By Kevin Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

With the crush behind us, many farmers are getting to the jobs that sometimes need to be put to one side during harvest.

Like taking care of Smartcane BMP accreditation and re-accreditation.

There are numerous growers undergoing their five-year re-accreditations. The program has grown over the years, and now 43% of Queensland’s cane country is operated under the sustainable Best Management Practice program.

It’s a standard that has been accepted by global sustainability programs like Bonsucro and Vive, and it has certainly turned out to be an approach to farming that has benefitted environment, grower productivity and profitability, and the state’s sugar trade.

A decade ago, CANEGROWERS determined that there was a growing need to introduce a Best Management Practice program that gave cane producers a framework to document and improve their management of any environmental impacts. By the time of the introduction of Reef Regulations several years later, many growers were already in a place where they could demonstrate positive practices.

Today, the Smartcane BMP program is part of a bigger sustainability picture. If we didn’t have it in place, today our niche in the world market could have been in jeopardy. Australian sugar is now at the forefront of documented sustainable sugar production, and that is attracting buyers from across food, fuel and fibre production, from traditional manufacturers to the emerging bio-commodities sector. The world is looking to our product, and that is a golden opportunity for growers and millers to invest in our production and capture this opportunity.

It is a must that we continue to increase our BMP accreditations as a part of meeting that market hungry for a sustainably produced, readily renewable feedstock.

Those early adopters are now re-accrediting for a second time, and we can be proud to say in the Mackay and Plane Creek districts that re-accreditations are at 100% of those growers in the program. There are over 200 fully accredited growers in the region, covering 34,354ha of cane land. It's good, but we can do better.

The program focuses on areas like fertiliser and chemical use: timing, rates, and documentation, but it takes in a whole raft of farming practices, like soil, irrigation and drainage and pest weed and disease management. These are the core modules, but growers can extend their learning and practice change through optional modules including natural systems management, farm business skills, workplace health and safety, and global sustainability standards.

It really is an outstanding program, and a worthwhile investment in your time and farming business. Growers working in the program are proving that they can produce an equal or higher volume of quality cane with fewer inputs, simply by getting the timing right and with more targeted application. And that is a substantial saving that goes back into the businesses’ bottom lines.

We know that there are lots of growers out there benchmarked in the program, who are using good soil management practices like SRA’s Six Easy Steps, or have engaged with positive programs like Project Bluewater, who have their Nitrogen and Phosphorus Budgets in order. It will be a small and relatively easy step to take that final step and accredit. We strongly recommend speaking with your productivity service and make the most of a great opportunity for your business, the industry, and the environment.

You can learn more about Smartcane BMP at smartcane.com.au.

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CAPTION: Our region’s Smartcane BMP officers do a fantastic job supporting growers to accredit. Steven Garrad and Lorelle Flynn at Mackay Area Productivity Services (MAPS), and Leahanna Lacey at Plane Creek Productivity Services. Photo credit: Kirili Lamb

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In an announcement that further boosts Queensland’s credentials as Australia’s emerging AgTech innovation capital, Brisbane has been named as the home of the AgriFutures evokeAG. global innovation event in 2025.

Connecting the global agrifood innovation community of investors, entrepreneurs, AgTech service providers and agribusiness professionals, evokeAG. provides a digital platform and premier agrifood tech event where farmers share their experiences, startups pitch their potential, scientists showcase their discoveries, global business leaders share their insights and industry experts debate their opinions.

The announcement came after a group of Queensland innovators and industry leaders joined more than 1,800 delegates from across the Asia Pacific attending this year’s event in Perth.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the Queensland Government has helped the state’s agricultural industry grow from $17.2 billion to an estimated $24 billion in value, supporting hundreds of thousands of good jobs for Queenslanders since 2015.

“AgTech is a strong part of the sustainable future of agriculture, solving problems and growing businesses,” Mr Furner said.

“Bringing this event to Queensland reinforces the Queensland Government’s commitment to AgTech and adoption.

“I have no doubt Queensland’s agriculture sector will make the most of this event and ensure next year’s evokeAG. held in Brisbane will be the best yet.”

AgriFutures Managing Director John Harvey said he looks forward to hosting the event in Brisbane.

“evokeAG. began as an opportunity to showcase the incredible agrifood tech innovation happening here in Australia, to hear from the rest of the world and to drive innovation in the Asia-Pacific region,” Mr Harvey said.  

Queensland Chief Entrepreneur Julia Spicer added that the state’s agriculture has an innovative culture.

“Our farmers have instinctively turned to innovation to solve some of the big farming challenges in Australia, including dealing with drought, floods, pests, soil quality, remote locations, livestock monitoring, and transport and logistics,” Ms Spicer said.

“This in turn is driving a strong homegrown AgTech sector – technologies and innovations developed for farming in some of the toughest conditions in the world.

“As someone who works closely with many regional communities to drive change and enhance economic opportunities in agriculture, I know that hosting evokeAG. in Brisbane next year is an opportunity to showcase the world-class AgTech that we create and harness across Queensland.”

The event will be held in Brisbane from February 18-19, 2025.

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The Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink had not been observed since 1981 and is known only from a single locality that is heavily grazed by cattle.

That is until the rare lizard was found last year for the first time in over 40 years living in north-east Queensland.

In early 2023, scientists from Queensland Museum and James Cook University were tasked with the challenge of finding the elusive Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink.

The surveys were part of research by the Resilient Landscapes Hub of the Australian Government’s National Environmental Science Program that is looking for highly threatened reptiles across Queensland.

Dr Andrew Amey from Queensland Museum Network, who led the expedition, said the goal was to find three species of skink which have very small distributions confined to the Mount Surprise area, around 500 kilometres northeast of Ayr.

“These lizards are all hard to find and seldom seen,” Dr Amey said.

“Two are part of a large group of skinks in the genus Lerista, which are only found in Australia and have adapted to sandy soils by reducing their limbs to essentially swim through the soil.

“It shows that parts of Australia such as grasslands and open woodland that are grazed by cattle can still host important biodiversity.

“It was an exciting moment to find all three skinks, but to find the Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink was an amazing discovery.”

The other two skinks were the Limbless Fine-lined Slider, which is found in the Undara Volcanic National Park, and the Mount Surprise Slider, which was only known from one paddock.

The purpose of the survey was to find if the species still existed and if scientists could find new populations elsewhere.

The small distribution of the skinks makes them vulnerable to damaging events such as bushfires, drought, invasive weeds and disease.

The Lyon’s Grassland Striped Skink was recently listed as Critically Endangered by the Queensland and Australian Governments in recognition of this.

Dr Amey said animals like these skinks have an important role to play in our ecosystems.

“We need to know if these skinks have healthy populations or if they are declining,” he said.

“We can’t take effective action to protect them if we don’t know where they occur and what threats are impacting them.

“The only way to get this information is to go and look for them.”

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Caption: Lyon's grassland skink. Photo credit: Conrad Hoskin

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Landholder: Jeff Grech

Project:  Major Grants 

Program: Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Program

Location: Sandiford, Qld

Tonnes of Cane: 36,000 tonnes

Sandiford grower Jeff Grech is enthusiastic about his new minimal till adjustable three row billet planter. Jeff was able to purchase the planter with assistance from the Major Grants Project under the Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Program, funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. Using the new planter, he minimises field traffic by simultaneously planting three rows directly into his knocked down legume fallow on permanent beds, reducing excessive land cultivation and compaction. This gentle approach to soil management enhances soil health by promoting better infiltration and minimising disruption to soil microbes. Additionally, it lowers the risk of erosion, contributing to improved water quality around the farm.

Looking back

The Sandiford farm was established by Jeff’s father in 1963 after relocating from the Habana area. Jeff now leads custodianship of the farm and has a deep ambition to pass it on to his son. Jeff vividly recalls his father toiling to manually cut the sugarcane – a stark contrast to the modern evolution of farm practices since then.

Reflecting on his father’s teachings, Jeff says there are a lot of things you cannot control such as the weather, mill performance, and market conditions. He follows his father’s advice to always focus on the things you can control, which for him is growing the best sugarcane crop possible using the best practices he can.

Over the years the farm faced significant erosion due to extensive land cultivation, prompting concerns about sustainability. To address this, green cane harvesting was implemented resulting in an immediate reduction in erosion. The transition to 100% green cane harvesting was swift, transforming once-eroded drains into grass-covered areas devoid of any signs of erosion. This marked the beginning of their journey which continues to evolve in a positive direction. Jeff is passionate about growing sugarcane and improving the soil and water quality so the next generation can farm this land successfully and sustainably.

Current practices

In 2023, weather conditions forced Jeff to change his harvesting plan with some paddocks being too wet for their planned early harvest. As a result, he had to leave one paddock unused in mid-winter because of the excessive moisture. Despite the challenges of growing a soy fallow crop in winter, Jeff decided to try it out and proceeded with the planting. While irrigation was necessary, the soy crop has thrived and will be incorporated into the soil in early 2024.

Jeff plans to replace the soy with a sun hemp fallow crop before planting sugarcane in April. He will then use his new three row billet planter to plant directly into permanent beds. The aim is to use raised beds for planting soybeans, followed by targeted bed renovation with a multi-ribbed cultivator, reducing soil disturbance and traffic. The double disc opener on the new planter, which will go through soybean stubble, can plant uniform depth throughout the paddock despite changes in the soil type and moisture levels.

The soybean will continue to break down releasing nitrogen into the soil as the sugarcane begins to grow. The combination of having two fallow crops fixes nitrogen, improves soil health, and reduces traffic and tillage. As a result, Jeff will be able to produce a better crop of sugarcane. An additional benefit is a reduction of chemical use as the legumes have reduced weeds while less till has prevented seeds coming to the surface to germinate.

Access to Major Grants has given Jeff the confidence to adopt usage of the three row larger planter. It provides the opportunity to plant when soil moisture and temperature is optimal in April.  This planter allows Jeff to plant 10 ha/day and complete planting during this short window. Once the cane is planted, herbicide is applied immediately to keep the grass from coming up. Jeff says he won’t touch that soil for another two months, believing that less is better, and the right timing is key. He says being able to plant early gives him an extra 30 tonnes/ha of cane.

While Jeff believes they get it right most of the time, there are always hiccups along the way. He is, however, confident profits will be up. The new planter has helped with a strong strike rate and although he was a bit nervous with the changes, he is confident these new practices are benefiting the farm and improving production. If the season goes well, he expects at the very least, 110 tonnes/ha on average across the farm.

“ The more you do it right, the easier it gets and the more you get it right.”

- Jeff Grech

Looking to the future

Jeff is hoping to have 100% of his farm working under this controlled traffic model in the near future. He aims to continue improvements, adopting best practices as they emerge. With his son returning to the area and joining him on the property, he has been reinvigorated and is excited to continue the journey.  

Jeff’s thoughts on land and water quality:

Jeff considers himself a steward of the land he lives on and believes that it is a privilege to be able to live and work here. He not only loves his farm, but also loves going out to the Great Barrier Reef and wants to protect it for future generations. If nutrients or chemicals applied on his farm end up at the Reef, then he sees it as a problem. Jeff wants those inputs to stay on his farm to improve the sugarcane crop.

“If there is something I am doing on my farm that is hurting the Reef, then it is also hurting my farm.” - Jeff Grech

Advice to others:

Jeff credits the growers living in his area as inspiration for trying new things. He says the growers around him are great at what they do. They feed off each other’s ideas and are constantly asking questions to learn from each other every day.

Jeff’s advice to those just starting the journey of adopting newer practices is to speak to your productivity services officers. He laughingly comments that he has Mackay Area Productivity Services (MAPS) on speed dial! Anytime he sees something that isn’t quite right or needs some help, they arrange a visit to advise on what to do. Jeff encourages other growers to engage in these types of grant programs to “get that one thing to make your farming practice just a little bit better.” He reflects that the grant process was so easy with the help of MAPS.

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As we approach International Women's Day, Resource Industry Network (RIN) is thrilled to be hosting its annual business luncheon to acknowledge women in the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region.

The global theme for International Women’s Day is "Inspire Inclusion,” reflecting a collective commitment to breaking barriers that may hinder women's presence and involvement in the workplace, and what we can do to bridge the inclusion gap.

The luncheon will feature reputed speaker Dr Catherine Ball, an associate professor, scientific futurist, visioneer, and company director working across global projects where emerging technologies meet humanitarian, education, and environmental needs.

Attendees will be engaged by the thought-provoking panel discussion and enjoy networking opportunities with accomplished professionals.

"We believe that creating an inclusive workforce is not only the right thing to do but is essential for driving innovation in today's business environment. It has also been proven that having women in the workplace increases safety and productivity," says Dean Kirkwood, General Manager at RIN.

"The reason our International Women's Day business lunch is a sell-out event three years in a row is because it invites the Mackay Isaac Whitsunday region to come together, recognise the roles of women, and renew our shared dedication to refining more inclusive organisations."

This highly regarded event is for professionals of all genders passionate about advancing women's roles in the workplace. Whether you're a business owner, a team leader or a team player, we are excited to host you as we celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women across the region.

Early registration for our 2025 International Women’s Day is strongly encouraged since this year’s luncheon is sold out.

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EVENT DETAILS:

What: 2024 International Women’s Day Business Lunch
When: Wednesday, March 6th, 2024
Where: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, Halls 1&2
Time: 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

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There’s nothing like wrapping your hands around a favourite mug, and now, you can help to promote Mackay’s natural beauty with a set of collector’s mugs available at the Mackay Visitor Information Centre and kiosk!

In collaboration with local artist Harry Bruce, these caricature mugs are retailing at $22 each and feature famous faces and landscapes of our region.

Oh Deere – We’re One Of A Kind In Australia

Karinda and Dale Anderson are the passionate stewards of their family-owned and operated farm situated on 400 acres in Calen, where a tranquil farm stay, educational farm tour and cane maze has become a sought-after tourist attraction.

The farm tour promises to be both informative and fun. Learn the ins and outs of sugar cane farming from planting to harvesting. Enjoy morning tea just as they did back in the days of cutting cane by hand; don’t miss a tour of the John Deere Love Shack Museum, and a behind-the-scenes peek at the farming equipment used on the farm.

Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Al Grundy said that it’s a fantastic way to showcase the opportunities that farmers have to diversify their income.

The couple have been stocking their dam with Barramundi, so the next planned activity for visitors will be the fun of catch-and-release.

For more information visit Oh Deere Farm Stay on Facebook.

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Summer Sipper - Woo Woo (Or Should We Say, Woo Hoo!)

Get ready to elevate your summer fun with the vibrant and delicious Woo Woo cocktail!

Ingredients:

   • 50ml vodka

   • 25ml peach schnapps

   • 100ml cranberry juice

   • Few drops of fresh lime juice

   • Ice

   • Wedge of lime

Instructions:

   1. Grab your cocktail shaker and fill it with ice.

   2. Pour in the vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and a splash of fresh lime juice.

   3. Shake vigorously until well mixed and chilled.

   4. Strain the mixture into a cocktail glass filled with extra ice.

   5. Finish it off with a festive wedge of lime for that extra burst of citrusy goodness!

Now, kick back, relax, and let the tropical vibes of this fruity concoction transport you to your own personal paradise. Cheers to summer!

For those proper island vibes, don’t forget the tiny umbrella.

For a Pina Colada inspired version, swap out the cranberry juice for pineapple juice with a splash of Malibu or coconut cream.

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Located on the picturesque waterfront setting of Mackay Marina, the enviable location combined with high quality facilities and service has positioned Mantra Mackay as Mackay’s premier accommodation, conference and events venue.

At the heart of the Mantra lies Latitude 21 Bar & Restaurant, a culinary restaurant offering modern Australian cuisine. Open daily for breakfast, from Monday to Sunday, guests are treated to a delightful spread of dishes to kick start their day on a delicious note. Come evening, indulge in an exquisite à la carte dinner experience available Tuesday through Saturday.

Guests have the choice of dining in air-conditioned comfort within the coastal chic interiors of the restaurant or opting for al-fresco dining overlooking the tranquil waters of Mackay Marina. Whether savouring a gourmet meal indoors or enjoying the gentle sea breeze outdoors, every dining experience promises to be a feast for the senses.

Picture yourself lounging by the palm-fringed pool, cocktail in hand, as you soak in breathtaking vistas of Mackay Marina and the Coral Sea.

For those seeking a relaxed atmosphere and refreshing bevvy, Latitude 21 Bar opens its doors from 4pm on Tuesdays through to Saturdays.

Mantra Mackay's commitment to excellence extends beyond its culinary offerings. Whether guests are here for a leisurely getaway, a corporate retreat, or a special event, they can expect nothing short of exceptional hospitality at every turn.

As the sun sets over Mackay Marina, casting a golden hue over the tranquil waters, Mantra Mackay emerges as more than just a place to stay—it's a destination where luxury meets tranquillity, and every moment is infused with memories to cherish. From indulgent dining experiences to breathtaking views, it's a sanctuary where guests can escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.

Due to popularity, bookings are recommended on 1800 386 386.

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Due to the April production, ‘Bob’s Your Auntie’ being postponed to 2025, Director Maureen Coleman has promptly adapted to the minor setback by selecting another entertaining performance, a classical thriller by English playwright and screenwriter, Constance Cox, titled "The Murder Game".

In this performance, a man is financially dependent on his wife but in love with another woman. Will he commit the ‘perfect murder’ to be with the one he loves, and will a decision he makes see him go from the frying pan into the fire?

The show will star talented local performers; Dennis Rozekrans, Asta Ryan, Lani Seaton, and Michael Brennan.

This special production will open at Kucom Theatre on April 11 for a two-week season.

With tickets now available for purchase online, theatre enthusiasts have the opportunity to secure their seats for what is sure to be an unforgettable theatrical event. Don't miss the chance to be captivated by "The Murder Game" and support our local community production at Kucom Theatre this April.

Bookings are now open at https://events.humanitix.com/the-murder-game.

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Caption: "The Murder Game" – a thrilling performance to be held this April

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A female Minx cat arrived at the Mackay Pet rescue Incorporated just weeks ago, on the brink of death, suffering from a severe uterine infection after her alleged owners said she had run away two years ago and could no longer take her back. The helpless cat who was once known as Harmony was withered, bleeding and in immense pain.

Thanks to the action of Mackay’s pet rescue team and the expert care provided by Peta Snell at Northern Beaches Veterinary Hospital, Harmony received the life-saving treatment she desperately needed. After undergoing surgery to remove her toxic uterus, she began her journey to recovery, receiving lots of affection during her stay in foster care.

From a frail and suffering cat, she has defied the odds, now fully recovered and happily living her best life. Harmony has now been rehomed and her new family has named her Athena.

The support of the local community has played a crucial role in Athena's journey to healing. Through their generous donations, Mackay Pet Rescue Inc has been able to continue their mission of saving and caring for animals in need, not only in the local area but also in the surrounding districts.

Athena's story is a prime example of the impact that compassion and community support can have on the lives of our local pets in need. As Mackay Pet Rescue Inc continues their vital work, they remain grateful for the ongoing support that enables them to provide care and hope to animals like Athena.

Mackay Pet Rescue Inc commented, “Seeing Harmony/Athena thriving in her forever home is rewarding for our entire team.”

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Caption: Harmony/Athena thriving in her new home with her new family. Photo credit: Mackay Pet Rescue Incorporated (Facebook)

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Mackay Regional Council will be undertaking an upgrade to the Willetts Road playground in North Mackay.

The playground closed last Friday, (February 23) and is expected to be out of operation for two weeks, weather permitting, while the work is undertaken.

Crews will remove the old carousel and replace it with a new cup spinner and spica spinner. The old swing set will be replaced with a new one, and the soft fall sand will be refurbished.

For public safety, the playground will be full fenced off during these works.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by the closure.

The playground is expected to re-open by Saturday March 9, however please check with council for updates.

For enquiries, please contact council on 1300 622 529.

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In today's whirlwind of financial uncertainty, saving money has become trickier than ever with the cost of living continuously on the rise. Women often look after the household finances as well as business finances, and while women can be naturally savvy at number-crunching, we have found some smart tips to help put money aside even during tough times.

Knowing how to start healthy saving habits can be difficult, that’s why the financial experts at The Lazy Trader have put together a list of helpful money-saving tips, guiding you towards financial freedom, stability and peace of mind this year, in 2024!

A spokesman from The Lazy Trader commented: “There are so many benefits to having money stashed away somewhere safe, and it will lift a weight off your shoulders knowing you have something to fall back on.”

Use a digital budget planner

Try utilising a digital budget planner to manage your finances conveniently and efficiently. These apps allow for easy adjustments and customisation to suit your needs, reducing clutter and ensuring you stay within your spending limits.

Use smash piggy banks

Invest in a smash piggy bank to visually track your progress. Even just a dollar a day can add up to a significant amount over time. If you know you have to break into it, you’re less likely to take money out of it!

Invest in life insurance when you’re young

Start investing in life insurance while you're young to secure lower premiums and consistent rates as you age. This proactive approach ensures financial security and affordability in the long run.

Shop smart at the supermarket

When shopping, utilise supermarket loyalty cards, explore reduced sections for discounted items, and buy in bulk to save money and reduce the need for frequent trips.

Pay off your debt

Prioritise paying off your debt to avoid unnecessary fees and charges. Clearing this debt as soon as you can will ease financial stress and prevent additional expenses down the line.

Saving money for a rainy day provides a safety net for future goals and reduces the possibility of financial strain in the future.

By implementing these money-saving hacks, you can build financial resilience and secure your financial future! For more information, visit https://thelazytrader.com

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“Thirty-thousand pigs have drowned in the river near Rocky.”

The announcement was yelled out across the newsroom to me by a reporter at the local Mackay paper about 13 years ago when I was the editor and we were covering a central Queensland flood that had moved south and was about to engulf Rockhampton.

Now, I’m no farmer but my first reaction was that this was a surprising amount of dead pigs.

I said: “Thirty thousand pigs! Are we sure about that?”

The Mackay journalist had spoken to our sister paper, the Rockhampton Morning Bulletin, who had uncovered the story about the pigs.

“Yep, the Rocky Bulletin is putting it on their front page. The pigs were from a pig farm near Rocky and the farmer told them about it,” the reporter said.

“Have they got pictures?” I asked.

“No.”

“Well keep asking them and let me know when they come in.”

The photos didn’t come in that day and we were a Mackay paper, not a Rocky paper, so we didn’t put it on the front page but we did place it prominently as the lead story on Page 3 or Page 5, for memory. We had a big headline along the lines of: “30,000 pigs drown in flood”.

The next day the Mackay reporter who told me about the story came sheepishly into my office and said: “We’ve got a bit of a problem with the dead pigs story.”

“Oh yeah, what is it?

“It wasn’t 30 thousand pigs. The farmer got back to the Rocky paper this morning and said he didn’t say 30 thousand pigs, he said 30 sows and pigs.”

Now if someone spoke quickly over the phone to you and you couldn’t see their lips forming the words, you can understand how “30 sows and pigs” could sound like “30 thousand pigs”.

While the death of any pig is sad, and it is definitely upsetting that 30 pigs drowned, it is a bit of a different story to 30,000 pigs drowning, particularly in light of the human heartbreak that was going on in the area at that time.

The printed apology the next day made us look pretty stupid, although I did have a private laugh at the absurdity of the mistake.

The lesson I got from that very public debacle was to always trust my gut feeling. Thirty-thousand didn’t sound right. It was a mind-boggling number of dead and bloated pigs in a river … but I accepted what people were telling me without digging further.

It also reminded me not to make the same innocent mistake as the young reporter … question everything, make sure you got it right, heard it right.

Communication is a two-way street and in business, including real estate, it is important to clearly understand what someone has said, check that you have the facts right. Two ears for listening, one mouth for talking.

Did the seller say there is or isn’t asbestos in the house? What did the seller say about the sewerage line running under the pool? Did the seller say that downstairs bathroom had council approval or didn’t have council approval?

Listen to what people say and question things that don’t sound right because buyers are going to ask for that information and if you negotiate a price and do a deal, you don’t want to find out later that you got your facts wrong.

You don’t want to have, through lack of attention to detail, given false information to a buyer and effectively tried to turn a sow’s ear into a silk purse. Even a soggy one.

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The World Day of Prayer is an ecumenical movement inspired by the motto “Informed Prayer and Prayerful Action.”  We follow the example of Jesus Christ, who prayed with compassion and love for peace in our fractured world. 

The theme is “I Beg You... Bear With One Another in Love,” and calls us to patiently support each other with generosity and compassion, despite all difficulties and oppression.  

The Palestinian Christian women who wrote this worship service have invited the world to pray for peace, justice and freedom of religion and freedom of movement. They have called us all to be united in treating everyone with justice, understanding and love.  

Please join us on Friday, March 1 at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, Grendon Street, North Mackay at 10 am to worship and pray together for peace in our troubled world.

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Anne Jennings

Mackay Unit, Australian Church Women

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Featuring Solveig Lobo

Solveig Lobo is a familiar face in the Mackay community, known for her role as an Account Executive at Bishopp, specialising in billboard and airport advertising.

Born and raised in Mackay, Solveig has a deep-rooted passion for her hometown and is actively involved in various community events and initiatives. She sees herself not just as a business professional but as a proud member of the community, always eager to contribute to its growth and vibrancy.

“I am very passionate about the community, and I get involved in every event that I can make.

“This community is my home, and I’ve loved watching the growth,” Solveig said.

When it comes to dancing, Solveig's favourite moves involve grooving to the beat and moving her hips with style. Under the guidance of Dolly at Mackay Fame Talent School, she's been mastering her dance skills, finding the perfect outfits at Dancewear Mackay to complement her moves.

Despite the fast tempo being a slight challenge on the dance floor, Solveig's love for her community extends beyond her professional and dancing endeavours. She admires the work of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, particularly their commitment to giving back to the local community by providing essential healthcare services when needed most.

“I love what they do for our community, and I want to be a bigger part of that. My nerves have turned to excitement, and I can’t wait to learn my dance and get behind this great cause.”

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Featuring Brooke Hargrave

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Proud owner of Mackay’s well known modelling agency, Brooke Lee Modelling, Brooke Hargrave is the visionary behind the modelling and deportment school. She is also training as a contestant for Mackay Hospital Foundation’s Dancing WIth Heart.

Her business endeavours began in May 2011, paying close attention to nurturing confidence while teaching her clients essential skills in training, posture, deportment, and presentation. She aims to extend beyond modelling, catering to juniors, teens, and seniors in Mackay and surrounding areas, growing well-mannered individuals poised for success in any area they set out to achieve.

Brooke is thrilled to collaborate with the senior dancers from Fame Talent School for Dancing With Heart.

“I don't have much background in dancing, but I'm really enjoying myself,” she said.

“However, after rehearsals, I find myself exhausted, with muscles aching for a couple of days afterward – muscles I never even knew I had!

“In a positive light, it’s a great fitness adventure,” she adds.

Brooke’s commitment to community welfare extends far beyond her business pursuits. She deeply values the support offered by organisations like the Mackay Hospital Foundation, acknowledging their tireless efforts in aiding public hospitals and regional communities.

“I love the assistance they offer to our public hospitals and regional communities, as well as our very own local charity making a positive impact on our community.”

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