The race for Mackay Regional Council’s top job has been narrowed down to two, with incumbent Greg Williamson and Steve Jackson vying for the mayoral position after Laurence Bonaventura bowed out following Saturday’s local government election.

At the time of writing, 80.23% of the 88,861 enrolled electors’ votes for mayor had been counted, with 41.95% of those going the way of Mr Williamson, 38.63% going to Mr Jackson and 19.42% going to Mr Bonaventura.

Postal votes will continue to be received and counted until next Tuesday, March 26, at which point second preferences will be allocated to determine the next mayor of the Mackay Regional Council.

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And Then There Were Two

Williamson and Jackson Vying For Top Job In Mackay’s Mayoral Race

As votes continue to be counted and preferences allocated, the two remaining candidates vying for the position of mayor of the Mackay Regional Council are both waiting patiently for a declaration.

“There’s nothing you can do at this stage,” said incumbent Greg Williamson.

“There’s no sense of worrying or pre-empting, it’s all done, and the count is yet to come.”

Steve Jackson added that he is trying not “to get too excited about it”.

“I’m just back to normal life now,” he said.

“I’ve got a few experienced people telling me the rule of thumb with preferences and what the numbers are; at the moment, it’s just an educated guess, so it’s going to be very close.”

The race for the top job was narrowed down to Mr Williamson and Mr Jackson after the third candidate, Laurence Bonaventura, conceded defeat.

“I accept the result, the result’s quite clear,” Mr Bonaventura said.

“The result does show, though, that 60 per cent of people voted for change and that’s something I think the new council needs to take on board.”

Once all first preference votes have been counted, all votes for Mr Bonaventura, which stands at over 13,000 votes at the time of writing, will be distributed to their second preference.

Mr Williamson said his campaign was long and unlike previous campaigns with the changing landscape of social media.

“That’s what elections are going to be these days, all based around social media where it’s hard to combat untruths,” he said.

“Particularly when we don’t have daily newspapers and the expense of getting information out these days, it really makes it difficult for a lot of candidates in the field, so they are interesting times.”

“But be that as it may, it was great to fight for the privilege of another four years as Mayor of the Mackay Regional Council.

“I’ve certainly enjoyed the last eight and look forward to completing many of the projects we’ve started”.

Mr Jackson, a business owner and former rugby league player, said it’s been a “hectic” but rewarding campaign.

“It’s been amazing, I’ve learnt so much and experienced things I’ve never experienced in my long life, so I’m very happy that I’ve gone through with it,” he said.

“If they (voters) are prepared to accept an inexperienced mayoral candidate, and I get the same amount of votes as the incumbent who’s been there for quite a while, change may be wanted.”

A councillor of 12 years, Mr Bonaventura said he was honoured to have served his community.

“The achievements that I’ve made personally in council, I’ll always remember, but more than that, it’s those little achievements for people,” he said.

At the time of writing, 22.39 per cent of the 88,861 enrolled electors’ votes for councillor had been counted.

Two independent candidates seeking re-election, Martin Bella and Belinda Hassan, lead the pack with 4.39 per cent and 4.17 per cent respectively.

At the time of writing, another independent candidate followed the two leaders in Peter Sheedy with 4.05 per cent followed by former Member for Dawson George Christensen (3.95 per cent), Narmarca Corowa (3.9 per cent), incumbent Alison Jones (3.84 per cent), former deputy mayor Karen May (3.83 per cent), incumbents Pauline Townsend (3.8 per cent) and Fran Mann (3.78 per cent), and first time candidate Ash-Lee Johnson (3.75 per cent).

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In the community hub of Sarina lies an all-in-one hospitality service called Roots, where coffee and meals are prepared by a tight-knit team, grounded in compassion.

The name of the restaurant represents sticking to your roots, creating connections and acknowledging where you came from to appreciate what you have; thus, the owners of the business have presented a selfless, kind act in an attempt to welcome those struggling financially, to enjoy a meal without the burden of monetary strain.

A poster on the window reads ‘If you are hungry and you have no money, these meals have been paid for in advance. Give a server the ticket and they will have the kitchen prepare your meal,’ followed by a handful of orders catering to all who are in need.

The honourable team at Roots were recognised via a Facebook post on a communal page where they then received numerous comments and messages from the public who were determined to keep the ‘pay it forward’ chain going.

“At Roots, we believe in giving back because we understand the importance of supporting each other.

“We're proud to be a part of a community that looks out for one another, and we encourage everyone to find ways, big or small, to give back.

“Your support in our outreach efforts is invaluable, and we're amazed by the genuine desire to make a positive impact in the community.

“Together, we can make a difference.”

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Photo Credit: Roots. (Facebook)

Image of poster on the window of Roots Café & Restaurant

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Review by Hannah McNamara

The MECC was filled with glamourous dresses, neat suits and pure joy and excitement as guests gathered to watch eight local participants dance their heart out to raise money for the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

Delicious mains and desserts were served with a free drink token included, allowing guests to indulge in a wine, beer or soft drink on arrival. As everyone sat around the tables, chatting and laughing, the star dancers performed their routines one by one.

First to take the stage was Emma Novosel, followed by Josh Smith, Jay Shipton, Brooke Hargrave, Chloe Gunthorpe, Solveig Lobo, Sandy Hubner and Zachary Spencer. While all performances were phenomenal, the real dance queen behind the show was Dolly from Fame Dance School, who taught the contestants their individual dance routines in the span of just a few weeks.

All dancers, participants and guests gave all the glory to the Mackay Hospital Foundation as everyone showcased their appreciation to the organisation for their ongoing service to the community. The Mackay Hospital Foundation saw a major success with the auctions and donations alone, reaching over their goal of $40,000 raised funds on the night!

Solveig Lobo took home the Highest Fundraiser Award while the People’s Choice Award was given to Emma Novosel. All eight participants were acknowledged for their efforts with a dazzling globe trophy.

Guests waited in anticipation for the overall winner to be announced, as the room echoed while thumping fists drum rolled on tables… “and the overall winner is… Zachary Spencer!”

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Photo Credit: Adam Sanne

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Emma Novosel Detective Inspector from Queensland Police Service

The ladies from the Mackay Hospital Foundation dedicating their time to raise funds on the night

Chloe Gunthorpe from Next Accounting

Solveig Lobo from Paradise Outdoor Advertising

Zachary Spencer from Gardian - Mortgage Choice

Dancers all together (left to right) Zachary Spencer, Solveig Lobo, Chloe Gunthorpe, Brooke Hargrave, Jay Shipton, Sandy Hubner, Josh Smith and Emma Novosel

Grand Finale Performance

Official winner, Zachary Spencer!

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The Mackay Turf Club came alive on Friday 15th March, as Mackay Sugar hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Productivity Awards ceremony dedicated to celebrating sugar cane farming excellence across the region. With a remarkable turnout of more than 250 attendees, this annual event served as a testament to the unwavering commitment and remarkable achievements within the Mackay sugar industry.

The evening commenced with an air of excitement as guests gathered to recognise the outstanding contributions of growers, harvesters, and stakeholders who have significantly impacted the industry's growth and prosperity. The Awards showcased exceptional achievements in key productivity segments, including Innovation and Technology, Sustainability, and Research, highlighting the dedication and innovation prevalent among industry participants.

Commenting on the significance of the event, Brent Casey, Mackay Sugar General Manager Commercial and Agriculture, highlighted the importance of increased productivity in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry.

"Following the 2023 Crushing Season, the Productivity Awards was a great way to recognize some of the growers, harvesters, and stakeholders who make a positive impact on the industry," stated Mr. Casey.

"Increasing the volume and quality of cane through improved productivity, higher yields, and maintaining acreage is a pivotal part of ensuring a sustainable future for our business,” he said.

The success of the event was further amplified by the generous support of more than 20 local businesses, who play an integral role in fostering productivity and growth across THE Sugar City.

Ten winners were announced, each recognised for their outstanding contributions and exemplary performance in advancing productivity and excellence in sugar cane farming:

Highest Tonnes Sugar per Hectare

 Farleigh Area, sponsored by Mt Ossa Rural – CNJ Townley

 Marian Area, sponsored by Crop Wise – Craig Birkett

 Racecourse Area, sponsored by Liquaforce – Caneola Holdings Pty Ltd

Brown & Hurley Agriculture, Harvesting Group Award (greater than 40,000t)

 Chris Catana

RDO Equipment, Harvesting Group Award (less than 40,000t)

 Scriha Brothers

CANEGROWERS, Sustainable Management Practices Award

 Stuart and Barry Volker

Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Research Excellence Award

 Habana Bay Farming

Dowdens, Innovation and Technology Award

 Ontrack Harvesting

NQ Farmshed, Promising Contributor Award

 Lachlan McLennan

Mackay Sugar, Lifetime Achievement Award

 Charlie McLennan

The recipients of Mackay Sugar’s 2024 Productivity Award stand to inspire and motivate a culture of excellence and innovation within the industry, and highlight the ongoing resilience, ingenuity, and collective efforts of all those involved in Mackay’s sugar cane farming community.

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Mackay Base Hospital has introduced a new cutting-edge medical imaging machine, designed to boost diagnostic services and improve patient outcomes, featuring state-of-the-art technology and artificial intelligence.

The latest advancement to the medical field offers a range of innovative features, including a high speed, high-resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging Machine (MRI), as well as a Computed Tomography machine (CT).

This new technology is said to greatly improve diagnostic quality and help establish accurate and timely diagnoses to inform and guide treatment decisions

“As Imaging becomes an ever-increasing essential tool in clinical practice, it is crucial for the prompt and accurate diagnosis of patients,” Mackay Base Hospital CT Team Leader Ryan Hardy said.

“The new generation MRI and CT will greatly improve the accuracy of screening for diseases, improve diagnostic quality and improve patient experiences.”

A Siemens 3T MAGNETOM Vida MRI machine was installed in September which features revolutionary artificial intelligence to accelerate and enhance performance as well as increase scan speed and resolution.

“This unique technology also features a patient entertainment system with multiple streaming services, offering a more comfortable experience for our patients,” Mackay Base Hospital MRI Team Leader Matthew Agioritis said.

A Siemens SOMATOM Force CT scanner was also installed this month which provides precision imaging with features including dual-source technology and high temporal resolution for superior diagnostic accuracy.

“These machines ensure new levels of image quality, improving clinical outcomes and ultimately, precision medicine,” Mr Hardy said.

“This technology gives us enormous advances in medical imaging which will improve the accuracy of screenings for disease and aids clinicians in diagnosing diseases much earlier.

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By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

The team introducing a new MRI and CT scanner – which is said to improve patient outcomes and ensure precise diagnostic services. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Our beautiful blue water river is now more accessible than ever with the opening of the Pioneer River Floating Pontoon.

The pontoon can be accessed via a gangway from the Brisbane Street fishing pier, next to the Bluewater Quay.

Mackay Regional Council’s Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability, Aletta Nugent, said the pontoon was an exciting part of council’s Mackay Waterfront Riverside Revitalisation project.

“It’s fantastic to have this project reach fruition, thanks to an amazing joint effort by our council project team and contractor SMC Marine,” Ms Nugent said.

“The pontoon will open the river up to recreational and commercial watercraft users, allowing access to load and unload for a day of recreation,” she said.

The pontoon is designed for boating and non-motorised watercraft access, with commercial use by permit only.

Ms Nugent said while anglers could use the pontoon, watercraft would have priority use at all times.

“The Brisbane Street fishing pier, next to the pontoon, is obviously designed for keen fisher people, with artificial reefs sunk immediately in front of it,” Ms Nugent said.

“If anyone does choose to fish off the pontoon, it’s important that they wind in and clear the way for any approaching boats immediately,” she said.

“Our Mackay City and Waterfront team are working with the community and local businesses to roll out placemaking and activation activities across the city centre and waterfront.”

This project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.

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Emergency Services have released devastating information in regards to an investigation of the sudden death of a man, said to be in his 60s, on a private property South of Mackay on March 14.

Around 7.40pm on Thursday night, police responded to reports of a quadbike accident after a motorised bike had rolled down an embankment into a creek at a hobby farm in Koumala.

Police authorities said the man, in his 60’s, was pinned by the bike underwater, concluding that he was unable to reach the surface.

Multiple crews were dispatched to the scene, including a helicopter as they assessed the male patient and tried to revive him.

Authorities said the man had critical injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene a short time later.

Police services will prepare a report for the coroner and are treating the investigation as non-suspicious.

Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones.

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A young girl is in critical condition after paramedics rushed in response to reports of a female in her early teens trapped under a trailer over the weekend.

Emergency services arrived at the scene finding the girl pinned under a horse float trailer on a private property in Glenella around 5pm, on Saturday, March 16.

Paramedics attended to the young girl in a critical condition as she sustained significant head injuries and was taken to Mackay Base Hospital with a critical care paramedic.

The girl remains at Mackay Base Hospital and is now in a stable condition.

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The 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey competition has unveiled three talented youth artist finalists, marking an exciting milestone in showcasing the region's emerging artistic talent.

Representing Sarina, Moranbah, and Mackay respectively, the three finalists have each captured the essence of the Mackay region in their unique designs, highlighting the beauty of the region and connection to the rivers, reef and community.

Linda Murry, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, expressed her enthusiasm for the competition, stating, "We are excited to raise the profile of youth artists within our region, giving them the opportunity to have their artwork featured on about 1,000 cycling jerseys in 2024.

The winner will not only have their artwork featured on this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey on Sunday 1st September but will also take home $500.

The runner up and 3rd place receive $250 and $100 respectively.

“This has been the first year that we have run this competition. Our high school students are so talented, it’s such a privilege for us to be a part of their journey,” said Event Director Nikki Giles.

Voting closes on Sunday 24th March. The winner will be announced on Wednesday 3rd April. The winning jersey can be purchased as part of registering for this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival. All profits from the event and jerseys are distributed to RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

Event Manager, Selena Corness said, “It’s a great opportunity to get their artwork and name out there as an artist on their portfolio for future references.”

For more information about the Youth Design Challenge, visit https://www.river2reefride.com.au.

The BMA River 2 Reef Ride is an annual community cycling event, established in 2011, that brings people together to raise funds for local not-for-profit organisations. The event offers a diverse selection of ride options to accommodate participants of all skill levels, aiming to promote active, healthy living while supporting vital community causes.

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Photo Supplied

Designs from the three finalists representing Sarina, Moranbah and Mackay.

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Mackay Detectives are continuing to appeal for information regarding missing 38-year-old man Scott Billingham after he was reported missing from Mackay earlier this month.

Scott was last seen at an address on Andergrove Road, Andergrove around 4pm on Friday, March 8, and has not been in contact with friends or family since.

Officers and partner agencies have been conducting extensive searches of the area around Andergrove for the past few weeks and are continuing subsequent enquiries this week.

Both police and Scott’s family hold serious concerns for his welfare due to him having a medical condition and the length of time he’s been missing, which continues to be considered out of character.

On Wednesday, Mackay Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Eaton appealed to members of the public who may have any information that could assist, whether it be minor or major, in coming forward.

“Police are seeking information from members of the public who may have seen Scott in the Andergrove area at approximately 5:10pm On Friday, the 8th of March.”

“Police are also seeking people who may have been in the Emperor Drive area between 5pm and midnight that may have dashcam footage or any CCTV footage that covers those surrounding streets.”

“We also know that on the following day, the Saturday the 9th, a male person was seen bathing or swimming in the McCreadys Creek area. Police would like to speak to any people who may have seen that particular person or if that person was you, we would ask you to come forward and notify police so we can rule you out of our investigation.”

Scott’s partner Kylie also appealed today to Mackay locals to help them locate the missing man in any way they can.

“I am begging anyone with any information at all to please come forward to help get him home to me,”

“When Scott went missing, he was wearing his work clothes, which were an orange hi-vis shirt, dark blue utility pants with reflector stripes and beige coloured work boots,”

“Scott has tattoos on the left side of his neck, his right forearm, the left torso/rib area, and the back of both legs.”

Scott is described as Caucasian, around 175cm tall, with a proportionate build and a bald head.

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Image Supplied

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Image of Scott Billingham - if you have seen this man or you have any information about his whereabouts, please contact authorities immediately.

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A 21-year-old Rochyview driver died in car crash in Nebo over the weekend.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a fatal single-vehicle traffic crash in Nebo, on March 13.

Initial investigations indicate the Nissan Navara was travelling on Oxford Downs Sarina Road sometime during the morning, when it veered off the road and hit a tree.

Emergency crews were called around 11am before the 21-year-old Rockyview driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was declared deceased at the scene.

Anyone with information or vision that could assist investigations, is urged to contact police.

To report information, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Reference number: QP2400434028

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Hampden Man Succumbs

To Injuries

A 69-year-old man has passed away following a traffic crash that occurred in Glenella on February 26.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the incident after two vehicles collided at approximately 12.30pm, along the Bruce Highway and Glendaragh Road.

The 69-year-old Hampden man sustained critical injuries and was transported to Mackay Base Hospital.

He was later transferred to Townsville University Hospital where he was later pronounced deceased on March 16.

The driver of the other vehicle, a 53-year-old Calen man, sustained minor injuries.

Any witnesses or anyone with dashcam or CCTV from the area around the time of the incident is urged to contact police.

Reference number: QP2400334190

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Local Year 10 students are showing a big interest in joining the new wave of female tradies as more women take up the tools and follow a trade career, according to statistics recently released by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).   

Twenty students from four local high schools have participated in the all-girls Tradie for a Day workshop delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) with the support of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).

The hands-on workshop hosted by Pioneer State High School gave the students plenty of practical experience as they rotated through a variety of trades-based activities including the use of a virtual welder.  

The workshop brought together a diverse group of keen young women from Pioneer State High School, Mackay Northern Beaches State High School, Mackay State High School, and Sarina State High School 

Pioneer State High School principal, Ms Lisa Veney said the school was proud to host the workshop which highlighted the exciting careers available to young women keen on entering the resources sector.  

“There are a lot of resource-based organisations in the Mackay region and this workshop has revealed the great opportunities available to young women wanting to have a trade career,” said Ms Veney.  

BMA Asset President Adam Lancey said gender diversity and inclusion is critical for the success of all industries.

“We know from our own data that inclusive and diverse teams are safer, more productive and have a stronger culture.

“It’s inspiring to see the industry changing for the better and more women on the tools.

“Workshops like this give us a unique opportunity to engage with young women interested in a career in mining.”

QRC Policy Director for Skills, Education and Diversity, Katrina-Lee Jones said the number of women in trade positions in Queensland’s resources sector had jumped by almost 40 per cent in the last financial year.  

“We are now at a record high of having women employed in 13 per cent of all trade roles in the sector, with 9 out of 10 working in non-administration or clerical roles such as trades, engineering and environmental science,” said Ms Jones.

“I hope today’s workshop experience and engagement with the BMA has inspired the students to pursue their dreams of learning a trade and joining the resources sector.” 

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Skills in Action: Students from local high schools collaborate on trades-based activities at the all-girl Tradie for a Day workshop, supported by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance. Photos supplied

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Born and raised in the Proserpine area, Robert Murolo has spent his entire life in this region. His weekends are filled with outdoor activities like fishing and crabbing, particularly enjoying the thrill of chasing black marlin and other pelagic fish when the weather permits. If he’s not partaking in outdoor adventures, he’s tinkering in the shed or relaxing by the pool at home.

Being a grandparent brings Robert immense joy, and he loves spending time with his 19-month-old granddaughter. Robert has been happily married for 34 years, with one daughter and a granddaughter, and another grandbaby on the way.

Travelling around Australia with close friends has been a cherished part of his life and his career journey has been diverse. He began with a boiler making apprenticeship after leaving school, then spent a decade in the airline industry before transitioning to adult diesel trade, working on machinery such as cane harvesters.

Eventually, he found his passion in real estate, which is where he’s remained for the last 24 years.

Most recently, he was honored with the title of #1 Agent for Queensland and Northern New South Wales for the year of 2023 by Elders.

Robert recalls his most cherished life memories, particularly the profound birth of his daughter, with the addition of his granddaughter and the anticipation of one more grandchild yet to come.

Star Sign: Aries

Fav Movie: ‘The Guns of Navarone’

Fav Colour: Blue

Fav Music Country rock

Fav Quote ‘No rush’ - Same as the name as my boat

Tell Us Something most people don't know about you? I’m a soft gentle person, yes, I’m 6ft3, but I’m soft!

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is a team of locals, dedicated to bringing their unique skills and expertise to assist you in achieving your lifestyle and financial goals, Let's get to know the people "behind the bank" by finding out what attracted them to a career in banking.

Charmaine Matsen, Branch Manager: "Quite by chance, 20 years ago I was doing my banking and the local Manager asked me if I was interested in a role at her branch. Despite having no qualifications, I saw the opportunity to help people and have not looked back since."

Heidi Bartels, Customer Relationship Manager: "I came back from a stint in England on a working visa and needed a job. There was a position advertised for a Casual Teller. 20 years later, banking is a career, not just a job."

Kylie Schulze, Customer Relationship Officer: "I enjoy working in a customer-oriented role and was looking for a career change when the opportunity in banking arose."

Josie Dahtler, Customer Service Officer: "I took a leap into the unknown as a school leaver and found a passion for helping customers at every stage of their life."

Terri Bella, Customer Service Officer: "I needed a change from the dental industry and banking provided the perfect opportunity."

For more than 18 years, Community Bank Sarina has provided banking solutions for individuals and businesses while investing back into the local community. Whether you visit our branch or prefer us to come to you, we can assist you.

If you would like to learn more about how we are here for you come in to see the Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Branch team at 37 Broad Street or call us on 4943 2634 to talk about how we can help

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 Nicolas McDougall , Charmaine Matsen, Heidi Bartels, Sheryl Brown from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied

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For many of us, the challenge to our personal and professional progress is not so much the lack of planning but rather a massive failure to execute. We often lack the courage to act.

Courage to act is being willing to ‘expose’ oneself and set aside the fear of what others think – including being proven wrong, failure, or even success. All this is daunting so the easy option is to maintain the status quo in our careers, and in our lives. When we lack the courage to act, we forego the opportunity to realise our potential.

When I speak with women about their careers, a common theme is lack of courage to act and invest in themselves. Self tends to come last. It’s a ‘play it safe’ approach with a dash of self-sabotage – often unconsciously.

Courage to act means we have to make a conscious decision to face our fears. Easier said than done. I would be considered quite a direct person; however I can think of numerous times when I haven’t been courageous enough to speak up, or follow my own advice. It’s disempowering and demoralising. On the other hand, when I have had the courage to act on something important, it’s energising, builds self-confidence and acknowledges self-worth. Courage feeds our self-respect and respect for others.

Courage to invest in ourselves is the foundation of our wellbeing. It motivates us to engage in new experiences and to keep growing and evolving as a person; and in terms of our careers, stay relevant and propel us to success.

Building our courage starts with small steps – at work it may be a goal to speak up at team meetings, knowing your contribution will add value. Personally it could be signing up for a course you have always wanted to do or rekindling a hobby. I also have witnessed bold courage where women have taken the leap to reinvention - embarking on new careers.

Some may find it useful to engage dedicated support with building courage and engage a coach or mentor. CareerForce Australia can provide that dedicated personal guide - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au to learn more.

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