It’s built through patience, technique and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing exactly what you’re capable of. For women’s coach Dani Melville, a 2nd stripe brown belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the sport has become both a personal lifeline and a powerful platform to empower other women to step into their own strength.

For more than a decade, Dani has been immersed in the discipline, helping cultivate a supportive community within Mackay MMA where women are encouraged to try something new, challenge themselves and grow – both physically and mentally.

Interestingly enough, her journey into the sport wasn’t exactly planned.

“I started 12 years ago. I actually took my children in to do judo and accidentally went to the wrong class, and it was a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class,” Dani recalls.

“From the minute I did the first movement, I just kind of fell in love with it.”

That moment sparked a passion that would shape not only Dani’s life but the lives of many women she now coaches. Today, her entire family trains in the art, including her two daughters, who now assist with children’s classes and help coach the women’s sessions.

Together, they form part of a close-knit community at Mackay MMA, where gym owners Danny and Rozzie Borg have created an environment many members describe as their “second home”.

Within this environment, Dani has become a driving force behind the gym’s women’s program, helping create a safe and encouraging space for women stepping onto the mats for the first time.

While many people associate self-defence purely with physical strength, Dani believes the real lessons run much deeper.

“Self-defence isn't necessarily about winning if you were in a hard situation… it's about being able to survive, not panic, stay calm, stay in your logical brain, and escape.”

The courses introduce participants to practical techniques while also building awareness, confidence and the ability to make clear decisions under pressure.

For Dani, the biggest barrier for many women considering martial arts isn’t ability, but simply taking that first step.

“The hardest part of any class, no matter what it is, is turning up,” she says.

But once they do, women quickly discover a community built on encouragement and mutual support.

And while she mentors many women each week, she says inspiration flows both ways.

“My daughters, very much so,” she says when asked who inspires her most.

“Every single woman that walks through the door is my hero.”

This International Women’s Day, Dani hopes more women will feel empowered to give Brazilian Jiu Jitsu a try. To step onto the mats, challenge themselves and discover a strength they may not yet realise they have.

“Every woman, every man, every child – I 100% think that everybody should do it – especially women.”

Action image – Photo credit: Javier Taveras Photography

On Sunday, 8 March, we will celebrate International Women’s Day – a time to honour the incredible contributions of women across our region. To mark the occasion, we’ve put together a special feature showcasing local women who are making a difference in business, community initiatives, and everyday life. These are the women whose dedication, vision, and leadership are shaping our region for the better.

From business owners and entrepreneurs to educators, community advocates, and creatives, these women are driving innovation, inspiring change, and creating opportunities for others.

What unites them is more than professional success; it’s the impact they have on those around them. Through mentorship, collaboration, and advocacy, they lift others as they climb, proving that leadership is as much about empathy and connection as it is about ambition and results. Their influence can be seen in thriving local businesses, strong community programs, and the countless lives they touch every day.

This feature highlights their achievements and celebrates the diversity of talent and passion among women in our region.

By sharing their stories, we hope to celebrate these women not only for what they do but for how they do it, with courage, integrity, and heart. Their work exemplifies the values of collaboration, community, and empowerment that strengthen our region as a whole.

On this International Women’s Day, we honour these women, celebrate their achievements, and recognise the difference they make in shaping a stronger, more inclusive, and forward-thinking community. Through their dedication and leadership, they remind us that when women thrive, communities thrive.

Happy International Women’s Day!

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