The Queensland Government has announced $2 million to enhance educational access for Isaac residents living in the heart of coal and agricultural communities.

Thanks to this funding, Isaac Regional Council will establish two Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah, joining 21 other regional communities across Australia.

These centres are strategically designed to bridge the gap between regional students and campus resources.

Students will have access to comprehensive educational support services, including tutoring, counselling, and academic guidance.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said, “As the cost of living continues to rise across the country, leaving home and the regions to access higher education is getting harder. 

“Distance education can be challenging without the right support. This funding is about making sure our potential is not pre-determined by our postcodes.”

Whether students need assistance with coursework or study strategies, the centres will provide a safe and inclusive environment for learning.

“Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah will offer quality facilities, educational support, programming, and social networks for those undertaking university.

“Together we can ensure this access to opportunity is at our doorstep,” Mayor Vea Vea added.
The Isaac Country Universities Centres will bring like-minded students together, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

By studying with a parent education provider while using the regional centres as a campus, students can overcome geographical barriers.

Regional and rural students are currently 20% less likely to seek tertiary education compared to their metropolitan counterparts.

However, the changing job landscape demands that 90% of jobs in the next five years will require some form of degree or qualification.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said that every Queenslander deserves opportunity regardless of where they live.

“This means opportunity to have a safe and secure home, access to quality and safe healthcare, good meaningful employment, and the ability to improve themselves through education.”

The national job shortage has led some individuals to prioritise employment over education.

The Isaac Country Universities Centres aim to reverse this trend by providing accessible educational pathways.

With only 13 per cent of Isaac residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher level of education, there is a clear gap in support for higher education and vocational study in the region.

These study hubs will play a crucial role in addressing this disparity and empowering residents to improve their prospects through education.

Minister for State Development and Infrastructure Grace Grace said, “Earlier this year I was also proud to announce almost $40 million for the Isaac Regional Council to construct the Isaac Resources Centre of Excellence.

“Funded through the Resources Community Infrastructure Fund, this project will help advance technologies in the resources sector and enhance educational opportunities for the region.”
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FAST FACTS
   • Queensland Government to invest $2 million to open Isaac Country Universities Centres in Clermont and Moranbah
   • The centres will provide more opportunities for regional Queenslanders to diversify their skills and reduce the cost of accessing education.
   • Clermont and Moranbah will join a nationwide network of 21 communities across Australia with Country Universities Centres

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea at the announcement that $2 million will be funded by the State Government to enhance educational access for Isaac residents. Photo credit: Isaac Regional Council

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Get ready for ZACH MACH, a multisport event designed for individuals ranging from weekend warriors to elite athletes, spanning from all ages, set amidst the stunning outdoors of Mackay. Rooted in the values of adventure, community, and health, ZACH MACH aims to unite participants in celebrating the spirit of adventure while promoting overall well-being.

This event pays tribute to the vibrant life of Zach Roberts, a remarkable young individual who had a profound love for adventure and people. Zach, cherished as a grandson, son, brother, and former student of Mackay Christian College, tragically lost his life in a traffic accident at the age of 18.

Nikki Giles, Event Manager for ZACH MACH touched on the importance of honouring Zach and his legacy at the multisport event, as participants gear up for 40k’s of mountain bike riding, 10’ks of kayaking, a 10km trail run as well as a 30km cycle to top it off located “in the beautiful Pioneer Valley,” Nikki described.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said “it’s not for the faint hearted, but we have almost 300 competitors this year which is absolutely outstanding.

“It’s about celebrating the beautiful environment we live in and that’s what ZACH MACH does, it compliments what we’ve done for the mountain bike track.

“People from all over Queensland are taking part in ZACH MACH and it’s a stake in the ground for our region,” Mayor Williamson added.

Get ready for an exhilarating, down-and-dirty challenge on May 11th and 12th! Take on nature's hurdles, traverse muddy paths, and dive into the excitement of tackling the elements.

Sign up for the ZACH MACH or MINI MACH Adventure Challenge either solo, as a duo, or in a relay team. Select the stages that resonate with your adventurous spirit, conquer them, and proudly vie for prize money in each stage you undertake. This is your adventure, play by your own rules!

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Get ready to participate in the ZACH MACH challenge in commemoration of Zach Roberts, a cherished former student of Mackay Christian College who passed away at the age of 18. Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara

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From humble beginnings to a creative powerhouse, redhotblue is widely known for their radical thinking and strategic approach to marketing and design which has earned them the Australian Enterprise Awards title of ‘Best Creative Marketing Agency 2024’.

The team, led by Director Jody Euler, said that they were humbled by the recent award win that highlighted their extensive contributions and leadership of the industry over the past 26 years to everyone from small regional businesses through to multi-national organisations.

“We’re beyond grateful to have not only been nominated but having been awarded this incredible title. We truly love what we do, and I couldn’t be prouder of the team I’ve built around me who are the backbone of my business,” said Jody Euler, Director of redhotblue.

One of the standouts against the other nominees was redhotblue’s approach to their work which considers more than just outcomes and primarily focuses on building relationships and staying true to their values-based business model.

“We don’t shy away from honesty and bravery. While that is not always the easy road to take, it has really set us apart from others in the industry and gained us a solid reputation for high standards. It’s a highly competitive space and I have watched several businesses unable to withstand the landscape.

Especially in today’s digital world, the difference in what we offer is our custom and unique approach to our client journey. We get very deep in understanding their goals on a personal level, but also walk them through ideas that they wouldn’t have considered or thought of without us – we offer far more than the usual cookie-cutter approach,” she said.

Over the past 26 years, redhotblue has helped a range of clients, including not-for-profits, government agencies (Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, Queensland Police, Central West Hospital and Health), numerous public health services (see Domestic Violence campaign–featured), professional services from consultants to lawyers and architects, fashion and cosmetic industries, hospitality, engineering, mining and heavy industry, shopping centres, retailers, political campaigns, and everything in between.

Redhotblue has proudly gained the recognition of several prestigious awards over the years, including the more recent Creative Agency of the Year 2023 [Central Queensland] and believed that the industry had advanced by removing the barrier of locality which had expanded their service area and positioned them amongst agencies in major cities.

“When I first opened my doors in 1997, my clients were all word-of-mouth and walk-ins. We are now lucky to have the opportunity to work with clients around the world,” she said.

“This has really changed and progressed the way we operate and opened a whole new world of possibilities for our industry. We’re beyond excited for what the future holds!”

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After spending five years in the far north, Anne Scully has expanded her skills and expertise as an educator. Recently, she has transitioned to the Clinical Excellence Unit at Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), where her focus is now on providing training in rural facilities within the region, following her previous tenure with the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service.

Partner Trevor Wall has also joined her at Mackay Base Hospital (MBH) as the maintenance coordinator for BEMS.

Driven by a passion for adventure, the couple decided to depart from Mackay after dedicating 25 years of service at the Mater Hospital and Base Hospital, heading north to begin a new chapter of their career on Thursday Island.

“Trevor had been up there on a variety bash and was just so impressed by the beauty of Thursday Island,” Anne said, “so when the role of nurse educator was advertised, I jumped at it and we dragged the two boats up north.

“I really grew as an educator working there. I had to work autonomously and was the sole nurse educator but was supported by co-educators for the outer islands,” Anne said.

“I was planning and delivering multiple education programs in the 26-bed hospital as well as all the mandatory and specialised training.

“It was a blessing really as it was a great chance to grow my skills as an educator, but it’s not for everyone.

While registered nurses (RNs) are the backbone of healthcare, nurse educators are the foundation, she said.

Anne takes great pride in instilling in new nurses a better understanding of the healthcare system and their patient’s needs.

She’s looking forward to “jumping in” and supporting the education needs of staff at rural MHHS facilities including Clermont, Moranbah, Bowen, Proserpine and Sarina.

It was the warm community welcome upon arriving in Mackay in 1990 that enticed her to stay and raise her family here. She felt the same coming back to Mackay earlier this year.

“We are back now to be good grandparents. The place has changed but the people are the same,” Anne said.

“Now I’m back, it’s wonderful to see so many of my former nursing students and how they have really grown into their varied nursing careers.”

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Treasured healthcare educator, Anne Scully returns to Mackay after gaining experience in rural facilities within the region. Image Sourced

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A Mackay family has celebrated a remarkable milestone last month as three of its members, spanning two generations, graduated at the CQUniversity Graduation Ceremony.
Mother, Suzanne Francisco, shared the graduation celebrations with her daughter Natasha Otto and son Reece Kinnersly. 
"I am extremely proud of my children and their dedication to their studies,” she said. 
“It's a rare and special moment for our family to witness us graduating together, underscoring the importance of education and perseverance."
Graduating with a Doctor of Education (EdD), Dr Francisco’s aptitude for academia has proven to be a source of inspiration to her children, holding an array of CQUniversity undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications. 
As a CQU alumnus, Dr Francisco previously graduated from a Bachelor of Learning Management (Primary) with Distinction in 2003 and a Master of Learning Management (Special Education) in 2008. 
Following a similar path into the education profession, Natasha graduated with a Masters of Education (Secondary) and a Diploma of Digital media. She also previously completed a Bachelor of Digital Media. 
Further proving the family’s dedication to academic excellence and lifelong learning, Reece also completed a postgraduate qualification, graduating with his Masters of Engineering Management. 
In 2010, the Chartered Engineer completed his Bachelor of Engineering (Co op) Mechanical with First Class Honours and a Diploma of Professional Practice. 
Dr Francisco emphasised their family’s beliefs on the importance of education in shaping the community.
“Both Reece and I are passionate about educating the next generation. In our spare time we have worked as sessional academics at the CQU Ooralea campus," Dr Francisco said. 
“We believe in the power of education to transform lives and uplift communities.” 
Dr Francisco added that her youngest son, Alexander was interested in continuing the family legacy. The current Year 11 student is interested in studying psychology after he graduates high school next year. 
By CQUniversity

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L-R Alexander, Natasha, Suzanne and Reece

Dr Suzanne Francisco accepting her testamur from CQU Chancellor Mr Graeme Innes AM

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Mackay Pet Rescue Inc responded urgently to a distressing call concerning a male duck, known as a drake, found in a dire state at the Gooseponds late last week.
The rescue team arrived with a harrowing sight as blood stained the male duck’s neck and his movements were hindered by evident pain.
Without hesitation, the compassionate team sprang into action and took him under their wing to ensure the best possible outcome for his safety and well-being.
The drake was transported to the teams experienced and beloved carer, Robin Morgan, where she tended to his wounds and provided the duck with the comfort of her safe hands and loving care.
The drake is receiving the attention and treatment necessary for his healing and he is on the road to recovery under the influence of his caretaker, Robin.
Though his path to full health may come with challenges, the commitment of Mackay Pet Rescue Inc ensures that he will have the best chance to recovery under their care.
He will spread his wings once again and return to his home at the familiar waters of the Gooseponds once he has recovered from his injuries.

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Mackay Pet Rescue rescued an injured male duck from the Gooseponds late last week. Photo Credit: Mackay Pet Rescue (Facebook)

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Our Conservation and Communities team work on a wide
range of projects from wetlands to threatened species,
weeds, pests, drought resilience and working with the
Traditional Owners Reference Group.

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The State Government marked Labour Day earlier this week by announcing new workplace entitlements for Queensland public sector workers, including a nation-leading 10 days of reproductive health leave.

The leave can be used for things like fertility and IVF treatment; chronic reproductive health conditions like endometriosis; preventative screening for things like breast and prostate cancers; and other treatments associated with reproductive health like hysterectomies and vasectomies. It will be in place no later than the end of September this year.

The Government will also begin to pay superannuation to those on unpaid parental leave to ensure new parents – and especially women – are not left with gaps in their retirement savings. Currently, superannuation is only paid during periods of paid parental leave.
From July this year, superannuation will be paid for every single week of the entire 52-week period of parental leave for Queensland public sector employees, whether the leave is paid or not.

Premier Steven Miles said it wasn’t good enough that the primary caregiver, predominantly women, are disadvantaged at retirement.

“That’s why my government will begin to pay superannuation to those in the public sector on all parental leave, paid and unpaid, to ensure the ongoing economic security of new parents, especially women,” he said.

“As Queensland’s largest employer, I am proud my government is leading the way when it comes to supporting workers and their families.

“It builds on other nation-leading policies we’ve introduced, like the first paid domestic and family violence leave, which has since been taken up by other employers.”

The 2023 Queensland Gender Equality Report Card shows that the average superannuation balance gap between men and women was 19.8% (2020-21 data) and only 13.9 per cent of Queensland women can rely on their superannuation as their main source of retirement income.

The government said it has no legislative power over the leave and superannuation arrangements of the private sector, but previous government policies – such as the country’s first paid domestic and family violence leave – have been taken up by other employers and in other jurisdictions.

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By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
CANEGROWERS represents the voice of 76% of Mackay Sugar growers. Over 90% in Plane Creek. We’ve been successfully providing stable representation in this region since 1926.

Our members have always had the certainty of a Cane Supply Agreement that has been successfully negotiated and maintained by CANEGROWERS Mackay bargaining representatives. They have the weight of 100 years of experience and the resources to resolve issues arising out of that agreement to the satisfaction of members. We bring that same strength to dealing with any issue from farm gate through to our export markets.

Although giving top-level representation for our growers is our core business, CANEGROWERS is more than grower service and advocacy, it offers opportunities for growers to come together as a community and share ideas and time, whether through branch meetings, shed meetings, or through affiliated groups like CANEGROWERS Network Mackay.

Last week, nine members of CANEGROWERS Network Mackay travelled to Ingham to join around 100 women at the Annual Women in Sugar Australia conference. CANEGROWERS, and the district office CANEGROWERS Herbert River are major sponsors of the event, but it is also a coming together for the women in canefarming, nearly all of whom are also CANEGROWERS members.

It’s important to celebrate and support the community of growers. CANEGROWERS Network meets bi-monthly, and has for many years provided a space for women in farming to expand skills and knowledge as well as connect. They are their own organisation but also a vital part of the fabric of our grower community.

Branch meetings offer a different way for growers to connect. They are held monthly and are open to all members. There are branches at Racecourse, Calen, Marian, Plane Creek (Koumala) and Finch Hatton. Sometimes it’s as simple as a place to get together and discuss matters of growing and cane supply, sometimes it’s a critical rallying point as growers grapple with a major issue. It is the forum for putting forward your point of view.

Branch meetings are a way that issues can travel through from the grassroots membership and be addressed by the appropriate area committee, district board and on into State Policy Council where relevant. It’s a powerfully democratic grassroots model that has a clear flow of communication from grower across the organisation, but it’s also a way of being, a community of growers with common experiences, goals and issues.

We’re all farmers, and we need to stick together, and make sure that the meetings and opportunities happen, where grower families can get together and talk. That means more than just having a district office to go and get help. It's like having common areas where our members can come and have a coffee in the town office. It’s our members knowing that they can come find us at events like the local ag shows, and know they can have a chat, maybe grab a shady seat for a minute.  Our members are the backbone of their own organisation.

For CANEGROWERS Mackay, it’s always more than making sure that growers get a fair deal from millers, from governments, and from other parts of the industry. We are about a structure that supports the community that supports it: that’s how we came together 100 years ago, and we’ve only got better at it.

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Members of CANEGROWERS Network Mackay travelled to the Women in Sugar Australia conference held in Ingham over April 30- May 1.  Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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Mackay Area Committee, with Mackay Sugar CEO Jannik Olejas, touring Marian Mill to view maintenance season works on May 2. Photo credit: Mackay Sugar

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Amidst the rustle of sugarcane fields, a significant agreement was reached on April 30, 2024, between Mackay Sugar and QCAR. This milestone marked the culmination of extensive negotiations, paving the way for a new Cane Supply and Processing Agreement (CSPA) that would govern supplies to Mackay Sugar's three mills in Farleigh, Marian, and Racecourse.

Deliberations spanning multiple meetings led to the formulation of an agreement that granted members of QCAR in the Central Region the authority to operate and supply cane under a distinctive Mackay Sugar/QCAR arrangement. While rooted in the robust framework established by Mackay Sugar with other Bargaining Representatives over the years, this agreement boasted notable additions, signifying a new era of collaboration and cooperation in the sugar industry.

The new agreement sets out a course for how the growth and supply of cane is to take place and observes the ever-changing expectations of consumers and the communities in which we operate.

It is increasingly important to be recognised as ‘environmentally sustainable’ by way of accreditation, holding up the standards which Australian sugar is globally recognised for. 

“It has been crucial to us, as a sugar producer and seller of sugar in global markets, that we have a partner who so clearly states their ambition around sustainable practices” says Brent Casey, Mackay Sugar’s General Manager, Commercial & Agriculture.

QCAR is dedicated to advocating and empowering Queensland agriculture producers by fostering sustainable farming practices for a prosperous future.

QCAR Director and lead negotiator in the Mackay area, Chris Punzell said, “Mackay growers have been eagerly awaiting an alternative cane supply agreement and enhanced grower representation.

“I was confident that this would materialise, and I am delighted that it has become a reality. By listening to the needs of farmers, we have successfully secured this agreement to benefit the farming community.”

QCAR Executive Director, Panikos Spyrou said, “With this agreement, we have provided our growers in the Mackay Region with contractual certainty – however we will, true to our spirit in Securing a Stronger Future, keep looking at ways to amend the CSPA to the benefit of both the growers we represent and the miller with whom we cooperate.

“Joined in this effort with Mackay Sugar we have pinpointed several mutually advantageous improvements to collaborate on for the 2025 crushing season. Interested growers can access these enhancements through QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

The agreement, which comes into force immediately, is in principle of a four-year rolling agreement that ensures stability and certainty for both growers and miller.

Mackay Sugar CEO, Jannik Olejas expressed his appreciation of the work done by saying, “I commend all parties involved in the constructive discussions that have led to this first agreement between Mackay Sugar and QCAR. We do acknowledge the innovative and open-mindedness that we have been met with and look forward to working together to ensure we have a relevant and balanced agreement in place at all times.”

Also in recent QCAR news, Panikos Spyrou, the Executive Director of QCAR, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Stephen Ryan's appointment as CEO, following the QCAR board's approval of his proposal.

The former CEO said, “I'm excited to have the opportunity to focus more intently on strategic initiatives and the specialised work I undertake for QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

“This shift allows me the flexibility to engage in additional activities outside the realm of QCAR's operations.”

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(L-R): QCAR Member Tony Bugeja, Mackay Sugar Limited CEO Jannik Olejas (standing), QCAR Director and Lead negotiator Chris Punzell

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Indulge Mum in a thrilling day at the races this Mother's Day weekend! The Amateurs Race Day promises an unforgettable experience of live local racing, vibrant Fashions on the Field, and an atmosphere buzzing with excitement on Saturday, May 11. Immerse yourselves in the glamour of trackside festivities. Sip champagne at the exclusive Champagne Bar or revel in the excitement from the Winning Post Trackside Marquee. For a more intimate affair, opt for a private Marquee or embrace the lively ambience of General Admission. Treat Mum to a day filled with thrills, laughter, and the joy of shared moments at the races.
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Morning Tea, Hoy, and Mini Cent Sale
Come and celebrate Mother's Day with the Calen QCWA ladies. Enjoy a wonderful Morning tea followed by Hoy and a Mini Cent Sale on Wednesday, May 15 at 120 McIntyre Street, Calen. $10.00 admission for a 9.30am start.
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Markets For Mum
Treat Mum to a delightful day out at the Eungella Community Markets, a vibrant showcase of local talent and produce. Indulge in a home-style brunch, sip on barista coffee, and explore an array of unique stalls offering everything from handmade crafts to artisan body soaps. With family-friendly picnic areas and a bustling atmosphere, it's the perfect setting for a relaxed Sunday outing. Join us in celebrating community spirit and the memory of Ruth Micallef. Sunday, May 12. 9am – 1pm.
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Paint N Sip
"Generations Painting: A Mother's Day Celebration" at Northern Beaches Bowls Club promises delightful family memories. Join a Bottletops & Brushes' artist for step-by-step guidance in recreating a beautiful painting together. Indulge in a delectable High Tea Buffet and enjoy bubbly drinks upon arrival to set the festive mood. Sunday, May 12, from 2:30pm.

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Mother's Day is a time to honour and appreciate the incredible women in our lives who have nurtured, guided, and loved us unconditionally. While spoiling your mum on this special day might sound like an expensive endeavour, it doesn't have to break the bank.
Firstly, consider the power of heartfelt gestures. A handwritten letter expressing your love and gratitude can mean more to your mum than any expensive gift. Take the time to reminisce about cherished memories, recount moments that have shaped your relationship, and share your hopes for the future. Your words will undoubtedly touch her heart and create a lasting memory.
Offer to cook her favourite meal or prepare a homemade brunch complete with her favourite snacks. Not only will this show your appreciation for her, but it will also give her a well-deserved break and some much-needed relaxation time.
Pro Tip – There are a range of lovely local establishments offering Mother’s Day menus and high teas. Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant and The Eight are affordable places to dine on a budget. If you’re looking for a special high tea or picnic, check out Vintage Farmhouse Kitchen.
Get creative with DIY gifts that are both thoughtful and affordable. Put together a personalised photo album filled with pictures of special moments you've shared together. You could also create a scrapbook, hand-painted mug, or custom candle using materials you already have at home. These handmade gifts add a personal touch and demonstrate the effort and thought you've put into making Mother's Day special.
Pro Tip – If creating a gift isn’t your thing, reach out to the talented team at Cherish Hampers. These unique hampers are individualised with lush goodies Mum is sure to love.
Plan a day of quality time together without spending a dime. Take a leisurely stroll in the park, have a picnic in the backyard, or embark on a scenic hike. Engage in activities that your mum enjoys, whether it's crafting, gardening, or simply relaxing with a good book. The key is to focus on spending time together and creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Consider DIY spa treatments at home. Set up a relaxing atmosphere with scented candles, soothing music, and fluffy towels. Treat her to a homemade facial mask using ingredients from your kitchen, such as honey, yogurt, or oatmeal. You could also give her a manicure or foot soak to help her unwind and feel rejuvenated.
Surprise your mum with breakfast in bed, a bouquet of handpicked flowers, or a heartfelt playlist of her favourite songs. Don't underestimate the power of simple gestures that show your thoughtfulness and appreciation.
Spoiling your mum on a budget is all about creativity, thoughtfulness, and quality time together. Remember, it’s often the little things that mean the most and leave a lasting impression.

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Amidst the rustle of sugarcane fields, a significant agreement was reached on April 30, 2024, between Mackay Sugar and QCAR. This milestone marked the culmination of extensive negotiations, paving the way for a new Cane Supply and Processing Agreement (CSPA) that would govern supplies to Mackay Sugar's three mills in Farleigh, Marian, and Racecourse.

Deliberations spanning multiple meetings led to the formulation of an agreement that granted members of QCAR in the Central Region the authority to operate and supply cane under a distinctive Mackay Sugar/QCAR arrangement. While rooted in the robust framework established by Mackay Sugar with other Bargaining Representatives over the years, this agreement boasted notable additions, signifying a new era of collaboration and cooperation in the sugar industry.

The new agreement sets out a course for how the growth and supply of cane is to take place and observes the ever-changing expectations of consumers and the communities in which we operate.

It is increasingly important to be recognised as ‘environmentally sustainable’ by way of accreditation, holding up the standards which Australian sugar is globally recognised for. 

“It has been crucial to us, as a sugar producer and seller of sugar in global markets, that we have a partner who so clearly states their ambition around sustainable practices” says Brent Casey, Mackay Sugar’s General Manager, Commercial & Agriculture.

QCAR is dedicated to advocating and empowering Queensland agriculture producers by fostering sustainable farming practices for a prosperous future.

QCAR Director and lead negotiator in the Mackay area, Chris Punzell said, “Mackay growers have been eagerly awaiting an alternative cane supply agreement and enhanced grower representation.

“I was confident that this would materialise, and I am delighted that it has become a reality. By listening to the needs of farmers, we have successfully secured this agreement to benefit the farming community.”

QCAR Executive Director, Panikos Spyrou said, “With this agreement, we have provided our growers in the Mackay Region with contractual certainty – however we will, true to our spirit in Securing a Stronger Future, keep looking at ways to amend the CSPA to the benefit of both the growers we represent and the miller with whom we cooperate.

“Joined in this effort with Mackay Sugar we have pinpointed several mutually advantageous improvements to collaborate on for the 2025 crushing season. Interested growers can access these enhancements through QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

The agreement, which comes into force immediately, is in principle of a four-year rolling agreement that ensures stability and certainty for both growers and miller.

Mackay Sugar CEO, Jannik Olejas expressed his appreciation of the work done by saying, “I commend all parties involved in the constructive discussions that have led to this first agreement between Mackay Sugar and QCAR. We do acknowledge the innovative and open-mindedness that we have been met with and look forward to working together to ensure we have a relevant and balanced agreement in place at all times.”

Also in recent QCAR news, Panikos Spyrou, the Executive Director of QCAR, expressed his enthusiasm regarding Stephen Ryan's appointment as CEO, following the QCAR board's approval of his proposal.

The former CEO said, “I'm excited to have the opportunity to focus more intently on strategic initiatives and the specialised work I undertake for QCAR,” Mr Spyrou said.

“This shift allows me the flexibility to engage in additional activities outside the realm of QCAR's operations.”

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(L-R): QCAR Member Tony Bugeja, Mackay Sugar Limited CEO Jannik Olejas (standing), QCAR Director and Lead negotiator Chris Punzell

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With a rise in viral and bacterial respiratory infections and deaths, it makes sense to vaccinate, yet many of us don’t! This Cold and Flu season is meant to be a coming together of various infections such as the usual suspects - Influenza, COVID of course (it isn’t going away as we now have a new one - XBB). Plus, some newcomers such as RSV which used to be only seen in kiddies under two mainly. And a rise again in the old foes such as Whooping Cough and a resurgence of Diphtheria.
So why you may ask do people resist getting vaccinated? Here are a few reasons.
   1. VACCINE FATIGUE We are all sick of getting them especially after all the COVID boosters.
   2. DISTRUST Some people have grown rightly or wrongly to distrust vaccines due to social media hype and confusing health messages around COVID and previously the MMR vaccine for children which has been thoroughly disproven to cause Autism.
   3. CAUSE ILLNESS However, a response if you have a vaccine of a high temp, runny nose etc shows your immune system is responding well. Also, in the cough and cold season you could already have a virus brewing, and then have a Flu shot and blame the vaccination. It's only a portion of the strains of flu and all dead so it can’t make you get the Flu!
   4. TOO BUSY Our lives are so full, that doing preventative health activities including seeing the GP or Pharmacists for a vaccination is low on the priority list.
   5. CONFUSION What should you be getting and when? Flu annually, Covid when new boosters come out, and then 10 yearly it’s the Tetanus, Diphtheria, Whooping Cough Vaccines, and Shingles after 50 if you had chicken pox as a child and many more examples.
   6. UNAWARE A teen or at the young adult stage doesn’t have it on their radar, they were told or made to have immunisations by parents, or school etc.
   7. UNSAFE There are always stories on the news or social media where a rare side effect has occurred from a vaccine. However, most people don’t put in perspective that it’s much more dangerous just driving daily.
   8. PERSONAL Other reasons exist too of course.
So, what is the answer?  In my humble opinion I believe ‘Knowledge is Power’ – so become an expert - this website has all the reputable studies and explanations you will ever need. That way you can decide for yourself or raise questions with your GP and ultimately protect yourself, your loved ones and those who can’t be immunised in the community.
After all, prevention is better than cure!
https://www.science.org.au/education/immunisation-climate-change-genetic-modification/science-immunisation
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Yours in Good Health
Dr Mags Swenson

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Shane Webcke will be in the Sarina region this June, sharing the highs and lows of his illustrious career on the football field (including the Brisbane Broncos!), and of his life now as a farmer, family man, businessman, author, news presenter and guest speaker.

At the peak of his rugby league career, Shane was renowned as one of the best front rowers in the world. He represented Queensland on 24 occasions and represented Australia in 26 tests. He played for the Brisbane Broncos for 12 years and was named the Daly M Prop of the Year three times.

Shane swears he is “still a Bronco through and through”, having taken his work ethic from the football field to his farm in Southern Queensland, where he balances family life with his wife and three children, alongside his professional career behind the news desk at Seven.

Appearing as the keynote speaker for Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s community dinner to celebrate 19 years in business on June 8, Shane will share his knowledge, passion, and experience, and how resilience and sense of community have been shaped by personal loss and hardship.

Having tragically lost his father in a workplace incident when he was just 18, this experience instilled Shane with the importance of developing personal resilience.

“I had just started my professional football career when the news (of my father’s passing) meant my world had been ripped apart.”

“I share my passion and experience with many audiences across Queensland and Australia, in the hope it will motivate others,” Mr. Webcke said.

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Don’t miss this opportunity to see Shane Webcke in person at the Celebration of Community Anniversary Dinner, tickets close May 12 – visit bit.ly/communitydinner2024 to book today.

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