Where Community Meets Affordable Luxury

Something extraordinary is on its way to Mackay, with a new wellness and fitness destination promising to reshape the region’s health landscape.

Fitness Cartel aims to deliver more than just a premium gym experience. Its creators believe fitness is only one part of the wellbeing puzzle, and have designed an expansive facility that brings together affordable luxury and an all-encompassing approach to health—under one roof.

Set to become the largest and most complete gym in Mackay, the centre has been thoughtfully built for everyone, from busy parents and everyday gym-goers to professional athletes and wellness seekers.

Whether lifting, moving, stretching, sweating or simply taking time to reset, Fitness Cartel’s state-of-the-art facility is designed to support every goal.

It will feature cutting-edge training zones, oversized group fitness studios, a massive creche, and a wellness sanctuary with offerings more commonly seen in high-end resorts.

Among its standout features are a large-format hot rock sauna for deep detox and mental clarity, hot and cold pools for recovery and contrast therapy, Normatec compression lounges for advanced muscle recovery, and private treatment rooms offering services including massage, physiotherapy and red light therapy.

Fitness Cartel’s Mackay location marks a new era for the city’s health and wellness scene, combining community connection with elevated services in a single, purpose-built space.

COMING SOON!

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Common — But Not Normal

Motherhood is messy, magical, exhausting; and all too often, full of silent struggles. Leaking when you laugh. A constant, urgent need to wee. A heavy or dragging feeling down there. Pain with intimacy. These symptoms are so common that many mums shrug and say, “It’s just part of mum life.”

But here’s the truth: Common does not mean normal.

Pelvic floor dysfunction affects up to one in three women after childbirth; but it’s not something you have to simply put up with. In fact, these symptoms are part of a silent epidemic. So many women live with pelvic floor issues for years, even decades, without ever seeking help, simply because they’re too embarrassed, unsure where to go, or have been told it’s “just what happens after kids.”

The truth is, once postnatal, always postnatal. Even if your baby is now 5, 15 or 35, the impact of pregnancy and birth on your pelvic floor doesn’t just disappear, especially if it hasn’t been properly addressed. And what’s often not talked about is how these same symptoms tend to resurface or worsen in perimenopause and beyond, when hormonal changes affect muscle tone, connective tissue and bladder control.

That’s why getting early support matters. Left untreated, issues like prolapse, incontinence or pelvic pain can become more challenging later in life. But with proactive treatment, many of these problems can be greatly improved, or even prevented altogether.

Being postnatal is incredibly demanding; physically, emotionally, and mentally. It’s tiring, overwhelming, and often, women put themselves last. But pelvic floor health is not a luxury; it’s a vital part of postnatal care. Just like your six-week GP check, a pelvic floor assessment should be a normal part of recovery after birth, despite whether you’ve had a vaginal delivery or a caesarean.

Your pelvic floor is made up of a group of muscles, connective tissue, and ligaments, all which support your bladder, bowel and reproductive organs. When these muscles and supportive tissues are weakened, stretched, tight, or not working in harmony, you might experience things like leaking when you cough or run, a constant urge to go to the toilet, a sensation of heaviness or bulging, constipation, or pain during intimacy. These are not symptoms you just have to live with. They are treatable. Yes, they are common, but definitely not normal.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy offers individualised, evidence-based care to help you restore function and regain confidence. Whether it’s through hands-on therapy, pelvic floor retraining, real-time ultrasound feedback, support devices or lifestyle strategies — help is available.

And if you’ve been told to “just do your Kegels,” but aren’t sure if they’re working, or if they even help, you’re not alone. In fact, doing pelvic floor exercises incorrectly can sometimes make things worse. That’s why individual assessment is so important.

At Women’s Health Physio Mackay, we offer private consultations and accessible community classes to support women at every life stage; whether you’re newly pregnant, early postnatal or navigating menopause.

So, if something doesn’t feel quite right, trust your instincts.

You are not broken.

You are not alone.

And you deserve to feel strong and supported in your body.

Let’s stop normalising silent struggles, and start prioritising pelvic health as an essential part of care; for mums, for women, for life.

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A Sacred Concert Of Timeless Beauty

The soaring acoustics of St Paul’s Uniting Church will be filled with inspiring harmonies as Mackay Choral Society presents its sacred concert, Majesty, on Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd August at 3:00pm.

This moving program showcases the enduring power and beauty of sacred choral music, with selections ranging from the grandeur of Vivaldi to the tender and familiar strains of Howard Goodall’s "Psalm 23", known widely as the theme from The Vicar of Dibley.

The choir will be joined by the talented Mackay Children’s Chorus, whose youthful voices will bring an added dimension of warmth and brightness to the performance.

The concert will be conducted by Musical Director Nicole Thomson, with accompanist Professor Judith Brown AM on piano and organ, ensuring an afternoon of musical excellence.

As part of Mackay Choral Society’s 80th anniversary celebrations, Majesty is the second of three major concerts inspired by the theme Present, Past and Future. This concert represents the Past, not because sacred music is no longer sung, but because it reflects the deep roots and enduring traditions of choral singing that helped shape the Society’s early years.

Audiences can expect a rich variety of sacred music spanning centuries, all presented with heartfelt expression in one of Mackay’s most historic and resonant spaces.

When: Saturday 2 August and Sunday 3 August at 3:00PM
Where: St. Paul's Uniting Church, 21 Macalister St, Mackay Qld 4740
Ticket Prices: Adult $35, Concession $30, Children $20
Book at: TryBooking.com/DCETA or call 0422 264 397

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Front row: Musical Director-Nicole Thomson, President-Bernie Cheng & Accompanist-Prof Judith Brown AM with Mackay Choral Society at St. Paul's Uniting Church

Mackay Choral Society will present Majesty, a stirring sacred concert at St Paul’s Uniting Church on August 2 and 3, celebrating timeless choral works as part of its 80th anniversary series. Photos supplied

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Mackay Anglican Community

Are you a Good Samaritan?  The Good Samaritan came to the rescue of a traveller, beaten and left for dead.  The Samaritan performed first aid, took the man to safety, cared for him and paid the bills for his care.

The Good Samaritan is a story that Jesus told.  It is why so many church organisations venture into charitable works, and Mackay Street Chaplaincy is one in this model, as is The Faith in Action Coffee & Op Shop, based at Holy Trinity Parish Hall.  The story reminds people that God gave us life.  Human life is sacred, so we value life and affirm the dignity of every human as loved and precious to God.

Sometimes we need a little help and sometimes we need rescue.  God is our Good Samaritan always waiting for us to call out to him.  We then go in his name and “Pay it forward,” we can be his hands and feet and help each other.

Psalm 139 tells us God knew us before we were born, and He knit us together in our mother’s womb.  WE are so precious and loved by God.  Therefore, God requires us to protect life.  If we treat our lives, and the lives of others as God’s precious gift, can you imagine the healing impact on our world?

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OPINION PIECE

“Consistent with the recommendations from the Henry Tax Review: Don’t change negative gearing or capital gains tax until supply has been addressed and the purpose of the productivity summit should not be to increase the taxes on housing,” stated HIA Chief Economist, Tim Reardon.

The McKell Institute earlier this week released a report suggesting changes to on investors with the goal of increasing housing supply.

“All parties agree that Australia has an acute shortage of housing,” added Mr Reardon.

“The disagreement is in the extent that investors play a role as the cause of the shortage of housing.

“Australia has 27 million people, and 11 million homes. Even if investors are banned from owning homes, the problem remains that there aren’t enough homes.

“Market confidence in new home building has been improving with a decline in the cash rate. This is good news, as increasing the supply of homes is necessary if Australia is to meet the growth in demand.

“An acute undersupply of housing is evident across all markets following decades of ongoing tax imposts on housing and additional costs imposed by local, state and Australian governments.

“The cause of this shortage of housing is not negative gearing. Investors who have negatively geared have profited over the last 20 years, but this was only possible because very high capital growth eclipsed annual losses. The capital growth was only possible because growth in demand for housing was far greater the increase in housing supply.

“Investors only profited over the last 20 years because they took a leveraged position into an investment strategy that was based on the belief that housing supply would not keep up with demand. It turns out they were correct."

He said that collectively across all levels of government, overregulation made it too difficult to supply enough housing.

“If we don’t want excessive profits to be generated through negative gearing then we need to shift expectations for future capital growth in home prices. This can only be achieved if there are enough homes coming onto the market," Mr Reardon said.

“Addressing the undersupply of homes requires less tax, less fees and fewer regulatory barriers.

“If the goal is to have fewer investors, then the solution is to increase the supply of homes, reducing price growth and rental price growth. If these outcomes can be achieved, then investors will once again exit the housing market for other sectors.

“But investors aren’t the problem, they are simply the symptom of governments failing to allow the market to supply an adequate volume of homes.

“The proposal from the McKell Institute to adjust Capital Gains Tax and Negative Gearing to apply more onerously on existing homes ignores the reality that new homes become established homes, and that this change is simply a change in the timing of the tax impost or a delay in when the government receives the revenue.

“Discussions of tinkering with negative gearing and capital gains tax arrangements adversely impacted market confidence in 2019. Given the low volume of new homes commencing construction, and the large increase in population, discussion around additional taxes is unhelpful to the goal of increasing supply of homes,” concluded Mr Reardon.

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In a bid to tackle regional housing pressures and support essential services, five new modular homes are set to rise in Nebo, backed by funding from the Crisafulli Government to help Isaac Regional Council attract and retain key workers.

The homes will feature two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a private open space, a covered carport, and a small garden shed.

Designed to maximise the potential of the lot, the new homes will help address the shortage of accommodation for council staff and support the delivery of essential services in the region.

Isaac Regional Council will use modular construction and a full turnkey model to reduce construction timeframes, manage supply risks, and deliver a more cost-effective housing solution for the regional community.

The Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program (LGGSP) 2024-28, with the Crisafulli Government, is providing 60 per cent or $1,691,182 of the total project cost of $2,818,636.

Member for Burdekin Dale Last said the project would drive recruitment, helping attract and retain workers who were not able to be recruited locally by the council.

“Using a modular, turnkey approach allows faster delivery and better value for money, which is particularly important for regional communities where traditional builds can face delays and cost pressures,” Mr Last said.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the grant funding responded to a critical housing need in the area.

“Access to quality housing is critical for regional towns like Nebo. These homes will make it easier to attract skilled workers to the region,” Mayor Vea Vea said.

“This funding will have long-term benefits for our community and support our ability to meet the needs of our communities by continuing to deliver essential services in the region.”

For more information about the LGGSP, visit www.localgovernment.qld.gov.au/for-councils/grants/current-programs/local-government-grants-and-subsidies-program.

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Some years ago, when my son Lincoln was aged about three or four, I was sitting on the couch watching TV and felt a tap on the back of my head.

Now, I was able to make the connection between my four-year-old son, the space at the back of the couch where he was now obviously crouching, and the tap on the back of my head.

But I went along with it, feigned surprise, rubbed the back of my head and slowly got up, giving Lincoln enough time to scurry out from behind the couch and tip-toe down the hallway to his bedroom.

I stood up and complained that something had hit the back of my head, loud enough for Lincoln to hear his confused father at a loss to understand what had happened.

About a week later it happened again. Again, after hitting the back of my head, Lincoln had quietly fled to his bedroom from where he could hear his befuddled father complain loudly that he had been hit on the head, note that there was nothing behind the couch and that “something weird is happening in this house”.

This prank of Lincoln’s went on for several years, probably once or twice a month.

As it evolved I would involve Lincoln in the mystery, tell him that sometimes when I’m sitting on the couch I would suddenly feel a hit on the back of my head.

I asked him to keep an eye out for anything strange in the house. He would then put on his best “concerned face” and commit to being on the look-out.

I said: “ I don’t know, I feel like there might be ghosts in this house.”

Over the next few years the hits got harder, no doubt adding to the hilarity.  I would cop the hit, rub the back of my head, complain loudly and slowly get up to look behind the couch to again see that no one and nothing was there.

I would then call out to my “ally”, Lincoln, and tell him I’d been hit on the back of the head again.
Now Lincoln is many wonderful things but a good actor is not one of them. One of the funniest memories I have of him as a little kid, and an example of his worst acting, is him coming out of his bedroom and walking down the hallway to me on hearing that I’d been hit again.

He would put on his concerned expression and rub his chin like a scientist pondering a theory but having to admit that even he couldn’t explain the strange events that had unfolded.

The prank eventually ended, probably around the time Lincoln got old enough to realise his father couldn’t be that stupid, and he is now 18 and living in Brisbane studying at uni.

He was back in his old bedroom during the recent semester break, although that has changed a bit because we are in the process of renovating and his room has largely been completed.

The bathroom has also been done and, over the next few months, the house will be done and we will probably sell it and downsize because both our kids have left home.

But with Lincoln home for his holiday, the house being renovated and the plans to sell the place, a bloke starts to think about what has happened there.

It’s a reminder that a property with bedrooms, a living area, a bathroom, a kitchen and a laundry goes from being a house to a home when you add the people that are close to you and experience life with them within those walls.

As a real estate agent, it’s also a reminder that when you sell someone’s family home, it’s not just a house but a living, breathing being where life played out, kids grew up, memories were created and love happened.

So selling it comes with a lot of responsibility.

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When did the supermarket stop being exciting?

As a kid, tagging along with Mum to grab the milk felt like an adventure. The fluorescent lights, the hum of the fridges, the quiet promise of a treat in the trolley — all of it was thrilling. Somewhere along the way, that little errand turned into a dreaded chore. We swapped excitement for efficiency, wonder for ‘why is butter $8?’

Over the weekend, I watched my son giggle with delight as he helped crack eggs for scrambled eggs. He marvelled at worms while planting seedlings in the garden, and announced he was “a digger helping Bob the Builder” with muddy hands and proud eyes. That kind of joy — the full-body, can’t-stop-smiling kind — it doesn’t come from Gucci handbags or five-star resorts. It comes from presence. From curiosity. From simple things we stopped noticing.

Somewhere along the way, we got sold the idea that happiness was expensive — that we had to earn it, post about it, or book it six months in advance. But let’s be honest: the handbag’s ugly, and Paris smells like a bin on bin night. Meanwhile, your dog is wagging its tail, your kid is laughing at eggs, and the grass is growing whether you’re looking or not.

For me, joy is watching my son discover the world. As someone who went through the very real and grounding experience of cancer treatment, I’m learned that simple joy isn’t just a luxury — it’s essential.

On page 12, you’ll meet Earl Neilsen — a bowel cancer survivor and Trudy Crowley Foundation ambassador who recently got handed the keys to a new BT-50 thanks to the generosity of Auto Corner. Earl’s joy? Fishing trips with his family, and the peaceful simplicity of water, fresh air and good company. Read why his boat’s called Bell Ringer — it’ll make you smile.

If your version of joy includes good wine, sunshine and live music, flip to page 16 for all the details on this weekend’s Wisely Wine and Food Festival. Prefer something a little more spicy? The dazzling new show Lassu has landed at the Mackay Showgrounds — page 32 has everything you need to know.

Whatever it is that brings you joy — I hope you catch a glimpse of it this weekend. And if you’re not sure where it’s gone… maybe it’s time to look back at the worms and eggs.

Amanda

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A humble Mackay local has found himself at the centre of a feel-good viral moment after a simple act of kindness captured the hearts of thousands online, and even landed a Japanese hitchhiker on national TV.

Matt, who was travelling from Bowen to Mackay, offered a lift to a Japanese traveller named Tom, who is hitchhiking his way across Australia from Cairns to Melbourne. But the generosity didn’t stop there. Matt also took Tom to a local pub, shouted him dinner and a beer, and shared a true-blue Aussie experience along the way.

Tom, who has been documenting his journey on TikTok, praised Matt’s kindness: “Matt took me from Bowen to Mackay and paid me for beer and dinner. He is so kind. Thank you very much, Matt.”

The video quickly went viral, catching the attention of viewers across the country and eventually securing Tom a feature on local TV.

Locals in Mackay have celebrated Matt’s gesture, calling him a “top bloke” and the kind of person who embodies the true Aussie spirit.

“We need more Matts! Nothing more Australian than this,” one comment read.

Another local added, “Nice to see there are still good people out there. Good on you, Matt.”

Tom continues his cross-country adventure and is calling for tips on must-see places and friendly faces along the way.

One thing’s for sure – his stop in Mackay, thanks to Matt, is one he won’t forget.

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A Mackay man’s simple act of kindness toward a hitchhiking tourist has gone viral, earning praise online and helping put the region, and his generous Aussie spirit on the map. Photo source: Midori Tomoya (Instagram)

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By Amanda Wright

More than 90,000 Mackay region residents will cast their votes in a full postal ballot by-election next month, following the resignation of Councillor George Christensen in late May. The by-election, scheduled for Saturday 30 August 2025, will determine who fills the vacant seat on the Mackay Regional Council.

With the nomination period now open and closing at noon on Thursday 24 July, the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) is urging interested community members to act quickly.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen said candidates must complete several steps to be eligible, including opening a dedicated campaign bank account, paying a $250 deposit, securing at least six nominators from within the council area, and completing mandatory training through the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers.

“Postal vote materials will be mailed to every eligible voter, so it’s essential to ensure your enrolment details are current,” Mr Vidgen said.

“That includes updating your postal address if it has changed, or enrolling for the first time by 5pm Tuesday 22 July.”

The vote will be decided by a first-past-the-post system, meaning the candidate with the most votes wins, with no preference distribution. While results are expected by 9 September, a clear leader could emerge sooner depending on vote count progress.

The cost of Mackay’s upcoming by-election is expected to come in well below early estimates, with the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) advising that the final figure will be $569,000. Initial projections had placed the price tag closer to $700,000, while a full face-to-face ballot was estimated to cost as much as $800,000.

At least four candidates have confirmed their intention to contest the seat: Mackay small business owner Dion Loader, Sarina’s Melissa Milton, former Isaac Mayor Anne Baker, and Kimberly Doyle, who previously ran in the 2024 local government elections.

The by-election represents a significant moment for Mackay Regional Council, with Mayor Greg Williamson expressing hope that the successful candidate will bring passion, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the entire region.

“I’m just hoping that whoever wants to put up their hand has got the right agenda behind them,” Mayor Williamson said.

“And that agenda is the best we can possibly do — not for personal gain... but the best for the Mackay Regional Council footprint.”

Mayor Williamson said local government was often the level of government closest to people’s everyday lives, and the role of councillor came with a responsibility to serve the broader interests of all communities across the region.

He added that council and the community needs someone who understands what makes this region tick — from our urban centres to our rural communities, from tourism and agriculture to small business and innovation.

“It’s about passion. It’s about people. And it’s about putting our region first.”

Mayor Williamson also encouraged residents to stay engaged in the process, saying strong voter participation was a vital part of shaping the region’s future.

“We’ve got great momentum in Mackay and we need committed representatives to keep that going.”

More information about the by-election, including how to nominate or update enrolment details, is available on the ECQ website at www.ecq.qld.gov.au.

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The current Mackay Regional Council councillors, with one seat now vacant following the resignation of George Christensen, who will step up to fill the gap? The vote is yours. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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OPINION PIECE

Last week, I attended the inaugural Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo at the Resources Centre of Excellence in Paget, Mackay. The expo, promoted as a platform showcasing cutting-edge technologies, fostering industry collaboration, and driving sustainable advancements in the resource sector, definitely delivered – what a fantastic event it was!

I was incredibly proud to meet so many local innovators and industry experts, all deeply committed to their products and ideas. I also had the privilege of being part of a roundtable with other stakeholders, industry experts and policymakers to discuss mining and exploration. As Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, I left with plenty of information to take back to Canberra.

What stood out was the strong turnout from both locals and visitors across the country. I saw incredible innovations, like electric skid steers and battery-operated ride-on mowers, as well as robotic technologies from a WA-based company that could be a game changer for industry in the Bowen Basin. These were ideas turned into real businesses by everyday Australians backing themselves.

Yes, there were big players too, but they all started the same way — someone with a dream in a shed. That’s what Australia should be about.

The expo reminded me of what I already knew: Dawson is full of potential.

Our region is not just blessed with rich resources, natural beauty and a great climate. We’re home to some of the world’s smartest innovators, and they’re worth investing in. Paget also happens to be the largest manufacturing hub in the Southern Hemisphere.

Business owners across Dawson tell me their biggest obstacle comes from government. Increased red tape and green tape are drowning our local innovators in getting their ideas off the ground. These people aren’t looking for handouts — they just want less in their way and a government that backs them.

When Labor launched its ‘Future Made in Australia’ policy last year, I thought the government might actually throw Dawson a bone. Instead, it focuses almost entirely on city-based renewables projects. There is nothing in this policy for the manufacturing industry and resource sector in North Queensland that have long underpinned our national economy.

Not investing in the resource sector and manufacturing in North Queensland is not only disappointing for our region, it is ignorant of the risks Australia faces into the future. The more we have to rely on overseas supply chains, the more sovereign risk we expose ourselves to. A truly sovereign Australia needs to make right here on our home turf. We need to invest in our resource sector and manufacturing industry. We need to invest in our people and their innovative ideas. We need to invest in regional Australia – regions like Dawson and people like the ones I met at last week’s expo.

Australia’s future must be made in Australia, and that means regions like ours must be better supported by our federal government.

Dawson is a big part of our national economy and when Parliament resumes next week — and for the first time since before the May election, I might add — I will be reminding the government our region deserves our fair share, better support and less bureaucracy getting in the way.

Buy Australian, promote Australian, and make Australian.

Andrew Willcox MP
Federal Member for Dawson
Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability

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Queensland Police are appealing for further information as part of ongoing investigations after a 61-year-old Mackay man was recently charged with child sexual assault offences.

On Saturday 12 July, Detectives from the Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit (CPIU) attended a Mackay address where they took a man into custody.

Police will allege the man sexually assaulted two boys known to him, within the Mackay area over the past several months.

The man has been charged with ten counts of indecent treatment of a child under 16, and one count each of rape, grooming child under 16 years with intent to procure engagement in a sexual act.

He was refused police bail and is due to appear in Mackay Magistrates Court today, 14 July.

Mackay CPIU Detective Sergeant Glenn Burley says police are urging anyone with further information or similar interactions to come forward.

“The nature of the offending against these children in such a grooming and opportunistic nature is of great concern,” Detective Sergeant Burley said.

“We understand this man has previously resided in Brisbane, within the Deception Bay area, before living in Mackay, and there may be someone out there with more information that could assist this investigation, and we encourage you to come forward.”

“If you have experienced sexual violence, it is not your fault, and you are not alone; there are multiple reporting and support options available to you.”

_If there’s an immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). You can also report online via: https://forms.police.qld.gov.au/launch/SexualAssault, over the phone or face to face at a police station.

There are also Alternative Reporting Options available depending on your situation.

For confidential information, counselling and support, call the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.

Quote this reference number: QP2501219324

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Mackay has officially been recognised as one of Australia’s top 10 cities to launch a start-up, according to the latest Reckon Startup Cities report.

Mackay was also named the third best city to start a business in Queensland, behind Brisbane and Toowoomba.

The study, which analysed 50 cities across the country, highlights Mackay’s strong business survival rates, affordable living costs and robust internet infrastructure as key factors driving its entrepreneurial appeal.

Reckon CEO Sam Allert praised regional cities like Mackay for offering “a perfect storm of positive business conditions”, challenging the notion that start-ups must be based in capital cities to thrive.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed the recognition.

“This report confirms what we have been promoting for years and what switched-on entrepreneurs already know – Mackay is a city of opportunity,” Mayor Williamson said.

“With major infrastructure projects underway, a growing population and a supportive business community, we’re proud to be a launchpad for innovation and growth,” he said.

Why Mackay stands out:

Affordable cost of living compared to major cities.
Strong business survival rates in both short and long-term metrics.
Fast internet speeds and digital infrastructure.
Access to skilled labour and a growing talent pool.
Supportive local government and investment in major projects like the Mackay Waterfront and Northern Beaches Community Hub.**

The report’s findings align with Mackay’s ongoing transformation into a modern, new-age regional city. With continued investment in infrastructure and community development, Mackay is poised to attract even more entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to turn bold ideas into thriving ventures.

For more information on Mackay’s business opportunities and support services, visit the Mackay Regional Council’s Economic Development page.

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Michael Cotter from Cotter Builders can attest to how a small startup can become a thriving business in Mackay. Photo supplied

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Resources Innovation Expo Showcases Queensland’s Cutting-Edge Capability

Regional innovation and industry excellence were on full display last Friday at the inaugural Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo, hosted at the Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE) in Mackay.

The one-day event, backed by the Queensland Resources Council (QRC) as principal sponsor, brought together more than 30 exhibitors from across Queensland and interstate, including Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria. The expo attracted industry professionals, educators, students, and innovators, all eager to explore the latest advancements in mining and resources.

Held in Paget, known as Queensland’s mining and manufacturing powerhouse, the event featured panel sessions, the inaugural Mine Pitch showcase, and cutting-edge demonstrations centred on critical minerals, operational efficiency, and ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) innovation.

RCOE CEO Steven Boxall said the event marked a significant milestone for regional Queensland and the wider resources sector.

“This is our first expo… we really wanted to do something that gave local businesses the opportunity to stand up and showcase what they’re doing in the sector,” Mr Boxall said.

“There’s a whole range of world-leading innovation being developed out of regions like Mackay… everything from AI-driven safety systems, electrified equipment, solutions around safety – it’s really world-leading innovation happening out of regional Queensland.”

Boxall highlighted the event’s focus on emerging technologies and safety advancements.

“Particularly in that AI and safety space, there’s tech that can map areas of mine sites that have never been accessible before, keeping people away from the unsafe parts of a very dangerous industry.”

He also reflected on the depth of experience within the region.

“This morning, I actually spoke to someone who proudly said this is their 55th year working in the coal sector here in the Bowen Basin.”

“Whether it's the world’s best met coal or the emerging critical mineral sector, Queensland is absolutely blessed… not just with resources, but with the smarts to develop innovation that keeps us safe, sustainable and productive.”

QRC CEO Janette Hewson said the Council was proud to support the inaugural event and reiterated the region’s critical role in powering the state’s economy.

“Queensland Resources Council and our 200 members are so proud to be the inaugural sponsors of the Resources Centre of Excellence Innovation Expo,” Ms Hewson said.

“We have world-class resources, great suppliers, and people who are absolutely skilled at what they do – producing the resources the world needs safely, sustainably, and productively.”

“Through QMEA, we’re working to bring forward the next generation of talent, and we really want to target regional communities like Mackay.”

Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability, Andrew Willcox, praised the region’s contribution to the national economy and the innovation on display.

“I’m really excited to be here to see the innovation,” Mr Willcox said.

“Currently, it’s about $5 billion in royalties coming out of this area. At its peak, it was around $9 billion.”

“You take coal away and the country stops.”

He also emphasised the importance of local manufacturing and self-reliance.

“The equipment being made here, like underground lighting, was developed in Mackay and now used all over the world.”

“Our capability is huge… sovereign capability is critical. The more we develop here and use here, the less we rely on overseas competitors.”

“If COVID taught us anything, it’s that we need to be self-sufficient.”

The Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo offered a powerful glimpse into a future where regional Queensland leads the way in sustainable, cutting-edge resources innovation.

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The inaugural Queensland Resources and Innovation Expo in Mackay showcased regional Queensland’s leadership in sustainable, tech-driven mining and manufacturing, drawing over 30 exhibitors and key industry voices from across the nation. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Massive Sport Upgrade To Kick Off In Walkerston

Walkerston is set to become a sporting powerhouse, with a record-breaking $3.125 million investment locked in to upgrade the home of the Wests Tigers — the largest single boost to sports infrastructure ever seen in the Mirani electorate.

Backed by the Queensland Government, the funding delivers on Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP’s key election commitment, and marks a major win for the region’s sporting future.

Delivered under the state’s Games On! program, the project will include the construction of four new change rooms, accessible facilities, a parents' room, raised viewing platform, and four new multi-purpose courts with lighting to cater to sports like netball, basketball, volleyball and pickleball.

“This project is about supporting grassroots sport today while helping to nurture the champions of tomorrow,” Mr Kelly said.

“It’s about making sure kids in regional areas have the same opportunities as those in the big cities.

“These upgrades will allow the club to expand, and provide more opportunities for both the 1,000 players at the club across various sports, and players looking at joining the club.

“This will benefit the Walkerston and Valley communities, and it’s so important that we have good quality sporting infrastructure to help develop the athletes of tomorrow and provide opportunities for local sport.”

Wests Tigers General Manager Kingsley Theiber said the club, one of the largest junior rugby league participation clubs in the region with over 600 junior players, was feeling the pinch of limited space and outdated facilities.

“We have a membership base of about 8000 … we hear it all the time that mums and dads are working all these hours and getting home and then not being able to take the kids into town for training where other club facilities are,” Mr Theiber said.

“Construction will start at the end of our rugby league and soccer season this year so we’re looking at probably a September start.

“That’ll have hopefully the new dressing rooms in place ready to go at the start of next season.”

FULL SCOPE OF STAGE 1 INCLUDES:

Design and construction of an extension to the existing change room, canteen and bar building

Four new change rooms

New unisex DDA-compliant toilet

Parents' room

Raised VIP viewing platform

Retention of existing tiered seating with new shade cover

Four new covered, multi-purpose courts with lighting

Lighting upgrades to training field 2

Relocation of existing field 1 lights to field 3

Security fencing across the precinct
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This investment ensures the Wests Tigers and the wider Pioneer Valley sporting community will have the facilities they need to grow, train and thrive — right here at home.

Glen Kelly MP, Premier David Crisafulli, and General Manager Kingsley Theiber

Premier David Crisafulli, Caleb Filewood, and Glen Kelly MP. Photos supplied

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