Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School (Facebook) Whitsunday Anglican School’s Kindy to Year 2 students enjoyed a fun-filled Athletics Carnival, with young athletes taking part in running, jumping and throwing events while showing plenty of enthusiasm, determination and House spirit. Supported by Senior School volunteers, the day celebrated participation, encouragement and the strong sense of community across the school. See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/little-legs-big-spirit-at-whitsunday-anglican-schools-kindy-carnival
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Leading Mackay real estate business REMAX Select has announced the appointment of highly respected business professional Samantha Self as General Manager. The appointment is set to further strengthen the agency's high-performing team across the Mackay region, with Principal Nikita Kinnane describing Ms Self's arrival as an exciting step forward for the business. “We are heading in a really exciting direction with our business, and I cannot be more excited to have Samantha join our leadership team to build on that momentum,” Ms Kinnane said. Ms Kinnane said the recruitment process was focused on finding a leader whose values aligned with those of the business, it was Ms Self's shared commitment to those values and vision that made her the ideal candidate. "Samantha will play an important role in shaping the future REMAX Select, bringing exceptional experience in property, management and leadership to help drive growth and innovation, and this will flow into enhancing every aspect of our business. "Importantly, Samantha shares our core values and commitment to putting Mackay first, and we share the same drive to really make impactful change, bring big city ideas and execute them in our own country girl way.” It was the core values of respect, integrity, collaboration, excellence and trust that Ms Self aligned with, sharing her goal to continue to build on the trust and integrity the agency has established in Mackay, while supporting the continued growth and development of both the team and business. “I’m excited to take on the role of general manager and work alongside Nikita and the entire team at REMAX Select,” Ms Self said. “REMAX Select has a strong team with exceptional talent which is highly respected throughout the community and I’m excited to be part of its continued success.” Ms Self steps into the role after eight years as retail manager of the largest shopping centre in northern Australia. During that time, she was the key driver of building positive, collaborative relationships with retailers, creating an environment where retailers were genuine partners in success. Having led sales performance analysis and market insight initiatives, Ms Self said she looks forward to applying her knowledge and experience to support the continued success of the REMAX Select team. “I am dedicated to empowering our team members through training and development opportunities, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed,” she said. “My goal is to continue to foster the team’s culture of professionalism, responsiveness and customer-first approach and I look forward to collaborating with our talented agents and staff to create a dynamic and successful environment here at REMAX Select.” REMAX Select is an award-winning real estate business, recently recognised as the 2025 REIQ Medium Agency of the Year and finalist at the 2026 REIA National Awards for Excellence. The office consistently ranks in the National Top 10 Offices in the REMAX Australia network, recognised as the #3 individual office for commissions and transactions at the REMAX Australia Annual Awards 2025 earlier this year, where they were also named a finalist for the network’s community service award and special achievement in marketing for an office award. REMAX Select is located at 133B Victoria Street, Mackay. Contact (07)4829 4612 or visit remax.com.au/select/ for an award winning real estate experience. Newly appointed General Manager, Samantha Self (Left) with REMAX Select Principal Nikita Kinnane (Right).
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In 2000, Peter and Denise Phillips laid the foundation for what would become one of Mackay’s most recognisable holistic, all in one property, insurance and financial services ecosystem. Starting as a Mortgage Choice franchise, Gardian was built on a commitment to helping people make confident financial decisions with local people in the know! Over the decades, that foundation has steadily evolved. Today, Gardian encompasses a wide range of services, including all manner of finance, general and business insurance, financial planning, real estate sales, property management, and commercial sales, management and leasing. What began as a single offering has grown into an integrated business model serving individuals, families, businesses, and community across the region. Now, the organisation enters its next chapter. After many years at the helm with her late husband Peter, Denise Phillips will step down from her role as Managing Director. Her leadership has been central to Gardian’s growth — not just in size, but in culture, reputation, and its connection to the local community. Taking over the role is Ben Phillips, Owner/Director and Head of Gardian Finance. Having been closely involved in all aspects of the business and its clients, he brings both continuity and a forward-looking perspective to the position. Leadership transitions often mark defining moments for organisations. In this case, the change represents both the continuation of a strong legacy and the opportunity to build on it. The evolution of Gardian — from a small franchise to a diversified advisory group — reflects the importance of adaptability, strategic growth, and staying aligned to core values to the community. For the Mackay business community, this transition highlights the strength of long-term vision and succession planning, particularly within locally grown enterprises. It also reinforces the impact that leadership grounded in community and relationships can have over time. As Gardian moves forward under new leadership, it does so with deep roots, a clear purpose, and a platform built for continued growth.
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I don’t know about you, but I find morning TV hosts incredibly annoying. I rarely get to see them, with their contrived laughter, over-the-top friendliness, stupid nicknames for each other, make-up and perfect hair cuts. But sometimes, if there has been some event that might interest me, or if I’m curious about what’s going on, I might flick on the TV and see what’s happening as I’m getting ready for work. I immediately regret it and start flicking channels to try to find someone bearable. It’s a challenge that usually lasts a couple of minutes before I turn the TV off and do something much more pleasant, like go to work. I did like Karl Stefanovic but he has been flicked, apparently because his employer didn’t like his podcast guests. There seemed something real about Karl but he was an island in a sea of fakery so there’s no point in me turning on Channel 9 anymore. There’s an Irish journalist/host on ABC TV, Catherine Murphy, who I also like. She’s funny and real and seems to want to stick to simply presenting a story in her slightly quirky style without imposing an agenda. But that’s about it for me. One thing the morning shows have an abundance of is “experts”. Whatever the drama that’s emerged, there’s an expert to explain it to you, pull it apart and tell you how concerned you should be. The expert needs to do it in about 17 seconds because everyone is going to get bored soon and we’ve got an ad break coming up. The more dramatic the event and the more it impacts the loyal viewers, the more vital it is that an expert is on hand. The current disaster of note it a neat combo: the economy/inflation/interest rates/housing downturn. This is the type of news drama you want when you’re planning the show because it affects the viewers, hits their hip pockets. But experts are everywhere in the media on this one, not just the morning shows. They’re out there giving their views on interest rates (some say they will go up, others say they will go down), the economy (some say it will be okay, others say we are headed for a recession), inflation (some say it will get worse and others say it will ease). Part of this blockbuster, of course, is house prices. Some experts say prices will drop in big cities like Sydney and Brisbane. Others say they will drop everywhere. Some say there will be a small, temporary drop but things will soon start going up again because there is a lack of housing supply across the nation. One group of experts that are worth paying attention to are the valuers from Herron Todd White, who put out their monthly property clock, which is a snapshot of how they see particular markets. The position on the clock face a particular city is located (we’re talking analogue here kids, not digital) tells you where it sits in the market. Twelve o’clock is top of the market, 3 o’clock is a falling market, 6 o’clock is the bottom of the market, 9 o’clock is a rising market. Things can change quickly and there a times a property can go from falling market to bottom of the market and up to rising market very quickly. HTW’s June clock would have been a challenge for them because tax changes and other events had happened but their longer-term impacts are unclear. They had Bundaberg and Toowoomba at the top of the market, Sydney at 2 o’clock and starting to decline, The Whitsundays, Gladstone and Sunshine Coast approaching the top of the market and Mackay, along with Rocky, Townsville and Cairns, in a rising market. Most agents in Mackay will tell you there has been a change but there is still activity, investors are still engaged and properties are selling. Most are being alert, not alarmed.
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Pioneer Nursing Services exists to make quality care feel personal. From its beginnings supporting individuals through the NDIS, the organisation has grown to offer aged care, Department of Veterans’ Affairs services, and private in-home support, helping people live safely, independently, and with dignity, right where they belong.
The services cover a broad spectrum of needs. NDIS support delivers compassionate care for individuals living with disability, including personal care, nursing, and support coordination, all provided with respect and understanding. Through My Aged Care, older Australians can access government-funded in-home support tailored to their requirements, allowing them to live comfortably and safely at home.
Eligible veterans and their families receive specialised care through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, including community nursing and in-home support that honours their service. Private in-home care is also available, offering the same trusted services on a private-pay basis, with flexibility to suit individual circumstances.
Pioneer Nursing Services also provides professional nursing care, covering wound care, PEG feeds, continence support, and palliative care. Support workers assist with daily living tasks, from meal preparation and medication management to transport and more, ensuring clients receive holistic care every day.
The organisation has recently expanded with a new office in Cannonvale at 2/1 Carlo Drive, extending services as far as Bowen and increasing accessibility for the wider region.
Founder and Director Simon McMahon brings a wealth of experience and compassion to the role. From serving with the Royal Navy during the Iraq War to nursing patients in their homes, Simon’s career combines skill with a deep commitment to community care. The idea for Pioneer Nursing Services came during his time as a Nurse Unit Manager at the height of COVID.
“I saw how many patients were unable to go home because community services couldn’t provide the staff needed to support them,” Simon recalls.
“We’re all about experience with heart. Our team of support workers, nurses, and coordinators know their stuff and genuinely care.
“That mix of skill and compassion helps people live better, brighter lives.”
Determined to make a difference, Simon launched Pioneer Nursing Services to ensure people can remain at home, safe, supported, and surrounded by family. Whether it is hospital discharge support, end-of-life care, or daily assistance, the team offers families peace of mind and reliable care tailored to individual needs.
For enquiries, Pioneer Nursing Services can be contacted on 4957 0368.
Council has formally progressed amendments to the Seaforth Esplanade Master Plan to establish a dedicated Place of Remembrance on the Seaforth beachfront, following a proposal from the Seaforth Sub-Branch of the RSL. The new memorial will be located within Seaforth Esplanade Park, adjacent to the recreational hub, providing a respectful space to honour service and sacrifice.
Mayor Greg Williamson said community feedback had been overwhelmingly supportive, with 109 comments received during consultation, 98 per cent backing the RSL’s proposal.
“Around 700 people attend the Seaforth Anzac Day service, and they have outgrown the current memorial space,” he said, acknowledging the advocacy of the RSL sub-branch in bringing the project forward.
Other master plan changes include enhancing the outdoor community area in front of the Post Office to allow flexible use for dining and events, and optimising the camping grounds to attract visitors.
Seaforth RSL Sub-Branch Treasurer Peter Morris said the memorial will feature all-abilities access, commemorate veterans and war animals, and offer a symbolic view of the sunrise during the Dawn Service. The sub-branch now aims to secure funding through grants, local businesses, and community contributions.
Council has adopted the revised 2025 Master Plan and will undertake preparatory works, including installing a new flagpole ahead of Anzac Day.
For more information, visit connectingmackay.com.au.
The Queensland Parliament's Primary Industries and Resources Committee has handed down its report into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities in Queensland, outlining 12 recommendations aimed at unlocking biofuels and bioenergy from sugarcane across the state.
Industry leaders gathered at Racecourse Sugar Mill on Tuesday 31st March to announce the report, including Stephen Bennet MP – Chair, Primary Industries and Resources Committee; Glen Kelly MP – Member for Mirani; Nigel Dalton MP – Member for Mackay; Ash Salardini – Chief Executive Officer, Australian Sugar Manufacturers; Josip Vidakovic – Government, Industry & External Engagement Manager, Australian Sugar Manufacturers; Carl Morton – Chief Executive Officer, Mackay Sugar; and Kylie Porter – Chief Executive Officer – Greater Whitsunday Alliance.
The inquiry has been underway since June last year, with the committee hearing from industry stakeholders in Mackay, Townsville and Brisbane about the potential of bioenergy and biofuels derived from sugarcane.
Member for Burnett and Chair of the committee, Stephen Bennett MP, said there was “a real pathway forward” for the industry.
“It’s really important when we look at some of the recommendations around diversification for the industry, particularly for millers, and the issues around protecting cane growers.”
“My number one priority is making sure we can expand the sugar industry for future generations, give them the confidence to invest, and create opportunities around biofuels.”
“It’s the best feedstock we have to provide bioenergy. It’s grown across our regions, it’s sustainable, and there are real opportunities when we look at what the sugar industry could become.”
“If implemented, the committee's recommendations will pave the way for a resilient, future-focused and globally competitive sugarcane-based bioenergy industry in Queensland.”
Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, said the report was about ensuring the future of the sugar industry for the next generation.
“Industries like coal and cane are incredibly important to the electorate of Mirani and to Queensland as a whole.”
“It has been a privilege to be part of this report. We’ve worked very hard to get it right for the people of Queensland and the stakeholders involved.”
“What the agricultural industry needs is confidence. This report helps deliver that confidence for the future.”
“I stand for the next generation. I stand for agriculture and giving agriculture hope that we mean business.”
“For young farmers out there, this report gives confidence in the industry and in what we have behind us, including the mills and the cane growers across Queensland.”
Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, said the recommendations aim to strengthen the industry well into the future.
“We needed to make sure that what happens in a mill is sustainable and that we can progress the industry into the next century.”
“This is a fantastic opportunity to present these 12 recommendations to government and ensure agriculture, particularly cane, continues to be a driving force in our economy.”
The recommendations include targeted investment opportunities, regulatory reforms and greater national coordination to support the development of biofuels and bioenergy from sugarcane.
The committee’s full report is available on the inquiry’s webpage, with the Queensland Government given three months to table its response to the report and its recommendations in Parliament.
Mr Bennett said, “We’re really proud of this report and the work that has gone into it, particularly from stakeholders here in Mackay and across the state who contributed to making it what it is.”
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP, and Member for Burnett and Chair of the committee, Stephen Bennett MP
Industry leaders including MPs and sugar industry executives gathered at Racecourse Sugar Mill on 31 March to announce the new sugarcane bioenergy report. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
More than $21,300 was raised on Friday night as local leaders swapped comfort for concrete during Safe Sleep Mackay’s inaugural Bosses on Buses event.
Eleven community leaders took part in the initiative, sleeping rough for the night to help raise funds to operationalise the Safe Sleep Buses, which aim to support people experiencing homelessness in Mackay.
Participants included:
The leaders spent the night sleeping rough, some on the bus and others on the concrete, before all making it to breakfast the following morning.
Founder of Chances House, Kayleigh Brewster, said the initiative was inspired by the difficult reality frontline workers often face when supporting people without shelter, with the aim of creating a temporary solution while supporting people’s wellbeing.
“When you're working in those really on-the-ground frontline services, you see a lot of people who are homeless,” she said.
“Quite often you're having to tell somebody there’s no more we can do for you, you’re going to have to sleep outside tonight. It’s a terrifying thought.
“We wanted a solution that would alleviate that.
“I think this is going to be fantastic. I think it’s going to really make a difference in the physical, the mental and the emotional well-being of many people.”
Safe Sleep Mackay spokesperson and key advocate for those sleeping rough, Lisa Jamieson, said strong community backing would be essential for the service to succeed.
“This is just wonderful to have so much support from our community and local businesses here,” she said.
“We’re still going to need ongoing support and we definitely need volunteers but we’re going to give it 100 per cent to help those who need it.”
Dave Fisher from Gardian said he was proud to be involved in the community effort.
“Having to be part of a community movement to raise money and to be aware of what is a real issue… I’m just really happy to support that really important initiative,” he said.
Fallon Drewett from The Just Saying Project said conversations with her family motivated her to get involved.
“It’s about awareness. If we don’t tell the stories of people, the most vulnerable people in our community, how else are we going to improve that?” she said.
Organisers thanked the Mackay West Rotary group for cooking breakfast and Harrup Park for supplying dinner, along with the many community members who donated to support the cause.
Eleven Mackay community leaders slept rough during the inaugural Bosses on Buses event, raising more than $21,300 to help operationalise Safe Sleep Buses supporting people experiencing homelessness. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
On Monday 30th March, the Whitsunday Regional Council hosted the opening of the Daydream Island Guest Lounge at Whitsunday Coast Airport. Members of the Whitsunday Regional Council, Tourism Whitsundays and Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry were present. This marks an exciting opportunity for the airport.
Whitsunday Regional Mayor Ry Collins said the initiative highlights the important role Whitsunday Coast Airport plays in supporting the region’s visitor economy.
“Whitsunday Coast Airport is the front door to the Whitsunday Islands, and initiatives like this help ensure the experience for visitors arriving in our region reflects the premium destination we are proud to offer,” Mayor Collins said.
Director of Commercial Business Craig Turner said the partnership demonstrates the airport’s growing collaboration with tourism operators and airlines to create a more connected visitor experience.
“Whitsunday Coast Airport continues to evolve as a key gateway to the islands, and working with tourism partners like Daydream Island Resort helps create a seamless journey for visitors from aircraft to island,” Mr Turner said.
These improvements further position Whitsunday Coast Airport as a high-quality regional gateway and support the continued growth of the Whitsundays as one of Australia’s most iconic tourism destinations.
The Proserpine RV Rest Stop officially reopened on Tuesday 31st March, delivering a timely boost for local tourism and business. Mayor Ry Collins, Deputy Mayor John Finlay and Councillors John Collins and Jan Clifford marked the milestone at a 10am opening.
Located behind St Catherine’s Church on Main Street, the free 48-hour stopover is now welcoming fully self-contained vehicles for the dry season (April to November), reinforcing Proserpine’s role as a key gateway to the Whitsundays.
Mayor Ry Collins said the reopening delivers on Council’s commitment to supporting local business and driving regional tourism.
“This is a great outcome for Proserpine and for the broader Whitsundays,” Mayor Collins said.
“We know this site delivers real economic benefit, bringing travellers into town to support our local shops, cafes and service providers. It’s a simple initiative that encourages visitors to stop, stay a little longer and experience what Proserpine has to offer.”
Division 3 Councillor John Collins said the reopening reflects strong community support and Council’s united backing of the project.
“The community has been clear that this rest stop works, and it’s fantastic to see it officially open again today,” Cr Collins said.
“This is a win for local businesses, tourism operators and the many volunteers who help make Proserpine such a welcoming place.
“It’s about creating opportunities for our town and making sure we continue to capture the benefits of travellers passing through our region.”
Economic modelling indicates the rest stop could inject between $860,000 and $1.7 million annually into the Proserpine economy through visitor spending on local goods and services.
The site will operate seasonally each year, with minor upgrades and improved signage completed ahead of reopening to support a positive visitor experience while managing maintenance requirements during the wet season.
Captions
Mayor Ry Collins, Deputy Mayor John Finlay, Cr John Collins and Cr Jan Clifford at the re-opening
Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Despite a series of delays due to inclement weather, the Proserpine RSL was finally able to host its International Women’s Day celebration on March 28th. The event was supported by the Proserpine Lion’s Club, the Whitsunday Leos Club and State Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm.
Over 100 women attended, raising much-needed funds for Meals On Wheels and The Food Bank. Speakers included 13- year-old Savannah, Leo’s President Daphne, Donna Rodgers and Jan Clifford. Over 45 prizes were handed out, including a beautiful door prize provided by Ms Camm.
“A huge thank you to Lyn Burke, the Proserpine Lions and Leo’s, as well as the RSL for delivering a wonderful International Women’s Day event for our community”, Ms Camm said.
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Photo source: Facebook
Whitsunday Regional Council has taken a strategic step forward with the launch of Whitsunday Event Centres, bringing together three of the region’s leading venues under one unified platform.
The initiative connects the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal and Flagstaff Hill Convention Centre, positioning the Whitsundays as a competitive destination for conferences, corporate events and major celebrations.
Rather than a simple rebrand, the program is designed to actively take the region to market through industry networks, trade events and business tourism channels. Led by Council’s Commercial Business Directorate, the approach aims to secure new events that drive visitation beyond peak tourism periods.
Mayor Ry Collins said the launch reflects a deliberate focus on economic growth.
“This is not just about a new logo, it is about how we actively take our region to market and create real opportunities for local businesses,” Mayor Collins said.
By presenting the venues under one coordinated identity, Council is offering event organisers a clearer, more professional pathway to host events in the region. An integrated online booking system further streamlines the process, allowing users to explore venues, review layouts and submit enquiries with ease.
The move is expected to support local accommodation providers, hospitality venues and suppliers, while strengthening the Whitsundays’ reputation as a destination capable of delivering high-quality events year-round.
Event organisers and businesses can explore the new platform at www.whitsundayeventcentres.com.au.
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Photo supplied
News this week that the Government has cut the fuel levy by half for the next three months provides welcome relief to motorists ahead of the Easter long weekend.
The reduction kicked in this Wednesday and is expected to filter through to fuel stations quickly, reducing the price of fuel on average by 26 cents per litre.
In addition, the heavy vehicle road user charge will also be reduced to zero, a welcome move that will make logistical transport more affordable and help regional communities get their commodities moving again.
The measures will cost taxpayers $2.55 billion and are expected to reduce the price of a 65-litre tank of petrol by $19.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said that he has been fighting hard for the region.
"We have heard you loud and clear,” Mr Willcox said.
“My office has been flooded with emails, my Facebook page has been filled with your comments, and I have seen the stress on the faces of families at the bowser across Dawson.”
He does, however, add that the battle is still not won, as the relief needs to be seen at the bowser.
"We remember what happened during the COVID-era excise reduction; the relief was not always fully passed on to the consumer. We cannot allow that to happen again. The task now is to ensure this 26-cent saving is felt immediately at the pumps,” he said.
Caption: The price at the pump has been reduced by 26 cents a litre as of this Wednesday. Photo Victoria Velton
Kids across the region have been carefully crafting their Easter bonnets, and enjoying Easter parades and festive end-of-term fun. Classrooms have been filled with colour, creativity and plenty of laughter as students celebrated the renewal and fun that Easter brings.
From floppy bunny ears to grazing pom-pom sheep, each bonnet was a unique reflection of the personality and creativity of the little ones who wore them proudly during their schools’ Easter parades.
As Term 1 wraps up, these celebrations provide a joyful send-off into the Easter break, with families across the Whitsundays looking forward to a well-earned holiday filled with relaxation, adventures, and cherished time together.
Mackay is set to make history as the first Australian city to host the global blockbuster Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, a world-renowned celebration of 100 years of storytelling.
Previously showcased in major international cities including Munich, London, Chicago, Seoul, Paris and Madrid, the exhibition will arrive in Mackay on December 4th and run for five months at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.
The immersive exhibition will feature rare artefacts from The Walt Disney Company, iconic costumes, behind the scenes insights and interactive displays that trace a century of beloved characters and films.
Mayor Greg Williamson of Mackay Regional Council said the announcement marked a landmark moment for the region.
“This is a magical day for Mackay, for Queensland and for Australia,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Mackay will be the first city in Australia to host Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic. The exhibition will open on December 4 and run for five months.
“It has travelled to major cities around the world, including Philadelphia, Paris, London and Madrid, and now it is coming to Mackay.”
Mayor Williamson said securing the exhibition was the result of a strategic pitch by the council’s events team, and would help place Mackay firmly on the international tourism map.
“We are expecting at least 100,000 visitors over the five months,” he said.
“This is about introducing Mackay to the world and giving people the Disney experience they have been waiting for.”
Mayor Williamson said he hoped the announcement would spark curiosity across the country.
“I hope people in cities like Melbourne and Sydney are asking, ‘why Mackay’,” he said.
“The answer to that is simple. Come and see it for yourself and you will understand why it’s here.”
The exhibition will be staged at the MECC, with international crews working alongside local staff to deliver the event.
“Our team at the MECC is ready to deliver a world class event at a world class entertainment centre,” Mayor Williamson said.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the announcement represented a major milestone for the city and the state.
“This is a wonderful and exciting moment for our region,” Mr Dalton said.
“From December through to May, Mackay will become the centre of Disney in Australia,” he said.
“That means increased visitors, more activity for local businesses and a boost for cafes, accommodation providers and tourism operators.”
He said the event aligned with Queensland’s vision of strengthening its major events calendar.
“We are incredibly excited about the magic that will unfold here in Mackay,” he said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for locals, for Queenslanders and for visitors from across Australia and overseas to experience something truly special.”
With tens of thousands of Disney fans expected to travel to the region, the exhibition is poised to deliver a magical boost to tourism, business and community pride while placing Mackay firmly in the global spotlight.
A simple act of service is leaving a lasting imprint on patients at Mater Private Hospital Mackay, where 80-year-old Alison Fenech has quietly transformed her time, talent and compassion into something extraordinary.
Since July 2025, Ms Fenech has sewn an astonishing 562 tote bags by hand, repurposing surgical equipment packaging that would otherwise go to waste. What was once discarded is now reimagined into sturdy, reusable bags, placed into the hands of patients during some of their most vulnerable moments.
Hospital representatives highlighted the significance of her contribution, stating, “These bags aren’t just sustainable and practical… they’re a beautiful reminder of the kindness, talent and generosity of volunteers like Alison.”
Each bag carries more than belongings. It carries care and a sense of connection that extends beyond the clinical setting.
For Ms Fenech, the journey began with a desire to find purpose in her time. Speaking candidly about her motivation, she said, “I was aware of having too much free time and how that could lead to depression, so checked out a couple of other options but didn’t settle to them.
“I am happy to work on my own in my own time at my own speed and this suited me perfectly.”
That decision has grown into a deeply meaningful contribution to the hospital community. Working independently and at her own pace, she has dedicated countless hours to carefully crafting each bag, ensuring they are both practical and made to last.
The initiative has also drawn heartfelt appreciation from the hospital, which shared, “Thank you, Alison, for making a meaningful difference to our patients and our community.”
Many have praised Ms Fenech, calling her work “brilliant”, a reflection of both her skill and her quiet determination.
One community member said, “That’s amazing Alison, such beautiful work from a beautiful person.”
An 80-year-old Mackay woman has sewn more than 560 reusable bags from discarded hospital materials, offering comfort and care to patients during vulnerable moments.
Specialists put the focus on endometriosis and pelvic pain this week for EndoMarch, an awareness campaign bringing attention to the often-overlooked condition endometriosis, which according to studies affects approximately 1 in 7 Australian women.
Mackay Hospital and Health Service hosted an EndoMarch information evening on Tuesday 24th to raise awareness and understanding of the condition.
The event was led by Mackay HHS specialist clinicians and was supported by local women sharing their personal stories of living with endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain.
Obstetrics & gynaecology specialist Dr Wojciech Szubert began the evening with an overview of the disease and an update on the work going on at Mackay Base Hospital to improve treatment and care options.
“Endometriosis is a chronic disease affecting women and girls,” Dr Szubert said.
“It is associated with pelvic pain, pain with intercourse, painful urination or defecation, heavy and painful periods, and infertility.
“It can have a significant impact on women’s health and lives, and it has been estimated that it can take six years to get a confirmed diagnosis.
“At this event, we want to provide an update on the work we are doing to improve treatment options.
“We will also have presentations from women who have been brave enough to step forward and share their own personal stories of living with endometriosis.”
Other presenters included director of psychology Rachel Bega who spoke on the role of the psychologist in the management of these conditions, and director of nursing and midwifery Susan Sweeney who shared future plans to advance treatment and care.
It was a relaxed and informal event that gave opportunity for those attending to ask any questions they have about endometriosis and treatment options.
Regarding the event, one local said: “My daughter suffers Endo and also has Andomentriosis which is rare and not many know about it. Glad to see you’re doing this.”
Another expressed frustration surrounding long waitlists for treatment for the condition, appealing for improvement in women’s healthcare across the region.
In 2024, Mackay Hospital and Health Service received new imaging technology that boosted diagnosis and treatment for local women, removing the need for surgery confirm presence for endometriosis.
Following the innovation, the team has been committed to continuing to champion women’s health services and improve treatment options and timelines for women across Mackay.
Drew McGilchrist
Sales Agronomist, Wilmar AgServices
Soil testing has become one of the most valuable tools available to modern agriculture because it enables farmers to make better decisions around crop management.
Soil sampling provides a clear picture of nutrient availability, soil condition and emerging constraints.
With this information, growers can optimise their fertiliser management plan to target specific deficiencies, improving crop performance while avoiding inputs that deliver little return.
In many cases, this leads to more efficient fertiliser use and reduced costs through the removal of unnecessary nutrient applications.
Another key advantage of soil testing is the ability to move away from a one-size-fits-all approach. Results are specific to individual paddocks, so you can design a management plan specific to your farm and local conditions.
Soil sampling also plays an important role in managing soil health over time. Regular testing allows growers to track changes, identify trends and respond early to issues that may affect productivity in future seasons.
Just as importantly, laboratory-based results are a reliable foundation for making sensible decisions about farm management, rather than the status quo of historical fertiliser application.
Finally, soil testing helps ensure your nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium budgets are aligned with current regulations.
Wilmar AgServices offers a soil sampling service for selected paddocks, with a fee applied to cover the soil analysis. Results are provided in a timely manner, highlighting any deficiencies and potential solutions for your farm management.
Agronomy staff can provide additional advice and recommendations on fertiliser selection, as well as costing and application rates.
Contact us on 1800 881 957 to find out more.
Wilmar AgServices Sales Agronomist Drew McGilchrist can provide a soil testing service,
enabling growers to make more informed decisions about their fertiliser management plan.
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
CANEGROWERS’ centenary celebrations continue to roll on and, over the past couple of weeks, all roads have led to our wonderful central region of Mackay.
Mackay is, of course, the birthplace of CANEGROWERS. It was here, on 21 January 1926, that the organisation was formed and first met at Mackay Boys' School. Over the past century, the industry has faced many challenges and seen significant advancements. Through it all, the organisation has evolved alongside these changes to ensure its heart and soul – its members – are represented as strongly as possible.
For the first time in almost a decade, the CANEGROWERS Policy Council gathered in Mackay for one of its three annual meetings. The Council includes representatives from all Queensland sugarcane-growing districts, with one representative per mill area. To put that into perspective, Mackay has four representatives advocating for growers supplying the Plane Creek, Racecourse, Farleigh and Marian mills.
The meetings also bring together district managers and staff from across the state, creating a real mix of views and discussion. The primary role of the Policy Council is exactly what the name suggests – to set the policies that guide the organisation. Key topics this time included environmental policy, trade, transport, the future of harvesting, and water and electricity. Navigating fuel and fertiliser supply chains following the conflict in the Middle East has also quickly moved up the priority list.
On the final night of the Policy Council, the centenary gala dinner was held at the Mackay Turf Club. Policy Council members and visiting staff joined a sold-out crowd of 240 guests, including business partners and industry representatives.
CANEGROWERS Mackay would also like to thank Glenn Kelly, Member for Mirani, along with several Mackay Regional Councillors, for attending. A special thank you goes to all our sponsors – their support helped make the evening a memorable one.
The event was MC’d by Meecham Philpot, with music from Mackay’s own Mango Junction and a special appearance by Nikki Vella Power, well known locally and the daughter of a cane-farming family. Guests also heard an inspiring address from CANEGROWERS Chairman and World Beet and Sugarcane Growers Chairman Owen Menkens, along with some entertaining reflections from former CANEGROWERS and CANEGROWERS Mackay Chairman Paul Schembri, who shared a few of the lighter moments he’s seen over the past 40 years.
Most importantly, the night provided a chance to reflect on the past, consider the present, and look ahead to the future of our historic and ever-evolving industry.
All the best.
Burn Ashburner, Matt Kealley, Justin Blair, Chris Gillitt, Glenn Clarke, Sam Orr and Brendon Nothard
FAR - Former Queensland and Mackay Canegrowers Chairman, Paul Schembrii. Photo credit: Michaela Harlow
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