Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Students at Catherine McAuley College, Mackay are putting their engineering skills to the test, transforming classroom learning into a high-performance project with the construction of a fully functioning race car.
The Year 11 Engineering Pathways students have spent the past three terms designing, fabricating and assembling the vehicle as part of their Vocational Education Program (VEP) and Certificate II in Engineering Pathways studies.
The ambitious project provides students with valuable hands-on experience across a range of engineering disciplines, including fabrication, mechanical assembly, problem-solving and teamwork. Working together to bring the race car to life, students have gained practical skills that closely reflect real-world engineering and manufacturing environments.
The project offers students a unique opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in a meaningful and exciting way.
Students have embraced the challenge from the very beginning. They have developed technical skills, learned the importance of precision and teamwork, and taken great pride in seeing their hard work come together.
The race car represents more than just an assessment task. It is the centrepiece of the students' preparation for the Formula High School Challenge, which will be held at Lakeside Park Raceway in 2027.
The statewide competition brings together schools from across Queensland, with teams challenged to complete the highest number of laps possible during a six-and-a-half-hour endurance event. Success depends not only on speed but also on the reliability, performance and engineering quality of each vehicle.
For the Catherine McAuley College students, the challenge day at Raceview Park will be the culmination of months of dedication, persistence and innovation.
As the final pieces of the project come together, excitement continues to build among the aspiring engineers. Their race car stands as a testament to their commitment, practical skills and passion for engineering, proving they are well and truly on the fast track to success.
Burdekin Grower and Queensland Canegrowers Chair Owen Menkens is the industry-preferred candidate for the upcoming STL G-Class Director position. Photo credit: QCGO.
By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
The upcoming Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) Grower/G‑Class Director election, to be decided at the company’s Annual General Meeting on 21 October 2026, has unexpectedly become one of the most closely watched governance moments in Queensland’s sugar industry recent history.
With major shareholder Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) announcing its support for CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens, the contest has highlighted deeper questions about grower representation, terminal strategy, and the future direction of one of the industry’s most important infrastructure owners.
STL oversees Queensland’s bulk sugar terminal network which is a system of storage and loading facilities that underpins the state’s export driven sugar sector. For growers, the terminals are not just physical assets but are a critical choke point: the backbone of the industry’s logistics chain. Decisions made at the STL board table can influence marketing efficiency, shipping schedules, and long‑term investment in infrastructure.
QSL—itself a major player in sugar marketing and, up until 1 July this year, the operator of the terminals—has made it clear that they believe, along with the vast majority of growers and some milling companies, that Queensland CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens brings with him extensive knowledge of Queensland’s sugar industry and the vital role the bulk sugar terminal network plays within it. As Chair of Qld CANEGROWERS, also president of the World Beet and Sugar Association and a Burdekin cane farmer, Menkens has long been regarded as one of the industry’s most experienced grower leaders. Former CANEGROWERS Chairman Paul Schembri already serves as a Grower Director on the STL Board, and Menkens’ election would place another seasoned grower voice in a key governance role.
Most of the industry believes that this year’s election carries unusual weight. STL is navigating a period of significant challenge, including rising maintenance costs, evolving export requirements, and ongoing debate about the future configuration of the terminal network. Growers have expressed concern that decisions made now will shape the competitiveness of Queensland sugar for decades.
Against this backdrop, the decision by the CEO of Tully Mill to nominate for the Grower Director position in competition with Menkens has drawn attention and disappointment from some grower groups. While the CEO has not released detailed reasoning, the move has been interpreted by many as a sign of growing tension between some milling companies and certain growing sectors of the industry.
It could be argued that the G‑Class Director role exists specifically to ensure grower perspectives are not overshadowed by mill interests. Growers rely on STL to protect the integrity of the terminal network, so when a respected grower leader puts his hand up, it’s surprising to see a mill CEO try to oppose that.
Disagreement is not unusual in an industry where marketing, logistics, and governance responsibilities are shared across multiple organisations with differing commercial priorities. The Tully Mill CEO’s action in nominating for a grower role may be considered to reflect broader debates about how STL should evolve and who should guide that evolution.
Despite the controversy, the election has prompted renewed discussion about the importance of strong grower representation. Many growers argue that having experienced industry leaders on the STL Board helps ensure decisions remain grounded in the realities of farming, harvesting, and delivering cane into a complex supply chain.
I would encourage all G‑Class shareholders to support Owen Menkens as this election is shaping up as a defining moment for STL governance. As the AGM approaches, growers and the broader public will be watching closely. The decisions made on 21 October will influence not only who sits at the board table, but how the industry navigates the challenges ahead.
Almost 100 graziers attended the Reef Catchments’ annual Grazing Forum in Sarina. Photo supplied
Almost 100 graziers gathered in Sarina this week for Reef Catchments’ annual Grazing Forum, putting practical ideas, new technology and on-farm learning in the spotlight.
The two-day event began at the Sarina Showgrounds on Wednesday, 16th September, before moving to a field day at Mt Charlton on Thursday, giving producers the chance to take the discussion from the presentation room into the paddock.
Keynote speaker Stuart Andrews from Tarwyn Park Training explored the five pillars of Natural Sequence Farming, including how landscape function and water management can contribute to productive and resilient grazing enterprises.
Other sessions looked at agricultural drone technology and innovation, natural capital and emerging opportunities for landholders, before the field day covered pasture management, soil formation and landscape processes.
Local landholders and specialists, including Jim Fletcher of Nightcamp Agriculture and Reef Catchments’ Chanelle Barrett, also shared practical experience with attendees.
The annual forum is now a long-running fixture for the region’s grazing industry, with Reef Catchments describing it as an opportunity for producers to connect with industry representatives, service providers and fellow landholders while picking up ideas they can apply on their own properties.
The 2026 forum was presented by Reef Catchments through funding from the Australian Government and Glencore, continuing a partnership supporting sustainable agriculture and natural resource management across the Mackay Whitsunday Isaac region.
Last week delivered an important victory for Australia's veterans when the Albanese Government finally abandoned its proposed $5,000 annual cap on veterans' allied health care.
The measure, announced in the May Budget and due to commence in July 2027, would have introduced a $5,000 annual threshold for allied health treatment, with additional care subject to further assessment of clinical need. The measure was expected to save the Budget around $750 million over three years.
The Coalition strongly opposed the proposal and called on the Prime Minister to ‘scrap the cap’, arguing that veterans with complex and ongoing health needs should not face additional uncertainty over their treatment. Veteran organisations and other parliamentarians also raised significant concerns.
Our position was simple: Australians who have served their country deserve confidence that clinically necessary health care will be there when they need it.
The Government argued the threshold was designed to address overservicing and said veterans requiring additional treatment would continue receiving clinically appropriate care. But the response from the veteran community demonstrated the depth of concern about how the proposal would operate in practice.
Eventually, pressure led by the Coalition produced a result.
The Albanese Government walked back the Budget measure and confirmed the $5,000 threshold would not proceed. DVA subsequently confirmed that eligible Veteran Card holders will continue to access allied health treatment under existing arrangements.
This outcome belongs first and foremost to the veterans, families and ex-service organisations who spoke up.
It also demonstrates why a strong Coalition Opposition matters. When government policy gets it wrong, our job is to listen, challenge it and fight for a better outcome.
Our veterans answered Australia's call when their country needed them.
When they needed Parliament to listen, the Coalition stood with them, and together, we helped scrap the cap.
Glen Kelly MP and Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell during his visit to Eungella earlier this year. Photo supplied
For too long, national park management has been caught up in the idea that the best way to protect these places is to lock them up and leave them alone. I don’t agree.
Protecting our national parks means actively looking after them, and that is the practical approach the Crisafulli Government is bringing back to Queensland.
Here in the Mirani electorate, Eungella National Park is a perfect example of why this matters. Eungella is one of the jewels of our region. Its rainforest, wildlife, walking tracks, creeks and spectacular views make it a major drawcard for locals and visitors alike.
But if we want people to experience and appreciate places like Eungella, we have to look after the basics. That means maintaining road networks and fire trails, grading access where required, keeping walking tracks in good condition and making sensible, strategic improvements to visitor facilities.
The Mackay Highlands Great Walk has certainly seen better days. That isn’t a criticism of the hardworking people on the ground; it is an acknowledgement that we need to give them the resources and support to do better. We should be looking at how we can improve these assets and encourage more people to experience Eungella and the Mackay Highlands without detracting from the very environment they are coming to see.
Active management also means getting back to practical land and fire management. Planned burning, well-maintained fire trails and sensible fuel-load management are important tools for protecting our natural environment, neighbouring properties and local communities.
That approach is important not only for Eungella, but across Homevale National Park, the Mackay Highlands and our national parks on the other side of the range.
Our national parks should be good neighbours. That means working alongside landholders, Rural Fire Brigades and local communities. It means managing weeds and pests, maintaining access and recognising that responsible conservation requires boots on the ground. There is still plenty of work to do, but I believe we are heading in the right direction.
We don’t have to choose between conservation and access. With practical, responsible management, we can protect these incredible places, make them safer, improve the visitor experience and ensure more Queenslanders can enjoy them for generations to come. That is what properly looking after our national parks should be about.
Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson
Have you used the Mackay Parking app before? Was it easy to use, or did you find the process frustrating? Or do you avoid paid parking in the City Centre altogether?
These are the experiences we need to hear from you, the people who use our paid parking system. Good decisions and good community outcomes start with listening to the community who know our region and this is an opportunity to make sure local experience is considered when we look at what could work better.
Council is currently asking the community to complete its Paid Parking User Experience Survey through our Connecting Mackay platform. I encourage anyone who has used or regularly uses paid parking in the Mackay City Centre to take a few minutes to complete the survey.
That includes the experience of using the parking machines on Gordon and Wood streets, navigating the Mackay Parking app, finding clear information and understanding parking rules and time limits.
We know there are parts of the current system that could work better. The priority now is to understand what needs to change and what would make paid parking easier for the people who visit our City Centre.
For some people, the current system may be straightforward. For others, it can be an added frustration when they are simply trying to get into the city, do their shopping, make it on time to work or visit a local business.
The small, everyday experiences of using our City Centre can tell us a lot about what matters to our community. They give us a practical understanding of what is working well and where there may be opportunities to do things better. Our role is to listen to that feedback, consider it carefully and make sure it is part of the conversation.
Tell us what works. Tell us what does not. Most importantly, tell us what you want to see improved in the experience.
The survey closes on Wednesday, September 30th 2026.
If you have an experience with Mackay's paid parking system, good or bad, this is your opportunity to put it directly to council.
Take five minutes and have your say.
Complete the Paid Parking User Experience Survey through Connecting Mackay: connectingmackay.com.au/paid-parking-user-survey
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October's Indigenous Business Month (IBM) is a national celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership and economic self-determination. Held annually from 1–31 October, Indigenous Business Month highlights the important role Indigenous businesses play in creating jobs, strengthening communities, preserving culture and driving economic development. Established in 2015 by First Nations business leaders Dr Michelle Evans, Leesa Watego and Mayrah Sonter, the initiative was created to celebrate Indigenous business excellence and demonstrate the power of business as a pathway to economic empowerment and self-determination.
Over the past 12 years, Indigenous Business Month has grown into a nationwide movement. What began as a way to raise the profile of Indigenous businesses has evolved into a platform for building relationships, sharing knowledge, inspiring innovation and strengthening connections between businesses, communities, government and industry. At its heart is a simple idea: stronger outcomes are achieved when people work together and stay connected.
“An amazing showcase of the regions Indigenous capabilities”. Attendee feedback
The Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday First Nations Business Expo is a local example of this vision in action.
Today's Expo grew from regular conversations between a small group of local organisations, government representatives and Indigenous business owners who wanted to strengthen connections across the region. Meeting monthly online, they shared information, discussed opportunities, built relationships and worked together to create a stronger and more connected Indigenous business network.
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Over time, those conversations developed into a broader network focused on creating practical opportunities for First Nations businesses. Representatives from organisations including QATSIP, Mackay Regional Council, Indigenous business owners and supporting agencies came together with a shared goal: to help Indigenous businesses connect with buyers, procurement opportunities, industry partners, broader community, and each other.
Today, that collaboration continues through the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Indigenous Business Working Group and its fifth annual First Nations Business Expo. It is so much than a one-day event. The Expo is a genuine reflection of ongoing relationships, shared learnings and collective efforts. It provides a platform to showcase Indigenous business brilliance, encourage more collaborations and create opportunities that mutually benefit businesses and communities across the regions.
“Great to chat with businesses in the community making change and succeeding”. Attendee feedback
Indigenous businesses demonstrate cultural leadership, strengthen relationships, practise reciprocity and contribute to thriving local economies through employment and enterprise.
Indigenous Business Month celebrates these contributions while encouraging the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators to see business as a pathway to leadership, and self-determination.
As the region prepares for the 2026 Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday First Nations Business Expo, the message is simple: local connections create lasting impact. The Expo may take place over a single day, but it represents years of relationship-building, collaboration and a shared commitment to strengthening Indigenous business across the regions.
What: First Nations Business Expo 2026
Date: Thursday 22nd October
Time: 8:15am-2.00pm
Where: MECC, North Foyer
BMA CQ Rescue transported a woman to hospital in a serious but stable condition following a vehicle and coal train collision at Clermont. Photos supplied by BMA CQ Rescue
BMA CQ Rescue was tasked to Ken Logan Road, Clermont last week, on Thursday 17th September, following a collision involving a vehicle and a coal train.
Emergency services, including Queensland Police Service and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, attended the scene.
The sole occupant of the vehicle, a woman believed to be in her mid-to-late 20s, was assessed by emergency services before being transported by BMA CQ Rescue in a serious but stable condition.
BMA CQ Rescue acknowledged the work of all emergency services personnel who attended the incident.
No further details were available at the time of publication.
Mayor Greg Williamson, centre, presented the 2025 Jack Sturgeon Bursary to Jaxon Anderson, accepted on his behalf by Kyra Geoghegan, the Foundation Families Bursary to Nerida Hansen, second from left, and the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary to Ashling Scanlon. Also pictured is Artspace Mackay Foundation bursary judge Leonie Wood. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council
Aspiring artists in the Mackay Region have the opportunity to receive support towards their studies, with applications now open for four visual and performing arts bursaries supported by council.
The bursaries aim to help support the next generation of local artists as they pursue further study and careers in the arts.
Among the opportunities is the Rick Wood Bursary, which honours the legacy of celebrated Mackay potter Rick Wood, as well as the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary, supporting students looking to take their tertiary studies to the next level.
The Jack Sturgeon Bursary, supported by the MECC and Friends of the MECC, is also open, alongside the Friends of the MECC Foundation Families Bursary.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the bursaries played an important role in supporting young people pursuing careers in the arts.
“Choosing to follow your creative passion through tertiary education takes real courage, especially when it means moving away from home,” Mayor Williamson said.
“These students deserve our support, and we’re proud to help ease some of the financial pressures they face,” he said.
He also acknowledged the contribution of the Friends of the MECC in supporting the $3000 Jack Sturgeon Bursary and the $1500 Foundation Families Bursary.
“The Friends of the MECC are tireless advocates for the performing arts in our region, and their support for these bursaries is a wonderful example of grassroots investment in local talent,” he said.
“The bursaries are available to performing arts students who have been accepted into tertiary studies in any aspect of the performing arts, including on-stage roles and behind-the-scenes disciplines such as directing and production.”
Artspace Mackay Director Lauren Turton said the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary contributed $3000 to help students undertake special projects and access study opportunities that enriched their tertiary education experience.
“Past recipients have used the bursary to help with everyday living and study costs and pursuing extra opportunities like attending specialist classes or studying abroad,” Mrs Turton said.
“The $1000 Rick Wood Bursary assists graduating high school students to continue their studies of visual arts at university level,” she said.
“It can be used for tuition fees, textbooks, equipment or expenses required by the student.”
All four bursaries are now open and will close on Wednesday, November 18, 2026. Recipients will be announced in December.
To apply or learn more about the Rick Wood and Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursaries, visit: artspacemackay.com.au/learn/Art-Bursaries
To apply or learn more about the Jack Sturgeon Bursary and Friends of the MECC Foundation Families Bursary, visit: themecc.com.au/Get-involved/Supporting-the-next-generation
Claim your free native plants! Photo supplied
As spring brings new life to gardens across the region, Mackay residents are being motivated to get their hands dirty and add a little more greenery to their backyards with free native plants.
The Mackay Natural Environment Centre (MNEC) and Sarina Native Community Garden are inviting residents to their upcoming open days, offering the chance to collect native plants, speak with gardening experts and learn more about local environmental initiatives.
Residents can claim up to four free plants each calendar year by bringing along their rates notice. Those wanting to add a few extra plants to their collection can purchase additional plants for $3 each, with EFTPOS the only payment option available.
Behind the giveaway is a year-round effort by MNEC staff and volunteers, who collect seeds, grow seedlings and care for young plants before making them available to the community.
That work has helped deliver thousands of plants for both residential gardens and environmental projects across the region.
In the last financial year, MNEC distributed more than 102,000 plants, with approximately 20,000 provided through open days and click-and-collect programs.
The centre’s work also supports larger conservation efforts, with Reef Catchments purchasing around 50,000 plants for projects focused on reducing sediment runoff and restoring koala habitat along the Sarina–Eton Range.
Among the plants enjoying success at MNEC this year is Philydrum lanuginosum, commonly known as Woolly Frogsmouth.
The aquatic native plant is a welcome addition to waterways and wet areas, providing habitat for frogs, attracting pollinators and contributing to healthy aquatic environments.
Whether residents are looking to brighten their backyard, support local wildlife or learn more about native gardening, the upcoming open days offer an opportunity to grow something beneficial for the region.
The MNEC Open Day will be held on Saturday 26th September, from 9am to 2pm.
Green Up Sarina will take place on Wednesday 30th September, from 9am to 1pm at the Sarina Community Native Gardens.
Residents unable to attend either event can visit MNEC for click and collect on Wednesdays between 9.30am and 11.30am, or arrange an appointment.
What? MNEC Open Day
When? Saturday 26th September, 9am-2pm
Where? Mackay Natural Environment Centre
What? Green Up Sarina
Where? Sarina Community Native Gardens.
When? Wednesday 30th September, 9am-1pm
A 17-year-old Clermont boy passed away in hospital on the afternoon of September 21st, following a serious traffic crash in Isaac.
Emergency services were called to Peak Downs Highway near the intersection of Blue Mountain road at 6.45am following reports a Toyota Hilux utility had collided with an Isuzu Pantechnicon truck.
The 17-year-old boy, the sole occupant of the ute, sustained serious injuries and was transported to hospital where he sadly succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.
The driver of the truck, a man in his 20s, was also transported to Mackay Base hospital with minor injuries.
Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, and police have urged anyone with relevant information or dashcam footage to contact them at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP met with veterans at Parliament House who travelled to Canberra to call on the Labor Government to scrap its proposed $5,000 cap on DVA allied health care. Photo supplied
The Federal Government has scrapped a proposed $5,000 annual threshold for veterans’ allied health services after consultation with the veteran community.
Veterans Affairs Minister Matt Keogh announced the decision on 17th September, saying the Government had heard concerns about the proposal and would remove the threshold from its planned reforms.
The $5,000 threshold was announced in the 2026 Federal Budget alongside a $169.7 million investment to increase fees paid to allied health providers from July 2027. The original proposal would have replaced the existing requirement for veterans to obtain a new GP referral after every 12 allied health sessions with a review once treatment reached $5,000.
Mr Keogh said the Government would maintain its planned increase to allied health fees while consulting veterans and providers on another way to reduce administrative requirements and maintain oversight of treatment.
“We have been listening carefully and today, the Government is taking the proposed $5,000 threshold off the table,” he said.
“[The Government] has a deep respect for our veterans who have, and who continue to serve our country. Anyone who pulls on our nation's uniform to serve in our name deserves nothing less.”
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox welcomed the decision, saying he had spoken to veterans across the electorate about their concerns with the proposal.
“This is a win for our veterans,” Mr Willcox said.
“The message from veterans was simple... this cap should never have happened. Today, the Government has finally listened.”
The Coalition MP also criticised the Government for introducing the threshold and said the policy had created “worry and uncertainty” for veterans.
Mr Willcox called for Mr Keogh to stand down over the proposal, with Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and Nationals Leader Matt Canavan also welcoming the Government’s decision.
The Government said it would continue consulting with veterans and allied health providers on the revised arrangements.
After 46 years of caring for generations of Mackay patients, Mater Private Hospital Mackay nurse Helena Waddell has retired from a career she describes as her “life’s purpose”. Photo supplied
After almost five decades spent caring for the Mackay community, beloved Mater nurse Helena Waddell is finally hanging up her scrubs.
From beginning her career as a 17-year-old in a starched white uniform to witnessing the arrival of electronic medical records and robotic surgery, Mrs Waddell has watched healthcare transform throughout her remarkable 46-year career.
But among the changing technology, night shifts and even the occasional celebrity patient, it is the people she cared for who have stayed with her most.
“My career has been my life’s purpose and one I wouldn’t ever change,” Helena said.
“Nursing is about leaving a good and lasting impression with every patient. You treat every one of them like a queen or a king. That's how we were taught.”
Helena began nursing in 1977, and her connection to Mater Private Hospital Mackay stretches back even further.
“The brick of the original building was hand-laid by my very grandfather. I spent most of my life walking those very halls until the old building was demolished to make way for the new hospital in 2003.”
Over the decades, Helena completed 29 years of night shifts and cared for countless patients, including one whose life she helped save following a cardiac arrest.
“One of my patients had a cardiac arrest on me,” she said.
“It saved his life. I had him as a patient for 15 years after that and he would always thank me for that extra time.”
She also earned the affectionate title of the hospital's “celebrity nurse”, having cared for a Hollywood actor and, on another occasion, a late country music star.
“We had the privilege of nursing a famous country music star for one shift,” Helena said.
“She was leaving in a black limousine, and all the Mater staff were standing on the open verandah of the original building at the time, all waving her goodbye.”
Her career also connected generations.
In her early years, Helena conducted rounds alongside the late Dr Alfred Davidson. Decades later, while working in Mater Mackay's modern theatre department, she discovered she was working alongside his son, gastroenterologist Associate Professor Dr James Daveson.
“I said to him one day in theatre, 'Oh my gosh, you're related to Dr Daveson senior?'” she said.
“I told him a couple of beautiful stories of his dad. It was emotional and beautiful.”
Helena went on to help establish Mater Mackay's first pre-operative scope clinic and lived through the enormous technological shift from handwritten patient charts to electronic medical records.
“I threatened to quit,” she joked.
“I was thrown in the deep end with the new systems, but it was the best thing ever.”
Fittingly, one final encounter brought her career full circle during her retirement dinner last week.
“I was having dinner with my husband, my daughter and my granddaughter when a man called out to me,” Helena said.
“He put his two hands up in the air and he clapped. He said, 'Thank you for saving my life... it was your voice that was so reassuring when you nursed me.'”
Mater Private Hospital Mackay General Manager Karen Wade said the hospital had been incredibly fortunate to have Helena caring for the community for so many years.
“Forty-six years is remarkable, and we are deeply thankful for Helena’s dedication, compassion and unwavering commitment to her patients and their families,” Karen said.
“Helena dedicated her life to improving the health of her patients and has played a crucial role in helping our community.”
After a career-spanning generations of Mackay families, it is perhaps that chance encounter at her retirement dinner that best captures the legacy Helena leaves behind — in patients who, decades later, still remember the nurse who cared for them.
Photo supplied
Transitioning to a new venue, adopting a new theme and pulling a charity event together in six short weeks is an undertaking most would not even embark upon, but it is something the team at My Hospital Foundation seemingly took in their stride.
Less than two months before the annual Dinner on the Runway was due to take place, unforeseen circumstances demanded a venue change, but when many would have postponed for a year, a small but mighty group of Mackay locals stepped up to the challenge.
They were of course helped by the broader community, local businesses and sponsors, all uniting to create the inaugural Gather & Graze event held at Note Park.
“Six weeks. One brand-new event. One incredible community. And more than $40,000 raised to support our local hospitals!” shared a My Hospital Foundation spokesperson.
“When we set out to bring Gather & Graze to life with just six weeks to pull it all together, we knew we were going to need a little help from our friends. What we received was so much more than that.
“To every sponsor, business, donor, volunteer and guest who backed us — THANK YOU! This result belongs to all of you.”
An evening under the stars, guests were encouraged to embrace a country chic vibe and enjoy the remote rural location for a unique event with music thanks to the Cade Geiger Band and catered by Sinful Kitchen.
Of course, the evening would not have been made possible without Joe and the team at Note Park Grazing Co.
“Thank you for welcoming us to your beautiful property and giving Gather & Graze the perfect home. We couldn’t have asked for a more stunning setting.”
A host of local businesses also donated items for auction on the night.
My Hospital Foundation would like to thank the following: Daly Bay, Helloworld Travel Mackay, QRL - Queensland Rugby League, Harvey Norman Bedding Mackay, Guzman y Gomez Mt Pleasant, Fitness Cartel Mackay, Iona West Men’s Shed Inc., Mackay Cutters, Brooke Galloway Photography, Cape Palmerston Holiday Park, Wright Aviation, MACS Laser Solutions, BCF, Bunnings North Mackay, True Blue Camping, Porters Mackay, Blacks Beach Tavern, Dan Murphy’s Mackay, Woolworths Walkerston & Rural View, Coles Moranbah, Bucasia Quilters, Beacon Lighting, Kmart, Khloe Ann, Nextra,Body Renew, VLH Lash, Aqua Massage, Saige & Sohl, Cannonbee, Car Lovers, @The Deli Nook, Local Eyes, Bing’s, Beachfront Bar & Restaurant, YAW Bakehouse, Crusty’s Bakery, Bottletops & Brushes, X-Golf, Airlie Beach Music Festival, 2 Burts Industries, Quest Mackay on Gordon, Note Park Grazing Co., Let the Children Play and Regional Queensland Investigations.
“A big thank you also to Tyler Henry Littlewoodfor bringing the energy to our live auction, our amazing volunteers, and the My Hospital Foundation team, who worked their absolute socks off to make this event happen.
“And finally, to everyone who bought a ticket, placed a bid, made a donation or simply came along and supported us — thank you for getting behind this event and the hospitals that care for our community.”
All proceeds from the event are put directly back into improving services and facilities within our local health care system.
“To Alana from Confetti Creations and Gabby from Just Smitten Weddings Events and Hire for our amazing signs, backdrops and decorations, it truly helped us bring the whole event together.”
Photo source: Mackay North State School
When students and teachers sat in the barber’s chair at Mackay North State School recently they came away with more than just a new look, raising more than $7,000 through their World’s Greatest Shave fundraiser.
The total is still growing, with donations continuing to come in following the event.
A school representative said the day was a huge success, with students and staff getting behind the fundraiser and helping turn a few haircuts into a significant contribution.
“[Student] Seth Wright was the mastermind behind this event,” a school representative shared.
“Well done for raising awareness and honouring Dad with your efforts.”
One of the standout fundraisers was Zane Harold, who topped the school’s donations tally after raising an impressive $2,142 on his own.
The day also featured a surprise haircut, with Mrs Williams deciding to chop off and donate her long locks.
“A huge thank you to all our participants today, as well as Jamayne and Dontae from Elite Studio 11, Jacqui Rose, Faye, Liam, Miss Lileigh and Miss Hollee our very talented hair dressers and barbers,” the school representative said.
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