Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The photo of the week winner is Elise Dunckis for the theme ‘Off the Beaten Track’. Elise’s photo is of a night under the stars which, was taken in Morgan, South Australia. Next week’s theme is ‘Vintage’. Budding Photographers can enter by joining the Whitsunday’s Amateur Photographers group on Facebook. Contributed by Whitsunday Amateur Photographers
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Residents of the Greater Whitsunday Region are no stranger to the burden of box jellyfish. They have no brain; they pose a deadly threat and have been nearly impossible to detect in the water – at least until now. Growing up in Bowen, Dr Scott Morrissey’s passion for marine life was fostered by the town’s beautiful beaches and the opportunities they provided for underwater exploration. “I spent as much time as I possibly could underwater. I wanted to learn as much as I could about what I was seeing,” Scott said. With a robust education courtesy of Bowen State High School, Scott was able to foster his passion for marine life. Hig “Chemistry is okay but it’s like cooking to me. Physics was too much math. Biology was what I really enjoyed. It’s about building an understanding of how everything works together and why things are happening in the environment. It’s great learning biology because you can go outside and apply what you’ve learnt immediately. It definitely resonated with me.” Scott’s classic North Queensland grievances towards the threat of box jellyfish influenced a unique study path that eventually led him to producing groundbreaking research. “Box jellyfish are a huge pain in the backside, especially in summertime when you want to snorkel. The more I looked into jellyfish, the more I realised we actually know very little about them considering the threat they pose. So thought it would be a pretty cool place to start asking questions.” Following his undergrad studies at James Cook University in Townsville, Scott pursued further studies through a PhD leading to monumental research breakthroughs in the realm of jellyfish. “Jellyfish are basically invisible in the water. We know very little about what causes them to appear, when they’re going to appear and how many of them will be there. I wanted to try and create a new way to be able to detect them.” Scott applied general characteristics of biology to investigate the phenomena further. “When animals move through an environment, they leave behind their DNA in the form of things like skin, snot or blood. It’s like how forensic scientists scan for DNA at a crime scene. Our method is quite similar. We take two litres of water and filter it down, leaving us with a soup of DNA that’s been left behind by all animals in the area. We search through that and look to see if there is any jellyfish DNA and we use that as a means of detection.” This research will aid in risk management and monitoring safety around beaches. “The more we understand about them and what they’re doing – the better equipped we are to assess and manage risk. With normal species there is so much information related to population figures and movement that we don’t have with jellyfish. If we’re able to fill in that gap of knowledge, then we will have a complete understanding so that we can actually forecast likelihood of jellyfish in the area with greater accuracy.” The research is will also have broader application on both national and international levels. “We’ve been working with another group in Western Australia. They also have really nasty Irukandji jellyfish that love to sting tourists. We’ve been able to apply the technology to that species and it’s starting to be picked up internationally. There’s work being done in Thailand. The hope is we can continue the research and start looking at things such as are box jellyfish moving South.” Scott shows no signs of slowing down as he continues to consolidate his work. “I would love to be able to conduct our lab work on site to reduce delays. If we can test the water straight away, then we can get an answer on site in three hours as opposed to the three to four days it would take in a lab. I would love to get the process down to an hour or even 45 minutes. It would be great to even develop some sort of user-friendly tool that anyone could use.” Scott expressed gratitude to the support he’d received for his work. “I need to say thanks to Lions Australia, they fund 99% if this research.” The Bowen and greater Whitsunday community look upon Dr Morrissey with pride and keenly anticipate the amazing work he will no doubt continue to do. Captions Scott AKA Dr Morrissey – hard at work. Photo supplied
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ANZAC Day is one of the most important days on our calendar as a time for us, as a community, to pause, reflect and come together. Across the Whitsundays, services will be held in towns and communities from Bowen to Proserpine, Airlie Beach to Collinsville, and in our smaller rural areas. These gatherings are a chance for all of us to stand side by side and honour those who have served our nation and those who never returned. As Mayor, I have the privilege of representing our community at these services, but ANZAC Day belongs to everyone. It belongs to the families who have carried the legacy of service through generations. It belongs to the veterans who continue to serve our community in different ways. And it belongs to every resident who takes a moment to remember the sacrifices that have shaped the freedoms we enjoy today. Here in the Whitsundays, service and sacrifice are not distant concepts, they are part of our local story. From Gallipoli to the Western Front, from the Pacific to more recent conflicts, generations of Australians have answered the call to serve including men and women from right here in our region. This year, we also recognise the theme “Women in Service” acknowledging the vital role women have played, and continue to play, in defending our nation and supporting our communities. Among them are people like Commander Natasha Burney, who has ties to the Whitsunday community and served in Afghanistan — a reminder that the ANZAC spirit lives on in people from communities just like ours. Their stories remind us that the ANZAC spirit is not something distant, it is part of who we are as a community. ANZAC Day is also about connection. Standing shoulder to shoulder at a dawn service. Watching the march. Sharing a quiet moment with family, friends and neighbours. These traditions matter. They ensure that the service and sacrifice of past and present servicemen and women is never forgotten and that future generations understand the cost of the freedoms we often take for granted. Bring your family. Bring your children. Help pass on the meaning of this day to the next generation. Because remembrance is not just about looking back, it’s about ensuring those stories and values continue into the future. This ANZAC Day, let’s stand together as a community, united in respect and gratitude. Lest we forget.
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Last week, the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry represented the region’s business community at a roundtable with the Queensland Minister for Small and Family Business, Steve Minnikin, alongside the Queensland Small Business Commissioner, Queensland Cross-Border Commissioner, peak state and national industry bodies, and regional Chambers of Commerce. The roundtable provided an important opportunity for knowledge exchange, bringing forward real-world examples and discussing targeted, practical interventions to address both the short- and long-term impacts of the current fuel situation. The Chamber’s focus was clear: ensuring a strong regional perspective was part of the conversation. Being at the table means more than representation, it’s about shaping outcomes. By engaging directly with decision-makers, the Chamber ensures local priorities are heard, understood, and acted upon for the benefit of the entire Whitsundays community. Chamber President Allan Milostic said it was critical the region remains at the forefront of discussions. “These conversations are where real advocacy begins. Being part of these discussions ensures the concerns of our region are not only heard but can be elevated at both state and federal levels where decisions are made,” he said. Data from Business Chamber Queensland highlights the scale of the issue, with 95% of Queensland businesses reporting impacts, and more than 70% experiencing major or severe challenges. Allan said the situation is rapidly escalating for regional communities. “We are hearing from businesses experiencing supply chain challenges more significant than those during COVID lockdowns. Flights into the region are being reduced, impacting both tourism and freight. At the same time, consumer confidence is being reported lower than during COVID, affecting discretionary spending and travel commitments, with a noticeable shift toward online purchasing,” he said. “The high cost of living and high cost of doing business existed before the fuel crisis, they are now being amplified.” Locally, the impacts are being felt across all sectors, with flow-on effects for businesses, workers, and the broader community. The Chamber is encouraging practical, community-led responses: Shop local first to keep the regional economy viable. Take a measured approach to fuel purchasing to avoid unnecessary strain on supply. Maintain critical services such as public and school bus networks. Support young people, trainees, and apprentices to access transport to work. For businesses to seek professional financial advice and be cautious of predatory lending or quick loan offers. The Chamber is also reinforcing key advocacy priorities, including: Fuel security — addressing both pricing and supply, including sovereign capability and international supply chains, to ensure certainty for agriculture, tourism, health, and transport sectors. Access to reliable, real-time information — including clear, centralised public reporting to support informed decision-making at a regional level. Have Your Say To strengthen its advocacy, the Chamber is calling on regional businesses to share their experiences. Businesses are invited to complete a short survey to help inform ongoing advocacy efforts and ensure the real impacts of the fuel crisis are clearly communicated to all levels of government. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry
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A single varroa mite has been found in a sentinel beehive at the Port of Brisbane after a routine inspection by Biosecurity Queensland.
Diagnostic testing has confirmed the mite is Varroa jacobsoni – not Varroa destructor.
Secondary testing is now being conducted to determine if the mite is carrying any exotic viruses of honeybees or if any other exotic bee pests are present.
Biosecurity Queensland is undertaking tracing activities to identify the potential source and likelihood of spread.
Surveillance is being conducted in conjunction with the Queensland bee industry and the Australian Government to determine if there are any more varroa mites in the surrounding area.
As a precautionary measure, a movement control order (MCO) is now in place to prevent any potential spread.
Movement restrictions apply to all beekeepers who have hives in or have had hives in the surrounding localities to the Port of Brisbane within the past 90 days.
Restrictions apply to the movement of bees, bee hives, bee products and used bee keeping equipment.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said, “Any new incursion of varroa mites is concerning, even if this particular detection is Varroa jacobsoni rather than Varroa destructor.
“Incidents like this one are why these surveillance hives are in key sites like the Port of Brisbane. This shows that our biosecurity systems are working, and the importance of early surveillance so we can respond swiftly,” Mr Furner said.
“Queensland is no stranger to a Varroa jacobosni incursion and has successfully eradicated this pest in Townsville in 2016, 2019, and 2020.”
“It is vital that beekeepers abide by the control order restrictions and follow the advice of Biosecurity Queensland.”
Queensland Beekeepers Association president Jacob Stevens said, “The Queensland Beekeepers’ Association Inc is in position and ready to provide meaningful support to our impacted beekeepers in the movement control zones.
“In recent years we’ve provided our expertise and technical knowledge to Biosecurity Queensland to deliver successful eradications of mites detected in Queensland,” Mr Stevens said.
“Queensland has a history of exotic incursions and the QBA is confident our beekeepers will rise to the challenge acting on our call to action to undertake varroa mite surveillance immediately, reporting all results to Bee 123.”
Both Varroa jacobsoni and Varroa destructor are classified as prohibited matter under the Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014. If found or suspected, they must be reported immediately to Biosecurity Queensland.
Beekeepers must also notify Biosecurity Queensland of any hive movements in or out of the movement control area or any bees bought or sold in the last 90 days.
Report varroa mite to Biosecurity Queensland online or by calling 13 25 23.
Biosecurity Queensland is contacting registered beekeepers inside that zone, but anyone unsure of what the control order requires of them is urged to contact the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on 13 25 23 before moving any items.
What Beekeepers Can Do:
All Queensland beekeepers are urged to:
• continue monitoring hives for varroa mite using the alcohol wash method (at least every 16 weeks)
• report your hive check using the quick and easy Bee 123 form, even if you do not find any suspect mites
• immediately report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, bees with parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecurity Queensland
• keep your contact details and apiary sites up to date and renew your biosecurity entity registration when due
• keep accurate and up to date records of hive movements, hive checks, and any bees bought or sold
• keep up to date with the relevant state authority for movement requirements before entering or leaving the state
• report sightings of Asian honey bees, feral nests/swarms or hives showing symptoms of exotic pests to Biosecurity Queensland
• find out more about varroa mite.
Sugarcane’s potential as a renewable source of bioenergy, biofuel and bioproducts continues to grow through the concept of the circular bioeconomy.
Queensland Cane Agriculture & Renewables (QCAR) Director Russell Hall believes the sugarcane to be the only 100% renewable energy source.
“We cut it and from the day it starts growing again, it’s creating oxygen and natural capital on your farm and its producing natural energy,” he said.
“Once harvested, it joins the process of fuel, power, plastic, milk, oil, burning modules, it just becomes a whole array of green energy.”
Through the circular bioeconomy, sugarcane can fuel and power the future by utilising existing sugarcane land for sugar production while converting sugarcane waste into bioenergy, biofuel and bioproduct.
QCAR’s commitment to renewables and sustainable agriculture is also seen as a vital opportunity for the industry to capitalise on sugarcane’s unique composition as the globe makes strides in its mission to decarbonise.
Mr Hall recognised the potential for the Mackay region and beyond to participate in this shift by establishing itself as a bioeconomy hub through expansion of land and infrastructure.
“We can be part of the process and get ourselves into the grid by whole crop harvesting, then buy the power, fuel and fertiliser back,” he said.
“There’s the first part which is the sugar and molasses process, but if it’s got organic nitrogen, green power and biodiesel or bioethanol, then all of a sudden, that sugar becomes 100% net zero sugar.
“We’re good for the reef, good for the economy and good for the environment, we tick all the boxes.”
This opportunity for the sugarcane industry is seen as a positive for not only farmers and growers, but also for the communities that thrive on the industry.
“The jobs in other renewables are non-existent, whereas sugar mills employ up to 200 people,” Mr Hall said.
“It will expand the industry because, all of a sudden, you’re not sending in 8 million tonne of cane, you’re sending in 12-14 million tonnes of biomass.
“You’re going to building more factories.
“Instead of losing our families, I think there’s enough money in this sort of system to keep young people in the towns.
“The whole community can prosper, whether as a part of it or as a shareholder or even just the supply of cheaper energy and cheaper fuel.
“There’s huge potential for the economy, we’ve just got to have a proactive government on board.”
Mr Hall believes this increased demand will require sugarcane to be cut year-round, seeing a return to Monday to Friday crushing which will again benefit communities and the families who call them home.
“We all know cane is like grass, we don’t have to wait until it gets to 60-70 tonnes to the acre, you can cut it every six months,” he said.
“We want it to be ongoing, Monday to Friday, so when the sun is shining, we can be harvesting cane as a biomass.”
“QCAR is willing to work with incumbent sugar millers to push the concept of a circular bioeconomy.”
Caption: QCAR Director Russell Hall believes the sugarcane to be the only 100% renewable energy source
Local pet rescue carers got a snappy surprise visit from a young crocodile lovingly named "Fluffy" by a witty foster carer. Robin and Ros were stunned to encounter the crocodile casually sitting on Golf Links Road late last week.
The young croc was said to be approximately two metres in length and was reportedly healthy looking.
Despite the initial shock, they managed to snap a quick photo before the croc slipped back into the water and vanished. This unexpected sighting occurred as they were returning home after a day of rescue and vet visits. Given the proximity to a popular fishing spot, residents are urged to remain vigilant, especially with children or pets such as cats and dogs.
Ainslie Langdon from Northern Wildlife Operations shares her advice on how to remain croc safe, stating, “We just ask the public to maintain croc wise behaviour and try and stay five meters back from the edge of water-bodies.”
Appropriate authorities were notified, but it's essential for residents to exercise extra caution, particularly near local fishing spots as well as mangrove areas and take appropriate safety measures when near waterways.
Warning signs have now been put up in the Golf Links area and wildlife professionals urge the community to contact authorities to report a future sighting.
This incident serves as a reminder that crocodiles can appear anywhere in our croc country, including suburban areas like Mackay. By remaining vigilant and taking appropriate precautions, residents can minimise the risk of encounters with these reptiles and ensure the safety of the community.
Caption: Young Crocodile named fluffy, said to be approximately two meters in length, spotted near the Mackay Golf Course on Golf Links Road. Photo credit: Mackay Pet Rescue
Sandra Hubner is the co-owner and administration manager at Get It Done Training PTY LTD. She plays a vital role in empowering individuals to unlock their full potential, with a focus on positivity and encouragement.
Sandra is well-known in the community for her support and dedication to helping others thrive. In her position, Sandra works tirelessly to guide individuals towards realising their capabilities and achieving their goals. Whether it's through sales strategies or administrative duties, she approaches her work with a passion for making a difference in people's lives.
When it comes to her experience with dancing, Sandra's favourite moments revolve around her interactions with her dance instructor, Dolly. She cherishes the opportunity to learn from Dolly and appreciates the supportive environment she fosters. As for the most difficult aspect of her dance journey, Sandra humorously admits that, it's all challenging.
“I am probably one of her challenging students,” she said.
Despite struggles on the dancefloor at times, Sandra embraces the journey with enthusiasm.
“It's an opportunity to step into the spotlight, not just as a business leader, but as a mother, to demonstrate the importance of community engagement, lifelong learning, and supporting causes that touch our hearts.”
Beyond her professional and dance endeavours, Sandra holds a deep appreciation for the work of the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Recognising the foundation's significant contributions to the community. Sandra highly values their efforts in supporting individuals and families during times of need.
“The Mackay Hospital Foundation do a lot of amazing things for our community and the team have always been great to engage with.”
Most would know Jay Shipston in the Mackay and Whitsundays community for his cultivating, enthusiastic voice as one half of the dynamic Triple M Breakfast Show.
Beginning his career over a decade ago in 2007, Jay has cemented himself as a familiar voice in the community, providing a lively start to each day with his witty banter and infectious energy, brightening up mornings, making people laugh and keeping listeners entertained.
When it comes to dance moves, Jay's favourites are the ones that come naturally to him. He admits that the easier moves tend to be his preference, with a laugh indicating that he may not be the most skilled dancer when it comes to more complex routines.
“The harder ones, are not my favourite ones,” he says.
Despite the ‘full on’ routine, Jay is embracing the opportunity to learn new dance routines, finding enjoyment in the process even when it proves to be more intense than expected.
Beyond his on-air persona, Jay's admiration for the Mackay Hospital Foundation reflects his deep-rooted commitment to giving back to the community. He recognises the invaluable support the foundation provides to local families in need and wholeheartedly supports their endeavours.
Through his radio show, community involvement, and charitable efforts, Jay uses his platform to entertain, inspire, and make a positive impact on the lives of those around him.
“I love how much the Mackay Hospital Foundation do for the community, and it fits in with my love of the community. They work so hard for families in our region,” he said.
In a significant development for the tourism sector in the Mackay Isaac region, Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) has announced the appointment of Jeff Stewart-Harris PSM as its interim CEO. The move follows the resignation of outgoing CEO, Al Grundy, who has played a pivotal role in facilitating the transition.
Effective March 4th, Mr Stewart-Harris steps into the role of interim CEO with a wealth of experience garnered from his extensive tenure in various organisations across the Greater Whitsunday region since 1999. Notably, Stewart-Harris served as the Chief Executive Officer of Isaac Regional Council, and from former positions brings with him a profound understanding of infrastructure, planning, regional and economic development, community engagement, as well as port, airport, and transport sectors.
Described as a strategic thinker and courageous leader, Stewart-Harris is deeply committed to the prosperity of regional areas, viewing them as the driving force behind the nation's success. His leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that sustainable futures for regions and communities are forged through robust social and economic performance, emphasising the importance of challenging conventional wisdom to achieve these goals.
"I am honoured to step into this role and build upon the strong foundation laid by Mr. Grundy," Stewart-Harris remarked.
"My focus will be on maintaining the momentum and continuing the excellent work done by MIT in promoting our region as a premier tourism destination."
In addition to Stewart-Harris's appointment, MIT has enlisted the expertise of Tonia Wilson from Wilson's Consulting Services as a project coordinator. Wilson will play a crucial role in spearheading key initiatives, including the development and implementation of a comprehensive cruise ship strategy aimed at enhancing tourism opportunities in the region.
Caption: Jeff Stewart-Harris PSM. Photo credit: Isaac Regional Council
Nothing beats being able to say: ‘I am fully qualified’ - and that’s what Courtney and Lauren can now do, after completing their Hairdressing Apprenticeships, with the support of scholarships from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.
After successfully applying for and receiving Apprenticeship Scholarships in 2019 and 2020 respectively, Courtney Kennedy and Lauren Head both went on to find their footing in the hairdressing industry and have flourished, attributing their success to supportive workplaces and the extra professional growth and networking opportunities they received as part of their scholarships.
If you are first year apprentice in 2024 and undertaking your training with CQUniversity, you could apply for one of two (2) Apprenticeship scholarships, applications closing on 31 March. If you are starting your studies in one of the following fields, you are encouraged to apply: Engineering & Technology, Building & Construction, Electrical, Manufacturing Engineering & Technology, Hairdressing, Horticulture or Mechanical.
There are also two (2) $9000 Higher Education Scholarships for those starting a Bachelor degree in 2024, in selected fields.
Courtney Kennedy said she would “most definitely encourage those starting a degree or apprenticeship to apply”, and that the Community Bank Sarina scholarship provided her with “multiple opportunities in the hairdressing community”.
“Hairdressing is a forever changing industry, and this scholarship allowed me to stay educated on the latest trends and have all the correct tools needed to excel in my career.
“Since completing my apprenticeship, I have now stepped up to be the 2IC of our beautiful salon and have an amazing full clientele,” Ms Kennedy said.
Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said she encouraged this year’s new students to invest in themselves and not to underestimate their potential.
“We encourage all eligible students and apprentices throughout the Mackay region to apply, as scholarships not only open doors regardless of background or circumstance, they also enable students to study and work close to home.
“The achievements of Courtney and Lauren are a great example of the potential for success when students are given the right mentoring and opportunities to pursue their goals, and the vital role that scholarships play in fostering local talent in our region, across many different industries.”
Community Bank Sarina has partnered with CQUniversity since 2012 to offer scholarships, reducing the need for students to travel for secondary education, providing a chance to stay local and actively contribute to our economy and communities.
CQUniversity Scholarships – applications close 31 March
There are two (2) $6000 Apprenticeship scholarships and two (2) $9000 Higher Education scholarships available to apply for now. These scholarships can assist with costs associated with studying and provide invaluable connections within local industries.
To find out more and apply, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au or call 0435 537 012.
Caption (L-R) Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May, Courtney Kennedy, Lauren Head and Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich
Join the Sarina Sugar Shed for a special St Patrick's Day cocktail masterclass on Saturday 16th March from 4.30pm, 'cos even leprechauns love rum!
Experience all the shenanigans of the sweet masterclasses with a touch of Irish charm, including a unique green cocktail that the team is concocting!
It will be loads of fun...to be sure, to be sure!
Bookings are essential! Visit the website at www.sarinasugarshed.com.au and click on the Book Now button.
A group of intelligent young men are the graduates of the RAGE program from last term.
They now meet fortnightly with Youth Support Coordinators (YSC) Heidi & Chaplain Ben to connect with one another and discuss daily life, the grind and all things in between as they uplift each other in support.
This group aims to break the stigma of talking about mental health and throughout the program, the boys have had the opportunity to hear from local positive male mentors and be trained up to become co-facilitators of the RAGE program.
This week the boys had the pleasure of connecting with Marmin Barba who shared his story and provided some encouraging words of wisdom to motivate the boys to continue showing up, not only for each other but for themselves, prompting healthy mindsets and habits.
Caption: The resilient faces representing the Male Youth Connect Group
Straun is a year 7 ambitious student who has been given a once in a lifetime opportunity to take his passion and skills to a competition in Melbourne to compete for the National team for Karate! With Tokyo World Championships coming up in October, Sarina State High School along with the region wishes Straun all the very best for selection.
Caption: year 7 student, Straun ready to compete for the National team for karate in Melbourne this weekend. Photos supplied: Sarina State High School
Just weeks after news of a sharp national spike in asthma deaths – with South Australia recording the highest increase in a single year (88%) – scientists have revealed a promising new treatment for the chronic lung disease.
Australian researchers have found that a family of proinflammatory molecules called beta common cytokines control inflammation and scarring of the airways (fibrosis) in severe and steroid-resistant asthma.
They believe that a human therapeutic antibody called trabikihart could be the key to effectively blocking the inflammation and scarring.
The findings, published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, are a result of a joint study led by researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), in collaboration with researchers from CSL and SA Pathology.
Joint study leader Dr Damon Tumes, Head of the Allergy and Cancer Immunology Laboratory in the Centre for Cancer Biology*, says the findings are significant.
“Inflammation and tissue damage in severe asthma is caused by several types of immune cells that enter the lungs due to allergens, viruses and other microbes that interact with the airways,” Dr Tumes says.
“In some people, the inflammation is resistant to steroids – the first treatment option for controlling severe asthma.
“Currently, limited treatment options are available for severe asthma. New and existing drugs often only target single molecules when multiple overlapping cells and inflammatory pathways are responsible for asthma.
“Targeting multiple inflammatory cytokines with a single drug may be the key to treat and control complex and severe chronic airway disease.”
The most recent statistics show a 30% rise in asthma-related deaths (467 people) nationally in 2022, with South Australia recording the most drastic increase at 88%.
According to experts, most of the deaths were preventable and were linked to people not having treatment on hand, or using it as prescribed, especially inhaled corticosteroids.
2022 marked the highest asthma deaths since 2017, partly driven by the post-Covid return of viral respiratory infections which are associated with increases in asthma hospitalisations.
Widespread rainfall, triggering an increase in fungal spores and pollen, is also a factor.
Lots of people ask me and want to be the best they can be and it always seems that healthy people often want to cut out things like sugar, (and that is just one type of carb that causes weight gain for example) and those who might be unhealthy or have a medical illness want to add things in like vitamins.
Health is an individual issue to us all and The World Health Organisation states the definition of Health is "a state of complete, physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity".
So many people see themselves as healthy, yet have a chronic disease or even cancer. Then others are in tip-top shape physically and on their blood work, and other investigations, but still feel unwell within themselves and can be suffering from Health Anxiety.
With so many social media pages, influencers and search engines having information on medical conditions, whether the condition is rare or not, there can be a lot of mis-information and anxiety.
Just hit the news recently, 60 Day Prescriptions - WHAT IS THIS ABOUT?
From this week, there are even more Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) medicines available for 60-day prescriptions. This includes medicines for what we call "Chronic" stable ongoing health conditions such as endometriosis, breast cancer, heart failure, epilepsy and more.
Ask your GP if a 60-day prescription is appropriate for your medical care and this will help your hip pocket too in these days of rising costs across the board.
To see the list of medicines now available, visit health.gov.au/cheapermedicines
Lastly, it's Epilepsy and Melanoma Month - so be aware of what to do if someone has a seizure and get a skin check for any suspicious-looking moles and be SUNSMART.
Yours in Good Health
Dr Mags
After receiving a call late last Thursday, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc jumped at the opportunity to save a bunch of abandoned baby puppies.
Zakary Meiert, a real estate agent, put an urgent call out on social media seeking assistance, when he found the newborn puppies abandoned at a vacant property in Sarina.
In an attempt to welcome the newborn pups to a temporary refuge, member Robyn prepped a heated incubator and warm milk while others quickly fetched new bottles, supplies and treats from the vet, ensuring everything was ready for when the newborn pups were set to arrive.
Upon arrival, the team made a required stop at the vet to check on the smitten pups, specifically providing extra care to one who had a suspected low body temperature, requiring subcutaneous fluids.
Since the check in at the vet, the puppies were consistently fed and toileted and are now safe and nestled inside the confined security of a foster home.
Cheryl, a seasoned neonate puppy carer, went above and beyond, driving from Kuttabul to take the puppies under her wing. Cheryl and her partner have committed their time to monitor the pups and feed them around the clock in the upcoming weeks as they grow into little mischief makers.
“We are so grateful to Cheryl and her partner for stepping up to help.
“Thank you also to Zak and Glenda for saving the puppies and for bringing them from Sarina to Eimeo so that they could be surrendered into foster care,” commented a member from Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated.
For updates in upcoming weeks, visit their Facebook for donations or any other inquiries.
Caption 1,2,3: Three abandoned newborn puppies rescued by the team at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc
Pop in and see the incredible work of Mackay Woodturners on Saturday, March 16th and Sunday, March 17th, for an exciting showcase of woodworking crafts! Entry is FREE and commences from 9am to 3pm, so don't miss out on an opportunity to witness captivating demonstrations and browse a wide array of wood crafted items.
Located off Beaconsfield Road in Andergrove, Mackay Woodturners will feature demonstrations and sales of various woodworking techniques including woodturning, scroll sawing, intarsia, carving, and pyrography.
Watch as skilled craftsmen showcase their talents, providing insights into the intricate process of transforming raw wood into stunning pieces of art.
Of particular interest, there will be a live demonstration of slabbing a large log into thinner pieces, followed by the transformation of wood into unique items such as bowls or exquisite fountain pens. This captivating process will be shown from start to finish, offering a glimpse into the craftsmanship involved.
As Easter approaches, talented member, Kevin Hutchison, will be using the scroll saw to create charming Easter Bunny characters. These delightful creations will be available for purchase, offering children the opportunity to personalize and colour to their own design.
Don't miss this exciting event where creativity meets craftsmanship, and where you can find the perfect handcrafted treasures to adorn your home or to give as unique gifts.
Caption: An example of the amazing crafts that members of the Mackay Woodturners have created
Caption: Kevin Hutchison crafting easter bunny characters for the upcoming Easter Expo
Mobile BreastScreen Service Heads West
BreastScreen Queensland's free mobile screening service will hit the road this month visiting rural communities across the Isaac region. The service ensures women in rural areas have access to the latest in screening mammography technology to help detect breast cancer in very early stages.
Women in Middlemount, Dysart, Clermont, Collinsville and Moranbah are encouraged to book appointment now for their breast check-up with the mobile screening truck set to hit the road in early March. The screening is free, only takes about 30 minutes and doesn't require a doctor referral, BreastScreen Queensland Clinical director Dr Wendela Schimmer said.
"These exams aim to detect breast cancer in early stages when treatment can be more effective. The earlier breast cancer is found, the better chance you have of surviving it," she said.
Dr Schimmer said breast screening was provided to women who are aged 40 years and over and haven't notice any changes to their breasts.
"While evidence shows that women aged 50 to 74 derive most benefits from screening every two years, women aged 40 to 49 and 75 years and over are also eligible to utilise the service," she said.
"It's important for women to know that nine out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of it."
Regular screening was the most effective and proven method for intervention for reducing breast cancer morbidity and mortality, Dr Schimmer said.
The mobile screening service will be in Middlemount from March 11 to 14, Dysart from March 18 to 25, Clermont March 27 to April 16, Collinsville from April 3 to 12 and Moranbah from April 18 to May 2.
The service will be on site in various other locations including Nebo, Walkerston, Seaforth, Calen and Mirani, later in the year.
Book now on 13 20 50 for your free appointment at one of the BreastScreen Queensland mobile screening service locations or online at www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au.
Caption: BreastScreen Queensland Clinical director Dr Wendela Schimmer
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