Having spent six weeks being refurbished in the 102 Field Workshop in Townsville, a donated German mortar gun has now been mounted outside the Calen Memorial Hall.

The new addition, a 7.58-centimetre Minewerefer Trench Mortar Gun, was first used in World War l.

The gun is portable by hand, operated by four or five men and would fire three-inch shells.

Found underneath a tree on a Mount Charlton farm, it is believed the gun had resided there for over 50 years.

Tremain Thomas, of the Calen War Memorial believes it is likely that the mortar gun is one of 100 purchased by the Australian Army around 1930, just before World War I, from Germany.

These guns were modified for a lower angel of trajectory, for jungle canopy engagement.

A handful of the German guns were used by Australian troops in World War Two, on the Owen Stanley Ranges, more specifically, the Kokoda Track.

It is unclear how the mortar gun came to the farm in Mount Charlton, however the donation is appreciated by the Calen War Memorial.

The refurbishment work took six weeks and was undertaken by the 102 Field Workshop in Townsville, before it was returned to Calen, with the help from St Helens RSL Sub Branch.

The unveiling of the refurbished gun took place on the day of the Calen ANZAC Day service and was attended by Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm, and Mackay Councillor Pauline Townsend.

“It was good to see them,” Mr Thomas said.

The monument now sits outside the Calen Memorial Hall for the community to enjoy.

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The German mortar gun now sits outside the Calen Memorial Hall

Merv Thomas, St Helens Sub Branch RSL President John Farren-Price, Tremain Thomas, Corporal Jesse Thomas, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, Craftsman Connor Thomas, absent Heath Thomas. Photos supplied

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Applications are now open for original acts to enter what has now become Australia’s largest live, original music initiative, Passport to Airlie.

Winners from each region, including Mackay, will get the opportunity to open Airlie Beach Festival of Music 2023, performing in the main tent on Thursday, November 9.  

“The chance to be on a bill with international stars was once-in-a-lifetime,” said Passport to Airlie co-ordinator Cherrie Hughes.

“Fresh new acts and established artists can all enter to have this chance plus the opportunity to build experience and networks as well as their opportunity for a spot on the Airlie Beach Festival of Music line-up.”

Winners will be hoping for not just an overall win but also the prize of a headline spot at next year’s Airlie Beach Festival of Music.  

Passport to Airlie’s 2022 winner Perry Street Park have gone on an absolute tear since winning last year's competition, now winning the Bluesfest Byron Bay Busking Competition which saw them playing the Juke Joint stage for Bluesfest 2023.

“Passport to Airlie gives up and coming bands from all around Australia the opportunity to perform at a renowned festival on the big stage in front of industry and music lovers,” said lead singer Benny.

Airlie Beach Festival of Music Ambassador Sarah McLeod is also back as head judge and mentor before she rocks the stage with The Superjesus Saturday night.

“What a great opportunity for bands to be discovered on a legit platform in front of real fans who will follow their journey,” she said.

“Australian Idol this ain’t!”  

Applications for Passport to Airlie 2023 are open now and can be made at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au/how-to-enter.

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Passport to Airlie 2022 winners Perry Street Park. Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes

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Spoil your mum this Mother’s Day with a gift from the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre.

Leading up to Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 14, the centre is featuring its locally made crafts, giving you a chance to say ‘love you, Mum’ to the most important person in your life.

All our crafts are hand-made locally to a high standard by our highly experienced crafters, who put many hours of painstaking work into their creations.

“We are very proud of all our crafters,” centre manager Jenny Costello said.

“They all have many years of experience behind them in creating their crafts, which is apparent from the standard of their items, and our prices are quite cheap.”

The centre is a non-profit group run entirely by volunteers in heritage buildings at the Sarina Field of Dreams Parkland, which is at the southern entrance to the town.

The parkland also houses the Sarina Museum, the Sarina Art Gallery and the Sarina Sugar Shed, along with the Mackay Tourism Information Centre, which is housed in the town’s railway station.

The centre is open Monday-Saturday 9am to 1pm.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Volunteers Pamela Robertson and Sue Smith at the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre with the Mother’s Day display. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Exciting news for Moranbah, with a $48.5 million tender awarded for Moranbah Hospital.

National company Hutchinson Builders has been awarded the massive tender to construct the improved Moranbah Hospital, which will include emergency department treatment spaces, improved medical imaging services and a helicopter landing pad.

This construction will replace the existing hospital and align multiple health services into one building.

The new hospital will increase the emergency department from six to 10 treatment spaces and provide patients with a CT scanner on the premise.

The tender was funded by the Palaszczuk Government’s progressive royalties regime and is expected to generate 100 construction jobs.

“Our government is committed to giving Queenslanders access to world-class health care no matter where they live,” said Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Yvette D’Ath.

“This new $48.5 million Moranbah Hospital will deliver a brand new, state-of-the-art facility that will support residents and resources workers across the Bowen Basin.

“This facility will deliver greater flexibility in services provided and better equip the hospital to respond to emergency situations, such as mining incidents,” Minister D’Ath said.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker is excited for the new hospital.

“After years of advocacy I am thrilled to see the Moranbah Hospital tender has been awarded,” Mayor Baker said.

“I am eager for the construction to get underway so the planning can begin on a place based service model that will make a genuine difference to the lives of our community.”

“It’s only right that our royalties generated from great mining towns like Moranbah are reinvested in our resources communities, giving the community access to the healthcare they deserve,” Minister for Resources, Scott Stewart said.

“Building the new Moranbah Hospital will provide an important economic boost and create more than 100 construction jobs,” said Julieanne Gilbert, Assistant Minister for Health and Regional Health Infrastructure.

Construction for the new hospital is expected to be complete by June 2025.

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Hutchinson Builders to construct new Moranbah Hospital

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Mackay’s biggest annual fun run has big plans to increase in size this year and exceed fundraising expectations, adding more funds to its impressive tally of over $480,000 raised in the previous 14 years.

The BMA Mackay Marina Run, held Sunday 4 June, yearly raises much needed funds for the Leukaemia Foundation with contributions to date totalling nearly half a million dollars.

“We are extremely proud of our long-term relationship with the Leukaemia Foundation and what we have been able to contribute to such an important organisation,” Event Director Tim Magoffin said.

“Each year our event evolves and this year we are hoping to welcome an expanded running field of just under 3,500 runners from throughout Australia.”

Held annually on the first Sunday in June, the run follows a stunning 21.1-kilometre course all the way from the Marina to Sydney Street for its major event, with smaller runs on the day including three- and five-kilometres.

Mr Magoffin said the future of the BMA Mackay Marina Run is “bright”, with an expanded number of registrations in 2023, meaning more donations for the Leukaemia Foundation.

“That makes us especially proud,” he said.

“Our goal for this year is to reach the $500,000 mark and we are well on track for that.”

Leukaemia Foundation CEO Chris Tanti advised that funds raised through the BMA Mackay Marina Run would help support local families in their fight against blood cancer.

“Blood cancer doesn’t discriminate, it can affect anyone, at any age,” he said.

“Every 27 minutes, a person is newly diagnosed with blood cancer. It’s our mission to not only provide education and support services for those impacted by blood cancer but to also take steps towards curing and conquering this disease.

“Whether you chose to run 5km, 8km or tackle our half marathon, corporate or junior dash events - every registration makes a difference and will help save lives.”

To register for this year’s BMA Mackay Marina Run or to make a donation, visit www.mackaymarinarun.com

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The BMA Mackay Marina Run is hoping to hit a major milestone with $500,000 raised by the end of the events fundraising period this year

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A Mackay-based author, who introduced Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby to the world at the age of nine, is working to educate Australians about animal conservation.

64-year-old Rose-Marie Dusting wrote Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby at nine years old after an intimate interaction with a bilby near her childhood home in Richmond, Queensland.

Since then, she’s created a bevy of characters, including Billy’s friends Wally the Whale, Dudley the Dolphin, and Thomas the Turtle, to carry a message of preservation and conservation.

“Australia has the worst mammal extinction record in the world, with 22 mammals becoming extinct in the last 200 years,” Ms Dusting said.

“It would be heartbreaking and internationally embarrassing if we stand aside and witness another wave of extinctions.”

Ms Dusting said introduced species such as rabbits, cats and foxes have caused this decline, as well as environmental and human factors including fire, floods, and the clearing of land.

When the platypus, a species special to the Mackay area, came on the endangered species list, she said “enough is enough!”

“I am calling for a save an Aussie endangered species revolution,” Ms Dusting said.

“We need action now.”

Ms Dusting has been working with all levels of government as well as zoos and conservation organisations including Taronga Zoo to share her message.

“I have a proven IQ of 171, and I will use my God-given gift to help our unique Aussie species,” Ms Dusting said.

“There is no place in the world like what we have in Australia, and we have to look after it.

“I want our wildlife to feed our next generations’ imaginations.

“I intend to educate about our Aussie endangered species and take immediate action to help save them.

“I hope I inspire all Australians and people to use my motto, ‘I stand up for our wildlife.’”

Ms Dusting’s new version of “Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby” will be released in early 2024 with a book launch in Mackay.

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Rose-Marie Dusting

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After years of contract work, Robyn Geiger focused her expertise into Phoenix Counselling, a small business allowing her flexibility while doing work she's passionate about.

Phoenix Counselling celebrated its first birthday with a morning tea at Bohemian Elyse earlier this week, where Robyn also launched a new logo, inviting those who have supported Robyn over the last 12 months.

"I decided to go back into private practise and set up in the city heart, which is an excellent place. It's been fabulous,” Robyn said.

"I've built a case load of clients that are regular; you become the family counsellor.

"It's a pretty full case load for one counsellor but that's what I intended when I set it up a year ago."

Robyn has experience working with mothers, parents, people with disabilities, youth and more.

“I've always been a people person and wanted to be in an industry where I was able to help people, so Phoenix Counselling gives me an opportunity to still help all those people in a more formal way,” she said.

“I'm also a registered Christian counsellor and that's very dear to my heart.”

Robyn has also diversified her case load, recently taking on a number of clients through the Employee Assistance Professional Association Of Australasia, supporting local businesses and their employees.

Mackay through and through, Robyn has always been involved in the community whether it's through the Endeavour Foundation, country music associations and fundraising throughout the community.

“My profile in the community is important to me and I think as long as I'm visible and honest, I'll have a lot of success,” she said.

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Robyn Geiger celebrated one year of Phoenix Counselling earlier this week

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May is Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month and Jo Sainsbury from Kickass Women is helping to spread the 2023 theme of ‘it’s in our control to end coercive control’ through her upcoming Shades of Women fundraising gala event, supported by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal.

Held on Sat 27 May at Mantra Mackay, the annual event is an eye-opening showcase of the strength and resilience of women who have faced domestic violence and raises funds for Mackay Women’s Services to support women and children affected by domestic violence in the Mackay Region.

A local coal train driver and women’s activist, Jo has spent several years driving community change and is providing a safe platform to discuss the devastating and immeasurable impacts of DFV on women and children in our community.

“An important part of Shades of Women is providing education about the many faces of domestic and family violence,” she said. “It’s partly about knowing the signs, but also, it’s about building up self-worth and embracing courage, self-confidence, conviction, and strength.

“Shades of Women is created by women, for women. The event is an opportunity to highlight the current situation, hear from survivors who have re-built their lives, provide funds and resources to Mackay Women’s Services, and celebrate our female connections in a glamorous and supportive setting. It’s truly a night to remember.”

Funds raised from the event, and resources like Hope Bags and 24hr monitoring devices, will support Mackay Women’s Services in their mission to provide resources, crisis support, and counselling services to women and children faced with physical, psychological, sexual, coercive and/or financial violence.

Jo said that coercive behaviours came in all forms and meant that someone was overpowering another person and had created an environment of fear, intimidation, isolation and humiliation.

“Mackay Women’s Services is an invaluable lifeline for women seeking refuge, whether that’s immediate support or ongoing counselling as they rebuild their life… and confidence! Leaving a volatile situation takes immense courage and it’s the first few days and weeks that are the most critical for those women and children,” she said.

Jo invited all women from across the Mackay Region to join her at the 2023 Shades of Women for a night of glitz and glamour, fine dining, entertainment, unforgettable speakers, and an atmosphere of unity and support.

For more information about Shades of Women, please visit www.kickasswomen.com.au or the Kickass Women Facebook page.

WHAT: Shades of Women,

WHEN: Saturday 27 May, 4:30pm – 10:30pm

WHERE: Mantra Mackay

TICKETS: $165pp – single tickets or tables of 8 available

Includes a 2-course meal [main + dessert], wine, champagne, beer and soft drinks, lucky door prize, a silent auction, live music and dancing, and a line-up of inspiring speakers.

FOR TICKETS: www.stickytickets.com.au/7n6ac/shades_of_women_2023.aspx

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Kickass Women

Company of Women Luncheon

Women of Mackay recently gathered for the Company of Women luncheon hosted by Kickass Women.

“As always, we had incredible speakers, amazing company, and the topic of 'women's safety' sparked vital conversations within our community,” said Kickass Women Founder Jo Sainsbury.

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Jo Sainsbury

Photos supplied: Kickass Women

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Since its inception in 2020, the BHP FutureFit Academy (FFA) in Paget has welcomed over 400 apprentices and trainees which are now set to provide a boost to the mining workforce ahead of the next highly anticipated mining boom.

The program is facilitated by CQ University and operated in partnership with BHP.

Graduates are guaranteed roles within the company and deployed to the Operations Services teams, which provide maintenance and production support to BHP’s operations across Australia.

FFA has two academies, one based in Mackay and a second in Perth, Western Australia.

The program aims to train 2500 people over five years with an associated investment of $300 million.

Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, said that apprentices and trainees boost the pipeline of workers that are needed to ensure a strong economy.

“The apprentices and trainees at BHP’s FutureFit Academy are critical to meeting the high demand for workers as we lead into another mining boom,” Ms Landry said.  

“Locals in Central Queensland know CQUniversity offer the best higher education in regional Australia. For BHP to also recognise this is a true credit to the work of our local university.”

Vice President Operations Services, Matt Furrer couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve created with FFA.

“No one is investing in trades and training like we are,” he said.

“Operations Services is successfully providing opportunities for thousands of Australians to benefit from permanent, well-paid jobs and high value training and career development.

“It works for our 4000-strong team, it works for BHP, and the communities where we operate.”

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Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry visits the BHP FutureFit Academy (FFA) in Paget. Photo supplied

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At Educational Workshops

Esteemed theatre professional, actor, producer and renowned director Jason Klarwein spent a week with students at the St Patrick’s College Mercy campus in Mackay recently as an Artist in Residence.

The accomplished thespian conducted educational workshops in English and Drama for Year 8, 9 and 10 students that extend skills and knowledge with emphasis on “persuasive speech” and “poetry” and building confidence and empowerment.

These workshops aim to develop student’s technical and artistic talents and provide opportunities to develop high-level skills in this art form.

A native of Cairns, the gifted Klarwein takes his workshops all across Queensland as part of his artistic director role with the Grin & Tonic Theatre troupe.

Grin & Tonic present shows which include Shakespeare aimed at primary and secondary school children and explore issues which fit into the school curriculum.

“Those issues include public speaking and having the confidence to talk in front of an audience,” says Jason.

“We encourage the students to express themselves – by accepting their anxiety to become better communicators” he said.

With his encouraging tone, expertise and upbeat personality the versatile Klarwein has a knack of quickly connecting with students.

Grin & Tonic boasts such luminaries as Geoffrey Rush, David Gulpilil, Jack Thompson, Deborah Mailmain and Bille Brown just to name a few.

Jason also assists with the Brisbane Broncos community program Beyond The Broncos – helping teach former players that are interested in taking up careers in education.

A seasoned theatre performer, Klarwein began his professional career in 1996 with a performance of The Glass Cage as a 19 year old.

Jason appears in the new “Elvis” movie and in Ben Hackworth’s debut feature Celeste which premiered at the 2018 Melbourne International Film Festival.

His television credits include the AACTA winning Foxtel mini series Devil’s Playground; ABC’s Remembers, Summer Love and In Our Blood; Network Ten’s Cybergirl; the final series of Sea Patrol on Channel Nine and the FOX8 series Slide.

By Chris Karas

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Renowned Queensland actor Jason Klarwein engages with students during his educational workshops at St Patrick's College Mackay last week

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Do you suffer from teeth grinding causing:

• Tooth fractures

• Headaches and pain

• TMJ Syndrome

Grinding your teeth, or bruxism, is a normal response to being stressed, anxious or nervous. But, for some people, it can cause devastating damage to a person's teeth and jaw, resulting in cracks, jaw pain and thousands of dollars in dentist bills. Dr Saul Geffen of Queensland Rehabilitation Specialists has two decades of experience as a rehabilitation specialist with a special interest in treating bruxism with Botulinum toxin, also known as Botox.

“It’s the same Botox people use for cosmetic treatments, but we just inject it in a particular way that helps with this very real medical condition,” Dr Geffen said. “The treatments are safe, office-based, and moderately priced. I’ve got patients who are saving money because they’re not spending thousands with dentists for a cracked tooth.”

Patients will come to Dr Geffen after they or their dentist notice abnormal wear or damage to their teeth from grinding overnight.

“They often wake up with a sore jaw or temporomandibular joint, which is in front of the ear,” he said. “They may have difficulty opening their mouth fully and chewing objects like apple or steak that require a lot of force.”

Dr Geffen will encourage other proven treatments for bruxism, including oral medication, dental splints and addressing the stress in one’s life, providing a holistic approach to treatment. He has over five years’ experience in medical Botox treatment and is an expert in utilising it to treat bruxism as well as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and stroke survivors. When used to treat bruxism, Botox partially paralyses and relaxes the muscles, most commonly the masseter muscle, in between your top and bottom jaw, and the temporalis muscle in your temple. Dr Geffen uses an ultrasound to identify the area before injection is extremely cautious with dosage, completing thousands of procedures throughout his career.

“Botox is an incredibly safe drug,” said Dr Geffen. “One, because it only goes where you put the needle, and the second reason is it always wears off in three months. Sometimes people need regular doses, sometimes people only need once a year, sometimes people can just use two or three injections to get on top of it and address the lifestyle factors.”

Dr Geffen is a certified and accredited Visiting Medical Officer at Mater Private Hospital Mackay and has a longstanding relationship with the Mackay and Whitsunday regions. Regularly servicing the area, he is dedicated to providing the regions with professional and compassionate care.

To find out more about Dr Geffen’s services, visit www.qrspecialists.com.au or contact Queensland Rehabilitation Specialists on 07 3393 2001.

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Dr Saul Geffen has two decades of experience as a rehabilitation specialist

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Mackay Youth Council Elections

The Mackay Regional Council has introduced the Mackay Youth Council, for Mackay young people to be able to make decisions regarding the area, be a voice for Mackay youth.

The Mackay Youth Council election began on May 2 finishing up on May 5, with vote counting beginning May 6. All young people aged 10 to 17 were eligible to vote. Preferential voting meant that voters can choose to vote for only one candidate, some candidates, or all.

Voting

Voting took place earlier this week at the following locations: Dudley Denny City Library, Mirani Community, Mirani State School, Sarina State High School, Sarina Youth Centre, Mackay Regional Council Jubilee Community Centre, Catherine McAuley College, Gordon White Library, Holy Spirit College and Mackay Regional Council Jubilee Community Centre.

There is still time to vote today, Friday May 5, at the following locations:

St Joseph’s Primary 10.40am to 11.40am

Whitsunday’s Anglican School 1.30pm to 2pm

Mackay Northern Beaches 11.05am to 11.45am, 12.55pm to 1.35pm

Mackay Regional Council Jubilee Community Centre 3pm to 5pm

The Candidates

Southern and Western

1. Ella Pimm

My vision for Mackay in the future is that every single young person will have a voice and will feel safe in their community.

2. Bridget Wright

I want to see Mackay grow into a place where every single child, teenager, and adult gets treated equally and fairly. I want to help create equal opportunities, such as career pathways and sporting programs that are available to everybody. Every single one of young people needs an inclusive and accessible place where they can go to be themselves – regardless of location, income, or other dividing factors.

I want Mackay to turn into a place that actively listens to its young citizens and does its best to help youth feel heard and understood in their community.

3. Henry Burrell

That young people from across the Mackay region can have their ideas, dreams and voices heard by our local authorities. I want to see equal opportunities and availability of resources open for everyone, no matter what their background. I want to see real change where it really matters.

4. Deegan McCormack

To see a place that is safe for kids mental health. So kids can talk to people about their problems like bullying (online and offline) and depression. This is a place that we all should dream of.

5. Stephen Miranda

Safety of the youth is a top priority, where students and kids alike feel confident about their mental health, where kids have safe access to road and train crossings, and where youth crime is lower than the Australian average.

If kids are not getting adequate mental health resources, then the amount of youth suicide and self-harm reportings will skyrocket as the city grows towards 200 000, putting even more strain on an already struggling network. And with some schools, like my school Catherine McAuley College (CMC), safer crossings are needed to ensure the safety of students needing to cross busy streets in order to get to their homes.

Northern Suburbs and Beaches/North

6. Krystopher Gakowski

We must invest in our young people to ensure they have the skills, resources, and opportunities to thrive and contribute to society. Mackay's youth are the leaders of tomorrow, and their well-being and success are essential to the future of our community.

Keeping youth in Mackay after they finish school is essential to the region's long-term prosperity. We need to:

● Promote local educational opportunities

● Advocate for local jobs

● Support entrepreneurship and innovation

● Promote the community and the region’s lifestyle

● Foster a sense of belonging

7. Rory McPhail

My vision for Mackay is a town which focuses specifically on youth development and success, which can be done through my policies and proposals. I stand for a number of policies including:

● Increased maintenance for skateparks and youth facilities which have been graffiti,

● Increase accessible activities that actually appeal to young people in Mackay,

● Increased council support for Defence Force Cadets,

● Providing for local youth sports club through funding, facilities and by meeting with local team community members,

● Meeting with local youth citizens to discuss problems and solutions.

● I am focused on realistic policies which will have a genuine positive impact in Mackay.

8. Ananya Goti

I want to create a community where everyone is respected, well-nourished and adequately housed, where our education systems thrive, and where healthcare is available for everyone. Mackay should accommodate everyone no matter someone's ethnicity, race, appearance, or identity.

We need opportunities such as multicultural clubs, a Lego Robotics program or even a monthly community clean-up, to offer more diversity. Additionally, these long-lasting experiences provide growth socially, mentally, and physically of our youth, possibly leading to future career pathways. The youth of Mackay are our future, their education, social life, and home should be a safe space to be themselves.

9. Ojas Goti

My vision for the future is for no one to be misunderstood. I know it might be weird but that’s what I think is the real problem. When our youth were getting bullied online what did we do? We took away their technology, and what did that accomplish? Children of this day are so closely linked to these devices that by taking them away all we did is make them more reckless and ignorant, disobeying their teachers and parents. When instead if we understood the real problem, that the youth think the only reason for life is technology, we could have fixed it by teaching them that there is more out there in this wonderful world.

10. Amna Ansari

My vision for the future of Mackay is to raise the voice of youth. I want to hear your opinion, I want to hear your voice, I want to make a difference for youth today!

To make this vision a reality, I want to increase youth-led and centred events like sporting, academic and cultural activities to provide a range of opportunities for young people.

I want to introduce more youth disability facilities and mental health assistance, to ensure young people always feel included in society and experience aid with issues they face today.

11. Reuben Pulikkottil

As a young citizen in Mackay, I would like it to be a place where people of all ages matter and have a voice. Younger people in the region are constantly silenced and marginalised. I would like to try and help our youth be more confident and speak up within our community to help resolve that directly affect us.

I would like to make this dream that I have a reality so that the younger generation of Mackay can finally step into the spotlight and have an opinion on the future of their home.

12. Nate Ralph

My vision for the region is to foster a safe, happy, and thriving community for all, with a special emphasis on the youth population. We must prioritise the mental health and wellbeing of our youth population. The development of mental health resources and support programs can go a long way in providing a safe and supportive environment for young people to navigate the challenges of growing up.

We should ensure the continued development of safe and accessible pathways and bike lanes throughout Mackay, enabling people to travel around the city with ease and security.

13. Farrah Hamilton

My vision is to make meaningful projects for the youth of Mackay a reality. Young people have passion, drive and energy and we just need to find ways of expressing this. What I would really love to see happen is a dedicated space for Youth Street Art for young people to share their talents. I would also love for the Youth of Mackay to be involved in restoration projects. Whether it be furniture, equipment or even cars, we could help young people learn trade skills, finance and team work so that they could actually sell the restoration projects.

14. Erin Hanrahan

My vision for the future of Mackay is to not only to introduce large scale road safety projects like a community car, allowing children with no resources or mentors to gain 100 hours on their learners, but also small scale projects like implementing a zebra crossings in school zones or frequently used roads or having conferences at schools discussing the importance of following the guidelines for pedestrians and drivers.

Additionally, an app that incorporates the youth in the community’s opinions and projects that they would like to see implemented into Mackay’s suburbs.

15. Caitlin Rourke

I want Mackay to be a friendly, welcoming community where young people are able to contribute in the decisions that impact them. I will strive to make Mackay an inclusive and respective community. I want young people from Mackay to have more opportunities like they do in capital cities. These would range from entertainment, to sporting areas, and workshops to develop their skills and experience. I want to create a platform which allows teenagers to put their input on ideas and issues that affect them. By improving issues affecting young people by introducing new programmes, I want to build a better future for all the youth of Mackay.

16. Van McDermott

Van McDermott is running for selection on the Mackay Youth Council, for the Northern Suburbs and Beaches.

Central

17. Lily Cheyne

My vision for the future of Mackay is to bring together the youth and elderly with a nice space. It will include many items for the youth to learn new skills off the elderly, along with special recipes. This will bring together the youth and elderly and help improve both their lives.

18. Georgia Moohin

In the future I hope that Mackay can be a more peaceful and safer environment allowing everyone to feel safe living and/or staying here. I would also love to see safer and better maintained footpaths letting the youth of Mackay and all ages ride or walk to and from somewhere safely without being at high risk.

19. Evelyn O’Brien

I believe the future of Mackay will include safe and inclusive leisure opportunities for all ages, a range of services around the issues of mental health and awareness of the issues of mental health among youths. This future includes a healthy environment for young people to address issues and solve problems they deem important in our current community. I believe the future of Mackay will include a larger normalisation of an understanding and embracement of Aboriginal and Torre Strait Islander culture; include more awareness on the history of the Yuwibara people, whose land makes up our region. I believe our future in Mackay will see a cleaner town with a wider respect of our environment.

20. Nicolette Gooch

Nicolette Gooch is running for a position on the Mackay Youth Council, for Central.

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Living as a woman in regional Australia can be tough, especially when it comes to pursuing your dreams in the business world.

But what's even tougher? Dealing with the "tall poppy syndrome" - a cultural phenomenon that cuts down successful people out of jealousy or resentment.

It's a toxic behavior that can hinder personal growth and damage the community at large. But don't worry, there are ways to rise above it and succeed.

Let's explore how you can beat the tall poppy syndrome and thrive in your business and your community.

1: Celebrate your successes. Don't downplay your achievements or try to hide your success out of fear of being judged or criticized. Instead, celebrate your victories, no matter how small they may seem. Share your successes with others, and don't be afraid to take credit for your hard work and accomplishments.

2: Surround yourself with positive people. Seek out supportive, like-minded individuals who share your passion for business and success. Build a strong network of colleagues and mentors who can offer guidance, encouragement, and inspiration when you need it most.

3: Stay true to your values. Don't compromise your values or beliefs in order to fit in or please others. Stay true to who you are and what you stand for, even if it means going against the grain or taking a different path than others.

4: Lead by example. Be a role model for others by demonstrating integrity, honesty, and hard work in everything you do. Lead with confidence and kindness, and show others that success is possible for anyone who is willing to work for it.

5: Keep learning and growing. Don't rest on your laurels or become complacent in your success. Keep pushing yourself to learn and grow and seek out new opportunities to expand your skills and knowledge. By staying curious and open-minded, you'll continue to thrive and inspire others along the way.

Remember, beating the tall poppy syndrome is not just about achieving personal success; it's about breaking down barriers and creating a more supportive, inclusive community for all.

By staying true to yourself, celebrating your successes, and lifting others up along the way, you can help pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for yourself and those around you.

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Surround yourself by supportive people. Photo: stock image

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With Shirlz Russell of Build Your F’Empire

As life gets busier and busier, women are finding it more difficult to manage their time, balance the juggle and be fully present at home and work.

Not that this affects women exclusively, but I feel women face the issue with a bit more scrutiny.

We try to do everything, we try to be everything, and there comes that realisation that you just can’t.

Sometimes you need to get the house cleaner and or find someone to do the ironing and be okay with it and it’s important not to feel like you’re failing because you can’t keep up with those things.

My mum lives with my family in a granny flat and I’m lucky because while I’ll do the cooking, she will do most of the washing and cleaning.

It’s her way of helping and it works beautifully for us.

Without those responsibilities or thoughts in the back of my mind, I’m able to focus on the tasks at hand, whether that be work or family.

Spending more time with my daughter is important to me; I want to be available whenever there’s something on at school, whenever she wins an award, whenever the tuckshop needs an extra hand.

Being able to manage and prioritse my time has been a gamechanger; cleaning is rarely at the top of my list, and I certainly couldn’t do it all without my mum’s help.

I find myself in a fortunate position that I understand isn’t available to everyone.

Yes, sometimes the budget literally doesn’t allow but if you focus your energy correctly, that can result in more income and more time to spend on whatever needs arise.

Sometimes it’s about sitting down and having a conversation, asking for the help you have available to you, whether that be a family member or a friend; it might not necessarily be paid help.

It’s about figuring out where your time is best spent.

In the last month or so, I was so wound up and ready to explode because I had so much on my plate; I am that person that keeps saying yes.

It got to the point where I took a day off, refreshed and reset, and the following day’s productivity went through the roof.

That was a really big reminder that we do need to take a step back sometimes and spend time on ourselves which will increase our productivity and presence in other facets of our life.

Shirlz’s Time Management Tips

• Think about what you value and where your time is best spent.

• Seek the help you need and don’t feel guilty for asking.

• Be strong enough to step away and reduce the interruptions in your day.

• Don’t be afraid to take some time to clear your head and reset.

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Welcomes Guest Speaker Nick Jorss, Bowen Coking Coal

Resource Industry Network is hosting its May Industry Briefing Lunch today, Friday May 5 in the Lancaster Room at Harrup Park Country Club.

The lunch presents guest speaker Nick Jorss, Executive Chairman of Bowen Coking Coal Ltd, a $500m ASX listed metallurgical coal exploration and development company.

Mr Jorss was the founding Managing Director of Stanmore Coal Ltd and led Stanmore’s growth from a coal exploration company through to production and which currently has a market value of over $3.0 billion.

In his presentation, Mr Jorss will talk about:

• Bowen Coking Coal’s background and journey

• Information/update on the project

• Supply chain opportunities (or other)

• Business model – from mine to market

Nick is also the founding Chairman of Ballymore Resources Ltd, an ASX listed company drilling for copper, gold, and critical minerals in Queensland and is a co-founder and Director of Konstantin Resources Ltd, a private company exploring for gold, copper, and other metals in Serbia.

This event is proudly sponsored by Bravus Mining & Resources.

WHAT: RIN May Industry Briefing Lunch

WHEN: Today, Friday, May 5, Registrations open at 11.45am for 12 noon, concluding at 2.30pm

WHERE: Harrup Park Country Club, Lancaster Room

COST: Members $70 – Non-members $95

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Nick Jorss, Executive Chairman of Bowen Coking Coal Ltd. Photo credit: Glenn Hunt

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