Some years ago, when my son Lincoln was aged about three or four, I was sitting on the couch watching TV and felt a tap on the back of my head.

Now, I was able to make the connection between my four-year-old son, the space at the back of the couch where he was now obviously crouching, and the tap on the back of my head.

But I went along with it, feigned surprise, rubbed the back of my head and slowly got up, giving Lincoln enough time to scurry out from behind the couch and tip-toe down the hallway to his bedroom.

I stood up and complained that something had hit the back of my head, loud enough for Lincoln to hear his confused father at a loss to understand what had happened.

About a week later it happened again. Again, after hitting the back of my head, Lincoln had quietly fled to his bedroom from where he could hear his befuddled father complain loudly that he had been hit on the head, note that there was nothing behind the couch and that “something weird is happening in this house”.

This prank of Lincoln’s went on for several years, probably once or twice a month.

As it evolved I would involve Lincoln in the mystery, tell him that sometimes when I’m sitting on the couch I would suddenly feel a hit on the back of my head.

I asked him to keep an eye out for anything strange in the house. He would then put on his best “concerned face” and commit to being on the look-out.

I said: “ I don’t know, I feel like there might be ghosts in this house.”

Over the next few years the hits got harder, no doubt adding to the hilarity.  I would cop the hit, rub the back of my head, complain loudly and slowly get up to look behind the couch to again see that no one and nothing was there.

I would then call out to my “ally”, Lincoln, and tell him I’d been hit on the back of the head again.
Now Lincoln is many wonderful things but a good actor is not one of them. One of the funniest memories I have of him as a little kid, and an example of his worst acting, is him coming out of his bedroom and walking down the hallway to me on hearing that I’d been hit again.

He would put on his concerned expression and rub his chin like a scientist pondering a theory but having to admit that even he couldn’t explain the strange events that had unfolded.

The prank eventually ended, probably around the time Lincoln got old enough to realise his father couldn’t be that stupid, and he is now 18 and living in Brisbane studying at uni.

He was back in his old bedroom during the recent semester break, although that has changed a bit because we are in the process of renovating and his room has largely been completed.

The bathroom has also been done and, over the next few months, the house will be done and we will probably sell it and downsize because both our kids have left home.

But with Lincoln home for his holiday, the house being renovated and the plans to sell the place, a bloke starts to think about what has happened there.

It’s a reminder that a property with bedrooms, a living area, a bathroom, a kitchen and a laundry goes from being a house to a home when you add the people that are close to you and experience life with them within those walls.

As a real estate agent, it’s also a reminder that when you sell someone’s family home, it’s not just a house but a living, breathing being where life played out, kids grew up, memories were created and love happened.

So selling it comes with a lot of responsibility.

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When did the supermarket stop being exciting?

As a kid, tagging along with Mum to grab the milk felt like an adventure. The fluorescent lights, the hum of the fridges, the quiet promise of a treat in the trolley — all of it was thrilling. Somewhere along the way, that little errand turned into a dreaded chore. We swapped excitement for efficiency, wonder for ‘why is butter $8?’

Over the weekend, I watched my son giggle with delight as he helped crack eggs for scrambled eggs. He marvelled at worms while planting seedlings in the garden, and announced he was “a digger helping Bob the Builder” with muddy hands and proud eyes. That kind of joy — the full-body, can’t-stop-smiling kind — it doesn’t come from Gucci handbags or five-star resorts. It comes from presence. From curiosity. From simple things we stopped noticing.

Somewhere along the way, we got sold the idea that happiness was expensive — that we had to earn it, post about it, or book it six months in advance. But let’s be honest: the handbag’s ugly, and Paris smells like a bin on bin night. Meanwhile, your dog is wagging its tail, your kid is laughing at eggs, and the grass is growing whether you’re looking or not.

For me, joy is watching my son discover the world. As someone who went through the very real and grounding experience of cancer treatment, I’m learned that simple joy isn’t just a luxury — it’s essential.

On page 12, you’ll meet Earl Neilsen — a bowel cancer survivor and Trudy Crowley Foundation ambassador who recently got handed the keys to a new BT-50 thanks to the generosity of Auto Corner. Earl’s joy? Fishing trips with his family, and the peaceful simplicity of water, fresh air and good company. Read why his boat’s called Bell Ringer — it’ll make you smile.

If your version of joy includes good wine, sunshine and live music, flip to page 16 for all the details on this weekend’s Wisely Wine and Food Festival. Prefer something a little more spicy? The dazzling new show Lassu has landed at the Mackay Showgrounds — page 32 has everything you need to know.

Whatever it is that brings you joy — I hope you catch a glimpse of it this weekend. And if you’re not sure where it’s gone… maybe it’s time to look back at the worms and eggs.

Amanda

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A humble Mackay local has found himself at the centre of a feel-good viral moment after a simple act of kindness captured the hearts of thousands online, and even landed a Japanese hitchhiker on national TV.

Matt, who was travelling from Bowen to Mackay, offered a lift to a Japanese traveller named Tom, who is hitchhiking his way across Australia from Cairns to Melbourne. But the generosity didn’t stop there. Matt also took Tom to a local pub, shouted him dinner and a beer, and shared a true-blue Aussie experience along the way.

Tom, who has been documenting his journey on TikTok, praised Matt’s kindness: “Matt took me from Bowen to Mackay and paid me for beer and dinner. He is so kind. Thank you very much, Matt.”

The video quickly went viral, catching the attention of viewers across the country and eventually securing Tom a feature on local TV.

Locals in Mackay have celebrated Matt’s gesture, calling him a “top bloke” and the kind of person who embodies the true Aussie spirit.

“We need more Matts! Nothing more Australian than this,” one comment read.

Another local added, “Nice to see there are still good people out there. Good on you, Matt.”

Tom continues his cross-country adventure and is calling for tips on must-see places and friendly faces along the way.

One thing’s for sure – his stop in Mackay, thanks to Matt, is one he won’t forget.

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A Mackay man’s simple act of kindness toward a hitchhiking tourist has gone viral, earning praise online and helping put the region, and his generous Aussie spirit on the map. Photo source: Midori Tomoya (Instagram)

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By Amanda Wright

More than 90,000 Mackay region residents will cast their votes in a full postal ballot by-election next month, following the resignation of Councillor George Christensen in late May. The by-election, scheduled for Saturday 30 August 2025, will determine who fills the vacant seat on the Mackay Regional Council.

With the nomination period now open and closing at noon on Thursday 24 July, the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is urging interested community members to act quickly.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said candidates must complete several steps to be eligible, including opening a dedicated campaign bank account, paying a $250 deposit, securing at least six nominators from within the council area, and completing mandatory training through the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers.

“Postal vote materials will be mailed to every eligible voter, so it’s essential to ensure your enrolment details are current,” Mr Vidgen said.

“That includes updating your postal address if it has changed, or enrolling for the first time by 5pm Tuesday 22 July.”

The vote will be decided by a first-past-the-post system, meaning the candidate with the most votes wins, with no preference distribution. While results are expected by 9 September, a clear leader could emerge sooner depending on vote count progress.

The cost of Mackay’s upcoming by-election is expected to come in well below early estimates, with the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) advising that the final figure will be $569,000. Initial projections had placed the price tag closer to $700,000, while a full face-to-face ballot was estimated to cost as much as $800,000.

At least four candidates have confirmed their intention to contest the seat: Mackay small business owner Dion Loader, Sarina’s Melissa Milton, former Isaac Mayor Anne Baker, and Kimberly Doyle, who previously ran in the 2024 local government elections.

The by-election represents a significant moment for Mackay Regional Council, with Mayor Greg Williamson expressing hope that the successful candidate will bring passion, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the entire region.

“I’m just hoping that whoever wants to put up their hand has got the right agenda behind them,” Mayor Williamson said.

“And that agenda is the best we can possibly do — not for personal gain... but the best for the Mackay Regional Council footprint.”

Mayor Williamson said local government was often the level of government closest to people’s everyday lives, and the role of councillor came with a responsibility to serve the broader interests of all communities across the region.

He added that council and the community needs someone who understands what makes this region tick — from our urban centres to our rural communities, from tourism and agriculture to small business and innovation.

“It’s about passion. It’s about people. And it’s about putting our region first.”

Mayor Williamson also encouraged residents to stay engaged in the process, saying strong voter participation was a vital part of shaping the region’s future.

“We’ve got great momentum in Mackay and we need committed representatives to keep that going.”

More information about the by-election, including how to nominate or update enrolment details, is available on the ECQ website at www.ecq.qld.gov.au.

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The current Mackay Regional Council councillors, with one seat now vacant following the resignation of George Christensen, who will step up to fill the gap? The vote is yours. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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OPINION PIECE

Last week, I attended the inaugural Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo at the Resources Centre of Excellence in Paget, Mackay. The expo, promoted as a platform showcasing cutting-edge technologies, fostering industry collaboration, and driving sustainable advancements in the resource sector, definitely delivered – what a fantastic event it was!

I was incredibly proud to meet so many local innovators and industry experts, all deeply committed to their products and ideas. I also had the privilege of being part of a roundtable with other stakeholders, industry experts and policymakers to discuss mining and exploration. As Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, I left with plenty of information to take back to Canberra.

What stood out was the strong turnout from both locals and visitors across the country. I saw incredible innovations, like electric skid steers and battery-operated ride-on mowers, as well as robotic technologies from a WA-based company that could be a game changer for industry in the Bowen Basin. These were ideas turned into real businesses by everyday Australians backing themselves.

Yes, there were big players too, but they all started the same way — someone with a dream in a shed. That’s what Australia should be about.

The expo reminded me of what I already knew: Dawson is full of potential.

Our region is not just blessed with rich resources, natural beauty and a great climate. We’re home to some of the world’s smartest innovators, and they’re worth investing in. Paget also happens to be the largest manufacturing hub in the Southern Hemisphere.

Business owners across Dawson tell me their biggest obstacle comes from government. Increased red tape and green tape are drowning our local innovators in getting their ideas off the ground. These people aren’t looking for handouts — they just want less in their way and a government that backs them.

When Labor launched its ‘Future Made in Australia’ policy last year, I thought the government might actually throw Dawson a bone. Instead, it focuses almost entirely on city-based renewables projects. There is nothing in this policy for the manufacturing industry and resource sector in North Queensland that have long underpinned our national economy.

Not investing in the resource sector and manufacturing in North Queensland is not only disappointing for our region, it is ignorant of the risks Australia faces into the future. The more we have to rely on overseas supply chains, the more sovereign risk we expose ourselves to. A truly sovereign Australia needs to make right here on our home turf. We need to invest in our resource sector and manufacturing industry. We need to invest in our people and their innovative ideas. We need to invest in regional Australia – regions like Dawson and people like the ones I met at last week’s expo.

Australia’s future must be made in Australia, and that means regions like ours must be better supported by our federal government.

Dawson is a big part of our national economy and when Parliament resumes next week — and for the first time since before the May election, I might add — I will be reminding the government our region deserves our fair share, better support and less bureaucracy getting in the way.

Buy Australian, promote Australian, and make Australian.

Andrew Willcox MP
Federal Member for Dawson
Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

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Queensland Police are appealing for further information as part of ongoing investigations after a 61-year-old Mackay man was recently charged with child sexual assault offences.

On Saturday 12 July, Detectives from the Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit (CPIU) attended a Mackay address where they took a man into custody.

Police will allege the man sexually assaulted two boys known to him, within the Mackay area over the past several months.

The man has been charged with ten counts of indecent treatment of a child under 16, and one count each of rape, grooming child under 16 years with intent to procure engagement in a sexual act.

He was refused police bail and is due to appear in Mackay Magistrates Court today, 14 July.

Mackay CPIU Detective Sergeant Glenn Burley says police are urging anyone with further information or similar interactions to come forward.

“The nature of the offending against these children in such a grooming and opportunistic nature is of great concern,” Detective Sergeant Burley said.

“We understand this man has previously resided in Brisbane, within the Deception Bay area, before living in Mackay, and there may be someone out there with more information that could assist this investigation, and we encourage you to come forward.”

“If you have experienced sexual violence, it is not your fault, and you are not alone; there are multiple reporting and support options available to you.”

_If there’s an immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). You can also report online via: https://forms.police.qld.gov.au/launch/SexualAssault, over the phone or face to face at a police station.

There are also Alternative Reporting Options available depending on your situation.

For confidential information, counselling and support, call the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.

Quote this reference number: QP2501219324

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Mackay has officially been recognised as one of Australia’s top 10 cities to launch a start-up, according to the latest Reckon Startup Cities report.

Mackay was also named the third best city to start a business in Queensland, behind Brisbane and Toowoomba.

The study, which analysed 50 cities across the country, highlights Mackay’s strong business survival rates, affordable living costs and robust internet infrastructure as key factors driving its entrepreneurial appeal.

Reckon CEO Sam Allert praised regional cities like Mackay for offering “a perfect storm of positive business conditions”, challenging the notion that start-ups must be based in capital cities to thrive.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed the recognition.

“This report confirms what we have been promoting for years and what switched-on entrepreneurs already know – Mackay is a city of opportunity,” Mayor Williamson said.

“With major infrastructure projects underway, a growing population and a supportive business community, we’re proud to be a launchpad for innovation and growth,” he said.

Why Mackay stands out:

Affordable cost of living compared to major cities.
Strong business survival rates in both short and long-term metrics.
Fast internet speeds and digital infrastructure.
Access to skilled labour and a growing talent pool.
Supportive local government and investment in major projects like the Mackay Waterfront and Northern Beaches Community Hub.**

The report’s findings align with Mackay’s ongoing transformation into a modern, new-age regional city. With continued investment in infrastructure and community development, Mackay is poised to attract even more entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to turn bold ideas into thriving ventures.

For more information on Mackay’s business opportunities and support services, visit the Mackay Regional Council’s Economic Development page.

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Michael Cotter from Cotter Builders can attest to how a small startup can become a thriving business in Mackay. Photo supplied

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Resources Innovation Expo Showcases Queensland’s Cutting-Edge Capability

Regional innovation and industry excellence were on full display last Friday at the inaugural Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo, hosted at the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) in Mackay.

The one-day event, backed by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) as principal sponsor, brought together more than 30 exhibitors from across Queensland and interstate, including Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria. The expo attracted industry professionals, educators, students, and innovators, all eager to explore the latest advancements in mining and resources.

Held in Paget, known as Queensland’s mining and manufacturing powerhouse, the event featured panel sessions, the inaugural Mine Pitch showcase, and cutting-edge demonstrations centred on critical minerals, operational efficiency, and ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) innovation.

RCOE CEO Steven Boxall said the event marked a significant milestone for regional Queensland and the wider resources sector.

“This is our first expo… we really wanted to do something that gave local businesses the opportunity to stand up and showcase what they’re doing in the sector,” Mr Boxall said.

“There’s a whole range of world-leading innovation being developed out of regions like Mackay… everything from AI-driven safety systems, electrified equipment, solutions around safety – it’s really world-leading innovation happening out of regional Queensland.”

Boxall highlighted the event’s focus on emerging technologies and safety advancements.

“Particularly in that AI and safety space, there’s tech that can map areas of mine sites that have never been accessible before, keeping people away from the unsafe parts of a very dangerous industry.”

He also reflected on the depth of experience within the region.

“This morning, I actually spoke to someone who proudly said this is their 55th year working in the coal sector here in the Bowen Basin.”

“Whether it's the world’s best met coal or the emerging critical mineral sector, Queensland is absolutely blessed… not just with resources, but with the smarts to develop innovation that keeps us safe, sustainable and productive.”

QRC CEO Janette Hewson said the Council was proud to support the inaugural event and reiterated the region’s critical role in powering the state’s economy.

“Queensland Resources Council and our 200 members are so proud to be the inaugural sponsors of the Resources Centre of Excellence Innovation Expo,” Ms Hewson said.

“We have world-class resources, great suppliers, and people who are absolutely skilled at what they do – producing the resources the world needs safely, sustainably, and productively.”

“Through QMEA, we’re working to bring forward the next generation of talent, and we really want to target regional communities like Mackay.”

Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox, praised the region’s contribution to the national economy and the innovation on display.

“I’m really excited to be here to see the innovation,” Mr Willcox said.

“Currently, it’s about $5 billion in royalties coming out of this area. At its peak, it was around $9 billion.”

“You take coal away and the country stops.”

He also emphasised the importance of local manufacturing and self-reliance.

“The equipment being made here, like underground lighting, was developed in Mackay and now used all over the world.”

“Our capability is huge… sovereign capability is critical. The more we develop here and use here, the less we rely on overseas competitors.”

“If COVID taught us anything, it’s that we need to be self-sufficient.”

The Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo offered a powerful glimpse into a future where regional Queensland leads the way in sustainable, cutting-edge resources innovation.

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The inaugural Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo in Mackay showcased regional Queensland’s leadership in sustainable, tech-driven mining and manufacturing, drawing over 30 exhibitors and key industry voices from across the nation. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Massive Sport Upgrade To Kick Off In Walkerston

Walkerston is set to become a sporting powerhouse, with a record-breaking $3.125 million investment locked in to upgrade the home of the Wests Tigers — the largest single boost to sports infrastructure ever seen in the Mirani electorate.

Backed by the Queensland Government, the funding delivers on Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP’s key election commitment, and marks a major win for the region’s sporting future.

Delivered under the state’s Games On! program, the project will include the construction of four new change rooms, accessible facilities, a parents' room, raised viewing platform, and four new multi-purpose courts with lighting to cater to sports like netball, basketball, volleyball and pickleball.

“This project is about supporting grassroots sport today while helping to nurture the champions of tomorrow,” Mr Kelly said.

“It’s about making sure kids in regional areas have the same opportunities as those in the big cities.

“These upgrades will allow the club to expand, and provide more opportunities for both the 1,000 players at the club across various sports, and players looking at joining the club.

“This will benefit the Walkerston and Valley communities, and it’s so important that we have good quality sporting infrastructure to help develop the athletes of tomorrow and provide opportunities for local sport.”

Wests Tigers General Manager Kingsley Theiber said the club, one of the largest junior rugby league participation clubs in the region with over 600 junior players, was feeling the pinch of limited space and outdated facilities.

“We have a membership base of about 8000 … we hear it all the time that mums and dads are working all these hours and getting home and then not being able to take the kids into town for training where other club facilities are,” Mr Theiber said.

“Construction will start at the end of our rugby league and soccer season this year so we’re looking at probably a September start.

“That’ll have hopefully the new dressing rooms in place ready to go at the start of next season.”

FULL SCOPE OF STAGE 1 INCLUDES:

Design and construction of an extension to the existing change room, canteen and bar building

Four new change rooms

New unisex DDA-compliant toilet

Parents' room

Raised VIP viewing platform

Retention of existing tiered seating with new shade cover

Four new covered, multi-purpose courts with lighting

Lighting upgrades to training field 2

Relocation of existing field 1 lights to field 3

Security fencing across the precinct
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This investment ensures the Wests Tigers and the wider Pioneer Valley sporting community will have the facilities they need to grow, train and thrive — right here at home.

Glen Kelly MP, Premier David Crisafulli, and General Manager Kingsley Theiber

Premier David Crisafulli, Caleb Filewood, and Glen Kelly MP. Photos supplied

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The new state-of-the-art Industrial Technology and Design (INTAD) Precinct at Holy Spirit College was officially blessed and opened earlier this year by Bishop Michael McCarthy and our Diocesan Director, Catholic Education Mr Michael McCusker.

The Blessing and Opening marked a significant milestone in Holy Spirit College’s journey with Vocational Education. Consisting of six workshops, including a construction court, storage and shared machinery zones, three project development rooms with the capability to support Graphics, Design and planning requirements. Additional spaces include a new Maintenance facility, bus and vehicle storage, as well as staff facilities and student amenities.

College Principal, Mrs Alison Wales said, “This new precinct is more than just a building; it is a beacon of innovation, leading the way for Industrial Technologies and Design subjects in our college.

“Our new INTAD precinct provides our students with a cutting-edge facility that will enhance learning and inspire students for generations to come.”

The opening of the new INTAD Precinct also provided the opportunity to celebrate, thank and network with many of the college’s Industry partners at the INTAD Showcase Evening following the official opening and blessing, providing a wonderful opportunity for the college to share the new INTAD facilities with their Industry supporters.

Mrs Wales said that “Holy Spirit College is very grateful for partnerships with Industry and thank them most sincerely for their continued support of the Work Experience students and School-Based Apprenticeships.”

Mrs Wales extended a special thank you to the talented architects from Tony Madden Architects, Luke Madden and Pak Chan, for their dedication to ensuring the final building measured up to expectations.

“Thank you to the local firm, Fergus Builders, for their craftsmanship in bringing the college vision to life.

“We are grateful to Tony Madden Architects and Fergus Builders for their dedication to this project,” Mrs Wales said.

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Holy Spirit College has officially opened its new state-of-the-art Industrial Technology and Design (INTAD) Precinct, marking a major milestone in vocational education and offering cutting-edge facilities to inspire future generations. Photos supplied

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Community spirit is thriving in the Mirani electorate, thanks to a welcome injection of funding aimed at strengthening local services, improving facilities, and supporting regional resilience.

Nine community groups across the electorate have shared in more than $216,000 through Round 123 of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) – a vital initiative that supports not-for-profit organisations delivering meaningful outcomes in their local areas.

Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, congratulated the recipients and acknowledged the critical role each group plays in the fabric of regional life.

“Community groups are the hearts of our communities and give so much to the people in their areas,” Mr Kelly said.

“These grants are incredibly important to give a helping hand to our community groups to provide
opportunities to their communities.”

“This round saw groups in Mirani receive funds for equipment, facility upgrades, and support to help them run community events.

“Amongst the recipients, Sarina Rugby League Club will be able to install irrigation and purchase additional equipment.

"I’m especially excited to see Sarina Landcare receive funding for a shade structure, one that I saw a need for when I visited the site earlier this year.”

Saskia von Fahland, Coordinator for Sarina Landcare welcomed the funding with $29,300 being provided to build a shade structure over the nursery.

“The project will enhance the Community Nursery’s efficiency, and provide additional workspace for volunteers and staff.

“This will lead to increase volunteer capacity and the ability to grow more native plants for our region.”

Glenda Matsen, President of the Ilbilbie Hall Management Committee, who received $30,209 to install awnings over their walkways said that it will improve wet weather access to the hall.

“This will help the elderly especially, during the wet weather as there’s currently no dry access.

“The whole community will benefit from it, and help preserve the ramp because it is deteriorate as a result of the weather and sun on it.”

Applications for the next Super Round of the GCBF, offering grants of up to $100,000, are now open and close 18 July 2025.

Recipients in Mirani were:

o Homebush State Parents and Citizens Association - Received $6,273.85 to host Homebush Hoedown.
o Ilbilbie Hall Management Association - Received $30,209.00 to install awnings over walkways.
o Mackay Cycling Club - Received $8,502.98 to purchase a trailer and medical equipment.
o Mount Morgan Promotion and Development Inc - Received $34,944.00 to purchase equipment and install a shipping container.
o Sarina Junior Rugby League Club - Received $25,887.00 to install irrigation and purchase equipment.
o Sarina Landcare Catchment Management Association Inc. - Received $29,300.00 to install a shade structure.
o The Creche and Kindergarten Association Limited - Received $17,066.00 to construct a gazebo.
o The Queensland Country Women’s Association - Received $29,200.00 to paint the hall and repair the fence.
o Westwood Progress Association Inc. - Received $35,000.00 to install an accessible bathroom and upgrade the facility.

To view the full list of Round 123 recipients, and find out more about current GCBF rounds, visit:
www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/community-grants.

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More than $216,000 in grants has been awarded to nine community groups across the Mirani electorate to support vital projects including facility upgrades, equipment purchases, and local event delivery. Photos supplied

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The Kemmis Park Skatepark in South Mackay temporarily closed on July 14 to allow for essential repairs to its shade structure, with works aimed at ensuring the facility remains safe, shaded, and enjoyable for years to come.

The upgrade is part of council’s ongoing investment in recreational infrastructure, with repairs expected to take approximately one month, weather permitting, and the site anticipated to reopen by mid-August.

While the skatepark itself is fenced off during the works, the footpath surrounding the park remains open for pedestrian use.

Local contractor WFH is delivering the repairs, with work taking place from 6.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and Saturdays from 7am to 5pm as required. Some noise is expected during this time, though appropriate controls will be in place to minimise disruption to nearby residents.

A Mackay Regional Council spokesperson has thanked the community for their patience and understanding during the works. For more information, contact the Community Engagement team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au.

Meanwhile, several local playgrounds are also being temporarily closed over coming weeks as part of a region-wide softfall and artificial grass renewal program.

Each site will be closed for 1–2 weeks, with all existing equipment returning once work is complete. The upgrades started in mid-July and are scheduled to finish by mid-September, weather permitting.

Playgrounds being upgraded include:
📍 Quota Park, East Mackay
📍 John Breen Park, North Mackay
📍 Caneland Park, Mackay
📍 James Muscat Drive Park, Walkerston
📍 Bluewater Quay, Mackay Riverfront

For updates and expected dates, visit: Connecting Mackay – Softfall Renewal (online).

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Kemmis Park Skatepark has temporarily closed to allow for shade structure repairs, with works expected to be completed by mid-August, weather permitting

The playground at James Muscat Drive Park is among several across the region undergoing a short-term closure for softfall and artificial grass upgrades. Photos supplied

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State Budget Delivers Vital Funding For Homelessness Services

Last Friday, The State Government’s 2025–26 Budget announced and delivered a 20 per cent increase in funding to frontline services, aiming to bolster support for people facing homelessness in Mackay and the Whitsundays.

Billed as laying the groundwork for a fresh start, the Budget includes an additional $592 million for homelessness services across Queensland, with a strong focus on critical, on-the-ground support for the state’s most vulnerable.

It includes $380 million to deliver crisis accommodation initiatives and $208.9 million to extend the 20 per cent funding uplift to specialist homelessness services across Queensland.

In Mackay and the Whitsundays, there are multiple service providers who will benefit from the 20 per cent funding uplift, including:
• Community Accommodation and Support Agency
• Kalyan Youth Service
• Lowanna House
• St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said it was vital to invest in local frontline housing and homelessness services while work continued to boost housing supply.

“This funding gives frontline workers the certainty they need to do their job and support more people experiencing homelessness to access the support they need and to get and keep housing, while we work on longer term housing options,’’ Mr Dalton said.

“Thank you to the frontline workers in Mackay for their tireless efforts to help those who need it most, I'm proud that our government is backing them with more support.”

Community Accommodation & Support Agency (CASA) Mackay General Manager William Stafford welcomed the funding boost.

“It’s very powerful. We get up to 180 walk-ins and calls daily from people needing help,and have daily outreach with about 65 rough sleepers in Mackay city alone,’’ Mr Stafford said.

The funding uplift is expected to help local services meet increasing demand, improve service stability, and ensure more people in the region can access safe and timely support.

The 2025–26 Budget has boosted frontline homelessness services by 20 per cent, providing vital support for vulnerable people in Mackay, the Whitsundays, and across Queensland. Pictured: Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton and Premier David Crisafulli. Photo supplied

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Service will offer free, walk-in support for everyone

Mackay residents are being urged to help design a new mental health service to ensure it meets the unique needs of the region.

Northern Queensland Primary Health Network will host a community-wide workshop Thursday 31 July giving locals the opportunity to share their experiences and help codesign the Mackay Medicare Mental Health Centre - a service specifically for Mackay and the surrounding area.

Although the service is still in the early planning stages and isn’t due to start operating until 1 July 2026, now is the time to participate in community consultation.

This workshop is a vital step in ensuring the future service reflects the realities and priorities of those who will use it.

The community codesign workshop will explore what has been learned through community feedback so far and focus on the outcomes that matter most for people seeking support.

Once established, the Mackay Medicare Mental Health Centre will provide free, walk-in mental health support in a welcoming and safe space - without the need for an appointment or referral.

NQPHN is encouraging anyone with an interest in improving mental health support in the region to attend, including service providers, community groups, community members, and local businesses.

For more information or to download a flyer to share with your networks, contact mhaodplanning@nqphn.com.au.

Event details
Date: Thursday 31 July
Time: 9.30am - 2.30pm (registration from 9am)
Venue: Lancaster Room, Harrup Park, Mackay
Light refreshments will be provided
To register visit: nqphn.com.au

About NQPHN

Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) works together with our partners to connect existing local services to simplify the healthcare system, fund primary care and mental health services based on the needs of local communities and support primary care and mental health providers to build their skills and deliver the highest quality patient care.

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If you have grown up in Mackay, or spent any decent amount of time here, you will know just how deep sport runs through our veins. It is stitched into our weekends, brings our communities together and it is where many of our kids find their first sense of purpose. From footy ovals and soccer fields, netball courts to the athletics tracks and swimming lanes, sport is a big part of who we are.

That is why I am excited that the North Queensland Games is returning to our region in May 2026. We have hosted it before, with the first games in Mackay in 1990, and this next chapter is a great opportunity to show off the heart of grassroots sport and the spirit that makes this place tick.

As part of the board for the North Queensland Sports Foundation, it is a privilege to organise this North Queensland Games alongside our neighbours at Isaac and Whitsunday Regional Councils. I get to see what sport means across different towns and different communities. I also see what it can unlock, with a view that it is a shared responsibility, not belonging to any region, but rather to the people of North Queensland.

With the 2032 Olympics on the horizon, the timing is spot on. The Games will give our young athletes an opportunity to spark some big dreams. Whether it’s a first-time swimmer or a rising star in athletics, this is the kind of opportunity that can really light their fire.

There is also a real benefit that comes with visitors heading to town, booking hotels, supporting local cafes and exploring the best of Mackay. It’s a win not just for sport, but for our small businesses and the broader economy.

I know there are challenges in our region and many pressures that families are feeling. While they are always front of my mind, it is also important we take a moment to recognise and enjoy the positives when they come our way.  Bringing the 2026 North Queenland Games to Mackay is something we can all feel proud of. It’s a chance to celebrate what we love and show visitors what our region is all about.

If you are curious about what’s involved or just want to keep an eye out, have a look at the page - www.nqgames.com.au.

It might even get you thinking how you could be a part of it too!

By Cr Ash-Lee Johnson

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