It is with heavy hearts that the Mackay community remembers the life and service of Kevin Casey, a dedicated former councillor whose impact resonated deeply within the Mackay community.

Mr Casey embarked on his journey in local governance when he was first elected to the Mackay City Council in 2004, later transitioning to serve on the amalgamated Mackay Regional Council from 2008 to 2020. His commitment to public service spanned 16 years, during which he devoted himself to addressing the needs of the community he loved. Kevin's tenure witnessed the passage of four mayors, six CEOs, and 27 fellow councillors, reflecting his steadfast dedication and enduring presence in council chambers.

Hailing from a family with a longstanding interest in politics, Mr Casey inherited a legacy of civic engagement from his uncle, who served as a Member for Mackay for 26 years. Throughout his tenure, his proudest moments stemmed from his ability to listen to and uplift the voices of the community. In an interview with 7News Mackay upon announcing his retirement in 2020, Mr Casey reflected on his most cherished aspect of public service: "The thing I most enjoyed was helping the little person, who thought their problem was a mountain, and in actual fact it’s only a little pimple."

As well as being a devoted husband and father, he was a driving force behind the Mackay Regional Council's sports expo, a unique event that he chaired with passion and dedication.

On Sunday, February 11, 2024, Kevin Casey passed away from acute respiratory failure due to stage four metastatic lung cancer.

A host of councillors paid their respects to Mr Casey online and at his funeral service which was held last Friday.

Cr Alison Jones served two terms on council with Mr Casey and said he will be sadly missed.

“Kev was a man that did what he said he would, always honouring a gentleman handshake. He led by example, and it was that, that I admired about him,” Cr Jones said.

Deputy Mayor Karen May has known Mr Casey since 2004 also served with him on council for eight years. She conveyed her condolences to his wife, Tricia, and their children.

“Kevin was a great advocate and champion of the North Queensland Games,” Cr May said.

During his 16 years in local government, he played a huge role in making sure our community had the opportunity to compete at the highest level that the games provided.

He was also a great community councillor always making himself available to meet with community members.

Cr Belinda Hassan didn’t serve with Mr Casey however has known him and his family for many years.

“Kev was the epitome of a community-focussed Councillor,” Cr Hassan said.

He served his community tirelessly, and never had a bad word to say about anyone.

“I certainly looked up to him as a role model, and admired the time and effort he put into everything.

“A good man, who will be sadly missed.

Kevin's unwavering commitment to the betterment of Mackay will forever be remembered and cherished by the community he served so faithfully.

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Caption: Kevin Casey (left) with local breakfast radio personality Rob Kidd at the last Sports Expo Mr Casey attended as a councillor in 2020. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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When it comes to choosing your council representatives, there's a lot more on the ballot than just the typical talk of rubbish collection and road repairs. It's about finding leaders who can tackle the tough stuff while advocating for progress in creating a place where people are proud to live.

Over the past four years of working for the people of Mackay, Councillor Belinda Hassan shoulders an impressive number of Council-related appointments - a total of 17 committees and boards, with an additional four as a proxy. With her extensive array of responsibilities and a steadfast dedication to community service, Belinda embodies the kind of leadership needed in local government. And with a profound connection to the Mackay community as a fifth-generation local, she brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted commitment to serving her constituents.

Throughout her tenure on the Council, Cr Hassan has been instrumental in driving forward key initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents and fostering sustainable development in the region. One of her primary areas of focus has been waste management, where she has played a pivotal role in shaping policies and strategies to promote environmental sustainability. Serving as Treasurer and Council representative on the Local Authority Waste Management Action Committee (LAWMAC), Belinda has championed initiatives aimed at advancing towards a Circular Economy and Zero Waste by 2050.

Belinda's commitment to continuity in leadership recognises the importance of experienced hands to guide ongoing projects and initiatives.

"I firmly believe that re-electing a candidate deeply entrenched in the work is essential to maintaining momentum and driving positive change within our community," Belinda said.

She is committed to advocating for the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the Mackay community. Through her involvement with organisations like Crossroad Arts and the Special Olympics, Belinda works tirelessly to ensure that these individuals have a voice and access to opportunities for growth and participation. From her membership in the Zonta Club of Mackay and Sarina Lions Club to her role as Secretary of the Pine Islet Lighthouse Preservation Society, Belinda demonstrates a steadfast commitment to serving her community in diverse capacities. Whether fundraising for charitable causes, volunteering with the Mackay Men’s Shed, or advocating for women’s rights through her involvement with the Mackay Women’s Centre, Belinda's contributions embody the service that defines her approach to community engagement.

Additionally, Belinda is a staunch supporter of recreational fishing and its potential to boost tourism and economic development in the region. Her advocacy for the development of facilities supporting fishing tourism aligns with her broader vision for a prosperous and vibrant Mackay community. By leveraging the region's natural assets and promoting sustainable tourism practices, Belinda aims to foster growth and prosperity while preserving the area's unique environment and cultural heritage.

With integrity, dedication, and a proven track record of leadership, Cr Belinda Hassan stands ready to continue serving the Mackay community in her pursuit of a brighter future for all residents. For more information or to get in touch with Belinda's campaign, please email info@belindahassan.com.au or call 0412 421 451.

Authorised by Belinda Hassan, 14 Petersen Street, North Mackay.

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A total of $193,000 is available now to community and not-for-profit groups through council’s community grants program.

Funding is available for small equipment (up to $1500), community initiatives, programs, events and upgrades (up to $7500) and minor infrastructure and assets (up to $30,000).

This means grants can be used for everything from buying simple office equipment to infrastructure projects, including concept development, as well as the purchase of large equipment like vehicles.

Applications close on Friday, April 5.

Visit the website for application information: https://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/community/grants/community_grant_program

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For the second year in a row, inspiring 16-year-old girl Taya Rush, is hosting what is expected to be another exciting Charity Golf Day to raise much-needed funds for the RACQ CQ Rescue Chopper. After three years of on-going fund raising for the organisation, Ms Rush remains determined to help keep people living in remote and rural areas safe as she emphasises the importance of the local chopper, ensuring those in need have access to the service.

Helicopter services like RACQ CQ Rescue are commonly called out to aid individuals injured by rural accidents, boating accidents or any type of emergency situations that aren’t within the radius of a nearby hospital. At times, a helicopter transportation can be the only chance of survival for those in a critical condition.

The young and passionate fundraiser says she has chosen to raise money specifically for CQ Rescue Chopper for a number of reasons.

“One of the reasons why I find it so important is because my family now owns a farm,” she shared.

“The chopper is a community funded rescue service, that any one of us could need in an emergency. RACQ CQ Rescue attend a variety of emergency situations including car, boat, motorbike and bushwalking accidents.”

Ms Rush competed in the 2023 RACQ CQ Rescue Talent search, hosted by Brooke Lee Modelling and was Crowned Overall Charity Princess for her fundraising efforts last year. Major sponsors supported her 2023 Charity Golf Day, such as Emerald Carrying Company who will be contributing once again at this year's 2024 event.

Last year’s charity event raised just over $13,000, with funds directly donated to RACQ CQ Rescue. Since last year’s success, Ms Rush has opened up more sponsorship opportunities for this year’s 2024 event, aiming for a bigger target of $20,000 to help keep the chopper in the air.

Participants can expect a day filled with fun at the upcoming RACQ CQ Rescue Charity Golf Day event this year. Starting from 11am on the 19th of April, partakers are encouraged to wear navy blue and yellow apparel to support the RACQ CQ Rescue organisational colours.

“Charity Golf days are a great way to network with other businesses in the area while enjoying a round of golf,” explained Ms Rush.

“Everyone last year had a great time on the golf course, with team bonding, meeting new people and supporting a charity at the same time. It's always good fun after the golf to go back to the clubhouse for raffles and auctions.”

Sponsorships are available to help support the cause with a range of different options and packages to suit all who are willing to support. With priced sponsorships ranging from as little as $100 to as high as $2500. Donations are also appreciated if participants can’t attend the day but would like to still contribute.

A number of major local businesses have jumped on board to help donate to the good cause, including well know companies such as; Elastomers Australia, Absolute Enterprises, Frontline equipment, MI Scaffold, Emerald Carrying Company, Construction supplies, Rasmussen accountants, Ryan Taylor Carpentry, Degoey and Pims, just to name a few.

With a heartfelt desire to support the organisation, Ms Rush says she has received an immense amount of support from the community whilst raising funds for the rescue chopper in an attempt to continue to save lives across the region.

“The community have been very supportive of this event, most people in the Mackay community know someone who has needed the services of CQ rescue at some point, people understand how valuable the service is for the region and this is where the community comes together,” Ms Rush emphasises.

Starting out small, Ms Rush originally began raising money for CQ Rescue by selling chocolates and socks, as well as organising children’s’ farm visits. Her dedication to expanding fundraising efforts is inspiring and encouraging as she continues to be a voice and an advocate for local and rural members of the community in need of a helicopter rescue service when accidents arise.

“I love being able to make a difference in the community,” she said.

“Deciding last year to try a golf day was a lot of hard work but it was also a huge success.

“You can make a difference if you put some time and effort in. It's important to contribute to the community,”

As Ms Rush continues to advocate for those in need of emergency assistance, she stands as a beacon of hope and compassion, demonstrating that even the smallest efforts can lead to significant change. With positions still available for sponsorship, now is the perfect time for businesses and individuals alike to join in supporting this worthy cause to keep our rescue choppers in the air. To contribute, contact the Mackay Golf Club for more information.

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Caption 1: 16-year-old Taya Rush, was crowned Overall Charity Princess in the 2023 RACQ CQ Rescue Talent Search

Caption 2: RACQ CQ Rescue Helicopter service

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Plans for a major accommodation precinct at Mackay Airport continue to progress.

A forum has been scheduled for Tuesday March 12, enabling local employers to learn more about the proposed development.

Attendees will also have an opportunity to outline their preferences for the precinct, including the size and layout of apartments, and how long their workers may need to reside there. The concept is aimed at relieving the critical strain on workforce accommodation options across the region, which is impacting employers, their operations and overall economic viability, according to key stakeholders.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said the workshop in March would be an important step toward bringing the accommodation precinct to fruition.

“Getting everyone together will enable the team behind this exciting project to set the scene, provide more details about the plan and also answer questions,” he said.

“We are also keen to hear more from local employers, to understand exactly how the precinct can benefit their operations, and their desires and preferences for the project, so we truly maximise its potential and ensure the precinct is strategically purpose-built.”

“As a crucial gateway to the region, Mackay Airport is committed to supporting our community and the region’s economic growth.”

The accommodation would be located within the airport precinct, offering convenient access to the terminal and industrial areas.

Rob Cocco, Chief Executive Officer of Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays, said the region needed a long-term solution to its workforce accommodation shortage.

“Local employers from industries across our region tell us that lack of housing for workers is ultimately affecting their bottom line,” he said.

“We believe the proposed accommodation at Mackay Airport would help to relieve this pressure and also enable businesses to better expand their operations, in line with demand.

Let’s work together to make this precinct happen and help to future proof our local workforce and regional economy.”

The Mackay Airport Accommodation Precinct Workshop will take place from 7.30am – 9.30am on Tuesday 12 March at the Ibis Mackay Hotel. Catering will be provided. To register, please visit humanitix.com and search ‘Mackay Airport Accommodation’ or email tonia@gwcommunities.org.au

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Caption: Visual plans of major accommodation precinct at Mackay Airport. Image supplied

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Mackay’s Child Youth and Family Health Service has initiated its 2024 support groups for parents.

All new parents of babies aged 0-6 months are encouraged to join the Early Parent Groups. These groups are facilitated by a Child, Youth and Family Health clinical nurse, aimed at providing support to families during the initial stages of parenthood.

Sessions are scheduled monthly at the Carlyle Community Health Centre on Wednesday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30 am. The agenda across four sessions includes discussions on attachment, sleep and settling, adjustment to parenting, play, development, and safety.

Additionally, the groups offer a secure environment for families to share their experiences, concerns, and successes, or engage in conversations with other parents. Further advantages encompass establishing a support network, mutual learning, social engagement, fostering new friendships, exploring diverse parenting approaches, and discovering local resources available in Mackay.

The Child, Youth, and Family Health Service also provide Focus Groups for new parents. Visit this link for additional details: http://tinyurl.com/57xx2vyv

If you would like to be part of an upcoming group, please contact Carlyle Community Health Centre on 4885 7750.

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Caption: Mums and bubs who attended the January Early Parent Group

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The Mackay Isaac Tourism Board announced that it will soon bid farewell to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Al Grundy, after they accepted a reluctant letter of resignation. Mr Grundy is set to depart from the organisation on March 15, leaving his post to prioritise family time.

Mackay Isaac Tourism Chair, Cr Jane Pickels, said while the Board is sad to see Al go, the board is confident that the foundation that has been laid for the tourism industry holds a secure and bright future. 

“The board is grateful to Al for accepting the challenge in taking up the offer of the CEO position 16 months ago,” Cr Pickels said.

“We recognise the effort and energy he has invested in ensuring that tourism in The Mackay Isaac Region will continue to grow and thrive.”

Mr Grundy said it has been a pleasure representing the region and highlighting the leisure tourism opportunities that are on offer, from the coast through to the hinterland, and into the outback.

Mr Grundy said he is satisfied with the achievements that have been made over the last 16 months. Under his leadership, Mackay Isaac Tourism saw significant successes, notably one achievement being the 2023 Destination Events Marketing Campaign, which gathered widespread attention of over 19 million social media impressions leading to more than 80,000 visits to the regional website.

As the organisation transitions, Al will be assisting the board and has offered ongoing advice and support to the organisation to ensure a smooth handover as Mackay Isaac Tourism seeks to appoint an interim CEO.

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Caption: CEO of Mackay Isaac Tourism, Al Grundy, resigns from his position, making the important decision to spend more time with family. Photo supplied

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Over 1000 residents have signed Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry’s petition to ‘Save Eungella’ and halt the proposed Pioneer Burdekin Pumped Hydro Project.

Ms Landry said this was a clear sign that Queenslander’s don’t want the government to sacrifice the unique environment of the Eungella region for their renewable energy plan.

“In just over two months, more than 10,000 Queenslanders have signed my petition to call on Labor to stop pushing forward with their plans to decimate the Pioneer Valley and Eungella region by flooding 937 hectares of pristine rainforest wilderness,” she stated.

“This is not just a project which will have enormous ramifications to those living and working in the Eungella region also the impact this project will have on the unique wildlife and plants that are found in the region, many of which are endemic to the Eungella region.

“For many, day trips and holidays to visit the stunning Eungella National Park are embedded in their childhood memories and are horrified to learn this could all very well be under water for state Labor’s 80 per cent by 2035 renewable energy targets to appease inner city voters,” Ms Landry said.

The State Government have announced they will not be making any financial decision on the Pioneer Burdekin Pumped Hydro Scheme until after the October State election.

“The Eungella community are in limbo about their future and Labor are stringing them along by keeping the future of this project a secret. I will continue to push for Labor to listen to the more than 10,000 Queenslanders and stop this ludicrous plan of destruction,” Ms Landry said.

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Michelle Landry and Doug Cannon of Eungella. Photo supplied

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Mackay bus stops will become more accessible with planned improvement works.

Contractor, Seaforth Civil, will begin upgrading 13 bus stops in the Mackay region this week to ensure they can be used by all residents.

The following bus stops will be upgraded:

   • Camilleri Street near Eimeo Road, Eimeo.

   • Annie Wood Avenue, Mt Pleasant.

   • Charles Hodge Avenue, Mt Pleasant.

   • Bruce Highway, Bakers Creek.

   • Napier Street at Ivana Court, South Mackay.

   • Nebo Road at Keith Hamilton Street, West Mackay.

   • Kippen Street at Dennis Street, South Mackay.

   • Peak Downs Highway, Te Kowai.

   • Downie Avenue, Bucasia (right and left-hand side).

   • Bourke Street at Belbin Street, Blacks Beach.

   • Anzac Avenue near Trojan Court, Marian (right and left-hand side).

Some of the works include new concrete slabs and concrete footpaths, installation of bus shelters or conversion of existing shelters to double shelters, installation of tactile ground surface indicators and pram ramps.

Traffic management will be in place at the work site. Please adhere to all roadside signage and instructions.

The works are expected to be completed by mid-May, weather permitting.

The works are funded by the Queensland Government’s Passenger Transport Accessible Infrastructure Program (PTAIP) and Bus Stop Shelter Program (BSSP).

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In a sad and unfair second blow, a young Mackay couple who are currently going through a cancer battle, have had their camping gear stolen from underneath their house just days before they were due to make a bucket-list camping trip.

Lilijana and Jedd, had been bravely fighting Jedd’s leukemia diagnosis together when the camping gear was swiped from their North Mackay home.

21-year-old Jedd was diagnosed with leukaemia in July 2023 and in an attempt to experience normality, the couple were set to celebrate Jedd’s birthday weekend away camping before he undergoes bone marrow treatment in Brisbane.

The camping gear was gifted to Jedd as a present for his 21st birthday and Lilijana says, “There’s only so many knock-backs you can take, and we really did feel quite defeated after this one.”

Turning to social media, Lilijana’s mother Nicole made a Facebook post in an attempt to find out any information about the stolen goods. She says the family hadn’t even had time to contact police as the couple had medical appointments throughout the morning of the incident.

Lilijana’s mother Nicole posted, “Everything was brand new and still in packaging so if anybody sees or hears of anything that could be related to these items being taken, please contact police.”

Many locals voiced their disgust upon hearing the news and were furious at the perpetrators.

Although there has been no information provided regarding the whereabouts of the stolen goods, many community members generously offered donations.

Some even offered to lend their camping goods to the couple for the weekend.

Other locals kindly offered to donate to a local fishing and camping store to renew their stolen items.

“Thank you to Wayne at BCF Mackay who has offered to do what he can to help Lilly and Jedd replace a couple of items so we can try and get them camping again,” Nicole commented.

Jedd's colleagues at his workplace have also initiated a raffle to ease the financial strain associated with his leukemia treatment.

Recognising the significant load of medical expenses and emotional stress, they aim to raise $30,000 to cover Jedd's treatment, accommodation, and other fundamental costs during this challenging period.

Lachlan Cooke, CEO of Tropical Coast Plumbing, said it was important to support Jedd during these circumstances, highlighting the difficulty of managing expenses amidst his health crisis.

“It was immediate that we had to do something, he’s a second-year apprentice and it’s hard enough to make ends meet as an apprentice, let alone when you’ve been diagnosed with leukemia,” Mr Cooke says.

Jedd is currently on his fourth round of chemotherapy and is now at Townsville hospital undergoing treatment.

Despite the heartless theft and the additional challenges, the incident has brought, the support and generosity of the local community have served as a beacon of hope for Lilijana and Jedd.

With the outpouring of love and assistance from friends, family, and even strangers, they are reminded that they are not alone in their fight. As they continue to endure the rigors of Jedd's treatment, their determination to persevere remains unwavering. Together, they stand as a testament to the strength of their spirit and the power of unity in overcoming life's greatest trials.

“He’s a fighter, he’s so strong and he knows once he gets through this, he’ll look back at this time in his life and be so proud of himself,” Lilijana says.

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Photo Credit: Images sourced from Facebook

Caption 1 & 2: Local couple Lilijana and Jedd battling against leukemia

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Jamay’s family has long been intertwined with Reef Catchments, dating back to our days as the Mackay Whitsunday NRM Group. From attending the Reef Catchments Emersion Training Camp at Action Challenge Bloomsbury at the tender age of 8, Jamay has been actively engaged in sharing Traditional Knowledge with fellow Reef Catchments staff.

“I remember on more than one occasion that Mum had to  bring me into the Reef Catchments office because I would pretend to be sick, so I would not have to go to school. I remember thinking that the RCL staff at the time were the coolest people in the world. They would chat, play games and even gave me the odd job to do. From then I always knew I wanted to work at Reef Catchments.”  

Now, more than 10 years later she holds the role of Project Officer for the NRM organisation. Working with Reef Catchments Jamay has a pathway to improve connections and shared knowledge between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians in the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac (MWI) region.

Environment & Community

For Jamay and her community, the environment holds profound significance.

“I believe that Mother Earth was created for us to live on and look after, and due to urbanisation of vital areas like wetlands, I feel a profound duty as a proud Koinjmal youth to aid in the restoration of our planet’s health.

Reef Catchments are very good at what they do, and that is to sustain, protect and improve the Natural Resources of our area. The organisation shares the same vision and values as me, and it is so awesome to work with like-minded people.”

Currently, Jamay is collaborating with Yuwibara Traditional Owners to develop a seasonal calendar—a valuable educational resource for schools, NRM organisations, and rangers alike. She eagerly anticipates its unveiling, confident in its ability to both inspire and educate.

“I’m really excited to share the calendars with the community because it gives a bit of an insight on what indicators the Yuwi Tradtional Owners look for when managing land & sea Country.” - Jamay.

Moreover, she recently conducted a drone training session with the Yuwi rangers, aiming to equip them with the skills necessary for surveillance, monitoring, public awareness, and education initiatives.

“The drone training with the Yuwi Rangers went really well. Even though we taught them the very basics on how to operate a drone, it was very fulfilling to help them upskill so they can be the best they can be.”

Healthy Country Plan

In addition to her work with Yuwibara Traditional Owners, Jamay is actively engaged in crafting a Healthy Country Plan alongside her family, the Koinjmal people of Koinmerburra Country.

“The Healthy Country Plan is important because it is not only a plan where our goals and visions are laid out but it is also an opportunity to get all the family in one room to discuss how we can make these visions come to life.”

This plan serves as a blueprint for the future, facilitating discussions on the aspirations for our Traditional Lands and the strategies needed to achieve them.

Through collaborative efforts with Reef Catchments, Ellie Bock, Kevin Blackman from Regional Advisory & Innovation Network, and the Traditional Owners, significant strides have been made, with the completion of the Plan slated for the end of 2024.

Supplied by Reef Catchments.

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1: Jamay (8 y.o) with Reef Catchments Staff member at an RC Emersion Training Camp, Bloomsbury.

2: Jamay delivering an acknowledgement of country at the Healthy Rivers to Reef Stewardship Event, 2023.

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Palliative care nurses at the Mackay Base Hospital’s G2 Ward have unveiled the first stage of their plan to improve the clinical environment for their long stay and palliative patients, with the installation of new wallpaper, decorating the walls of the ward.

Nurse educator Dee Miller said the group had been working on a plan to wallpaper the walls in two rooms with beautiful scenes for those who are confined to bed for long periods of time.

“Room 21 on G2 now features a wallpaper image of Cedar Creek Falls, and Room 22 features a beautiful beach scene,” she said.

“They are five metres by five metres and they look amazing!

“We’ve had quite a few staff coming to take a look and they love it.

Ms Miller said the aim was to provide a less clinical environment to particularly benefit palliative care patients.

“These rooms can be utilised by any of our long-stay patients, but we will prioritise them for palliative patients who are often confined to bed.”

“We also want to thank our Director of Nursing Emma Hess, Mackay Hospital Foundation for the funding, and Blair Signs & Print for the installation,” Ms Miller said.

The team of palliative care nurses call themes the ‘Palliative Passionate Nurses’ and are made up of Dee Miller, Paris Macdonald, Beck Ogilvie, Abby Heazlewood, Vanessa Engstrom, Millie Berardi, and Rosie Proctor, with many ideas left to be brought to life, for the ward.

Following stages of the revitalisation from the Palliative Nurses will be unveiled as they continue their plans.

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Dee Miller and Paris Macdonald with the new mural. Photo supplied

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Everyone is welcome to come down to the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) hall in Calen for a Meet and Greet ‘Bring a Friend’ Open Craft Day.

The morning kicks-off at 9.30am and there will be a host of engaging activities for everyone to enjoy.

The mini workshops will be both stimulating and inspiring and there will also be games for those feeling like a bit more fun.

A raffle will be drawn and there will be some exciting prizes up for grabs.

There will also be a craft display for those wishing to marvel at the impressive work of the local QCWA.

This event is an opportunity to make new friends and connect with the broader QCWA community.

This is a free event and open to everyone.

“Come along and enjoy a cuppa with us,” said Diane Cox, Calen Branch President.

The Country Women’s Association of Calen underpins the fabric of the Calen community.

The members of today and the past have contributed so much to the local rural community and play a vital role in connection, fundraising for community and supporting the efforts of many other community groups.

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WHAT: QCWA Meet and Greet

WHERE: QCWA Hall, Calen

WHEN: Wednesday 28th February from 9.30am

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Amidstthe daily demands of working in a business or community organisation,it’s all too common for us to overlook the importance ofnetworking. However, no matter the industry, most business owners andstaff will admit the power of networking in providing opportunitiesfor mutualsupport, knowledge exchange, and business growth.

Hostedin Sarina, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank and the Mackay RegionChamber of Commerce (MRCOC) extend an invitation to all members ofthe business community in Sarina and the greater Mackay region toattend our Sarina Networking Event. With the scenic backdrop of ThePalms at Sarina Beach, this evening event offers an opportunity forindividuals from all industries to come together and expand theirnetworks.

Scheduledfor Thursday, 29 February from 5.30pm, enjoy a complimentary drink onarrival and canapes, whilst catching up with industry colleagues andfostering new and meaningful collaborations.

CommunityBank Sarina operates under a unique community banking model, whichmeans the locals throughout the greater Sarina region benefitdirectly from local profits through their community investmentprogram.

Asplatinum sponsors of MRCOC since March 2021, supporting the Chamberaligns with the Bank’s mission to feed into community prosperityand empower local businesses, providing them with invaluableconnections, advocacy efforts, and access to professional developmentopportunities.

Becominga member of the Chamber supports local economic growth, bringingtogether businesses of all sizes to exchange ideas, share resources,and address common challenges. Membership is affordable and availableto join now via the Chamber’s website. Thisinvestment not only grants you access to a wealth of growthopportunities but also supports the ongoing initiatives of ourregional business community.

Forthe Sarina Networking Event on 29 February, Chamber members cansecure their tickets for $20, whilst non-members are welcome to joinfor $35.

CommunityBank Sarina directors are also looking forward to revealing anexciting new update at the event, which attendees will be the firstto hear.

Don’tmiss this opportunity to begin cultivating a useful network ofsupport for your business, book your tickets today athttps://bit.ly/sarinaevent290224.

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The construction of the new Sarina Hospital is reaching completion and preparations are now well underway for a move from 1 Hospital Street to the new site in April 2024.

Executive Director Public Health and Rural Services Terry Johnson said the Sarina project team and others throughout Mackay Hospital and Health Service were working hard to affect a smooth transition.

“This is an exciting time for our Sarina Hospital staff and others across the health service who are busy ensuring all the many aspects of the new operation are in place as we move rapidly towards the transition to our new facility on Brewer’s Road,” Ms Johnson said.

“The construction phase is almost complete, and we then move onto the commissioning phase where we oversee the fit-out of new equipment, finalise fittings and furnishings and undertake staff training in digital technology.

“We look forward to providing an opportunity for members of the Sarina community to take a look at the new hospital before we commence operations at an Open Day to be held at the end of March.”

Sarina Hospital Director of Nursing Pauline Maude is the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) project lead for the redevelopment.

“I find the project build fascinating,” she said.

“There are so many players involved – architects, consultants, the builders, project management in Brisbane and building and IT teams in Mackay.

“As we move into the commissioning stage, we will roster a minimum number of staff for the new hospital, for those few weeks before we move in.

“We want to ensure every single staff member has the opportunity to go into their new workplace before we make the final move. We are also looking forward to showing off our new facility to our community.”

Keep an eye on the Mackay Hospital and Health Service Facebook page and website at www.mackay. health.qld.gov.au for more details on the hospital open day.

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Executive Director Public Health and Rural Services Terry Johnson, Director of Nursing Pauline Maude, Mackay Hospital and Health Board Member Dr Maude Chapman and Nurse Unit Manager Tammi O’Shea

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