Mackay Pet Rescue is calling for urgent community action after a surge in dumped kittens and surrender requests has pushed the volunteer-run rescue beyond capacity, forcing it to turn animals away.

Over the last year, the organisation has been contacted about large numbers of abandoned kittens found across Mackay, while continuing to receive daily requests to surrender adult cats and dogs.

With adoption space full and February traditionally one of the slowest months for rehoming, Mackay Pet Rescue is currently unable to take in additional animals.

Mackay Pet Rescue President Janet Amrbose said repeat dumping was being driven by the assumption that rescues will always intervene.

“We are completely full, and it is heartbreaking to have to say no when animals are suffering,” Ms Ambrose said.

“People assume we can always step in, but we are unpaid volunteers, not an emergency service. That misunderstanding is leading to repeat dumping and putting animals at greater risk.”

The rescue currently has six older kittens aged 14-20 weeks who have received no adoption interest, despite being healthy and ready for homes. Without space becoming available, Mackay Pet Rescue’s ability to take on more animals is dwindling.

“The reality is simple – if you cannot afford to desex an animal, or you are not prepared to care for a pet for the next 15 to 20 years, you should not get one.

“Our priority has to be the animals already in our care. The only way we can help more is if the community takes responsibility – by desexing pets, using the correct channels for strays and stepping up to adopt.”

Community members who are able to help are encouraged to adopt an older kitten now to urgently free up space.

Find out more about Mackay Pet Rescue and their upcoming adoption days at www.facebook.com/MackayPetRescueInc.

Police have released CCTV footage as part of an ongoing investigation into a series of suspicious fires in Andergrove earlier this year.

According to Queensland Police Service, the incidents occurred across January and February at a business on Celeber Road.

Emergency services were first called to the location about 4.40am on 13 January following reports of a fire at the rear of the building. The blaze was extinguished a short time later and a crime scene was declared at 5.40am.

Police said a second fire occurred at the same address several hours before it was reported at about 7.50am on 14 February. The fire had already extinguished by the time officers arrived.

Investigators believe two unknown people were seen in the area at the time, both wearing masks and gloves. One of the individuals was described as wearing a black and white checkered shirt.

A third fire was reported between 4.45am and 6am on 18 February at the same location. The blaze was extinguished shortly after emergency services arrived, causing minor damage to the building.

Police said two unknown people were seen near the fire before running towards Parkview Court.

A fourth incident occurred between 11.50pm on 27 February and 12.10am on 28 February. During this event, the fire spread to neighbouring businesses before being brought under control by emergency crews.

No one was physically injured in any of the incidents.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have information or relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward as investigations continue.

Reference numbers: QP2600076398, QP2600296924, QP2600320229, QP2600392966

Photo source: Bauer Mackay

Two men have been charged following the seizure of more than 9.5 kilograms of methylamphetamine during a coordinated police operation spanning Rockhampton, the Gold Coast and Mackay.

Detectives from the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Crime Command Organised Crime Gangs Group, alongside officers from Central Region, executed a series of search warrants on Wednesday, 25 February 25, as part of an investigation into the trafficking of methylamphetamine across Queensland.

The investigation was led by the Gold Coast Major and Organised Crime Squad, with assistance from the Mackay Tactical Crime Squad and Rockhampton Criminal Investigation Branch.

Search warrants were carried out at a residential address in Reedy Creek, a property in The Leap near Mackay, and after a vehicle interception in Rockhampton. During the searches, police allegedly located 9.5 kilograms of methylamphetamine, 162 grams of cocaine, more than $175,000 in cash, and seized three vehicles — a Toyota LandCruiser, Toyota Prado and a Ford Ranger.

A 40-year-old man arrested in Rockhampton has been charged with multiple offences, including trafficking in dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs, possessing property obtained from trafficking, and possessing items used in the commission of a crime. He is expected to appear in the Rockhampton Magistrates Court on Friday, 27 February.

A 46-year-old man arrested in Mackay has been charged with several drug-related offences, including possession of methylamphetamine and cocaine, possessing property suspected of being proceeds of crime, and breaching an order relating to access of electronically stored information. He appeared in the Mackay Magistrates Court on 26 February.

Detective Inspector Craig Bowman from the Organised Crime Gangs Group said the operation highlighted the importance of coordinated policing efforts.

“Police are working collaboratively across regions and with specialist and frontline officers to dismantle organised crime networks,” he said.

“This investigation demonstrates our continued focus on targeting all aspects of illicit enterprises, disrupting their activities, and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice to keep our communities safe.”

CAPTION: Two men have been charged after QPS seized 9.5 kilograms of methylamphetamine. Photo source: QPS

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By Cr Peter Sheedy

The Mackay Region Planning Scheme helps us manage growth, plan for a sustainable future and guide the way land is used and developed in the Mackay region.

Council resolved to adopt version 4.1 of the planning scheme on December 11, 2024. Details of all planning scheme amendments can be accessed via council’s web site.

In a nutshell, council is the custodian of the planning scheme which underpins the assessment and approval or otherwise for development applications to change the use of land within a designated zone.

Every parcel or group of parcels of land within council’s region of responsibility has a valuation as determined periodically by the Queensland Government.

This valuation is then provided by the Department of the Valuer General to the council with an unimproved valuation.

The unimproved value then becomes the basis of adjusting all property values within similar land use categories for a relevant range of properties.

Rates are levied by council on all land holders as per the annual budget – with different rates for various rating categories – to recover the cost of delivering infrastructure, including maintenance and depreciation, as well as services across the region.

The Planning Scheme is all about managing land uses in a consistent way for servicing the region cost effectively with fairness and equity to all categories of land use.

Policies of the Queensland Government have to be observed and recognised in our region’s planning scheme, which establishes zones for certain uses, minimum sized subdivisions and certain other requirements. We have areas designated in our planning scheme for industrial and commercial purposes as well as rural and agricultural purposes. Good quality agricultural land has been recognised as special and to be protected.

A Planning and Environment Court has been empowered to deal with complaints about decisions on planning and related matters.

Mackay Regional Council has committed itself to programs for economic development and improving liveability, which can at times present challenges needing to be resolved by the custodians of the planning scheme.

As councillors who have all taken an oath of office, we must be conscious of all the potential consequences of our actions and be informed, as best we are able, to decide matters for the best long-term interests of the Mackay region. This is democracy in action.

Let’s Chat – Council Connect

Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

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More than 80 trees will be planted along a popular walking trail, which is also an environmentally significant area.

As part of Mackay Regional Council’s Urban Greening Strategy, semi-advanced native species will be planted at Sandfly Creek, in East Mackay from Monday, 23 February 2026.

Species being planted include the Hoop Pine, which is a signature species in the area and provides height, shade and visual presence, with other species being drawn from the local ecosystem of the area.

More than 60 trees have already been planted this year at Glenfields Park in Glenella.

As part of the Urban Greening Strategy, Mackay Regional Council has set a target of 40 percent canopy cover over pathways and an annual net gain of public tree numbers by 2042.

Increased vegetation not only helps restore and improve ecosystems, but also contributes to urban cooling, increased amenity and improves mental health.

To find out more about council’s Urban Greening Strategy visit Mackay urban greening news at www.connectingmackay.com.au for project updates and stay informed about native plant giveaways, planting projects, activities and events.

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St Patrick’s College Mackay has a long history of offering excellence in education as a Catholic Coeducational College in the Diocese of Rockhampton catering for Years 7 to 12.

Families looking for a quality Catholic Secondary education in Mackay are invited to attend the St Patrick’s College Mackay Open Night being held on Tuesday 17 March at the Mercy Campus in Penn Street, Mackay from 4.00pm to 7.00pm.

Prospective parents and students are warmly invited to join us for an enjoyable and informative evening filled with activities and opportunities. Explore our diverse range of subject displays, chat to teachers about our curriculum, whilst admiring students’ work and classroom activities.

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover valuable information about our vocational and sporting programs. Throughout the evening, you’ll also enjoy dynamic performances from the College Cultural ensembles, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of our students in captivating live performances.

For those attending there is a Treasure Map prize draw at 6:30pm at the Pavilion offering:

First Prize - $200 City Beach Gift Voucher
Second Prize - $100 City Beach Gift Voucher
Third Prize - $50 City Beach Gift Voucher

Why enrol at St Patrick’s College? St Patrick’s is a partnership between students, staff and parents, providing an environment of learning, personal growth and faith development while recognising students as young adults.

St Patrick’s College holds as its central character the motto ‘Seek and Serve Christ’.

With strong academic, vocational, sporting, cultural and spiritual, programs, St Patrick’s College offers positive experiences for students in a dynamic and exciting dual campus environment.

The College is ideally located close to Mackay’s burgeoning Sports precinct with Multi Sports Basketball and Netball Stadium, BB Print Stadium, Junior League Fields, Harrup Park cricket fields, netball courts plus soccer and hockey fields nearby as well as the Paget Business District.

If you would like more information regarding enrolment at St Patrick’s College Mackay, please visit our website www.stpats.qld.edu.au or call (07) 4994 8700.

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The MADEC Hub in Mackay welcomed the community on Tuesday, 3 March, giving locals the chance to explore the newly renovated John E. Smith Respite Home and the David & Irie Dalrymple Home. The open day, held from 9:00am–12:00pm at 615 Mackay Bucasia Road, highlighted accessible playgrounds and sensory spaces funded by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation and Variety Queensland.

MADEC CEO Jasmine Lowry said, “We’re incredibly proud to open our doors and share this space with the Mackay community. So many people drive past without realising this welcoming, purpose-built facility is here and available to them.

“This is not just a building, it’s a place for connection, respite, independence and belonging. From the sensory garden to the accessible playground, every element has been thoughtfully designed to create a safe and engaging environment for people of all abilities.”

The event showcased the support these homes provide for people with disability and those transitioning to independent living.

NDIS Manager Edmund McMahon explained, “There are around four bedrooms, so at any one time, we can cater for up to four individuals. We also have two sleepover rooms for staff, so there can be two staff on site at any given time.”

He added, “We provide full support for individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities, ensuring they receive holistic care while they stay here. Not only do we provide accommodation, but we also support residents to access the community, making their stay engaging and exciting.”

Ms Lowry also emphasised opportunities for community involvement, saying, “As a community organisation, we rely on the generosity and goodwill of local people and businesses, including valued partners such as NQBP and Variety Queensland. Whether it’s contributing to a project, volunteering time, or supporting upgrades like the future accessible sensory garden at the David & Irie Dalrymple Home, every contribution helps us continue creating a place where everyone feels welcome.”

The open day offered attendees a firsthand look at the upgraded sensory rooms, gardens, and recreational spaces, reflecting MADEC’s ongoing commitment to supporting Mackay residents with disability through practical, accessible, and engaging programs.

For more information, or to donate, visit www.madec.org.au

One of Mackay’s most popular and picturesque community events is gearing up for another standout year, as interest in run tourism and nature based experiences continues to surge across the region.

The 2026 Mackay Airport Twilight City Run is tipped to surpass previous participation records following the enthusiastic response to the brand new course unveiled last year.

The milestone moment also coincides with Mackay Airport marking ten years as the event’s naming rights sponsor. A newly signed agreement will see the partnership continue through to 2028, further cementing the airport’s long standing support of one of the region’s most loved community events.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said the popular event continued to go from strength to strength.

“We are proud to have been the naming rights sponsor of the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run since 2018. This incredible local occasion exceeds expectations every year, and we are thrilled to be committing our continued support.”

Participants enjoyed the updated course, which provided more sweeping views of the Pioneer River, Mr Miles said.

“The Pioneer River is one of the only blue rivers on Australia’s east coast. It’s a spectacular backdrop for the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, particular at dusk when this iconic event is held,” he said.

“Statistics tell us that Australians are increasingly keen to travel regionally for both running events and nature-based attractions. We’ve combined them in one location, along with a fun and inclusive atmosphere.”

More than 1,100 people are expected to take part in this year’s Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, including participants from across Queensland and interstate. The event on Friday 6 March will raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation.

Scheduled as a precursor to the Mackay Marina Run, the 5km Mackay Airport Twilight City Run is family-friendly and welcomes all ages and abilities, whether running, walking or pushing a pram.

BMA Mackay Marina Run Event Director Tim Magoffin said the event got bigger and better every year.

“We introduced the new course last year to cater to more participants, because there is such a growing demand,” he said.

“The Mackay Airport Twilight City Run follows a nice, flat track so it ticks the box for so many people; visitors who want to explore a new destination, fitness enthusiasts chasing a PB, families, social and gym clubs, corporate teams or locals simply enjoying the best of their hometown.

“Crucially, it also brings together a like-minded community to raise funds for the Leukemia Foundation, who do vital work across our region. We are grateful for the ongoing support of the Mackay Airport team, and their commitment to our community’s economic growth and wellbeing.”

To register for the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run, visit mackaymarinarun.com and click on the ‘Events’ tab. Entrants will automatically go into the draw to win one of three $500 travel vouchers

Photo supplied

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Students and staff from St Patrick’s College Mackay’s Argos House have kicked off the year supporting the Brekky Van outreach program. Guided by the College’s Catholic values of compassion, hope, justice, and respect, the initiative provides meals and a welcoming presence to those in need. The program runs year-round, with volunteers warmly encouraged to join and help make a difference in the community.

Photo source: St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, is calling for community organisations to lace up their boots and prepare for the 2025-26 Volunteer Grants. With expressions of interest now open, Andrew is looking to support the local legends who keep our region in the winning circle.

These grants, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, provide the home-ground advantage for community groups to purchase equipment and support the diverse team of volunteers that make Dawson thrive. The program is designed to strengthen our social fabric by backing the people who give their time for the benefit of others.

Mr Willcox said it is time to give our community champions the support they deserve.

"Volunteers are the absolute MVPs of our region: they are the ones who show up early to set the field and stay late to pack it down. However, even the most legendary team needs the right gear to succeed.

“These grants provide a fantastic opportunity for our local groups to upgrade their equipment and ensure their volunteers have the tools they need to perform at their peak."

Mr Willcox said he is looking for entries from every corner of the community.

“If your group relies on the power of people to make a difference, you are a star player in my book."

The 2025-26 Volunteer Grants feature two key categories to help local groups score big:

• Category 1: Communication and Safety. This supports essential IT items such as

mobile phones, laptops, and software to help your group connect better; additionally, it

covers critical safety and operational expenses like insurance premiums and internet

fees.

• Category 2: Community Support and Activity. This category is dedicated to items and

activities that directly benefit specific groups: including children’s development, people

with disabilities, and unemployed locals looking to upskill.

"From language classes to sporting events, these grants ensure everyone has a seat at the table. Whether you are running programs for children or providing vital support for our veterans, these grants are here to help you go the distance."

Expressions of interest for the Dawson electorate will be accepted until 5.00pm, Friday 20 March 2026. To request an EOI application form and a copy of the guidelines, please contact the Office of Andrew Willcox MP via email at Andrew.Willcox.MP@aph.gov.au or visit www.grants.gov.au for further information.

Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP

Local legends such as Volunteer Marine Rescue Midge Point and the Burdekin Woodcrafts Association have already demonstrated the value of these grants: proving just how much of a difference this support makes for our regional volunteers.

Mackay Bushwalkers Club staged a Clean Up Australia event last Sunday afternoon.

Equipped with bags, gloves, an empty ute and dump vouchers, a group of eleven club members turned out to lend a hand.

The original plan was to walk across Shellgrit Creek and collect rubbish along the sheltered beach south towards the mouth of Baker’s Creek. However, runoff from recent rain had elevated the water level, prompting the group to put a Plan B into action. Members instead focused on the path from Illawong Beach along the foreshore.

A large amount of driftwood left behind by recent cyclone weather made it difficult to locate rubbish at times, but the group still managed to collect a considerable amount of microplastics with determination. Significant quantities of rubbish were also gathered from the beach, surrounding bushland, car parks and along Illawong Drive, where a surprising number of discarded items were found. Cigarette butts and dangerous glass were particularly abundant in front of the main beach area.

After an initial burst of rain, the weather proved favourable, with a welcome cloud cover throughout the afternoon.

The strong sense of fellowship and involvement in a community initiative made for an enjoyable and rewarding afternoon for those involved.

Contributed with thanks to Coral and Carole from Mackay Bushwalkers Club

Photos supplied

There were heartfelt moments and quiet tears at the Trudy Crowley Cancer Centre last Thursday as members of the Mackay community came together to honour the life and legacy of Bridgeen Doherty, a much-loved ambassador whose courage and advocacy left a lasting mark on the region.

Local representatives, supporters, family and friends gathered for the unveiling of “Bridgeen’s Window,” a permanent tribute celebrating the remarkable woman who dedicated her voice to raising awareness about ovarian cancer.

The emotional ceremony recognised Bridgeen’s compassion, strength and memorable impact on the community, following her passing on 20 February 2025 after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer.

Diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer just before Christmas in 2019, Bridgeen faced the disease with extraordinary determination. Rather than retreating from the fight, she used her experience to advocate for greater awareness, encouraging women to listen to their bodies and seek help if something didn’t feel right.

Her powerful message has since become a lasting legacy.

“Know your body, know your normal.”

The phrase now features prominently on the tribute window at the Trudy Crowley Cancer Centre as a reminder of the lifesaving message Bridgeen shared so passionately throughout her journey.

Queensland Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP attended the unveiling as a special guest and patron of the Trudy Crowley Foundation, describing the moment as deeply humbling.

“I was humbled to unveil the Bridgeen Doherty window, alongside her daughter Lassara,” Ms Camm said.

“A fierce ambassador who touched so many lives with her humour, courage and kindness. Bridgeen has left a legacy through the incredible work she did with the Trudy Crowley Foundation.”

Ms Camm said Bridgeen’s advocacy continues to inspire both the foundation and the wider community.

“As a proud patron of the foundation we all take inspiration from the women and men they support, their staff and volunteers and thank them for their dedication to our community.”

For many who attended, the unveiling was not only a tribute but a moment to reflect on the strength Bridgeen demonstrated throughout her journey and the countless lives she touched.

A representative from the Trudy Crowley Foundation thanked those who gathered to celebrate Bridgeen’s life and legacy.

“Thank you to everyone who turned up today to celebrate beautiful Bridgeen Doherty. We now have a special place on our front window in honour of this amazing woman.”

Through the tribute window and the message it carries, Bridgeen’s voice continues to echo throughout the community.

“Know your Body, Know your Normal.”

Bridgeen Doherty’s daughter, Lassara, with Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP in front of Bridgeen’s tribute window. Photo source: Amanda Camm MP

Bridgeen Doherty’s memory lives on through the many lives she touched across the community. Photo source: Trudy Crowley Foundation

Hi lovely readers!

This edition is packed with stories of resilience, empowerment and beauty as we celebrate the wonderful women of our region for International Women’s Day.

Of course, we can’t feature every amazing woman… otherwise our paper would never end!

But on pages 12–18, you’ll find plenty who have been instrumental not only in the success of their businesses but also in strengthening their community.

It was a real honour to interview established women in our region, hearing their life advice and greatest achievements.

I also celebrated my own hero last weekend – my mother, who turned 54! We enjoyed a lovely dinner out with my mum, dad, sister and my husband Adam, then had her over for cake and tea at our place.

Today (Friday, 6 March), I’ll be attending the Resource Industry Network International Women’s Day Lunch, and on Sunday, I’m looking forward to the Zonta International Women’s Day High Tea.

On a personal note, I’m delighted to share that I’m now a cat mum! I rescued a cat from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc, and she’s such a wonderful addition to our little family.

It’s been a busy, joyful week, and I hope you all have a fantastic week ahead.

Happy International Women’s Day!

Scripture of the week: “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” - John

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Mackay locals were reminded of the power of community this week after a simple act of kindness at Aldi touched a family and everyone nearby.

A grateful daughter took to a local Facebook community page to share her story.

“To the wonderful kind lady that paid for my Dad’s groceries today at Aldi when he had lost his wallet and was out at the car looking for it. Could you please message me. I would love to reimburse you and thank you personally.”

The post resonated with others who witnessed similar moments, including a cashier who shared their perspective.

“As someone who works on registers, I do get the opportunity to see this and to be that cashier who has been told to pay for the previous customers groceries, it is a very touching and moving experience, and I’m not the 1 receiving it.

“Blessings to those that do come through my register and receive this wonderful gesture, and for those that are paying as well. They are the true in the spirit of the community.”

Such moments, small but meaningful, highlight the generosity and compassion that exist in everyday life. They remind us that kindness is contagious and can inspire others to act similarly, whether it’s helping a neighbour, supporting a friend, or simply paying forward a good deed.

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The waters of the Great Barrier Reef are among the most carefully managed marine environments on Earth. Yet even here, the challenge of balancing commercial fishing with conservation remains complex. In recent years, a new tool has emerged to help bridge that divide: onboard camera monitoring of trawling vessels.

Trawling — particularly prawn trawling — is one of Queensland’s most valuable wild-catch fisheries. But the method, which involves dragging large nets across the seabed, can unintentionally capture non-target species, known as bycatch. These may include sea turtles, sawfish, rays and sea snakes — animals already under environmental pressure. Ensuring accurate reporting of these interactions has long been a concern for regulators and conservation groups.

Enter electronic monitoring, or “e-monitoring” — a system combining high-definition cameras, sensors and satellite tracking to independently record fishing activity at sea. These systems are typically mounted above decks and near net drums, activating automatically when gear is deployed or retrieved. Footage is stored for later analysis and cross-checked against fishers’ logbooks, providing a far clearer picture of what is actually being caught.

On the Reef, camera use is rapidly expanding. A major government initiative announced in 2026 will see cameras installed on about 90 per cent of Queensland trawl vessels — more than 160 boats — operating along the east coast. The rollout, funded jointly by state and federal governments, aims to strengthen sustainability credentials and secure ongoing access for trawlers to operate within the Marine Park.

The technology builds on existing monitoring tools. Many vessels already carry satellite tracking devices and bycatch-reduction equipment such as turtle-exclusion devices. Cameras add an independent verification layer, improving confidence in reporting and helping Australia meet international export and environmental standards.

Beyond compliance, the footage is proving scientifically valuable. Analysts can review interactions with threatened species, refine bycatch estimates and guide improvements in fishing gear or handling practices. Trials of onboard camera systems in trawl fisheries have specifically focused on detecting encounters with threatened, endangered and protected animals — known as TEP species — to better inform management responses.

The sheer volume of video collected, however, presents its own challenge. Reviewing thousands of fishing hours manually is costly and time-consuming. To address this, researchers are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence. Machine-learning systems can be trained to recognise species, count catch and flag high-risk events automatically, dramatically reducing analysis time while expanding monitoring coverage.

Supporters argue that cameras represent a win-win: protecting marine wildlife while safeguarding the future of the fishing industry. Verified data helps demonstrate that fisheries are operating sustainably — an increasingly important factor for eco-certification and consumer trust.

Not everyone is convinced. Some operators have raised concerns about privacy, costs and how footage may be used. Conservation organisations, meanwhile, argue that implementation has been too slow and should extend to all vessels operating in sensitive Reef waters.

Despite debate, momentum is clearly building. As technology advances and monitoring becomes more sophisticated, the once-hidden world of commercial trawling is coming into sharper focus.

In a region as globally significant as the Great Barrier Reef, that transparency may prove vital — ensuring that one of the world’s natural wonders remains protected while sustainable fishing continues alongside it.

Contributed with thanks to Tony Fontes

Captions

Trawler

Photo supplied

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