Hi Everyone,

Hope you're all looking forward to a short week and the fantastic Whitsunday Show - I know I am!

My past weekend was busy but so much fun. Saturday involved four-wheel driving through Cathu State Forest with friends. It's one of my top spots in the Whitsundays, and I always love discovering something new there!

Sunday, though, was profoundly fulfilling. I spent the day planting corals in the Great Barrier Reef as part of a restoration project with an amazing team of divers. You can read more about our experience in the special "Ruth2Reef" edition on pages 24-25.

I've had a lot of "pinch me" moments lately, and this past weekend was definitely one of them! Thinking back to two years ago, working in London and wondering if there was "more to life," I never would have believed I'd be doing this now.

Leaving London in 2023 felt daunting, but I'm incredibly grateful I stepped outside my comfort zone. It's led to unimaginable experiences and a career I'm deeply passionate about. I truly believe that sometimes the scariest path is the one worth taking. If you ever feel bored or stuck, consider it a sign to take that next step. You never know what amazing opportunities are waiting for you!

Enjoy reading & stepping out of your comfort zones!

Ruth

"Coming out of your comfort zone is tough in the beginning, chaotic in the middle, and awesome in the end...because in the end, it shows you a whole new world.” ― Manoj Arora, From the Rat Race to Financial Freedom

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OPINION PIECE

Superannuation is one of Australia's most important vehicles for building a comfortable retirement. Yet many of us only start paying attention to our super balances later in life. So why is super hitting the news and why am I raising it?

The Federal government is planning a super heist and wants to change the goal posts on retirement savings. They are proposing to double the tax rate from 15 per cent to 30 per cent on all super balances valued above $3 million. This is a very bad tax and a very bad economic policy. I am deadset opposed to the proposed tax in any form and I will tell you why.

Firstly, those with large balances will almost certainly look to divest assets to fall below the $3 million threshold. I would be gobsmacked if those with large balances were not already putting in place plans to move investment away should the tax come in. That means billions could leave the super system, reducing total funds under management. Less capital in super means lower investment returns for everyday Australians.

Secondly, this tax undermines confidence in super itself. Australians have been encouraged to put more into super to secure their retirement. But this change signals that the rules can change at any time, and not in a positive way. That uncertainty will discourage additional contributions and weaken the entire system.

Third, the proposal unfairly targets asset-rich but income-poor Australians, particularly farmers. Many family farms are held in self-managed super funds as part of intergenerational planning. These aren't "wealthy investors". Under Labor's plan, an on-paper increase in farmland value could trigger a huge tax bill, even though no cash is received.

My question to Anthony Albanese is, how do you expect our Aussie farmers who are already doing it tough, to pay a tax bill for a fictional profit? If more farmers sell their land off as a consequence, there will be less fresh Aussie produce on the shelves and higher prices at the checkout.

Lastly, the plan in its current form is that this new super tax will not be indexed and additionally, once legislated, future governments could reduce the threshold even further. This isn't just a tax on today's high-balance holders, it's a tax on middle-income Australians of the future.

If Labor is prepared to break the promise on super, what do they plan next? If this tax goes through, could it open the door for Labor to tax the family home?

A change to super affects everyone and the consequences go well beyond a handful of millionaires.

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

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At Aligned Corporate Residences Mackay

Located in the heart of Mackay on Queensland’s Central Coast, Aligned Corporate Residences Mackay offers a relaxed lifestyle in a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. Just an hour’s flight from Brisbane, this idyllic tropical destination is perfectly positioned for business and leisure.

Our central city location places residents within easy walking distance to a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. With convenient access to the business district, convention centre, Bluewater Lagoon, Mackay Town Beach, and the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands, everything you need is close at hand.

The property features 97 well-appointed residences, including studio, one-, and two-bedroom serviced apartments. Designed for comfort and functionality, our residences offer a welcoming space whether you're staying for a few days or an extended period.

Ideal for extended stays, Aligned Corporate Residences Mackay feels like home. Residents enjoy access to a range of on-site amenities, including a swimming pool and a barbecue grill deck—perfect for relaxing or socialising with fellow residents.

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Callea And Campbell Bring Elton And George To Life

In an unmissable celebration of two of music’s greatest icons, Anthony Callea and Tim Campbell are taking the stage together for a spectacular live national tour, featuring the timeless hits of Elton John and George Michael. The powerhouse duo will bring their electrifying energy to the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) on Saturday 28 June.

Backed by their band, Callea and Campbell will take audiences on a musical journey through the songs that have defined generations. Known for their extraordinary vocal talent, charisma and chemistry, the two beloved performers are set to breathe new life into the iconic pop anthems of Elton and George.

The tour follows a string of sold-out performances at Melbourne’s Hamer Hall and the Sydney Opera House, where the pair shared the stage with John Foreman and the Australian Pops Orchestra. After an outpouring of requests from fans across the country, Anthony and Tim knew they had to hit the road again.

“Going on tour with our band to continue this amazing journey is so exciting,” said Anthony and Tim. “We have been blown away by the reaction to our Hamer Hall and Sydney Opera House shows, and with countless messages on our socials asking us to bring the show to more cities and towns around the country, we decided to take it on the road. We can’t wait to bring the musical genius, fun and good times to as many parts of Australia as possible.”

Paying tribute to George Michael’s magnetic stage presence and Elton John’s high-energy theatricality, the show promises an uplifting and unforgettable live music experience.

Following the smash-hit success of their 2023 Up Close and Unpredictable tour — with 27 sold-out shows — Callea and Campbell are ready to once again wow fans with this heartfelt, high-energy celebration of two legendary artists.

Tickets are on sale now through the MECC Box Office or online at themecc.com.au.

WHAT: Anthony Callea & Tim Campbell – The Songs of Elton & George
WHEN: Saturday 28 June 2025, 7.30pm
WHERE: MECC Auditorium
TICKETS: www.themecc.com.au or MECC Box Office

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A major environmental milestone has been reached in the Mackay–Whitsunday region, with the completion of Queensland’s largest rock fishway on Jolimont Creek, north of Mackay. Spanning over 100 metres, the newly constructed fishway now provides vital upstream passage for native fish species, overcoming a three-metre-high concrete weir that has obstructed migration for more than three decades.

Spearheaded by Mackay Regional Council and funded through the Australian Government’s Reef Guardian Councils program, the project was delivered by Catchment Solutions in partnership with Seaforth Civil, marking a significant win for regional biodiversity and waterway health.

Matt Moore, Fisheries Ecologist at Catchment Solutions, explained that approximately half of the region’s 50 freshwater fish species migrate between the sea and inland freshwater systems as part of their life cycle.

“Fish migration between marine and freshwater habitats is a key requirement for many important recreational, commercial and Indigenous fishery species and is essential to maintain sustainable fish populations,” said Mr Moore.

He highlighted several iconic species likely to benefit, including barramundi, mangrove jack, jungle perch, tarpon, and long-finned eel, along with smaller prey species such as the colourful empire gudgeon.

The fishway functions like a series of underwater stairs, allowing fish to use short bursts of energy to navigate faster-flowing sections before resting in calm pools along the way.

“Our native fish are weak swimmers and poor leapers, so it’s critical we provide conditions like low-velocity zones and deep resting pools to support their upstream journey,” Mr Moore said.

He also noted that the migration is particularly important for juvenile fish, such as young barramundi, which are just 50–100 mm in length when they travel upstream into freshwater wetlands.

“Wetlands offer stable water levels and abundant food resources, helping juvenile fish grow quickly and boosting their chances of survival when they return to saltwater to breed.”

Initial monitoring has confirmed the fishway’s success. In just five days, 15 freshwater species were recorded using the passage, with over 800 fish per day ascending the structure. Sizes ranged from just 16 mm to 750 mm.

Importantly, the monitoring also validated the effectiveness of Catchment Solutions’ innovative nursery slot design. The nursery slot creates a shallow film of water with a reduced velocity boundary layer, enabling even the smallest juvenile fish to safely navigate the fishway.

“It was fantastic to capture footage of tiny juvenile fish using the nursery slot - this size class is often missing from fishway studies on large structures,” Mr Moore added.

Local sugar cane farmer and landholder Rob Ellwood expressed optimism about the project’s impact on recreational fishing in the nearby St Helens to Cape Hillsborough Net Free Fishing Zone.

“Jolimont Creek flows into Murray Creek and into the Net Free Zone, so hopefully the fishway will increase local barramundi populations,” Mr Ellwood said.

Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed the fishway’s early success.

“In the Mackay region, we love our waterways and reef. Recreational fishing is one of the most popular ways our community connects with these environments,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It also has long-term benefits for tourism in the region as our region is well-known for its outstanding fishing,” he said.

“The new fishway will enhance these opportunities even more by helping to boost local fish stocks in the Seaforth and St Helens areas.

“We encourage locals, tourists and visitors alike to enjoy the incredible outdoor lifestyle and fishing experiences our region offers.”

Jolimont fishway is the latest waterway restoration project completed by Catchment Solutions, following similar projects on the Herbert River in Ingham and Scrubby Creek in Logan City. For more information visit www.catchmentsolutions.com.au.

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Jolimont Creek rock fishway in operation during recent fish monitoring. Photo supplied

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Sarina’s Railway Crossing Set For Vital Safety Overhaul

Glen Kelly MP has championed a vital victory for Sarina, securing long-overdue safety upgrades for the Anzac Street Pedestrian Railway Crossing.

While in Brisbane for Parliament on 29 April, Mr Kelly met with Queensland Rail to advocate for urgent improvements to the crossing. Queensland Rail has now confirmed the upgrades will go ahead under the Regional Level Crossing Upgrade Fund.

Improving safety at the Anzac Street crossing has been a long-standing concern for the Sarina community. Sarina State High School students regularly use the crossing to travel between the main school campus and the agricultural campus. With around 850 students enrolled, and approximately four classes per day accessing the agricultural site, the current conditions pose a serious risk to student safety, as well as to the broader community.

"The community has raised concerns for years, and I’ve heard them loud and clear," Mr Kelly said.

"My Sarina office is right near the crossing – I’ve seen firsthand the near misses, and the fear locals feel when crossing the tracks.

“I wasn’t going to wait for a tragedy to act.”

The upgrade is currently in the concept phase, with engineering and optioneering work now complete. Preliminary design has commenced, with development scheduled to begin in late 2025. Construction and commissioning are expected to be completed by 2027, subject to weather and seasonal constraints, particularly the sugar cane crushing season.

While the previous Member for Mirani initiated a petition in 2019 that attracted 94 signatures, the then Labor Government failed to deliver any upgrades. In contrast, Mr Kelly has secured firm commitments from Queensland Rail within his first six months in office.

“This is a government that listens, acts, and delivers for regional Queenslanders,” Mr Kelly said.

“Under the Crisafulli LNP Government, we’re putting safety first – and delivering real outcomes for communities like Sarina.”

With the 3rd of June marking the first day of crushing season, pedestrian safety at railway crossings is rightly front of mind for the community.

Glen Kelly MP has secured crucial safety upgrades for Sarina’s Anzac Street Pedestrian Railway Crossing, addressing long-standing community concerns and ensuring safer passage for students and locals, with construction set to begin by late 2025. Photo supplied

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Rotary Australia World Community Service Limited (RAWCS) was established in 1987 as a public company limited by guarantee. Operated under its own constitution and authorised by Rotary International as a Multi-District Activity, RAWCS helps facilitate life-changing community service projects both locally and internationally.

Walkerston Rotary’s latest RAWCS project focuses on supporting communities in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands. The initiative aims to supply educational and teaching aids, medical supplies, and improve water and sanitation infrastructure in various villages. The long-term goal is to enhance health and education outcomes for island residents.

Over the past several months, Walkerston Rotary has received generous donations of books, school desks and chairs, school and sports uniforms, musical instruments, bikes, scooters, medical supplies and equipment, Days for Girls menstrual hygiene kits, wheelchairs, walking frames, crutches, and a wide range of items to assist people in developing regions.

Other Rotary clubs, businesses, and individuals have also pitched in to help fund the purchase of equipment and cover shipping costs.

Led by project manager Col Baldock, the club is currently planning to refurbish the water supply tanks at Helena Goldie Hospital in the Solomon Islands. Later this year, they will investigate how to assist in upgrading the hospital’s Children’s Ward.

To raise additional funds, the club is collecting old car and truck batteries and other recyclable materials.

They will also be hosting a ‘Scrubby Rotary’ Book Sale at North Mackay Rotary’s next Troppo Markets, featuring books not suitable as educational material for the Solomon Islands communities.
Currently, the club’s Solomon Islands storage facility has more school desks than chairs. Donations of school chairs in various sizes are most welcome and would be greatly appreciated.

Due to unreliable or non-existent power in many villages, schools and medical centres are always in need of laptop computers and generators.

The Nurses’ Training College has requested donations of medical mannequins — including open chest busts, individual organs, full skeletons, and resuscitation dummies. The club is currently investigating where these might be sourced affordably or ideally at no cost.

During a previous visit to Munda, Solomon Islands, Rotarians learned from the medical superintendent that the hospital had gone six weeks without any pain relief medication. With the help of a local pharmacy, Walkerston Rotary arranged for a large supply to be delivered on the next visit — the first the hospital had received in nearly four months.

Walkerston Rotary also partners with the local Days for Girls group to distribute menstrual hygiene kits throughout the region.

With previous work in the Solomon Islands now completed, Mackay North Rotary and Mooloolaba Rotary Clubs have joined forces to support Walkerston Rotary’s ongoing projects in the area.

If you have items to donate or would like to support the initiative, please contact Walkerston Rotary’s Project Manager – all donations are tax-deductible.

Contributed by Col Baldock

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Walkerston Rotary, through its RAWCS initiative, is delivering vital educational, medical, and infrastructure support to the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, with the help of generous community donations, local partnerships, and a shared commitment to improving health and education outcomes. Photos supplied

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Earlier this month, Michelle Landry was officially declared the winner of the seat of Capricornia by the Australian Electoral Commission.

At the Declaration of Results event, Ms Landry was confirmed to have retained the seat with a decisive margin of 11,512 votes.

“This is an incredible honour and I want to sincerely thank the people of Capricornia for once again putting their trust in me,” Ms Landry said.

“To be elected for another term is deeply humbling. I never take this job for granted and I promise to continue fighting every single day for our local communities.”

Ms Landry said the result sends a clear message to Canberra about what matters most to the people of Capricornia.

“Cost of living is the number one issue on everyone’s mind. People are struggling with soaring prices for groceries, electricity, fuel, and rent and Labor just doesn’t seem to get it.

“I’ll be pushing for practical relief to help families and small businesses make ends meet.”

She also committed to securing more infrastructure investment across the region, particularly for critical upgrades to the Bruce Highway.

“Our roads are in urgent need of attention. I’ll be lobbying hard for increased funding to deliver more overtaking lanes between Rockhampton and Sarina, as well as broader upgrades that improve safety, connectivity and productivity across Central Queensland.”

Looking ahead, Ms Landry reaffirmed her unwavering support for the backbone industries of the region.

“Small businesses, farmers, and workers in the resources sector are the beating heart of Capricornia’s economy.

“I’ll always stand up for them and make sure their voices are heard loud and clear in Canberra.”

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Michelle Landry has been officially re-elected as the Member for Capricornia, pledging to fight for cost-of-living relief, critical road upgrades, and strong support for the region’s key industries. Photos supplied

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Tucked away on the sun-drenched shores of Blacks Beach, just 20 minutes from Mackay, Comfort Resort Blue Pacific is one of regional Queensland’s best-kept getaways. Blending seclusion, spacious comfort, and standout service, this award-winning beachfront resort is framed by the natural beauty of the Coral Sea.

Guests are welcomed with roomy, fully self-contained one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, ocean views, and direct beach access. From peaceful strolls beneath swaying palms to sunset BBQs with the Coral Sea as your backdrop, every stay offers a slice of tropical serenity.

The resort has recently been honoured with the Best of Queensland Hotel/Motel Accommodation award at the 2024 Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards, recognising its excellence in guest experience and its leadership in sustainable tourism.

With Gold in the 3–3.5 Star Accommodation category for four consecutive years, five Gold Awards, and the title of Choice Hotels Franchisee of the Year in 2022, owners Nick and Cath uit den Bogaard have created a legacy of excellence that continues to shine.

Taking its commitment to sustainability even further, the resort has recently joined the World Travel & Tourism Council’s Hotel Sustainability Basics program – a global initiative focused on operational efficiency, environmental care, and community engagement.

Whether you're here for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, this coastal retreat delivers peace, privacy, and pristine natural surrounds in perfect harmony.

Experience the best of Queensland and book your stay today at www.bluepacificresort.com.au

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MADEC is proud to announce the launch of a new dual wheelchair-accessible community van, thanks to the generous support of Macrossan & Amiet and the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

The new van is a significant step toward improving transport accessibility for people with disabilities in the Mackay region. As part of MADEC’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, the vehicle will be made available to other local not-for-profit organisations who support individuals with disabilities.

“This van represents more than just a mode of transport – it’s about freedom, participation, and opportunity,” said Jasmine Lowry, CEO of MADEC.

“By sharing this resource with other community organisations, we’re helping to remove barriers and open up new possibilities for those we all support.”

The van is equipped to accommodate two wheelchairs and several additional passengers, offering a safe and comfortable way to travel for:

• Day trips and community outings
• Medical or personal appointments
• Short holidays or overnight adventures

Usage costs will be discussed on a case-by-case basis to ensure affordability and accessibility for all organisations.

MADEC invites not-for-profit groups across Mackay to reach out to discuss how the van might support their service delivery.

For bookings or more information, contact fleet@madec.org.au.

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MADEC has launched a dual wheelchair-accessible community van to boost inclusive transport in Mackay, thanks to support from Macrossan & Amiet and the Gambling Community Benefit Fund. Photo supplied

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For 2025 Woollam Art On Show Awards

The Mackay Art Society is proud to announce that acclaimed artist, Ron McBurnie, has been selected as judge for 2025 Woollam Art on Show Awards & Exhibition.

A celebrated artist and educator, Ron previously served as guest judge for Mackay’s prestigious Woollam Art on Show Awards in 2010 and will return in 2025 to once again lend his expertise.

McBurnie’s artistic journey began in 1975 at Queensland College of Art. In 1980, he relocated to Townsville, where he took up a teaching position at the Townsville College of TAFE before moving to James Cook University. His continued artistic evolution led him to earn a Master of Creative Arts in 2000, and he now works as a professional artist.

Known for his masterful paintings, drawings, and prints, McBurnie takes inspiration from legendary artists such as Hogarth, William Blake, and Samuel Palmer, blending their techniques with his deep connection to the Australian landscape. His work has been exhibited internationally, as well as in Mackay, with notable exhibitions including:

• In Search of Arcadia (2011) – Artspace Mackay
• Tales of the Lyrebird (2022) – Artspace Mackay
• Painting with the Tide (2024) – Milton House Gallery

“We are thrilled to welcome McBurnie back as the guest judge for this year’s Woollam Art on Show Awards,” says Ben Ranson, President of the Mackay Art Society.

“His keen eye and artistic wisdom will undoubtedly add depth to the judging process.”

Artist submissions for Woollam Art on Show Awards opened in April and interested artists are encouraged to enter as soon as possible.

“Join us for the opening night on August 1st at Pavilion 500, Mackay Showgrounds, with the exhibition running until August 4th, 2025. We look forward to an inspiring showcase of artistic talent!”

For competition details and registration visit www.mackayartsociety.com.au

Acclaimed artist Ron McBurnie returns as guest judge for the 2025 Woollam Art on Show Awards, bringing expertise and inspiration. Photos supplied

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The Mackay VIEW Club recently received a generous $1,000 donation from the Mackay Alpha Rho ESA Club.

Since its inception, the dedicated members of ESA Mackay have raised substantial funds in support of the Cancer Council of Queensland, the Leukaemia Foundation, and various local charities this year, including the Mackay VIEW Club.

“This most generous donation will assist with our ongoing support of our 5 Learning For Life students,” said VIEW Club President Elizabeth.

VIEW is proud to be the largest community sponsor of The Smith Family’s Learning for Life program, which provides students  experiencing disadvantage with financial, educational and personal support.

The Mackay VIEW Club meets on the 3rd Wednesday of every month at The Mackay Surf Club, gathering  at 11:00am for an 11:30 am start.

Anyone interested in becoming a member or coming along to find out more about the Mackay VIEW Club can email Elizabeth on mackay.viewclub@gmail.

Contributed by Frances Pailthorpe

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Mackay VIEW Club members Rita, Maree, and Elizabeth accepting the $1,000 cheque from ESA Mackay. Photo supplied

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By Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

It’s great to see the 2025 production season off to an early start, with crushing under way in the Burdekin and Plane Creek regions, and the Herbert commencing this week. The weather continues to cooperate, and we hope that remains the case so all regions can get sugar into the sheds.

The #11 sugar contract continues to trend lower, with little change in the global surplus production forecast. The recent UNICA report for the first half of May 2025 showed Brazilian harvest progress catching up, though it remains 20% behind the same period last year.

Cane tonnes and sugar mix have increased, but Total Recoverable Sugar (CCS) remains low. The report aligned with market expectations. However, a 5.6% drop in gasoline prices by Petrobras halted a rally, as ethanol parity fell below 15 USc/lb.

We are forecasting a small global surplus for the 2025–26 season, mainly due to another large Brazilian crop expected. Indian production also looks strong, supported by an early monsoon, with forecasts of 32.5 million tonnes for 2025–26, up from 26 million in 2024–25. In Thailand, weak cassava prices are likely to result in another bumper crop, reinforcing export competition.

Our 2025 Season Commencement of Crush Pool reports were released last week. Notably, the Allocation Account forecast is significantly lower than last year due to a drop in physical premiums. This reflects increased Thai production impacting our sales into traditional Asian markets.

Additionally, the US Quota estimate has been reduced for both the 2024 and 2025 seasons, with import tariffs now factored in. It’s still early in the season, but growers should be aware that the strong physical premiums of recent years are under threat.

Across the regions, we’ve been connecting with growers at events such as the inaugural Link2Country Expo in Ingham, and the Sweet Days, Hot Nights Festival and Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships in the Burdekin.

Our Burdekin Relationship Manager, Fiona Villis, presented the Under 35 Category awards at the Cane Cutting Championships, proudly sponsored by Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.

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Wilmar’s Grower Marketing Relationship Manager, Fiona Villis, right, presenting the awards for the Under
35 Category at the Australian Hand Cane Cutting Championships. Keith Gilbert won first place, Stuart
Gilbert second place and Angus Gilbert third place. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

In the quiet community of Andergrove, a local treasure known as MAD Animal Addiction, a cherished petting farm, finds itself facing an uncertain future.

For over six decades, the property at 81 Andergrove Road has been a vibrant tableau of rural life, a place where the gentle bleating of goats and the soft rustle of feathers have harmonised with the daily rhythm of the neighbourhood. Yet, as its owner, Karen Mason, shares, recent actions by the Mackay Regional Council (MRC) have cast a shadow of doubt over its continued operation, prompting a heartfelt plea from the community and raising profound questions about the delicate balance between local regulations and the enduring spirit of community benefit.

The very earth beneath MAD Animal Addiction tells a story of continuity. Purchased in June 1964 as working farmland, it was once a part of a bustling dairy enterprise. Decades passed, and while the urban landscape grew around it with subdivisions in 1983 and 2005, the rural pulse of this unique property remained unbroken. Crucially, as Karen Mason recounts, confirmations from MRC Local Laws as far back as 2015 explicitly acknowledged the farm’s "existing use rights," granting it the permission to keep livestock without the imposition of animal number restrictions.

This understanding, she notes, was reportedly reaffirmed during subsequent Council visits in 2020 and 2023. Through years of various complaints, Ms Mason said that no issues were identified, and no enforcement actions were ever taken.

Beyond its fences, MAD Animal Addiction is far more than just a collection of animals; it's a living, breathing heart in the Mackay community.

Toni Breadsell, the Director of Kool Beanz SUNS Harrup Park, vividly illustrates this profound impact. She speaks of the invaluable educational opportunities MAD Animal Addiction offers to children, teaching them about animal care, nutrition, and fostering crucial sensory development.

"Mackay hasn't got a lot of choice for services for educational purposes," Ms. Breadsell said.

She emphasises that both children and their parents eagerly anticipate the petting zoo's visits.

"We have families wanting extra care days when the petting zoo comes to Kool Beanz – they’re very popular," she highlights, adding that the experiences create memories that last with us a lifetime.

"Being around animals can be very exciting for some and very calming for neurodivergent children,” she said.

The chorus of support from NDIS participants, aged care groups, and long-time neighbours further amplifies the profound positive influence this unique farm has on mental health and community cohesion.

Yet, Mackay Regional Council views the situation through a different lens, one of compliance with local regulations. As former Director Community Services Janine McKay explained, the Council has received "a number of animal and nuisance related complaints, including concerns about odour, from a residential property housing a range of domestic animals within a suburban area."

Ms McKay highlighted that council's local laws specifically outline "the maximum number of domestic animals that can be kept on properties within the local government area and set the minimum space requirements for each animal."

These laws, she clarified, are designed to ensure animals are housed appropriately and "do not cause nuisance such as odour and noise, or disrupt the peaceful occupancy of neighbouring properties."

A recent inspection, according to Ms McKay, indicated that "more than 90 animals were being housed on site, including sheep, goats, alpacas, pigs and a range of birdlife, far exceeding the maximum numbers allowed under council’s local laws."

The Council's stated aim is to work with the residents to achieve compliance, managing the number and types of animals to ensure local laws are adhered to and neighbouring residents are not adversely affected.

Ms Mason, however, provides a different account of the animal numbers. She asserts that the Council needs to correct its statement regarding 90 animals, a point she claims to have raised with them numerous times. Ms Mason clarifies that birdlife is allowed in unlimited numbers under current local laws, making their inclusion in the overall count potentially misleading to the public. She states that there were only 44 livestock animals, arguing that presenting a figure of 90 when more than half are permitted birdlife is incorrect.

This unfolding narrative prompts several critical questions that resonate within the community and beyond. Given the property's documented 61-year history of rural land use and the MRC's reported consistent acknowledgment of its "existing use rights" over many decades, Karen Mason asks what has prompted this recent, unexpected shift in the Council’s approach? She, along with community members, questions the sudden claim by an MRC officer in January 2025 of being "unaware" of these established rights, a statement that seems to directly contradict previous confirmations.

Ms Mason further seeks clarification, asking "why the burden has now been placed on me to prove these rights, rather than on MRC Local Laws to justify their abrupt departure from previous acknowledgment.”

Former Cr George Christensen, a vocal supporter before his resignation, expressed his profound disappointment.

"It's hard to see how the community gains anything by shutting down a long-standing, much-loved local initiative that costs ratepayers nothing but brings joy, healing, and education to so many," he stated.

Mr Christensen had formally requested that Council consider a temporary halt to enforcement, a recognition of historical use, and an investigation into planning exemptions or alternative solutions.

As our region, like many others, navigates the complexities of urban development and community well-being, the story of MAD Animal Addiction serves as a powerful reminder of the human element in policy and planning.

The community of Mackay, deeply connected to this unique farm, now waits for a resolution that acknowledges its rich history, respects its unwavering contributions, and secures the cherished presence of this local icon for generations to come.

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Maggie shares a tender moment with goat Harry, alongside alpacas Phoenix and Tiger-Lily.

Eadie delights in the company of a charming baby miniature pig.

Karen Mason, owner of MAD Animal Addiction, with her beloved alpacas, Elvis and Matilda.

Local children enjoying MAD Animal Addiction's mobile petting zoo at the recent Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day

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Ex-Servicemen Hit The Road To Help Sick Kids

By Hannah McNamara

In a world where recognition often follows spectacle, two local veterans are quietly carving a road less travelled … one of grit, heart, and community backing.

Tony Ciantar and Wayne Davis, both retired servicemen, are trading boots for bonnets and embarking on a 10,000km journey in their lovingly restored 1994 Ford Fairmont as part of this year’s Variety Bash.

Although, this isn’t just any road trip.

It’s a rugged, soul-stirring mission to raise funds for sick and disadvantaged children through Variety – the Children’s Charity.

Their vehicle, aptly named The Eagles, bears more than stickers and sponsor logos – it carries the memory of a close mate.

Local builder and Sarina icon, Lenny Ivory, sadly passed away last month from pancreatic cancer, and his name now rides proudly on the panels.

“We named the car after a dear friend from Sarina… it’s our special way of honouring him,” Tony shared.

The Fairmont had slept silently in a shed for over 15 years until Tony, a mechanic by trade, brought it back to life.

“It’s a 1994 Fairmont. I bought it off my neighbour in 2002… and it’s been in the shed for 15 years, so I decided to get it going.”

This year marks their first Bash, and it’s no Sunday drive. With over 7,000km on the official route and another 3,500km just to get there and back, the veterans are bracing for tight check-ins, long days, and chilly nights camped at showgrounds and school ovals.

“It’s full on, but every night there’s a barbecue or fundraiser. People say the social side is great too,” Wayne said.

And while the trip is no holiday, neither man expects accolades.

“We don’t get anything out of it – we pay for everything ourselves – but it’s all about raising money for the kids.”

At a time when every dollar counts, their self-funded mission has stirred an outpouring of goodwill from the Mackay and Sarina community. Major sponsors like NB Industries, Transit Tyres, Battery World and Master Mechanical in Sarina have all chipped in, alongside many other businesses and car club mates. Raffle prizes worth over $4,000 are on offer at the upcoming Sarina Show, and every cent raised goes straight to Variety.

“We’re not asking for a handout, but if the community would like to pitch in then we’d greatly appreciate it” Tony affirmed.

Their journey may be long, and the ride may be rugged, but their mission remains certain: to serve with heart, stay humble, and honour fallen mates, all while raising hope for children who need it most.

To support their mission – and give back to those who’ve already given so much – donate via the QR code, visit the Variety Bash website, or grab a raffle ticket at the upcoming Sarina Show.

Tony and Wayne are trading boots for bonnets, hitting the road in a restored Fairmont to honour a mate and raise funds for kids in need. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Car #142 is a tribute in loving memory of Leonard (Lenny) Ivory – 21.10.1950 to 04.05.2025. Photo supplied

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