Community News

New changerooms to help grow women’s rugby league in Mackay

New changerooms to help grow women’s rugby league in Mackay

The Government have announced a $1 million project to construct women’s changerooms for the Rugby League Mackay & District playing fields in an aim to support the next generation of female players in the region amid an increasing demand for participation. The commitment to deliver the changerooms comes after local MP Nigel Dalton petitioned for the investment and was backed by more than 300 community members. The changerooms will also be adjacent to BB Print Stadium, the home of the Mackay Cutters, which is used by a range of other sports including rugby union and soccer for major fixtures. The project will be jointly funded by the state government and Mackay Regional Council and will include two fully-serviced changerooms with dedicated female amenities. Premier David Crisafulli said the new changerooms would provide greater dignity for women and girls wanting to play rugby league. “Every Queenslander who plays sport, regardless of their gender, age or ability, deserves to have access to changerooms and facilities,” Premier Crisafulli said. “Mackay is one of Queensland’s greatest rugby league nurseries and the growth of the women’s game in the region has been outstanding. “It’s imperative women and girls who play the game are made to feel as welcome as possible, and these new changerooms will make rugby league even more inclusive for the Mackay community. “This upgrade is overdue and our government is delivering the infrastructure local sporting clubs need to thrive, while creating more opportunities for women and girls to get involved in sport.” Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the new changerooms were a gamechanger for sport in the region. “Having the right infrastructure in place will attract more women and girls to want to play rugby league, and that is a huge win for Mackay,” Mr Dalton said. “This project is a direct result of listening to our local sporting clubs and the wider community over the past year. Time and again, people told me they wanted better facilities to support the growth of women's sport, and I'm proud we have been able to deliver on that feedback. “Having the new changerooms adjacent to BB Print Stadium means female participants using that venue, whether it be for rugby league, rugby union or soccer, will also be catered for. “This is a fantastic outcome for our community and for Mackay sport, and it's another example of what can be achieved when we listen to local people and deliver on their priorities.” Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the project was a significant win for local sport. “We’re seeing strong participation in women’s sport right across Mackay, and these new changerooms will make it easier for more women and girls to get involved and stay involved in sport,” Mayor Williamson said. “The Mackay Regional Council is pleased to partner with the Crisafulli Government on a project that will deliver benefits for local clubs and the wider community for years to come.” Mackay Cutters Board Member Emma Coburn said the upgrades would allow female players access to safe, modern and inclusive facilities that support their participation in the game. “We’ve seen incredible growth in women’s rugby league across Mackay, and having modern, dedicated female facilities is essential to supporting that growth,” Ms Coburn said. “This investment will help strengthen the pathway from grassroots participation through to representative rugby league and ensure the next generation of female talent can continue to thrive right here in our region.”

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Blackspot Breakthrough - Habana Road Upgrade Announced

Blackspot Breakthrough - Habana Road Upgrade Announced

A notorious Bruce Highway intersection long considered one of the region’s most dangerous blackspots is set for a major safety overhaul, with Premier David Crisafulli announcing plans to upgrade the Habana Road junction. The project forms part of the joint State and Federal Government’s $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program and will include a reconfigured intersection and road widening to improve safety and heavy vehicle access. ‍‍Notorious intersection to be upgraded as part of Bruce Highway upgrades ‍Premier David Crisafulli has announced a major safety upgrade to the notorious Bruce Highway intersection blackspot at Habana Road. The Premier visited the site on the morning of June 9th to share plans for the project, which will be funded by the $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program jointly delivered by the state and federal Governments. The intersection will be reconfigured to improve safety and boost capacity, with the road widened to improve safe heavy vehicle access. The site is a known crash hotspot, with four hospitalisations following serious incidents in the past decade, and many more accidents reported. ‍Planning and design will now commence for the upgrade, with construction expected to commence in 2027. “We are delivering the safer Bruce Highway that regional Queensland has demanded and waited too long for,” Premier Crisafulli said. ‍“This is about getting Queenslanders home sooner and safer, starting with the worst blackspots to boost safety on the Bruce.” ‍According to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm: “The Bruce Highway and Farleigh Habana Road intersection is notoriously dangerous, and these overdue upgrades for our community will deliver a major boost to safety,” ‍“In addition to saving lives, this investment is ensuring we have the regional connectivity to support our tourism, mining and agricultural industries.” Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said he was proud to be part of a government delivering for regional communities. ‍“These upgrades to the Bruce Highway are something the community has been calling for and now thanks to the Government securing a $9 billion program, it’s getting the critical upgrades it needs,” Mr Dalton said.

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Air Force Cadets Hold Bakers Creek Memorial

Air Force Cadets Hold Bakers Creek Memorial

A Commemorative Ceremony marking the 83rd anniversary of Australia worst air disaster was conducted at the Bakers Creek memorial on Sunday 7th June. The B-17c Flying Fortress, a former bomber which had been converted to a transport aircraft, carrying 41 American military personnel back to ‘Maple’ (Port Morsby following their rest and relaxation leave in Mackay, crashed shortly after taking off from the Mackay airport before sunrise, at 6.02am, on the morning of 14th June 1943, in the area now occupied by the abattoir. There was only one survivor. The memorial which is located at the Bakers Creek Community Hall, less than a kilometre from the crash site, was unveiled and dedicated on 11th May 1992, and remembrance services have been conducted annually since that date. Following the arrival of special guests by WW2 Jeeps, American, Australian and 24 ‘Home State’ flags (representing the casualties) were marched on, with music provided by a band comprised of primary school students from several schools. A contingent of No.105 (City of Mackay) Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) followed the flags, and a guard of cadets was mounted at the corners of the memorial. The ceremony commenced with the Australian National Anthem and the American National Anthem, and an address by Mr. Greg Williamson, Mayor of Mackay Regional Council. An aerial tribute was provided by a Fly Past and ‘Dipping of Wings’ by a Tiger Moth aircraft from The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum. Piper Isaac Williamson, a member of the Mackay and District Pipe Band, played a lament as flowers of remembrance were being laid, and the last, representing the sole survivor by a staff member of the Dundula State Primary School. Taps and The Last Post were sounded by the Bugler, and the Ode to the Fallen recited following a minutes silence, after which Rouse was sounded. The ceremony concluded with a march past of the AAFC.

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CQ Rescue Calls On Community Support As Demand Continues To Rise

CQ Rescue Calls On Community Support As Demand Continues To Rise

After its busiest year on record and more than 300 missions already completed in 2026, BMA CQ Rescue is calling on Mackay and surrounding communities to help ensure the region's rescue helicopter service remains ready for the next emergency. The community-funded organisation this week launched its 2026 Annual Appeal, aiming to raise $280,000 to help offset rising operational costs and maintain its around-the-clock rescue capability. Based in Mackay, BMA CQ Rescue provides critical aeromedical, search and rescue, and emergency response services across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Demand for the service continues to grow. In 2025, crews responded to a record 778 missions and flew more than 339,000 kilometres across Central and North Queensland. So far this year, they have already completed more than 300 lifesaving flights. Chief Executive Officer Tim Healee said every mission represented a family facing one of the most challenging moments of their lives. “For 30 years, our crews have answered the call without hesitation, no matter the time, weather, or how remote the location,” Mr Healee said. “But every mission relies on the strength of our community. There will always be another accident, another medical emergency, another family needing help fast. And when that call comes, we must be ready.” While government funding supports part of the service, BMA CQ Rescue must still raise almost $7 million from the community each year to continue operating. The 2026 appeal centres on the story of 13-year-old Tallis Anderson, who suffered critical injuries in a serious motorbike accident near Moranbah. When the emergency call came through, BMA CQ Rescue crews responded rapidly, providing urgent medical care before transporting Tallis to Mackay for specialist treatment. For his family, the helicopter's arrival was a moment they will never forget. “You don't realise how precious they are until something like that happens,” Tallis' father Ryan said. Today, Tallis continues his recovery surrounded by family, something his parents believe may not have been possible without the quick response of the rescue crew. Mr Healee said Tallis' story highlighted why community support remains so important. “The people who need us tomorrow don't know it yet, but when that moment comes, our communities support means we can be there,” he said. This year's appeal also marks 30 years of service for the rescue organisation, which has become a vital lifeline for regional communities where distance can often mean the difference between life and death. Operating 365 days a year, the service now flies further and faster than ever before, thanks to its fleet of AW139 rescue helicopters. However, officials say continued community support remains essential to ensuring crews can respond whenever the next call for help comes. Community members can support the appeal by donating through the BMA CQ Rescue website via www.cqrescue.org.au. CAPTION: To help keep this vital service in the sky, residents are encouraged to support the 2026 Annual Appeal. Every dollar counts and could be the difference in someone’s life. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue ‍

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Mackay Christian College

Celebrating 100 Years Of St Mary’s

April 4, 2024

St Mary's gears up to mark its centenary milestone this August, with events that aim to bring together past and current students, families and staff in a celebration of the school’s significant contribution to the local Mackay region.
Established just a few short years after the end of the Great War, and with Mackay still reeling following the devastating cyclone of 1918, St Mary's school began its journey with a commitment to providing a quality Catholic education for the families of South Mackay.  With an initial enrolment of about 50 students, St Mary’s was originally staffed by two Sisters of Mercy, who were transported each day over rutted dirt roads from their convent on River St.  The original school building (pictured) was funded and built by local families and was a mainstay of school and community life for many years.  
Over the decades, St Mary's has remained steadfast in its dedication to providing an exceptional educational experience, shaping the lives of thousands of children who have passed through its doors. From its modest beginnings to the current day, St Mary's continues to uphold its mission to foster academic achievement, spiritual growth and a strong sense of community pride among its now 380 students.  
As the school embarks on its hundredth year, it invites the wider community to partake in events that honour the past, celebrate the present and embrace the future.  The festivities kick off with a Centenary Mass, to be celebrated by Bishop Michael McCarthy at the school on 6th Aug.  Following the Centenary Mass, the school will host a formal dinner on Friday, 9th August, where guests can reconnect with old friends, former classmates and teachers, reminiscing about schoolyard memories while forging new bonds in celebration of this significant milestone.
On Sunday, 11th August from 9am-12pm, St Mary's opens its doors to the community during the school’s Family Fun Day. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore open classrooms, experiencing firsthand the innovative learning environment that the current students of St Mary's enjoy.  Additionally, families can partake in the excitement of jumping castles, indulge in delicious treats, and peruse a display of memorabilia spanning the school's history, including items from the 1999-time capsule.  A highlight of the Fun Day will be the dedication of a new time capsule. Filled with mementos and messages from current students and staff, the time capsule will serve as a testament to the school's commitment to education in the Mackay community, and will be unveiled at the 125th anniversary in 2049.
As the Mackay community joins in celebrating St Mary's centenary, the school extends its heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support and camaraderie that have enriched its journey over the past hundred years. Together, let us honour the legacy of St Mary's School and embrace the future as we embark on the next chapter of our story.
For further details and inquiries about the centenary celebrations, please visit the St Mary's Catholic Primary School Facebook page or email smm_centenary@rok.catholic.edu.au
Contributed by St Mary’s School Principal, Wes Rose

St Mary’s School Captains - Ryder Reynolds, Zander Otto, Jaylah Breayley and Kalani van Lint - pictured with the time capsule (dedicated in 1999) to be opened during this year’s centenary celebrations
The original St Mary’s school building (Morley St), which opened its doors in 1924. Images supplied

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Passionate Researcher Awarded $4 Million To Reduce Fall-related Injuries

April 4, 2024

Two separate tragic family losses are the reason Dr Alison Pighills is so passionate
about falls prevention.

The Mackay researcher has been awarded $4 million in funding to conduct a five-year
study into reducing fall-related injuries which will have an enormous impact on the
ageing population worldwide.

It’s the culmination of 20 years of hard work and a project very close to the heart of
the Mackay Hospital and Health Service Principal Research Fellow and Adjunct
Associate Professor with James Cook University (JCU).

While working on her PhD investigating the clinical effectiveness of home hazard
reduction to prevent falls in older people in 2006, her father-in-law died instantly
following a head injury after he fell downstairs at home at night in the dark. Her
mother-in-law Kath died after surgery eight years later after she fell whilst getting out
of bed and broke her hip.

“Ernest and Kath are two very good reasons why I am so passionate about falls
prevention - we miss them both every day,” Dr Pighills said.

As one of the biggest study grants received by a MHHS researcher, Dr Pighills hopes
the study and her research knowledge will be adopted and implemented by
occupational therapists (OTs) to identify and reduce home hazards contributing to falls
in the elderly.

Dr Pighills said that a recent Cochrane systematic review which she co-authored had
already proven the intervention was highly effective in reducing the rate of falls by
about 39 per cent in elderly people with three or more falls risk factors.

“Older people at high risk of falls is the category of people that this intervention is
extremely effective with and can reduce falls by approximately 39 per cent,” Dr Pighills said.

“The person will identify what they think increases their risk of falling, when they feel
unsafe doing certain tasks, such as dressing or showering, and the OT will encourage
them to not only identify their own risks but also identify their own solutions.”

Set to begin later this year, the study will be progressively rolled out with OTs in 12
sites - ten across Queensland, including the Mackay Hospital and Health Service, and
two sites in other states. The study involves supervision of participating OTs from the
public and private health system, non-government organisations and community-
based services, to ensure they properly implement EAM and involves a clinical trial to
evaluate the effectiveness of implementation.

Dr Pighills said the study reinforced that Mackay Institute of Research and Innovation
(MIRI) could be competitive in the grant funding rounds and was engaging in research
which translated into innovative practice.

“We hope this study will have a massive impact on reducing the risk of falls for elderly
people not just within Australia, but worldwide,” Dr Pighills said.

Dr Alison Pighills, passionate researcher, receives funding to conduct a five-year study into reducing fall-related injuries. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Farm Financial Skills Workshops Coming To Mackay

April 4, 2024

Primary producers in the Mackay district have the opportunity to expand their knowledge, free of charge, at a series of Rabo Client Council workshops.
The workshops are designed to help provide the financial skills essential to managing an agricultural enterprise and will provide farmers with an opportunity to both upskill and network.
The initiative has been spearheaded and funded by food and agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank’s Rabo Client Council, a group of the bank’s farming clients who volunteer their time implementing programs that contribute to the sustainability of rural and regional communities.
Offered free of charge to participants, the interactive workshops provide practical, hands-on advice for understanding financial statements and banking requirements and explore topics such as taxation versus management accounting, essential business management ratios and understanding key components of a business’s financial profile.
Northern Queensland & Northern Territory Rabo Client Council member and Mackay-based accountant, Tony Olsen said “financial skills are important for our producers and the next generation of producers.
“Many of our next-generation farmers may be highly educated, or have extensive on-farm experience, but understanding financial reporting and banking requirements is often foreign to them which is why these workshops are so valuable,” he said.
Mr Olsen said the workshop content would consider cash flow implications of a variety of enterprises and there will also be a focus on preparing annual cash flow budgets.
He said the content had been specifically tailored for the workshop locations – focusing on beef and sugar enterprises at Mackay and sugar and horticulture operations for Ayr.
“The workshops have been designed so couples and family members can attend together – it is a really valuable opportunity to get away from the farm for the day to take in the same information and develop an understanding of financial reporting together,” he said.
Rabobank head of relationship management for Northern Queensland and Northern
The workshops, limited to 30 participants each and are not restricted to the bank’s clients, will be presented by director of Hudson Facilitation, Tony Hudson.
The workshop will be held at the Windmill Hotel and Events Centre, North Mackay, on Tuesday, April 9 from 8:30am to 3:30pm.
To register to participate, visit rabobankaunz.eventsair.com/financial-skills-workshops/registration/Site/Register.
Morning tea and lunch catering will be provided.

Northern Queensland & Northern Territory Rabo Client Council member Tony Olsen

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Simon Hood Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

April 4, 2024

This time last year, post the annual Dubai sugar conference, there was a reasonably consistent view that the market had upside potential on supply constraints. In effect, the fundamentals played out for most of the year and the speculative money helped push prices to record highs. This spectacularly unwound at the end of our season, and we are now in the mid to lower end of last year’s trading range.

The views this year are much more two-sided.

The Brazilian crop is obviously the primary focus, and we will soon start to see some results as the dry period for February and March allowed for an early start to harvest. A recent forecast of rain may be viewed as a short-term positive for the market, as it will delay harvest output.

It is early in the 24/25 season and global production and consumption forecasts are very contingent on a few key variables. With Brazil providing around 80% of the global raw sugar trade, the focus is rightly on the expected Brazilian cane tonnage, ATR, and sugar mix, which will be driving the expected change in global raw sugar stocks.

Wilmar is currently forecasting a reduced crop, from the record 665 million tonne crop harvested last year, of more than 600 million tonnes. This, combined with an increase in the sugar-to-ethanol mix of over 50%, results in a sugar make not unlike last year’s record sugar production.

In addition, there has been a supply response in the mid-tier production countries with Russia, Ukraine, and the EU all seeing an increase in sugar beet production, as the economics stack up against a depressed wheat and corn price.

Likewise, China is expected to increase sugar beet production for the same reasons.

By adding half a million tonnes here and there around the globe, the supply total creeps up. As underlying demand or consumption is expected to increase its relentless rise at roughly 1.5-2.0 million tonnes a year, the supply total needs to creep up.

The period of sustained high sugar prices last year did little to erode this momentum.

Currently, we are forecasting a small surplus of stock for 24/25 season which will keep global sugar prices under pressure. This is contrary to many other trade house views around the world who forecast a more bullish outlook.

As noted, it is early days and a small change in one of the key assumptions around Brazilian output can have a significant effect on the market in either direction - so nothing is assured at this point.

Growers will need to have their risk management hat on this year as we are likely to see a more volatile market as opposed to the one-way traffic we enjoyed last year – until we didn’t!

For more information, please get in touch with your local Grower Marketing consultant.


Sugar price movements over the last two years

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Driving Change With Accelerated Decarbonisation Summit

April 4, 2024

Greater Whitsunday Alliance and the Resources Centre of Excellence are hosting the region’s first ever decarbonisation summit in May, to help local businesses understand their role in carbon reduction.

Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) chief executive officer Ms Kylie Porter said the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is focused on unlocking thinking around decarbonisation and to provide a platform for actionable change across our region’s businesses, industries, and economy.

“This summit will be a pivotal event for our region’s businesses, charting a course towards unlocking new value stream opportunities associated with decarbonisation in the Greater Whitsunday region,” said Ms Porter.

“As the world changes, we want our region to be well on the way to diversify its economic base through decarbonised industries and business practices, ensuring long -term social and economic prosperity.”

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit will bring together thought leaders, industry experts, and innovative minds to delve into the transformative potential of decarbonisation.

Bestselling author and international trend specialist Michael McQueen will be one of the day’s featured keynotes.

Mr McQueen will provide insight into the shifts toward a decarbonised world and how local change can have a global impact.

The summit will also hear from sustainable development specialist and founder of ThinkZero Cle-Anne Gabriel who will give businesses the tools to commence their net zero journeys but will also explore case studies from her own experiences and where businesses have successfully changed to a decarbonised future.

Ms Gabriel has provided advice on sustainability and decarbonisation projects in four Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) countries. She has also provided advice on regional level policy and planning in Japan, the European Union, and New Zealand.

Along with being the project manager and co-designer of the European Commission funded zero emission certification pilot program Ms Gabriel founded Australia’s first Carbon Literacy program, certifying corporate clients on their journey to Net Zero.

Also featured in the summit program will be some of Australia’s leading decarbonisation experts and leaders from industry and government including BHP, Clean Energy Council, Main Sequence, Sedgman, Cauldron and the Sustainable Minerals Institute.

The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is a joint initiative of the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) and Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3).

Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) Mr Steven Boxall said the summit is an initial step for businesses, especially those in the METS sector to take, as we support the region's industries to decarbonise.

“Our focus is to drive innovation and collaboration and rapidly accelerate our region’s adoption of low carbon activities, initiatives, and product development within all sectors.

"The summit will transform regional business and industry thinking and fast track our region’s approach to climate- positive action,” Mr Boxall said.

Tickets for the Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit are now on sale. To find your tickets and learn more, visit https://events.humanitix.com/decarbonisation-accelerated-summit.

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Bowen Basin Mine Workers Tell The Government Where To Go

April 4, 2024

Queensland mining company QCoal and its partners have launched a public campaign against the State Labor Government over a decision which they say will force 800 mine workers to live in a town without shops, permanent police, or medical facilities.
 
QCoal, which owns and operates six mines across Queensland, says it was blindsided by the State Government “cynically introducing targeted legislation attached to a child protection bill”.

“The secret legislation will force the closure of an established mining camp and threaten the future of Byerwen mine and its 800 jobs,” a QCoal representative said in a media statement.

QCoal group’s website for the campaign says that the effect of this is to force workers who are happily living in regional Queensland to uproot themselves and their families to move to the tiny mining town of Glenden.
 
“Families and children of workers would be torn from the homes, schools, and jobs they love or have the awful choice of living separately from their loved ones,” the campaign reads.

“And these workers would then be forced to travel up to two hours to and from work each day, on unsafe roads, after long 12.5-hour shifts.
 
“Unhappy workers who don’t want to move, uproot their families, give up their lifestyle or travel while exhausted are out of luck.

“The State Government says it’s this or lose your job!”

QCoal has joined with other companies affected by the legislation to form Energy Resources Queensland (ERQ) to run a campaign against the State Government decision in the lead-up to the State Election.

Image source: qcoal.com.au

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Big STEM Day challenges inspire next-gen engineers

April 5, 2024

Emerging engineers at Moranbah State High produced pulley systems, programmed roaming robots and completed a design challenge as part of the Big STEM Day last month.
 
Over 120 Year 8 students participated in the full-day event rotating through activities delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) with the support of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).  
 
School principal, Michelle Pole, said the Big STEM Day gave the students an introduction to a range of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) activities in a fun setting.
 
“The students worked in groups to complete each of the activities throughout the day and there were points awarded at the end of each round,” said Ms Pole.
 
“They are competitive, so the team challenge gave them plenty of incentive to be creative and collaborate to solve problems,” she said.
 
Mick Thomas, General Manager of BMA’s Peak Downs Mine, said BMA was proud to sponsor the Big STEM Day again after it had been successfully introduced last year.
 
“There is a great community here in Moranbah and we are keen to get involved in activities which benefit the school and students,” he said.
 
“Four of our team members helped facilitate the day and were able to provide some real-life context for how these STEM activities reflected in a larger scale on site – like the use of pulley systems to move large loads and robotics to remotely control vehicles and equipment.”
 
Katrina-Lee Jones, Director of Skills, Education and Diversity for the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) said the STEM activities had been specifically selected to complement the Australian curriculum and reflect local operations at BMA.
 
“Days like these have been designed to excite students about studying STEM and create greater understanding of how these subjects apply to solving problems in the real world,” said Ms Jones.
 
The QMEA is the education arm of the Queensland Resources Council and partners with industry and government to show school students how studying STEM and trades can open up a world of career opportunities in the resources sector.

Photos supplied

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Property Point

April 4, 2024

One evening recently I noticed our family dog curled up next to my wife in a tight, protective ball, clearly scared and seeking protection from me and positioning herself as far away from me as she could get while remaining in the loungeroom.
This dog that I take running and play-fight with and pat and hug and spoil was scared of me and hiding behind my wife.
I said: “What’s wrong with Millie?”
My wife said: “You’re watching the footy.”
I’m an AFL person and a Sydney Swans fan and I was watching the first game of the year on a Thursday night against the Melbourne Football Club. I had high expectations, and still do, for the Bloods this year.
And as any sports fan knows (and I know it’s no different in rugby league), the way you speak, the volume of your voice, the apparent anger you display in the privacy of your own loungeroom when your team is playing can be somewhat different to the way you normally conduct yourself.
I reflected on what my dog would have witnessed: Me standing up from the couch, arms in the air, yelling, “Bull…. umpire, you friggin’ idiot!!”. Even my words of praise for my team were animated and shouted at the top of my voice; “Well done boys, stick it to ‘em!!”
I remember turning to my wife at one stage and angrily asking: “Why would that be a bloody free kick?”
Now I knew, and my wife knew, that I wasn’t blaming her for the poor umpiring decision and that it was a rhetorical question asked out of exasperation.
But my dog clearly hadn’t picked up on that nuanced, yet very important, detail.
I realised that all my dog knew was that this normally predictable, friendly member of the pack had suddenly gone rogue, apparently now a threatening, aggressive beast preparing to unleash all manner of ill-will on those around him.
She misinterpreted the situation.  But that wasn’t her fault, it was mine.
I was in a text exchange recently when the property buyer I had been talking to misinterpreted what I had said.
The buyer had texted me an offer in the high $500,000s on a property and I texted back, saying the seller was “looking for something in the $600,000s”.
The buyer texted an explanation for why her offer was at the price she had given. I was worried that she did not realise the offer was rejected. So I texted back, saying “Sorry, just to be clear, the seller has rejected your offer”.
Now I was only saying that because I wanted to make sure I had been clear. But the buyer misinterpreted the text and said: “There’s no need to be so rude.”
I apologized straight away and said I had not meant to be rude. But when I re-read the text I could see how she might feel that. We moved on very quickly and she ended up buying the property and during the process we became quite friendly and I really enjoyed working with her.
But the lesson for me was that texting doesn’t convey the emphasis or nuance of the spoken word.
If I had spoken to the buyer she would have picked up in the tone of my voice that I was not being rude, but quite apologetically clarifying that her offer had been rejected as I felt I had not been clear enough with my initial response.
It was a reminder to me that the important conversations must not be made via text or email. An agent needs to pick up the phone and convey things clearly, allowing tone of voice and emphasis to have their role in clear communication.
Meanwhile, Millie has taught me to calm down a bit during the footy and things seem a lot better for her. Although, she might become an outdoors dog during the September finals.

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Filling Baskets Of Joy With Easter Kittens

April 4, 2024

While others were collecting easter eggs over the busy Easter weekend, the team at Mackay Pet Rescue Inc were collecting kittens.

Two mother cats, Fifi and Persia arrived in foster care pregnant with their previous set of kittens and have been at the forefront of attention since. Despite the challenges, the team is thrilled to announce that all of their previous kittens have found loving homes.

On Saturday, Fifi surprised everyone by giving birth to another litter of six kittens, meanwhile, on Sunday night, Persia also went into labour, adding seven more bundles of joy to the rescue family. Persia is just 12 months old herself and is receiving extra care and attention to ensure both herself and her newborns are safe and healthy.

As Mackay Pet Rescue provide the best possible care for the mother cats and their kittens, high-quality kitten food is essential to sustain them during the crucial period of their growth.

The rescue team are kindly asking for any donations of wet kitten food to assist in this time. Donations can be dropped off at Petbarn or National Mobile Phone Repairs, where they will be put to good use in supporting the ongoing efforts of the rescue group.

As Mackay Pet Rescue extends its gratitude to the community for their continued support, they emphasise that the work of saving animals never stops.

Mother cats with their bundles of Easter kittens
Easter bunny brings baby kittens. Photos sourced from Mackay Pet Rescue Inc

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Register Your Interest To Lay A Wreath

April 4, 2024

If you are a community group attending the Mackay Anzac Day main ceremony and would like to lay a wreath as part of the service, please submit the name of your community group and your contact details on Mackay Regional Council’s website before 4pm on Thursday, April 11.

Website link: www.mackay.qld.gov.au/community/events/anzac_day_wreaths

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A Tale Of Tarantula Terror

April 4, 2024

I want to move out of Mackay and the Whitsundays. Yep, you read that right. I don’t want to live here anymore – in fact, if I’m completely honest with you I don’t want to live in Australia anymore.

Why, you may or may not be asking? It couldn’t be the incredible reef on our doorstep, it couldn’t be the spectacular hiking trails or the secluded waterholes and it definitely couldn’t be the amazing venues to dine and drink with your nearest and dearest… so, what in the bloody hell made this proud local decided “that’s enough, I’m out”?

Well, you can blame one woman. Her name is Trudy and she (not-so) innocently put a post in the Whitsunday Chat on Facebook asking for people to help her ID a spider she found on her property that I can only describe as ‘the bringer of death” or at least a heart attack, as I was scrolling over the long weekend. It was then that I learned that Queensland has spiders that look like the deadly Eastern Funnel Web but they call it a Queensland Tarantula.

Thanks to one of the commenters Tenielle I also learned that they are “out because the rain floods their burrows and they don’t want to drown so they go walkabout at night”.

If you ask me, they can walkabout their way into a can of bug spray but alas I know they do their bit for the environment so, instead of going into battle with an insect I’ll never win against, I’ve come to the conclusion I need to leave. I don’t know when it will be but my guess is the first time I see one of them at my place.
I’ve only just come to terms with the idea there’s Huntsman living in my garage and now this, I don’t know how much more of this arachnophobia I can take!

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Jay & Dave’s Easter Egg Dash

April 4, 2024

In a fun-filled event last Thursday, families gathered at the Great Barrier Reef Arena, Harrup Park, for the Triple M Jay and Dave Easter Egg Dash. Attendees of all ages eagerly hunted for tokens, with lucky winners taking home an array of Easter eggs and fantastic hampers. With separate hunts for Tiny Tots/Under 5s and school-aged children, plus the added treat of an onsite coffee van, it was a delightful day out for the community. The crew from Kool Beanz childcare centre made the most of the event across the road with many of the under 5’s hunting for chocolate before daycare and kindy got underway.

Photo credit: Amanda Wright

The crew from Kool Beanz Suns were eager to hunt for chocolate before daycare and kindy started

Breakfast announcers Dave Peters (far left) and Jay Shipston-Fife (centre right) from Triple M were joined by egg-hunting fathers Hamish Wright (centre left) and Adrian Young (right) with their children for the Easter Egg Dash

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Artistic Excellence Unveiled Entries Now Open For Woollam Art On Show Awards 2024

April 4, 2024

This year marks eighteen years of artistic excellence with entries now open for Mackay`s prestigious Woollam Art on Show Awards as of March 22, 2024.

Mackay Show Association is proud to announce the launch of Mackay`s highly anticipated National Art Prize as the event returns on the 2nd of August and will remain open until August 5, introducing new additions to further enhance art and culture within the region.

Susi Muddiman OAM, is a special guest that will be the judge of the event, bringing over 25 years of expertise to her role as Director of Gallery and Visual Arts at HOTA, (Home of the Arts) on the Gold Coast. She is passionate about enhancing the professional standing of galleries and artists, and advocates for financial sustainability through grants, philanthropy, and strategic management. With a rich history of curating exhibitions and serving on advisory boards, Susi's contributions extend nationally, promoting cultural enrichment and artistic growth within communities.

Art on Show Awards Coordinator, Melissa Broadhurst said, “Many local artists have gained further exhibition and invitation opportunities through guest judges visiting our region, and this connection with Susi Muddiman OAM, and HOTA, on the Gold Coast, is an important step in recognising local artists and shining a light on our regional talent.”

The event offers the opportunity for local, interstate, and nation-wide artists to showcase their creativity with a chance to win the Woollam Art on Show Award valued at $3000, with the total prize purse increased to $12,000!

Since Art on Show’s establishment in June 2006, the event has attracted a combined 6000
competition entries and is achieving substantial ongoing support from local artists. Up to 20 leading Mackay Businesses, including major sponsor Woollam, share a commitment to invest in the cultural future of the region, while acknowledging the imagination of talented Australiana artists and directly supporting the art community of Mackay.

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RACQ CQ Rescue HeliCore Collective

April 4, 2024

Photo credit: Coffee and Hops

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HOT PROPERTY IN PROSERPINE WITH TAYLORS’ NEW ACQUISITION

April 4, 2024

Taylors Property Specialists announced this week that they’ve purchased long-standing Proserpine real estate agency, Whitsunday Realty.

Principal of Taylors Property Specialists, Rob Taylor, said that Proserpine is an exciting and energised place to do business and he anticipates further significant growth in the township.

Troy and Mani Liesch from Whitsunday Realty have sold the business to Rob and Lauriely Taylor from Taylors Property Specialists. Photo supplied

New Shirt, Same Faces
At Taylors In Proserpine

After 18 years running well-respected real estate agency, Whitsunday Realty, owners Troy and Mani Liesch have decided to sell their business to Taylors Property Specialists, a company they believe will facilitate a new era of further growth.

Rob and Lauriely Taylor, owners of Taylors Property Specialists, had seen Whitsunday Realty for sale several months ago and, after observing a recent and renewed energy in the Proserpine community, decided the time was right to expand further into this dynamic and rapidly growing township.

“The amount of traffic going through the whole community shows the incredible growth of our overall region,” said Rob.

“In Proserpine we’ve noticed so many new businesses starting up and the town seems really energised, people are spending money and the whole town is looking to grow – confidence breeds confidence – and we are excited to be part of it.

“We are really looking forward to being involved and getting closer to the Proserpine community.”

Whitsunday Realty has the largest rent roll in Proserpine, and this will now become part of the Taylors Property Specialist’s portfolio, along with their extensive connections both in domestic and commercial sales.

And while the shopfront will change its name to Taylors, Troy Liesch assures customers that their friendly faces will remain the same.

“Not much will change for our customers, just a different colour shirt, but Mani and I will still remain working in the business indefinitely,” he explained.

“We are proud to have brought the business this far and we know Rob can now take it onto the next level.”

Troy will continue to assist with managing the property and commercial sales side of the business, while Mani will oversee general office administration.

“We are looking forward to handing over the reins and letting Rob and his team do what they are doing best,” said Troy.

“We would like to thank the community for their support over the last 18 years.”

Taylors Property Specialists are celebrating their sixth year in business next month and the company has a team of almost 20 people who are handpicked for their professionalism, customer service and integrity.

It is these qualities that Rob is now looking forward to continuing to uphold with the expansion to Proserpine.

“Thank you to Troy and Mani, we really appreciate the opportunity, they’ve done a great job, and we really look forward to working with them.

“Thank you also to the community, we appreciate the trust and loyalty you have placed with us, and we will make sure we do you proud!”

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