The Mackay Turf Club came alive on Friday 15th March, as Mackay Sugar hosted its highly anticipated 2024 Productivity Awards ceremony dedicated to celebrating sugar cane farming excellence across the region. With a remarkable turnout of more than 250 attendees, this annual event served as a testament to the unwavering commitment and remarkable achievements within the Mackay sugar industry.

The evening commenced with an air of excitement as guests gathered to recognise the outstanding contributions of growers, harvesters, and stakeholders who have significantly impacted the industry's growth and prosperity. The Awards showcased exceptional achievements in key productivity segments, including Innovation and Technology, Sustainability, and Research, highlighting the dedication and innovation prevalent among industry participants.

Commenting on the significance of the event, Brent Casey, Mackay Sugar General Manager Commercial and Agriculture, highlighted the importance of increased productivity in ensuring the long-term sustainability of the industry.

"Following the 2023 Crushing Season, the Productivity Awards was a great way to recognize some of the growers, harvesters, and stakeholders who make a positive impact on the industry," stated Mr. Casey.

"Increasing the volume and quality of cane through improved productivity, higher yields, and maintaining acreage is a pivotal part of ensuring a sustainable future for our business,” he said.

The success of the event was further amplified by the generous support of more than 20 local businesses, who play an integral role in fostering productivity and growth across THE Sugar City.

Ten winners were announced, each recognised for their outstanding contributions and exemplary performance in advancing productivity and excellence in sugar cane farming:

Highest Tonnes Sugar per Hectare

 Farleigh Area, sponsored by Mt Ossa Rural – CNJ Townley

 Marian Area, sponsored by Crop Wise – Craig Birkett

 Racecourse Area, sponsored by Liquaforce – Caneola Holdings Pty Ltd

Brown & Hurley Agriculture, Harvesting Group Award (greater than 40,000t)

 Chris Catana

RDO Equipment, Harvesting Group Award (less than 40,000t)

 Scriha Brothers

CANEGROWERS, Sustainable Management Practices Award

 Stuart and Barry Volker

Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Research Excellence Award

 Habana Bay Farming

Dowdens, Innovation and Technology Award

 Ontrack Harvesting

NQ Farmshed, Promising Contributor Award

 Lachlan McLennan

Mackay Sugar, Lifetime Achievement Award

 Charlie McLennan

The recipients of Mackay Sugar’s 2024 Productivity Award stand to inspire and motivate a culture of excellence and innovation within the industry, and highlight the ongoing resilience, ingenuity, and collective efforts of all those involved in Mackay’s sugar cane farming community.

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Mackay Base Hospital has introduced a new cutting-edge medical imaging machine, designed to boost diagnostic services and improve patient outcomes, featuring state-of-the-art technology and artificial intelligence.

The latest advancement to the medical field offers a range of innovative features, including a high speed, high-resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging Machine (MRI), as well as a Computed Tomography machine (CT).

This new technology is said to greatly improve diagnostic quality and help establish accurate and timely diagnoses to inform and guide treatment decisions

“As Imaging becomes an ever-increasing essential tool in clinical practice, it is crucial for the prompt and accurate diagnosis of patients,” Mackay Base Hospital CT Team Leader Ryan Hardy said.

“The new generation MRI and CT will greatly improve the accuracy of screening for diseases, improve diagnostic quality and improve patient experiences.”

A Siemens 3T MAGNETOM Vida MRI machine was installed in September which features revolutionary artificial intelligence to accelerate and enhance performance as well as increase scan speed and resolution.

“This unique technology also features a patient entertainment system with multiple streaming services, offering a more comfortable experience for our patients,” Mackay Base Hospital MRI Team Leader Matthew Agioritis said.

A Siemens SOMATOM Force CT scanner was also installed this month which provides precision imaging with features including dual-source technology and high temporal resolution for superior diagnostic accuracy.

“These machines ensure new levels of image quality, improving clinical outcomes and ultimately, precision medicine,” Mr Hardy said.

“This technology gives us enormous advances in medical imaging which will improve the accuracy of screenings for disease and aids clinicians in diagnosing diseases much earlier.

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By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

The team introducing a new MRI and CT scanner – which is said to improve patient outcomes and ensure precise diagnostic services. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Our beautiful blue water river is now more accessible than ever with the opening of the Pioneer River Floating Pontoon.

The pontoon can be accessed via a gangway from the Brisbane Street fishing pier, next to the Bluewater Quay.

Mackay Regional Council’s Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability, Aletta Nugent, said the pontoon was an exciting part of council’s Mackay Waterfront Riverside Revitalisation project.

“It’s fantastic to have this project reach fruition, thanks to an amazing joint effort by our council project team and contractor SMC Marine,” Ms Nugent said.

“The pontoon will open the river up to recreational and commercial watercraft users, allowing access to load and unload for a day of recreation,” she said.

The pontoon is designed for boating and non-motorised watercraft access, with commercial use by permit only.

Ms Nugent said while anglers could use the pontoon, watercraft would have priority use at all times.

“The Brisbane Street fishing pier, next to the pontoon, is obviously designed for keen fisher people, with artificial reefs sunk immediately in front of it,” Ms Nugent said.

“If anyone does choose to fish off the pontoon, it’s important that they wind in and clear the way for any approaching boats immediately,” she said.

“Our Mackay City and Waterfront team are working with the community and local businesses to roll out placemaking and activation activities across the city centre and waterfront.”

This project is jointly funded by the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.

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Emergency Services have released devastating information in regards to an investigation of the sudden death of a man, said to be in his 60s, on a private property South of Mackay on March 14.

Around 7.40pm on Thursday night, police responded to reports of a quadbike accident after a motorised bike had rolled down an embankment into a creek at a hobby farm in Koumala.

Police authorities said the man, in his 60’s, was pinned by the bike underwater, concluding that he was unable to reach the surface.

Multiple crews were dispatched to the scene, including a helicopter as they assessed the male patient and tried to revive him.

Authorities said the man had critical injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene a short time later.

Police services will prepare a report for the coroner and are treating the investigation as non-suspicious.

Our condolences go out to his family and loved ones.

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A young girl is in critical condition after paramedics rushed in response to reports of a female in her early teens trapped under a trailer over the weekend.

Emergency services arrived at the scene finding the girl pinned under a horse float trailer on a private property in Glenella around 5pm, on Saturday, March 16.

Paramedics attended to the young girl in a critical condition as she sustained significant head injuries and was taken to Mackay Base Hospital with a critical care paramedic.

The girl remains at Mackay Base Hospital and is now in a stable condition.

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The 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey competition has unveiled three talented youth artist finalists, marking an exciting milestone in showcasing the region's emerging artistic talent.

Representing Sarina, Moranbah, and Mackay respectively, the three finalists have each captured the essence of the Mackay region in their unique designs, highlighting the beauty of the region and connection to the rivers, reef and community.

Linda Murry, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, expressed her enthusiasm for the competition, stating, "We are excited to raise the profile of youth artists within our region, giving them the opportunity to have their artwork featured on about 1,000 cycling jerseys in 2024.

The winner will not only have their artwork featured on this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey on Sunday 1st September but will also take home $500.

The runner up and 3rd place receive $250 and $100 respectively.

“This has been the first year that we have run this competition. Our high school students are so talented, it’s such a privilege for us to be a part of their journey,” said Event Director Nikki Giles.

Voting closes on Sunday 24th March. The winner will be announced on Wednesday 3rd April. The winning jersey can be purchased as part of registering for this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival. All profits from the event and jerseys are distributed to RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

Event Manager, Selena Corness said, “It’s a great opportunity to get their artwork and name out there as an artist on their portfolio for future references.”

For more information about the Youth Design Challenge, visit https://www.river2reefride.com.au.

The BMA River 2 Reef Ride is an annual community cycling event, established in 2011, that brings people together to raise funds for local not-for-profit organisations. The event offers a diverse selection of ride options to accommodate participants of all skill levels, aiming to promote active, healthy living while supporting vital community causes.

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Photo Supplied

Designs from the three finalists representing Sarina, Moranbah and Mackay.

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Mackay Detectives are continuing to appeal for information regarding missing 38-year-old man Scott Billingham after he was reported missing from Mackay earlier this month.

Scott was last seen at an address on Andergrove Road, Andergrove around 4pm on Friday, March 8, and has not been in contact with friends or family since.

Officers and partner agencies have been conducting extensive searches of the area around Andergrove for the past few weeks and are continuing subsequent enquiries this week.

Both police and Scott’s family hold serious concerns for his welfare due to him having a medical condition and the length of time he’s been missing, which continues to be considered out of character.

On Wednesday, Mackay Detective Senior Sergeant Chris Eaton appealed to members of the public who may have any information that could assist, whether it be minor or major, in coming forward.

“Police are seeking information from members of the public who may have seen Scott in the Andergrove area at approximately 5:10pm On Friday, the 8th of March.”

“Police are also seeking people who may have been in the Emperor Drive area between 5pm and midnight that may have dashcam footage or any CCTV footage that covers those surrounding streets.”

“We also know that on the following day, the Saturday the 9th, a male person was seen bathing or swimming in the McCreadys Creek area. Police would like to speak to any people who may have seen that particular person or if that person was you, we would ask you to come forward and notify police so we can rule you out of our investigation.”

Scott’s partner Kylie also appealed today to Mackay locals to help them locate the missing man in any way they can.

“I am begging anyone with any information at all to please come forward to help get him home to me,”

“When Scott went missing, he was wearing his work clothes, which were an orange hi-vis shirt, dark blue utility pants with reflector stripes and beige coloured work boots,”

“Scott has tattoos on the left side of his neck, his right forearm, the left torso/rib area, and the back of both legs.”

Scott is described as Caucasian, around 175cm tall, with a proportionate build and a bald head.

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Image Supplied

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Image of Scott Billingham - if you have seen this man or you have any information about his whereabouts, please contact authorities immediately.

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A 21-year-old Rochyview driver died in car crash in Nebo over the weekend.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a fatal single-vehicle traffic crash in Nebo, on March 13.

Initial investigations indicate the Nissan Navara was travelling on Oxford Downs Sarina Road sometime during the morning, when it veered off the road and hit a tree.

Emergency crews were called around 11am before the 21-year-old Rockyview driver and sole occupant of the vehicle was declared deceased at the scene.

Anyone with information or vision that could assist investigations, is urged to contact police.

To report information, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Reference number: QP2400434028

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Hampden Man Succumbs

To Injuries

A 69-year-old man has passed away following a traffic crash that occurred in Glenella on February 26.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the incident after two vehicles collided at approximately 12.30pm, along the Bruce Highway and Glendaragh Road.

The 69-year-old Hampden man sustained critical injuries and was transported to Mackay Base Hospital.

He was later transferred to Townsville University Hospital where he was later pronounced deceased on March 16.

The driver of the other vehicle, a 53-year-old Calen man, sustained minor injuries.

Any witnesses or anyone with dashcam or CCTV from the area around the time of the incident is urged to contact police.

Reference number: QP2400334190

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Local Year 10 students are showing a big interest in joining the new wave of female tradies as more women take up the tools and follow a trade career, according to statistics recently released by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).   

Twenty students from four local high schools have participated in the all-girls Tradie for a Day workshop delivered by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) with the support of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).

The hands-on workshop hosted by Pioneer State High School gave the students plenty of practical experience as they rotated through a variety of trades-based activities including the use of a virtual welder.  

The workshop brought together a diverse group of keen young women from Pioneer State High School, Mackay Northern Beaches State High School, Mackay State High School, and Sarina State High School 

Pioneer State High School principal, Ms Lisa Veney said the school was proud to host the workshop which highlighted the exciting careers available to young women keen on entering the resources sector.  

“There are a lot of resource-based organisations in the Mackay region and this workshop has revealed the great opportunities available to young women wanting to have a trade career,” said Ms Veney.  

BMA Asset President Adam Lancey said gender diversity and inclusion is critical for the success of all industries.

“We know from our own data that inclusive and diverse teams are safer, more productive and have a stronger culture.

“It’s inspiring to see the industry changing for the better and more women on the tools.

“Workshops like this give us a unique opportunity to engage with young women interested in a career in mining.”

QRC Policy Director for Skills, Education and Diversity, Katrina-Lee Jones said the number of women in trade positions in Queensland’s resources sector had jumped by almost 40 per cent in the last financial year.  

“We are now at a record high of having women employed in 13 per cent of all trade roles in the sector, with 9 out of 10 working in non-administration or clerical roles such as trades, engineering and environmental science,” said Ms Jones.

“I hope today’s workshop experience and engagement with the BMA has inspired the students to pursue their dreams of learning a trade and joining the resources sector.” 

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Skills in Action: Students from local high schools collaborate on trades-based activities at the all-girl Tradie for a Day workshop, supported by the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance. Photos supplied

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Born and raised in the Proserpine area, Robert Murolo has spent his entire life in this region. His weekends are filled with outdoor activities like fishing and crabbing, particularly enjoying the thrill of chasing black marlin and other pelagic fish when the weather permits. If he’s not partaking in outdoor adventures, he’s tinkering in the shed or relaxing by the pool at home.

Being a grandparent brings Robert immense joy, and he loves spending time with his 19-month-old granddaughter. Robert has been happily married for 34 years, with one daughter and a granddaughter, and another grandbaby on the way.

Travelling around Australia with close friends has been a cherished part of his life and his career journey has been diverse. He began with a boiler making apprenticeship after leaving school, then spent a decade in the airline industry before transitioning to adult diesel trade, working on machinery such as cane harvesters.

Eventually, he found his passion in real estate, which is where he’s remained for the last 24 years.

Most recently, he was honored with the title of #1 Agent for Queensland and Northern New South Wales for the year of 2023 by Elders.

Robert recalls his most cherished life memories, particularly the profound birth of his daughter, with the addition of his granddaughter and the anticipation of one more grandchild yet to come.

Star Sign: Aries

Fav Movie: ‘The Guns of Navarone’

Fav Colour: Blue

Fav Music Country rock

Fav Quote ‘No rush’ - Same as the name as my boat

Tell Us Something most people don't know about you? I’m a soft gentle person, yes, I’m 6ft3, but I’m soft!

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Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank is a team of locals, dedicated to bringing their unique skills and expertise to assist you in achieving your lifestyle and financial goals, Let's get to know the people "behind the bank" by finding out what attracted them to a career in banking.

Charmaine Matsen, Branch Manager: "Quite by chance, 20 years ago I was doing my banking and the local Manager asked me if I was interested in a role at her branch. Despite having no qualifications, I saw the opportunity to help people and have not looked back since."

Heidi Bartels, Customer Relationship Manager: "I came back from a stint in England on a working visa and needed a job. There was a position advertised for a Casual Teller. 20 years later, banking is a career, not just a job."

Kylie Schulze, Customer Relationship Officer: "I enjoy working in a customer-oriented role and was looking for a career change when the opportunity in banking arose."

Josie Dahtler, Customer Service Officer: "I took a leap into the unknown as a school leaver and found a passion for helping customers at every stage of their life."

Terri Bella, Customer Service Officer: "I needed a change from the dental industry and banking provided the perfect opportunity."

For more than 18 years, Community Bank Sarina has provided banking solutions for individuals and businesses while investing back into the local community. Whether you visit our branch or prefer us to come to you, we can assist you.

If you would like to learn more about how we are here for you come in to see the Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Branch team at 37 Broad Street or call us on 4943 2634 to talk about how we can help

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 Nicolas McDougall , Charmaine Matsen, Heidi Bartels, Sheryl Brown from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank. Photo supplied

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For many of us, the challenge to our personal and professional progress is not so much the lack of planning but rather a massive failure to execute. We often lack the courage to act.

Courage to act is being willing to ‘expose’ oneself and set aside the fear of what others think – including being proven wrong, failure, or even success. All this is daunting so the easy option is to maintain the status quo in our careers, and in our lives. When we lack the courage to act, we forego the opportunity to realise our potential.

When I speak with women about their careers, a common theme is lack of courage to act and invest in themselves. Self tends to come last. It’s a ‘play it safe’ approach with a dash of self-sabotage – often unconsciously.

Courage to act means we have to make a conscious decision to face our fears. Easier said than done. I would be considered quite a direct person; however I can think of numerous times when I haven’t been courageous enough to speak up, or follow my own advice. It’s disempowering and demoralising. On the other hand, when I have had the courage to act on something important, it’s energising, builds self-confidence and acknowledges self-worth. Courage feeds our self-respect and respect for others.

Courage to invest in ourselves is the foundation of our wellbeing. It motivates us to engage in new experiences and to keep growing and evolving as a person; and in terms of our careers, stay relevant and propel us to success.

Building our courage starts with small steps – at work it may be a goal to speak up at team meetings, knowing your contribution will add value. Personally it could be signing up for a course you have always wanted to do or rekindling a hobby. I also have witnessed bold courage where women have taken the leap to reinvention - embarking on new careers.

Some may find it useful to engage dedicated support with building courage and engage a coach or mentor. CareerForce Australia can provide that dedicated personal guide - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au to learn more.

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Helen Alvers is most known in the Mackay community as a local hero in the nursing industry, with an impressive background of 48 years in the field.

Throughout her remarkable journey, she has been exposed to vast changes in regards to patient care and hospital technology.

One thing that hasn’t changed over the years…is her unwavering passion and advocacy towards caring for others.

Helen has spent a large portion of her career at Mackay Base Hospital, recently retiring after 17 years as the Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) in the Child and Adolescent Unit (CAU).

Helen started her training at Mackay Base Hospital in 1976 as a 20-year-old after she spent two years studying science at university in Townsville.

"It was three years on-the-job training, plus study and then an exam at the end to get a Certificate of Nursing to become a registered nurse," she said.

"It was the three-level old brick building facing Bridge Road with the old-fashioned long wards.

“The rooms were split into two with 10 beds to each room. There weren't many private rooms back then," she said.

Coincidently, she met her husband Dennis three years after beginning her training in 1979, whilst he painted the walls of the hospital ward.

She married Dennis in 1982, and had children in 1983 and 1985, but was forced to leave her job as there was no maternity leave offered back then.

While working casually as a midwife and in the women’s unit at the Base Hospital, Helen helped establish the Toy Library in Mackay and also spent countless hours volunteering as a disability services advocate alongside Dennis.

In the last 17 years, Helen served in various roles in the Child and Adolescent Unit as well as furthering her studies in paediatrics, oncology and leadership.

She led the ward as NUM through many challenges and changes including four moves for renovations and restorative work, the Covid pandemic, initial P Block discussions and additionally helped establish the outreach clinical nurse role.

“The biggest challenge has always been the change in technology in hospitals, particularly the digitising of records.

“There’s always a lot to learn but change is inevitable; it’s never easy but you have to adapt.

“But what makes it all worthwhile is seeing patients leave here, and they are well again.”

Reflecting on her journey, Helen said: "Patients really do appreciate what we do, but the reality is that part of being a nurse is it’s not always easy, especially when you are witnessing these kids facing such great health hurdles.

To celebrate Helen’s last day at Mackay Base Hospital, afternoon tea was provided by the ward, followed by an overwhelming bunch of gifts and beautiful flowers.

Friday, February 2 marked one last memorable moment of Helen’s nursing at Mackay Base Hospital.

Her last parting advice to nursing colleagues was to “spread their wings”.

By Mackay Hospital and Health Service

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Helen Alvers celebrating her last day at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service

Mackay Isaac Tourism (MIT) unveiled a new destination events marketing campaign ‘Yours 2 Discover’ to align with the region's exciting and diverse events calendar.

The campaign which will run from 29 February to 29 June 2024 is designed to entice the youth market, families, couples and empty nesters to have a getaway, enjoy our events and stay a little longer to explore the region's natural gems.

Mackay Isaac Tourism Chief Executive Officer Al Grundy said that with the amazing array of events on offer, now is the time to block out your calendar for a Mackay Isaac event plus a holiday.

“We are urging travellers to forget the southern winter and hustle of the city and plan a holiday in the Mackay Isaac Region. From coral reef adventures of the Great Barrier Reef to scenic flight experiences admiring the majestic landscapes of the Peak Range National Park,” Mr Grundy said.

Yours 2 Discover will run across various media platforms (YouTube, catch-up TV, Facebook, Instagram, radio and television), maximising its reach to audiences across Australia.

Nebo Rodeo, Saint Lawrence Wetlands Weekend and Mackay Festival of Arts are some of the events that are being featured in the 2024 events calendar.

Mackay Regional Council Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability, Aletta Nugent said Council was very excited to see a campaign that highlighted our iconic annual events and the events that were attracted to the Mackay Isaac Region.

“Our 2023/24 Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction Program alone has secured 35 events for our region, covering everything from national-level wakeboarding and skateboarding competitions to music festivals, yacht races and everything in between,” Ms Nugent said.

“And, of course, we have some iconic winter festival events like Daly Bay Illuminate and Wisely Wine and Food Day that have strong appeal to weekend travellers and visiting families,” she said.

“These events are drawcards in their own right, but when marketed collectively, they allow visitors to create some truly original and memorable itineraries.”

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said the region has been steadily etching a name for itself on the national and global tourism map.

“We have worked in step with our communities and stakeholders whether it is through St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend, Nebo Rodeo or the Clermont Historical Centre, to make the Mackay Isaac region a sought-after destination,” Mayor Baker said.

“Our picturesque scenery serves as a major drawcard for any organiser or traveller, promising an unforgettable experience on the road less travelled.

“By showcasing our region’s stunning attractions alongside our diverse events, we aim to entice holidaymakers to extend their stay and soak in all that the region has to offer.”

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L-R: Mackay Isaac Tourism Interim CEO Jeff Stuart-Harris, Mackay Isaac Tourism Chief Executive Officer Al Grundy, Mackay Regional Council Director Planning, Growth and Sustainability, Aletta Nugent launched MIT’s new tourism campaign at the Mackay Botanic Gardens

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Get ready for some family-friendly fun! The playground at Iluka Park is set to reopen this weekend, weather permitting, on Saturday, March 23.

Exciting upgrades are almost completed, with the climbing unit getting replaced along with a new Spica playground spinner included for extra fun!

Additionally, new sections of concrete footpath and softfall edging are being installed to enhance safety.

As part of the improvements, the rubber softfall below selected play units will be replaced with artificial turf, providing a more comfortable and visually appealing play area.

Keep an eye out for potential updates and announcements as the reopening date approaches!

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Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council (Facebook)

Iluka Park is set to open this weekend with new equipment said to better the safety for children.

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