Wilmar Sugar and Renewables has confirmed start dates for the 2026 sugar production season, with mills across the Burdekin, Proserpine and Plane Creek regions preparing to begin crushing in early June.

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The company’s four Burdekin mills; Invicta, Pioneer, Kalamia and Inkerman, along with Plane Creek Mill at Sarina, are scheduled to begin operations on 2 June. Proserpine Mill and the Herbert region’s Victoria and Macknade mills will follow on 9 June.

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General Manager Operations James Wallace said the start dates were determined by crop forecasts, factory readiness and expected paddock conditions.

“We've got a bigger crop than last year, and we're keen to get the season under way to minimise the risk of a late finish and the associated challenges of pushing into the wet season,” Mr Wallace said.

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“Our goal is to have all of our factories crushed out by mid-to-late November.”

Wilmar is forecasting a statewide crop of 15.19 million tonnes for the 2026 season, almost one million tonnes higher than last year’s total throughput of 14.23 million tonnes.

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Regional estimates include 7.97 million tonnes in the Burdekin, 1.67 million tonnes in Proserpine and 1.45 million tonnes at Plane Creek.

General Manager Engineering Istvan Torok said maintenance and upgrade works across factories, rail networks and rolling stock were nearing completion ahead of the season start.

General Manager Cane Supply and Grower Relations Dave Zeller said loco driver training was already under way and reminded motorists to remain vigilant around cane rail crossings.

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“We’re reminding residents and visitors to take extra care on the roads and look out for cane trains,” Mr Zeller said.

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Coalition representatives are urging the Australian Government to strengthen protections for cane growers as the nation’s Sugar Code of Conduct undergoes a major review.

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The review comes as the existing code, introduced by the former Coalition Government, approaches its 10-year sunset period and faces a decision on whether it will be renewed or remade.

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Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Susan McDonald said the code had played a critical role in protecting growers during negotiations with large milling companies.

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“The Sugar Code of Conduct was introduced for a reason, and it has proven effective,” she said.

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“Cane growers often have limited leverage when negotiating with large mills, and the code provides important protections to ensure negotiations are fair and disputes can be resolved. We do not want to see growers lose the safeguards that have helped deliver certainty and stability across the industry.”

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Senator McDonald said the review also presented an opportunity to consider how the code could apply to emerging sugar cane products including ethanol and biofuels.

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“As the industry evolves into ethanol, biofuels and other value-added products, it makes sense to consult growers and industry about whether sensible adaptations are required,” she said.

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“But any future changes must preserve the strong protections already provided under the code.”

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Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the review needed to recognise the mounting pressures already facing cane farmers.

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“This review must recognise that our cane farmers are the ones taking all the risk with mother nature, while dealing with massive global price fluctuations and rising input costs,” he said.

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“This Code was designed to level the playing field and ensure that negotiations are handled in good faith. We have already seen Labor leave regional Australians out in the cold in this week’s Budget, and we cannot afford for them to do the same with the Sugar Code.”

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Mr Willcox said growers needed to benefit from the industry’s transition into bio-manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.

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“As our industry evolves into biofuels, ethanol, and other value-added products, the Code must evolve with it,” he said.

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“We need to ensure that our cane farmers are rewarded for the innovation they bring to the sector, not just the raw product they deliver to the mill gate.”

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Deputy Leader of the Nationals and Shadow Agriculture Minister Darren Chester said consultation with growers would be crucial throughout the process.

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“The Coalition introduced the Sugar Code to give growers practical protections and a fairer playing field, and this review must strengthen those safeguards, not water them down,” he said.

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Queensland Natural Resources and Mines Minister and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the Burdekin had previously experienced the uncertainty caused when negotiations between growers and mills stalled.

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“A decade ago, the Burdekin witnessed first-hand what can happen when that safety net does not exist and those crucial negotiations are left at a stalemate,” Mr Last said.

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Industry consultation and regional shed meetings are expected to form part of the review process in coming months, with growers and communities encouraged to provide feedback.

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As regional Queensland continues to grow, so too does the pressure on the services that keep our communities safe. One of the clearest examples of this is in the Pioneer Valley, where rapid population growth is beginning to outpace emergency service infrastructure.

The Pioneer Valley is no longer just a small rural community. Towns like Walkerston, Marian and surrounding areas are expanding quickly through new housing developments, attracting young families, retirees and workers looking for a great regional lifestyle close to Mackay. Today, more than 8,000 people call the Valley home, and that number continues to rise.

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With that growth comes responsibility. We must ensure infrastructure and emergency services keep pace with the needs of the community.

Queensland Ambulance Service reviews service delivery across the state regularly, considering factors such as incident demand, response times, road access, demographics, health infrastructure and future growth. These reviews feed into annual local needs assessments to identify future infrastructure and resource requirements.

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Recently, I tabled a community petition in the Queensland Parliament calling for a dedicated ambulance station in the Pioneer Valley. The petition, started by Marian resident Erin Sinnamon, has attracted more than 5,000 signatures, a strong sign that local families are concerned about emergency response times.

At present, ambulances responding to emergencies in the Valley are often dispatched from Paget, Beaconsfield or Finch Hatton when available. In some cases, it can take more than 25 minutes for an ambulance to reach Marian from Paget.

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In an emergency, minutes matter. Whether it is a cardiac arrest, serious crash, farm accident or medical episode, those delays can have devastating consequences.

This campaign is not about politics. It is about planning ahead and recognising that regional communities deserve the same access to timely emergency care as anywhere else in Queensland.

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The Pioneer Valley is growing, and the planning for emergency services must grow with it. Investing in a local ambulance station would not only improve response times, it would provide peace of mind for the thousands of families who proudly call the Valley home.

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The excellent trainer team: from left, Zac Borg, Glen Brady, Ron Gurnett and Earl Neilsen

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By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

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It is hard to believe that we are already nearing the middle of the year and, with it, the start of the sugar crush season. Millers are planning to steam up across the region on various dates from the first week of June.

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This year’s crop has been estimated at 1.45million tonnes in Plane Creek area, and 5.1million tonnes in Mackay milling area.

Across the Mackay region, this is one of the most important times on the agricultural calendar.  

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The beginning of harvest signals far more than cane being cut and transported to the mill. It also marks the start of a busy period of connected activity across the entire industry, including planting, fertilising, haulage, maintenance, mill operations and the transport and application of valuable mill by-products.  

For local communities, it is a time of energy, teamwork and opportunity.

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Like many industries across Australia, the sugar industry continues to face a shortage of seasonal and skilled workers. From farms to mills and the many businesses that support them, there is strong demand for people who are willing to step in and be part of a vital regional industry.  

Mackay Canegrowers is once again working hard to meet that demand by promoting our industry’s job opportunities locally and nationally. This outreach is about more than filling jobs: it is about inviting people to experience life in the tropical winter, to contribute to an industry that keeps regional communities strong, and enjoy meaningful work during one of the most productive seasons of the year. In particular, Grey Nomads continue to play an important role, bringing experience, reliability and enthusiasm while enjoying a Queensland winter.  

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As part of this commitment, Mackay Canegrowers has again delivered two haulout driver training courses this month with the support of Queensland Government Skilling Queenslanders for Work funding.  

Interest was exceptionally strong, with a record number of nominations received from people of all ages and backgrounds: clear proof that there is genuine community interest in being involved. These four-day courses give participants practical knowledge and hands-on experience across all aspects of haul-out driving, helping them build the skills and confidence needed to work safely and effectively during the crush.  

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That comes about because of a great training team, with RTO support from Earl Nielsen and Ausintec, and with the real-industry, practical knowledge of the grower-trainer team led by Ron Gurnett, with Zac Borg and Glen Brady. It’s that team who give the course its greatest strength: reality, carved from years of experience.  

Mackay Canegrowers sincerely thanks them for sharing their time and equipment. Their efforts are helping create pathways into the industry and building a stronger workforce for the season ahead. For anyone looking for a fresh opportunity, a new skill, or a chance to be part of a proud regional tradition, now is the perfect time to get involved in the sugar industry. Our training courses may be over for the year, but many harvesters are willing to train new workers.

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Head to www.mackaycanegrowers.com.au to find out more, and see our jobs board!

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Erin Ryley – Manager  

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With household expenses and personal circumstances constantly changing, now is a great time to make sure your money is still working as hard as possible for you.

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A simple financial review can help identify opportunities to improve cash flow, better structure your accounts and potentially help you achieve your goals sooner – whether that’s paying off your home loan faster, building savings or simply feeling more in control financially.

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For example – if you're looking to make your home loan work better for you, here are a few strategies to consider:

• Make extra repayments – adding even a small amount to your regular repayments can reduce interest and loan term.

• Keep money in an offset account – to reduce the interest charged on your loan. Similarly, using a redraw facility allows you to access extra repayments if needed, while still reducing your loan balance in the meantime.

• Review your loan regularly – checking in on your loan, especially as circumstances change, can help ensure it still suits your goals. Finding the right tools, staying consistent and being supported by people who understand your goals can go a long way in making a difference!

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At Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, we’re proud to support local people and focus on what matters most to them. As a profit for purpose organisation, every customer who chooses to bank with us also contributes towards investing in our community.  

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For assistance to review your personal circumstances, come in and see the friendly team at 37 Broad Street, Sarina or call us on 07 4943 2634.

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Erin Ryley, Manager

Any advice provided in this article is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation. Please read the applicable product disclosure statement(s) on our website bendigobank.com.au before acquiring any product. All loans are subject to the bank’s normal lending criteria. Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply and are subject to change. Credit provided by Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 Australian Credit Licence 237879.

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The late Leah Smith, riding horses fearlessly in shorts. Photo sourced

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After losing his wife to asbestos-related cancer in August 2024, Mackay father and widower Phil Smith has spent the past 22 months relentlessly advocating and fundraising through Ride In Shorts For Leah, an initiative to which he has devoted more than 1,200 volunteer hours and raised over $42,000 for asbestos education and disease prevention initiatives.

On May 15th, Mr Smith proudly, yet humbly, received the Queensland New Volunteer Award for 2026.

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Advocacy Australia and its Asbestos Education Committee announced the win, presented by the Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, at Brisbane City Hall.

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The recognition comes in the wake of profound loss, following the heartbreaking passing of his wife, Leah Smith.

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Leah had unknowingly been exposed to asbestos fibres as a three-year-old when her parents built their family home. At just 49 years of age, and only eight months and one day after her diagnosis, she tragically succumbed to malignant mesothelioma.

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She has since been remembered as a woman of great courage, often doing what she loved most – riding horses fearlessly in shorts, with a beer in hand.

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It is a legacy now carried forward through Ride In Shorts For Leah.

Since her passing, Mr Smith has become a powerful voice in educating Australians about the dangers of asbestos exposure and the importance of safe renovation practices.

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He said the award was dedicated to Leah and to every family impacted by asbestos-related diseases including malignant mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis.

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“Leah wanted people to be warned about the dangers of asbestos and how easily exposure can happen when asbestos-containing materials that remain in 1-in-3 Australian homes are disturbed during renovations, maintenance and demolition.

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“I made a promise to Leah that I would share our story and if it helps prevent even one family from going through this heartbreak, then everything we’ve done will have been worth it,” Mr Smith said.

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“This award doesn’t just acknowledge my efforts. It belongs to Leah, our sons, supporters and volunteers, especially Jade Flack and Stephanie Wood, who supported me through the toughest time of my life and continue to support our Ride In Shorts For Leah fundraising and awareness activities.

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“The riders, donors and every person who’s helped raise awareness and funds to support asbestos education across the community; this award belongs to them all,” Mr Smith said.

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Advocacy Australia chair and Asbestos Education Committee chair Clare Collins said, “Phil embodies everything volunteering is about - courage, compassion, leadership and service to others.

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“What makes Phil’s contribution so remarkable is that his advocacy for asbestos awareness was founded on profound personal loss.

“And yet despite his grief, Phil continues to relive his loss publicly to keep a promise he made to his beloved wife Leah - to protect other Australians from exposure to asbestos fibres that can kill,” she said.

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“Through Ride In Shorts For Leah, Phil has not only honoured Leah’s legacy but created a powerful and growing grassroots movement that is helping save lives through awareness and education about asbestos risks,” Ms Collins said.

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One thing I’ve been reflecting on lately is how easy it is for all of us, myself included, to look at ideas for Mackay and think, that would be great to have here.

And honestly, many of them would be.

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People want things for our region because they care about this place. Whether it’s major events, new facilities, upgraded infrastructure, beautification projects or tourism ideas, most suggestions come from a genuine desire to see Mackay continue growing and improving.

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But one of the biggest things I’ve learned sitting at the council table is that wanting something and responsibly delivering it are two very different things.

Another important part of this role is learning perspective, not just pushing my own perception. Every decision carries a cost and a consequence. Not only the cost to build something, but the long-term cost to maintain, operate, repair and sustain it into the future. Those costs are ultimately carried by the community and the ratepayer. That’s perspective.

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Everyone knows the cost of living has increased, but what many people may not realise is how unpredictable the broader economic and geopolitical landscape has become. Global instability, supply chain pressures, fuel prices, inflation and shifting economic conditions all flow downstream into local government in different ways. Councils don’t operate separate from those pressures. We feel them too.

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That’s why local government has to think beyond announcements and individual ideas. Council has to weigh budgets, legislation, priorities, operational realities and long-term sustainability all at once. Sometimes leadership means asking not only, “would this be good to have?” but also, “is this realistic, achievable and responsible in the long run?”

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I think people deserve honesty about that.

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One important thing I’ve also learned is that the role of a councillor is strategic, not operational. Under local government legislation, councillors help set the strategic direction of council, represent the community and provide oversight and accountability. The operational side, the day-to-day management and administration, sits with the Chief Executive Officer and council staff.

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That doesn’t mean councillors shouldn’t understand how things work. We need to understand projects, systems and community impacts to make informed decisions and remain strategically relevant. But there is a difference between understanding operations and interfering in them.

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It’s also important to understand that councillors are not always privy to every detail at every stage. Some matters are legally confidential, commercial-in-confidence or subject to contracts and negotiations that restrict what can be publicly discussed at certain times. That can understandably frustrate people wanting immediate answers, but those protections exist for important reasons.

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I also don’t claim to know everything. This is my first term on council, and there are councillors and mayors with several terms and decades more experience and understanding than I have. I respect that. Part of leadership is being willing to learn, ask questions and continue growing into the responsibility of the role.

What keeps me grounded is remembering the people behind the reports and agenda items. Financial decisions affect households already managing rising costs. Infrastructure decisions shape what future generations inherit.

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Growing up in a working-class family taught me that most people value practicality, honesty and common sense. They understand that sometimes you can want something while also recognising the need to approach it responsibly.

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That’s not negativity. That’s stewardship.

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For me, this role has never been about headlines or monuments. It’s about contributing to meaningful and reasonably achievable outcomes that genuinely benefit our region over time.

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Nigel Dalton MP with Louise O’Neill CEO Palliative Care Queensland  

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As the weather in Mackay begins to change, we’re moving into the cooler months — not quite slippers weather yet, but it’s definitely time to break out the hot chocolates and marshmallows. Over the past few weeks, I’ve been out and about across our region almost every weekend, attending local events, catching up with community groups and speaking directly with residents about what they want to see for Mackay’s future.

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Last week in Parliament, I was proud to advocate for Mackay by supporting the Resources Safety and Health Queensland and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2026, while also recognising the invaluable contribution local volunteers make to keeping our community strong and connected.

In relation to the Resource and Safety Bill I highlighted that in Mackay, mining is more than an industry — it supports local jobs, families, apprenticeships, small businesses and the growth of our regional communities. These reforms are about strengthening worker safety, accountability and governance across Queensland’s resources sector, while ensuring every worker returns home safely at the end of every shift.

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I also spoke on the Inquiry into Volunteering in Queensland and recognised the incredible network of volunteers in the Mackay community. From Neighbourhood Watch groups helping keep our streets safe, to U3A Mackay supporting lifelong learning for seniors, to Volunteers in Policing (VIP’s) — volunteers are at the heart of our region. I also acknowledged the dedicated volunteers at Mackay Senior Citizens Hall, Mackay Mental Health and Community Programs, and the many local sporting clubs where volunteers continue to coach, manage, fundraise and support local families.

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I also had the opportunity to attend Palliative Care Week and Neighbourhood Week celebrations in Parliament. These important initiatives often rely heavily on volunteers, carers, community organisations and local advocates who work tirelessly to support vulnerable Queenslanders and strengthen community connection.

Outside Parliament, it has been fantastic to see important local projects progressing across Mackay. I am proud to announce that works are now underway on upgrades for Mackay Musical Comedy Players Inc, delivering on our 2024 election commitment to invest in community infrastructure. I’m looking forward to seeing the new storage space completed and the many future productions still to come.

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Construction is also progressing well on the new social and affordable housing project on Macalister Street. This development is part of a broader pipeline delivering 36 social and affordable homes across the Mackay. Once complete, the new apartment building will provide 18 homes, adding to the growing supply of safe and secure housing for local residents. Now well underway, this project represents a significant step forward, following the delivery of 36 homes in Mackay since being elected in 2024.

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As always, if you would like to get in touch, my office is open Monday to Friday 8am -4pm or come and say hello at the Mackay Marina Run on Sunday, 7 June at Mackay Marina.

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A growing wave of community concern has emerged following a decision by Mackay Regional Council to repurpose the Gordon White Library in 2027, as part of broader plans linked to the new Northern Beaches Community Hub development.

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The council has indicated the Mount Pleasant facility will no longer operate as a full-service library once the new hub opens, with the building instead potentially becoming a broader community-council facility.

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The proposal has prompted a wave of feedback from residents who say the library plays an important role in the community.

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An online petition titled “Save Gordon White Library”, started by local resident Kristy Dodt, has gathered significant support since launching on May 6th, with 1,913 verified signatures recorded.

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The petition states: “The accessibility of this library for people of all ages and abilities makes it an integral part of this community, [which] offers so much to the people who utilise its resources, programs and staff.

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“We are asking Council to reconsider any plans to reduce operations at this facility, if they are unable to offer an immediate, viable and accessible alternative option for the community.”

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Community members have also shared personal reflections on why the facility matters to them.

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One signatory, Irene, wrote: “Three generations of my family use this library because of its accessibility, resources, friendly staff and proximity to where we live.  

“It’s such a shame that the community that actually utilises this community hub were not consulted further.”

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More than 400 comments have also appeared on a social media post from Mackay Regional Council discussing the proposed changes.

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Among them were comments from residents expressing disappointment or concern about the future of the library.

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“Whilst I agree a library at northern beaches would be nice, it should not come at the expense of losing Gordon White!” wrote Kayla.

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Another resident James added: “This is a terrible decision. The Gordon White library is used by so many people in the community; people from all walks of life: students, the elderly, people living with disability, parents with young children and families in general.”

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Annette wrote: “This is the best Library in Mackay.  

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“Really should consider closing the Mackay city library instead. Much harder to park and sometimes can be quite confronting taking children too. Was a horrible spot to pick.  

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“Please don’t shut Gordon White.”

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Mayor Greg Williamson and Mackay Regional Council CEO Gerard Carlyon have previously assured residents that the Dudley Denny City Library is safe, noting security guards are on site, and that the Northern Beaches Community Hub will feature a world-class library available for all to use.

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Council has also stated that it would be unnecessary to have two libraries on the northern side of Mackay, at Mount Pleasant and the Northern Beaches, once the new facility opens.

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Under the proposal, the Gordon White building would not be completely closed but could be repurposed as a community space similar to the Jubilee Community Centre, with meeting rooms and offices. A click-and-collect option for library books may also remain available at the site, though it would not be fully operated by library staff.

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Discussion around the future of the Mount Pleasant facility continues, with residents and library users sharing a range of views on the proposed changes.

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Residents wishing to provide feedback on the proposal can still do so until June 16th 2026 — as the community considers what the next chapter for the Gordon White Library could look like.

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OPINION PIECE by Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox

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The law is supposed to be the ultimate shield for the vulnerable, yet in Australia it has become a weapon used to dismantle the hard-won boundaries of women and girls.

The recent Full Federal Court decision in the Tickle v Giggle appeal is a watershed moment, representing a ruling that should deeply alarm every Australian who still believes that common sense, safety, and biological reality matter.

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By dismissing the appeal of app founder Sall Grover and doubling the damages against her to $20,000, the court has effectively declared that single-sex spaces are no longer legally defensible in our country.

How did we arrive at a point where an Australian woman can spend years in court and hundreds of thousands of dollars just to defend her right to create a female-only network?

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The root of this crisis lies squarely within the halls of parliament.

In 2013, the Gillard Labor government amended the Sex Discrimination Act, deliberately introducing the concept of "gender identity" while leaving the definition of "sex" entirely ambiguous.

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The courts are now simply interpreting the flawed framework they were handed.

As the legal definition of sex is judicially expanded beyond biology, the protections for women’s changerooms, domestic violence shelters, hospital wards, prisons and sports are being quietly hollowed out.

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As a father and a grandfather of girls, I believe this is a matter of absolute principle.

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This ruling sends a chilling message to women and girls across our nation that their boundaries do not matter, their privacy is a secondary concern, and their desire for single-sex safety will be treated as unlawful discrimination.

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We are witnessing the systematic erasure of female-only spaces, spaces that were built to ensure dignity, privacy, and fairness.

We do not need to look far for a blueprint of sanity.

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The United Kingdom Supreme Court previously ruled unanimously that sex means biological sex. Five judges came to a single, common-sense conclusion, and our own laws should be just as clear.

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The Coalition will not stand by and watch women's rights be compromised.

In the next sitting of parliament, the National and Liberal Parties will bring this matter forward as a matter of absolute urgency.

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We will champion legislative amendments to define the two biological sexes within the Sex Discrimination Act as male and female, reflecting the unchangeable reality of the sex a person is born.

This initiative is not about stripping protections away from any individual, but rather about restoring the foundational right to preserve spaces reserved exclusively for women and girls, as well as men and boys.

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The Labor Government created this problem, and consequently, it is up to parliament to fix it.

A society that refuses to define what a woman is will ultimately find itself entirely unable to protect one.

It is time to restore biological reality, eliminate ideological overreach, and return common sense to the laws of our land.

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A 29-year-old woman has died following a serious single-vehicle crash at Sarina on May 13^th, with the Forensic Crash Unit continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.  

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Around 6.15pm, emergency services were called to reports a Toyota Hilux utility had lost control and crashed on Homebush Road.  

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The male driver, aged 25, sustained minor injuries, while the female passenger suffered life-threatening head injuries and was transported to Mackay Base Hospital, where she later passed away.  

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Police are appealing for any witnesses or dashcam footage. Tributes shared online describe her as a “beautiful young woman,” with heartfelt messages of love, loss and condolences from family and friends mourning a life gone too soon.

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Volunteers from the Mackay SES are among the thousands of Queenslanders being recognised during the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Community volunteers across Mackay and the Whitsundays are being celebrated as part of the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards, which recognised nearly 50,000 volunteers across the state.

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This year’s awards featured 275 nominations, recognising volunteers working across emergency services, sporting clubs, charities, tourism events and community support programs.

Queensland Minister for Volunteers Ann Leahy said volunteers played a vital role in keeping Queensland communities connected and supported.

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“Volunteers are at the heart of our communities, and our government is proud to be delivering practical support and recognition for the people who selflessly give their time to help others,” Minister Leahy said.

Mackay and Whitsundays communities rely heavily on volunteers across major events, surf lifesaving clubs, emergency response groups and local sporting organisations.

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“These awards are about honouring the thousands of Queenslanders who step up every day to support others, strengthen communities and deliver real impact across our state,” she said.

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CEO of Volunteering Queensland Jane Hedger said volunteers continued to support their communities during challenging economic times.

“At a time when cost of living pressures and increasing demand for support are placing strain on Queenslanders, volunteers continue to step up and be the steady hands helping to hold our communities together,” Ms Hedger said.

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Since launching in 2016, the Queensland Volunteering Awards have highlighted the efforts of volunteers and organisations making significant contributions across the state.

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The team at Belle Property Whitsundays at ‘A Morning For Fern’ on Sunday. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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The community came together on Sunday to raise money for single-mum, Fern Wilson, who is battling incurable cancer following a second tragic diagnosis earlier this year.

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Fern had spent two years in remission after successful treatment for stage 3 breast cancer in 2023, but sadly began to feel unwell in January and scans confirmed the worst.

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As the devastating news reached the community, many people rallied around to show their support and within a matter of weeks planning for ‘A Morning For Fern’ was underway.  

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Organised by Reanne Burnett and hosted by Steph McQuirter and her team at Belle Property Whitsundays, the event saw more than 300 people attend on Sunday morning.

Following dedicated effort from a broad support team, an impressive $30,000 was raised to help Fern as she navigates her battle for survival from Bali where she is currently receiving treatment.

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A total of 35 raffle prizes, contributed by 70 local businesses and valued at $3,000, were up for grabs on the day. These items raised $9,602.

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In addition, 15 silent auction prizes generated a further $6,044 and a GoFundMe site garnered $14,120.

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With additional donations still filtering in, organisers are expecting to exceed this amount in the coming days.

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Every cent is going directly towards Fern, taking away the financial pressure as she navigates life and embraces hope for the future.

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Earlier this week, Fern thanked everyone who had contributed towards making the morning a success.

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“I especially want to thank Belle for putting together this beautiful morning tea and for all the love, effort, and support that has gone into making today possible. Your kindness means more to me than words can express,” she shared.

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“To all the sponsors and everyone who donated the incredible prizes - thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity is helping make my overseas treatment possible and is giving me the opportunity to continue healing, living, and fighting for my future.”

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“I also want to say a very special thank you to Jacquie from the Trudy Crawley Foundation, and to the beautiful nurses Kris and Rosie, for supporting me throughout my cancer journey. They have been an absolute godsend and such a blessing in my life.”

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‘A Morning For Fern’ was kindly supported by a host of local vendors who all donated their time on the day, many also giving their proceeds to Fern.

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Lumos café, Whitsunday Sweet Delights, Mrs Beans Coffee Van, Rilo real fruit ice cream & smoothies, Smoking Gunns BBQ, Samuel McCann Musician, Cliolistic Face painting, Elementa – 74 Island Bar and Top Tukka all donated their services.

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The following businesses also contributed to making the event special: Palm Co Media- Videographer, TP Events and Styling, Karen Hill Florists and The Balloon Emporium.

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Organisers would also like to thank all the local businesses who donated prizes on the day and everyone who came along to the event and contributed to the money raised.

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort (left) and Officer in Charge of Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields (right) with survivors following the tragic bus rollover near Gumlu. Photo: Jacob Casha

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A bus crash in Gumlu, north of Bowen last week, has made national news after the incident tragically took the life of one of the passengers.  

Emergency Services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on May 14^th after the southbound flexibus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side. Passengers were transported to hospitals across Townsville, Ayr and Bowen.  

According to passengers, the bus driver had warned everyone that the bus was ‘not the best one’, before the departure. A bus crash occurred on the same stretch of highway two years ago, claiming three lives.  

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Tragedy On Bruce Highway As Bus Rolls Near Gumlu

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A young overseas tourist has died and dozens of passengers were left shaken after a bus crash near Gumlu last Thursday afternoon.

Emergency services were called to the Bruce Highway north of Bowen just before 4pm on 14^th May, after a southbound FlixBus travelling from Cairns to Airlie Beach left the roadway and rolled onto its side.

The bus was carrying 29 people at the time of the crash. The driver, a 70-year-old Mackay man, was taken to Bowen Hospital with minor injuries.

Police confirmed 26-year-old Serena Andreatta, a dual Argentinian and Italian national, died at the scene.

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Several other passengers sustained injuries and were transported to hospitals in Townsville, Ayr and Bowen for treatment.

One passenger who survived the crash told Life Publishing they became concerned about the bus’s movements in the hours before the rollover.

“I did not feel so safe,” the passenger said, claiming the bus appeared to be “swerving” at times.

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The passenger said the concern prompted them to fasten their seatbelt.

They then recalled the bus striking a barrier before rolling, describing chaotic scenes inside the vehicle as passengers and belongings were thrown around the cabin.

Following the crash, passengers were cared for in Ayr overnight before continuing their journey south on another bus.

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Burdekin Shire Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort attended to check on passengers and assisted in sourcing medication for those affected. Passengers lauded the response efforts of Burdekin Shire Council, Ayr Police, and the wider community.

The Queensland Police Forensic Crash Unit is continuing to investigate the incident.

The incident occurred on the same stretch of highway where a fatal Greyhound bus crash in 2024 claimed three lives.

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Superintendent Dean Cavanagh described the crash scene as “very confronting” and praised emergency crews for their rapid response.

“This was a very complex incident, it was a very serious incident, and it was in an isolated area,” he said.

“Although we tragically lost a life, I believe that effort that we saw absolutely went into saving many [more].”

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Whitsunday Mayor Ry Collins issued support, thanking the emergency service providers who promptly responded.

“My thoughts are with those involved, their family and loved ones, and the first responders, including our council traffic crews who worked through a very serious incident.”

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Premier David Crisafulli described the incident as a tragedy, expressing condolences for the woman who died and noting multiple patients were still fighting for life in hospital.

He declined to speculate the cause of the crash, but reiterated his commitment to improving safety on the Bruce Highway.

“It’s a road that means everything to the state, and it’s a road that’s a long way short of where it should be.”

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival has announced the winners of its 2026 Stanza Bonanza poetry competition and inaugural Fast Fiction competition, showcasing storytelling talent inspired by the Whitsundays’ landscapes, people and imagination.

Sydney writer and journalist Linda Daniele was named the winner of the 2026 Stanza Bonanza poetry competition, while Airlie Beach author Natalie Stockdale took out the festival’s first Fast Fiction title.

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Presented to mark World Poetry Day, the Stanza Bonanza competition invited poets of all levels to submit an original poem of up to 20 lines inspired by the prompt: “A Whitsundays postcard from 100 years ago, or 100 years from now.”

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Meanwhile, the Fast Fiction competition — launched for International Day of Storytelling — challenged writers to craft a story in 250 words or less responding to the prompt: “Something unexpected washed ashore on Whitehaven Beach…”

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Festival Director Richard Evans said both competitions attracted a strong response from writers across a wide range of backgrounds and experience levels.

“The response to Stanza Bonanza was a wonderful reminder of how powerfully poetry can connect place, memory and imagination,” Richard said.

“Writers embraced the prompt in inventive and surprising ways, and the standard of entries was exceptionally strong.”

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Speaking about the inaugural Fast Fiction competition, Richard said the quality of submissions highlighted the creativity within the region and beyond.

“The standard of entries in our first Fast Fiction competition was excellent,” he said.

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“It was exciting to see so many writers embrace the challenge of telling a compelling story with limited words and time.”

Based in Sydney, Ms Daniele is a writer, journalist and editor who has worked in legal publishing for more than 15 years, alongside freelance journalism and editorial work for On The Side. Her writing has also been recognised in the Sydney Mardi Gras Short Story Competition.

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Her winning poem, Dear You—, explored themes of memory, time and environmental reflection through imagery inspired by the Whitsundays landscape.

Airlie Beach-based Ms Stockdale is published by Big Sky Publishing and works professionally as a memoir writer. Like many locals, she draws inspiration from the region’s natural beauty, including Whitehaven Beach, which she describes as “our own backyard”.

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Her winning short story follows a man confronting memories of conflict after discovering a rusted rifle washed ashore decades after losing it during the Rhodesian conflict.

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A highlight of the Fast Fiction competition was the participation of students from Whitsunday Christian College and Proserpine State School.

“Seeing teachers and students encourage with the competition reminds us why these opportunities matter – they create space for young people to imagine, write, and share their voices,” Richard said.

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Both winners will receive a $100 cash prize and a free day pass to the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, which will be held on Sunday, September 13, at the Whitsunday Marine Club.

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Richard encouraged entrants to continue exploring opportunities through the festival’s literary programs and competitions.

“We’re grateful to everyone who entered,” he said.

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“The quality of work we received was inspiring, and we encourage all entrants to keep writing, keep experimenting, and keep sharing their work.”

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Festival organisers have confirmed the full 2026 program and tickets are now available through the festival website.

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