Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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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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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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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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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Last week, Laura Knipe Marketing Manager, Tourism Whitsundays attended Tourism and Events Queensland’s, ‘Queensland is Calling’ Greater China Roadshow in Shanghai and Guangzhou.
She was joined by Hamilton Island and 22 other outstanding Queensland operators.
The event consisted of 70 meetings with wholesalers and product managers from China, Taiwan and Hong Kong and training sessions with over 170 travel agents.
She also attended four networking events with wholesalers, key Chinese media personnel and airline representatives.
Last year, 62,000 Chinese travellers came to the beautiful state of Queensland, and growth is predicted to accelerate with Chinese visitation expected to deliver $2.9 billion to the Queensland economy by 2032.
The roadshow was a very important part of ensuring The Whitsundays’ involvement in this economic growth.
While many of the delegates were familiar with The Whitsundays, many were not aware of the great diversity of accommodation and experience offerings available, whether for groups or individual travellers.
While China is far from being The Whitsundays’ largest international market, the market’s significant travel intent around the Chinese New Year period in February is a welcome avenue for filling a quiet period in the region.
We look forward to welcoming more travellers during this period, and all year round.
Tourism Whitsundays Marketing Manager, Laura Knipe with the Hamilton Island team, Joyce Shen and Daizaburo Hayashia. Photo supplied The ‘Queensland is Calling’ Greater China Roadshow in Shanghai and Guangzhou. Photo supplied
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Originally from South Africa, Cobus Klopper enjoyed an illustrious career working alongside some of the world’s most renowned chefs before deciding to bring his extensive skills and experience to the helm of Coral Sea Resort’s kitchen.
The first of his family to venture overseas, Cobus initially moved to New Zealand when he was 30 and spent 20 years working at some of the most prestigious restaurants in the country, before moving to Australia two years ago.
In 2005 Cobus became the Head Chef at Peter Gordon’s restaurant in the SkyCity Grand Hotel, he then joined forces with Michelin starred chef, Josh Emett, as Group Executive Chef across a range of restaurants.
During this time, he had the privilege of working with some of the world’s best chefs, including Guy Grossi and Frank Camora, even hosting a three-course dinner for 1000 people with Gordon Ramsay and his team in London.
From authentic Italian to steak houses and Japanese restaurants, Cobus is highly skilled at working with a range of cuisines, a talent he is now bringing to the menu at Coral Sea Resort.
Having started his new role just a few weeks ago, Cobus is planning some exciting additions to the menu, infusing much of the fresh local produce we have here in the region.
“I am busy developing a menu that stars all the wonderful seafood we have here in Airlie,” he shared.
“I’m thinking of introducing dishes such as steamed Coral Trout with shiitake, leeks, edamame, snow peas and tom yum broth. Fresh, fragrant, light and delicious!”
Cobus moved to the region with his lovely wife Mira, and the couple are enjoying the sea-change, especially now they’ve moved from Brisbane to the Whitsundays.
Their two adult children, Kiara who is studying Law and Finance, and their son, Wesley, who has a business degree but works as a software engineer, remain in New Zealand, but hope to visit often.
In his own time, Cobus likes to work with Bonsai trees and enjoys gardening, fishing, and snorkelling. He also likes cooking at home, especially on charcoal and wood.
What’s Your Taste?
Favourite food? Anything with chili or cooked on charcoal
Favourite food to make for someone else? Durban-style curry
Last thing you ate out? Yum cha in Auckland with two ex-colleagues
Most extraordinary food item you’ve ever eaten? There are too many. Most recently, probably mangosteen – I had it for the first time in Bali last year. It was amazing but couldn’t afford it at $79 per kg when I came back to Australia.
Cobus Klopper, Head Chef at Coral Sea Resort. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
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Authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Airlie Beach just took a light and refreshing turn thanks to the newly released lunch time menu at La Tabella.
Renowned for its house-made pasta, rich and vibrant flavours, quality local produce and perfectly paired wines, La Tabella is a divine destination for dinner and a truly magical location for a leisurely lunch.
The new menu has been specifically curated to suit lighter meal options and includes classic Italian and Greek salads, a succulent Fillet Steak Ciabatta, a Foccacia Panino and a Veal Scallopini.
This is complemented with a full list of freshly made pasta dishes. Try the creamy basil pesto, cherry tomato, toasted pine nuts and parmesan pasta, the Gnocchi Gorgonzola or perhaps the Mushroom Truffle Linguini.
For special occasions, or for moments of pure indulgence, order the exquisite Seafood Platter for Two and watch the afternoon glide by with mouthfuls of delicious local seafood, brought alive in the region it was caught.
For the more casual affair, share a pizza! The La Tabella pizza menu has something for everyone, from the classic Carne right through to the Prawn and Salami.
Whether you are a group of friends or a family, pizza is a quick and easy lunch time solution and at La Tabella you know it will be quality, authentic Italian style, easy and at your fingertips.
Known for its casual, yet charming atmosphere, La Tabella is perfect for any guest, whether you be a couple looking for an intimate meal, a group of friends enjoying a social afternoon or a family eager to sit, relax and soak up the atmosphere.
Located just across the road from the beach, on the Esplanade and in the heart of the town, La Tabella offers many seating options, from their al fresco on-street dining, an inside cool retreat restaurant and a secluded air-conditioned wine cellar dining experience.
Make sure you come and try their new lunch menu today!
Check out the delicious new lunch time menu at La Tabella. Photos supplied
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A Mackay-based author has brought her worlds of magic and fantasy to the Whitsundays with her new book, Mother Trucking Monsters.
A. L. Tippett visited the region over the Easter weekend to promote the new urban fantasy novel which is partly based in Bowen and features the Big Mango.
The book follows a solo mum in a magical world that isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
The central character wants what every single mum wants: to provide a happy home for her daughter and, if possible, avoid having her heart broken ever again.
Unfortunately, the bills keep piling up, and financially, she’s at breaking point.
Just when she thinks things can’t get any worse, a random bird starts talking in her mind, before she falls victim to a griffin attack.
Luckily, an aloof and attractive sphinx swoops in and saves the day - this time - but she never wants to feel that helpless ever again.
It turns out that the sphinx in question is an insurance assessor, apparently earning a truckload of money and looking for an assistant.
Of course, being an assessor in Australia would be a huge challenge.
The spiders and snakes already want to kill her, throw in dragons and it'll be a miracle if she survives her first case.
“This book is fresh, funny, cozy and brilliant,” said one review from Heather G Harris, the bestselling author of the Other Realm series.
Born in New Zealand and now based in Mackay, A. L. Tippett started writing when she fell pregnant with her first child.
She has now released four adult urban fantasy novels, and one children's picture book (under a separate pen name) over four years.
Filled with heart, mystery, action and humour, Mother Trucking Monsters is available now on Amazon.
Fresh from performing with the international vocal supergroup The Ten Tenors, JD Smith is coming to the region later this month, bringing with him some classic renditions of the most iconic Australian songs.
Taking you on a journey through the pop, rock and country classics that have been the soundtrack to your life, JD will have you singing, dancing and cheering as you remember how much you love these iconic songs from Australia’s most iconic male performers!
From the unofficial national anthems of John Farnham's You’re The Voice, Daryl Braithwaite’s The Horses & Peter Allen’s I Still Call Australia Home; Supergroup classics by ACDC, INXS, Cold Chisel, Little River Band & The Bee Gees; the Poptastic stylings of John Paul Young, Rick Springfield & Leo Sayer through to iconic ballads from Savage Garden, Rick Price & Keith Urban - you will be stunned by the powerhouse vocal versatility and charm that JD Smith brings to these songs on stage.
WHAT: Morning Melodies – The Boys From Oz
WHEN: Friday 26th April
WHERE: The Proserpine Entertainment Centre
TICKETS: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au
JD Smith performs at Morning Melodies
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Celebrating the school holidays in style, the Proserpine Entertainment Centre is inviting the community to come and experience movie magic for less with $10 tickets for the month of April.
Whether you're planning a family outing during the school holidays or just looking to enjoy a movie with friends, now is the perfect time to catch the latest films without breaking the bank.
From Kung Fu Panda 4 to Godzilla x Kong, there are a wide range of family favourites showing this month.
Are you looking at getting into golf? Or do you simply want a fun afternoon out with the girls?
If so, join Proserpine Golf Club for its lively Chip and Sip event.
To start off with, sip on a glass of bubbles to gain that liquid courage and to get the conversation flowing with your fellow golf-curious ladies.
Then enjoy a one-hour golf clinic followed by a 9-hole Ambrose with full use of the golf buggies.
Fear not, Proserpine Golf Club isn’t expecting you to become the next Tiger Woods without a bit of guidance, so their expert PGA instructors will be there to ensure you grasp the basics of chipping, putting, and swinging like a pro. No pressure, just pure fun!
You never know, this event may even start your golf journey with a hole-in-one!
All ladies are encouraged to come and try, it is guaranteed to be filled with plenty of laughs, whether that’s from sending the ball flying into the water hazard or perhaps missing the ball entirely.
It’s set to be an event filled with laughs, good vibes and an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels safe and empowered to start their golf journey.
So, get your group of girls together, dust off your golf clubs, or borrow from the club, and join the bunch of ladies ready for their afternoon of fun.
Space is limited, and reservations are essential. Book now at 07 4945 1337 or email Proshop@proserpinegolfclub.com.au.
WHAT: Chip and Sip
WHERE: Proserpine Golf Club
WHEN: Sunday 5 May, 1:00pm-3:30pm
TICKETS: $50 per person
Come along to the Proserpine Golf Club for Chip and Sip, Image supplied shutter stock
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These school holidays, not only can you get books and movies out at your library to entertain your kids, you can also take them down to the library to participate in a variety of fun activities.
If arts and craft is your child’s favourite hobby, they will have a blast painting water pistols, or they can build clay pet figures, create recycled treehouses or make lanterns at the Lalune Lantern Workshop and many more.
Session numbers are limited, and some activities require bookings. To take part in these activities and book your place contact your local library.
Bowen Library – 4761 3670
Cannonvale Library – 4846 9400
Collinsville Library – 4785 5366
Proserpine Library – 4945 0275
Cannonvale Library
• Tuesday 9 April, 10:00am - Lalune Lantern Workshop | ages 5+
• Wednesday 10 April, 10:00am – Super Hero Storytime | ages 6 and under
• Thursday 11 April, 10:00am – Polymer Clay Pet Miniatures | ages 8+
• Thursday 11 April, 2:00pm – Polymer Clay Pet Miniatures | all ages
Proserpine Library
• Tuesday 9 April, 10:00am – Clay Pinch Pot | ages 5+
• Tuesday 9 April, 2:00pm – Paddle Pop wall hanging | ages 5+
• Wednesday 10 April, 10:00am – Holiday Play | ages 0-5
• Wednesday 10 April, 2:00pm – Lalune Lantern Workshop | ages 5+
• Thursday 11 April, 10:00am – Colourful Coasters | ages 5+
• Thursday 11 April, 2:00pm – Pinch Pot Painting | ages 5+
Bowen Library
• Tuesday 9 April, 9:30am – Waterpistol painting | ages 5+
• Tuesday 9 April, 11:00am – Waterpistol painting | ages 5+
• Tuesday 9 April, 2:00pm – Magic Rainbow Board | ages 5+
• Thursday 11 April, 10:00am – Secret Message Bracelets | ages 7+
• Thursday 11 April, 2:00pm – Lalune Lantern Workshop | ages 5+
Collinsville Library
• Tuesday 9 April, 10:00am – Hot Air Balloon | ages 3+
Collinsville Community Centre
• Friday 12 April, 10:00am – Lalune Lantern Workshop | ages 5+
Get set for Roller Skating Fever in Airlie Beach, with the announcement of a regular Saturday Morning Mini Roller Disco at the PCYC.
Run by Jane Streeter of Rolldance Skate School, the Roller Disco will be a great activity for kids, adults and families, with limited skate rental available or BYO skates.
Jane also runs Learn to Skate classes for kids and adults and her inaugural roller skate lessons last term were a huge success.
Due to the popularity of first term, Jane will be offering two kid’s classes as well as two adult classes, all at the Whitsunday PCYC on their “delicious wooden floors”.
“I’m excited to be bringing skating back to the PCYC, especially for the Saturday morning mini roller disco, open to everyone, not just class members.”
Jane has previously taught Latin Dance in the Whitsundays but pivoted to roller skating during the pandemic, when she was searching for a new hobby that could be done solo.
“I watched a Bruno Mars music video for his song “Skate” and discovered that it was possible to dance on wheels!” she shated.
“I was hooked immediately. Since then, I have trained intensively and gained a teaching certification in 2023. I can’t help myself from wanting to teach others – I want everyone to feel the fun and joy that I do!”
Classes start up again in Term 2 and the first roller disco will run 10 – 11:30am on 20th April. For more information, head to www.rolldance.com.au or @rolldanceskateschool
WHAT: Morning Mini Roller Disco
WHERE: Whitsunday PCYC
WHEN: Saturday 20th April – 10am-11.30am
This week’s 9-hole stableford weekly comp saw Troy Pettiford in first place with 21 points, second with 20 points was Justyn Durbin and third place with 20 points was Michael Pettiford.
Good Friday’s 9-hole stableford saw Cory Belke first with 27 points, second with 21 points was Troy Pettiford and third with 19 points was Rhys Bartholomew.
On Easter Sunday we held our first greenskeeper revenge of 18 holes and what a hoot it was. The course included false pins, teeing off from a tyre, putting around the greenskeepers hose and a whole lot more. Can’t wait to do it all again next year.
This Sunday will be Par SVS tee off between 8.30 am – 9.30am.
Contributed with thanks to Kate Cross.
Pictured: Peter and Donna Henderson
As the final touches are put in place, Sarina's eagerly anticipated new hospital on Brewers Road is set to open its doors at noon on April 3.
Executive Director Terry Johnson acknowledged the seamless efforts of all involved, ensuring a smooth transition for patients, staff, and visitors. The recent Community Open Day drew a remarkable 230 attendees, with overwhelming positivity towards the state-of-the-art facility.
Construction finished in February and staff have been undergoing training in new digital technology. While preparations for the move from Hospital Street are in full swing, medical services are said to be continued uninterrupted.
Smiles from the dedicated ladies of Sarina Hospital Staff and Mackay Hospital Foundation. Excitement is brewing as the opening day nears! Photo Credit: Adam Sane.
Construction of the new Sarina Hospital has reached completion and preparations are now well underway for a move from 1 Hospital Street to the new site on Brewers Road.
Executive Director Public Health and Rural Services Terry Johnson said the Sarina project team, the Sarina Hospital team and others throughout Mackay Hospital and Health Service were working hard to ensure a safe transition for patients, staff, and visitors.
“This is an exciting time for our Sarina Hospital staff who have done an amazing job in preparing for this transition and also others across the health service who are busy making sure the many aspects of the new facility are in place,” Ms Johnson said.
“We are moving rapidly towards the operational date of 12noon on Wednesday 3 April at 47 Brewers Road.
“With construction completed in February, the final stages of commissioning include overseeing the fit-out of new equipment, finalising fittings and furnishings and staff continuing training and preparing for the new digital technology.”
Ms Johnson thanked all who attended the new Sarina Hospital Community Open Day held on Saturday, 23 March as well as the Sarina staff and the Mackay Hospital Foundation volunteers who provided assistance.
“The event attracted a fantastic response with around 230 people taking the opportunity to tour the hospital and chat to staff about the new facility,” she said.
“Feedback on the day was very positive and our community are looking forward to the opening of the new hospital.”
Medical care will be provided at the new hospital, 47 Brewers Road, from 12noon Wednesday 3 April 2024.
If you need medical care before this time, please go to 1 Hospital Street, Sarina.
The hospital’s phone number remains the same - (07) 4943 8777.
New Emergency department bays
Rehabilitation Gym
Ambulance Area
Outside View of the facility
Posing ladies of Mackay Hospital Foundation and Sarina Hospital Staff expressing their excitement!
Images Supplied
Dorothy sure hit the nail on the head with her ruby slippers, didn't she? "There's no place like home" – but what if you've got more than one 'home' in your heart? Having called Australia and the beautiful Mackay region my home for over 11 years now, I can attest to the truth in that sentiment.
However, my recent 10-day trip back to the land of the long white cloud to farewell a friend was like a breath of fresh air, (or at least a breath of cold air). It's where my family resides, where my childhood memories were made, and where the world’s best fish and chips, pies and lolly cake await.
But amidst the comfort and familiarity of Aotearoa, there's something undeniably special about returning to Mackay. As I gaze out over the islands and palm trees, that familiar sense of belonging washes over me once again. It's a reminder that while Aotearoa will always hold a special place in my heart, Mackay has become my home away from home – a place where new memories are made and where I've forged deep connections with the community.
What about those who don't have a place to call their own? Those who don’t have a comfortable bed or a roof to provide shelter and safety? It's a sobering reality and one which is worsening. Flip to page 26 for more on how the rental crisis in Australia has hit a new low. And on page 8, we're sharing a heartfelt campaign to help a young woman off the streets and into a safe place to live. Plus, on page 7, read up on how you can support a young mother who lost everything in a devastating house fire.
As we approach the long weekend – filled with chocolate, celebrations, and reflections on the resurrection – let's spare a moment for those facing more uncomfortable nights with no place to call home. After all, amidst the festivities, kindness and compassion go a long way in making a place a home, no matter where it may be.
Amanda
In a heart-warming display of generosity, a dedicated local mother is using her skills as a beautician to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children in Papua New Guinea (PNG).
Over a period of two days (18th and 19th of March) Samira offered henna tattoos, eyebrow threading or waxing, and eyelash tinting at just $15 each to raise funds for a school in the remote town of Aragip.
Aware of the financial constraints faced by many families, especially in remote areas like Aragip, she also offered henna tattoos or face painting for children under 10 at a discounted rate of $5.
The initiative is in support of the charity "Friends of Brilliant Stars," organised by her friend, where 100 per cent of the donations go towards the education and hygiene needs of children. In a school where resources are scarce, every contribution counts in shaping the future of young minds, which is why this particular charity is striving to expand its impact by doubling the number of students it supports.
“Due to the lack of resources, the charity can only support a small number of students, which is roughly 20 in the whole school.
“Unfortunately, lots of families are feeling left out and desperate for their children to also get an education,” Samira said.
As a stay-at-home mother, Samira’s appeal for support is not just a request for financial assistance but a call to rally together for a common goal – providing education and hope to those who need it most and illuminating the path to a brighter future for the children of Aragip.
For further information, visit www.friendsofbrilliantstar.org
Children in Aragip, Papua New Guinea are in need of financial assistance to begin their education. Find out how you can help, at www.friendsofbrilliantstar.org
Image Sourced
Ten Mackay friends have had their week pleasantly de-railed after discovering their 40-year-old syndicate entry scored $1 million in the weekend’s Saturday Gold Lotto draw.
The North Queensland ex-railway workers held one of five division one winning entries in Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4453 on Saturday 23 March 2024. The group’s entry won a total prize of $1,054,144.91.
One of the winning members revealed how the group came about after an official from the Lott called to confirm the wonderful news.
“I’ve been waiting for this call for 40 years!” he laughed.
“Thank you very much! We’re a syndicate. There are 10 of us and when we started, we each picked one number.
“We’ve been playing the syndicate every week since.
“We were all railway workers. We’re pretty much all retired now but we used to all work together. Some of the original boys passed away but someone else always took over the entry.
“We put in a ticket for 10 weeks at a time. Each time it comes around, I message ‘Lotto’s due’, they always pay it. Never had to chase anyone up!
“They’re so excited. We’ll do something to celebrate. We’ve stayed mates, so it’ll be great to see everyone all together again.
“We’ve got five numbers a couple of times. It seemed like we were always just one off or two off. Once we got five and a supplementary number.
“Some of us have had a bit of bad luck in the past few months so it couldn’t have come at a better time.
“The lady at the bank, she’ll be wrapped. She’s always seeing me come in. I always say, ‘Maybe next time, we’ll get it!’.
“It’s wonderful, mate. It’ll make retirement even more relaxing for my wife and I. Right now, we’re doing some travel in Australia, so we’ll continue with that!”
The lighting component of the Stadium Mackay refurbishment project is now complete and will offer crowds an enhanced viewing experience.
The upgrades have been finalised in time for the QRL season and the upcoming Freestyle Kings Live Stadium Tour on April 6.
Executive Manager MECC and Events Andrew Bobeldyk said infrared testing showed the upgrades had exceeded expectations.
“The field lighting hit a greater lumen level than was initially anticipated,” Mr Bobeldyk said.
“The lighting has reached 1500 lumens, which is considered optimal for nighttime television broadcast,” he said.
“Feedback we have received so far from broadcasters has been extremely positive.”
The field lights were upgraded to LED lights, which use a quarter of the power of the original field lighting.
“This means power costs for the full four towers will now be the same as the costs for just one of the original towers,” Mr Bobeldyk said.
“And the new lighting setup has also delivered us a far greater level of customisation.
“Our tech teams can now create various theatrical lighting displays using different coloured secondary field lighting, brightnesses and patterns.
“This will take home game atmosphere to another level, as teams will be able to run onto the field to the accompaniment of lighting displays using their home colours choreographed to music.”
Council CEO Scott Owen said council had allocated $3.1 million, which includes $1.782 million of State government funding as part of its current budget for the Stadium Mackay refurbishment and master planning for future development.
The next part of the refurbishment will see the stadium’s seating receive an upgrade, with new seats expected to arrive and be installed mid-year.
The project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government’s Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program and Mackay Regional Council.
Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said it was part of the Miles Government’s investment in Mackay alongside major investments in health, housing, transport and cost-of-living support.
“Investing in our community facilities means we can attract major events to our region and support good jobs,” she said.
“These lighting upgrades for Mackay’s BB Print Stadium is just one of the projects we’re supporting.
“More than $1.782 million has been provided to the Mackay Regional Council through the Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program to support the $3.1 million project.”
The stadium lighting upgrades will allow for theatrical lighting displays using different
coloured lighting, brightnesses and patterns
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