Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Six months after its release, the Government’s Energy Roadmap is beginning to deliver on its promise of more affordable, reliable and sustainable power across Queensland. The plan aims to put downward pressure on electricity prices while strengthening the state’s energy system through continued investment in coal, gas, renewables and storage. It also focuses on unlocking new supply, including exploring gas potential in the Taroom Trough and progressing key infrastructure projects. Treasurer and Energy Minister David Janetzki said the roadmap was already achieving results. “The Roadmap is our plan to deliver new supply in the right places, at the right time, while keeping the lights on and putting downward pressure on prices,” Treasurer Janetzki said. “Power prices in Queensland are set to drop by about 10 per cent next financial year, in contrast with prices soaring under Labor by 19.9 per cent in a single year after the former Government failed to properly maintain power plants.” Since mid-2025, more than a gigawatt of new storage and renewable energy has become operational, with further developments underway. Market interest has also surged, with more than 50 parties engaging in proposals for new gas-fired generation projects. “There’s been overwhelming market interest with more than 50 parties engaged and over 10 gigawatts (GW) of prospective gas-fired generation identified across 17 projects, highlighting Queensland is open for business for new energy investment,” he said. The roadmap also includes initiatives such as the Investor Gateway and North West Energy Fund, designed to attract private investment and support long-term energy security across the state.
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Mackay Base Hospital has become one of three sites across Australia recruiting patients for a clinical trial investigating a potential new drug treatment aimed at improving recovery time following concussion. The clinical trial will assess the safety and effectiveness of an investigational medication designed to treat concussion and potentially support faster recovery for those affected. Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Senior Staff Specialist (Emergency) and Principal Investigator Dr Sunday Sofola-Orukotan said concussion was a very common condition which could happen to anyone, anywhere, but was more frequently associated with contact sports such as football. “It’s very common with sporting activities and the rate of presentations of head injuries increases during the rugby season,” Dr Sofola-Orukotan said. Trial sub-investigator and Mackay HHS senior medical officer (emergency) Dr Olurotimi Akinola said concussion presentations in the ED could also be the result of falls and trips. “We see it very often in elderly patients,” Dr Akinola said. “That’s why a study like this is important because it gives us the opportunity to investigate whether a new treatment may improve a patient’s recovery outcomes.” “Generally, most patients with concussion recovered within a few days, but some experienced persistent symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and concentration and memory issues,” he said. “We see people with post-concussive syndrome who have had ongoing symptoms for months and it's affecting their livelihood and day-to-day activities,” Dr Akinola said. There are currently no approved pharmaceutical treatments for concussion available in Australia with recovery focused on rest and symptom relief. This clinical trial would investigate the safety and efficacy of a new drug in the treatment of mild traumatic brain injury and trial participants would receive either the investigational drug or placebo alongside standard care. During his training in Nigeria, Dr Sofola-Orukotan had been involved in another clinical trial and collected data for a study into reducing bleeding in traumatic brain injuries. “This study is very similar to what I’ve done before so I see it as an opportunity to bring this type of research to the Mackay region to benefit our patients,” he said. Anyone interested in learning more about the clinical trial can contact the Clinical Trials Unit on 4951 7561 or email mackay-clinical-trials@health.qld.gov.au Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) trial sub-investigator and senior medical officer (emergency) Dr Olurotimi Akinola, clinical trials nurse Alta Neethling and senior staff specialist (emergency) and principal investigator Dr Sunday Sofola-Orukotan. Photo supplied
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A caesarean birth can be planned, unexpected, calm, chaotic, welcomed, or deeply emotional. For many women, it is all of those things at once. Yet while there is often plenty of discussion about the birth itself, far less attention is given to what comes next… recovery. April is C-Section Awareness Month, a timely reminder that caesarean birth is not the “easy option,” nor is recovery something women should simply be expected to push through in silence. A caesarean is major abdominal surgery, performed at the same time a woman becomes a mother or welcomes another child into her family. In the days and weeks afterwards, women are often navigating pain, fatigue, sleep deprivation, feeding demands, changing hormones, and the enormous responsibility of caring for a newborn, all while healing from surgery. Many mums are surprised by how vulnerable they feel. Tasks that once seemed simple, like getting out of bed, laughing, coughing, lifting the baby capsule, or walking through the supermarket, can suddenly feel challenging. Yet because caring for a baby doesn’t pause for recovery, many women push on long before their body feels ready. What often goes unspoken is that healing continues well beyond the first six weeks. While the skin may appear healed relatively quickly, deeper layers of tissue continue to recover for months. The abdominal wall, scar tissue, core muscles, breathing patterns, posture, and pelvic floor can all be affected. Some women notice numbness around the scar, tightness, pulling sensations, back pain, weakness, bladder symptoms, or discomfort when returning to exercise. Others simply feel disconnected from their body, particularly their scar, and unsure where to begin. Scar care is another area many women are never taught about. Once the wound is fully healed and your medical team has cleared you, gentle scar massage can help improve mobility, reduce sensitivity, soften tightness, and support comfort as the tissues recover. Silicone therapy is also widely regarded as a gold-standard treatment for scar management, helping optimise scar healing and appearance. Early guidance can make a significant difference, particularly if the scar feels raised, tethered, numb, sensitive, or uncomfortable. These experiences are common, but they are not something women need to “just put up with.” One of the biggest myths around caesarean recovery is that if the baby is healthy and the scar looks fine, everything must be okay. But recovery is about far more than appearance. It is about how a woman feels in her body, how she moves, how she functions, and how confidently she returns to daily life. This is where support can make a meaningful difference. Pelvic health physiotherapy can help women recover strength, confidence, and comfort after a caesarean birth. That may include gentle core rehabilitation, scar mobility work, breathing retraining, guidance for safe return to exercise, lifting strategies, and addressing pelvic floor symptoms such as leaking, heaviness, or pain. Just as importantly, it can provide reassurance. Many women feel relief simply hearing that what they are experiencing is valid, understandable, and treatable. As a women’s health physiotherapist, I often meet mothers months or even years after their caesarean who say, “I thought this was just how it would be now.” But it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve had a caesarean birth, recently or years ago, and something still doesn’t feel quite right, a check-in with a qualified health professional can be a helpful next step. Your body has been through something significant, and it deserves care. This C-Section Awareness Month, let’s broaden the conversation. A caesarean birth is still birth. Recovery still matters. And mothers deserve more than being told to bounce back. Because healing well isn’t a luxury after birth — it should be the expectation. Text Box 2, Textbox Women's Health Physio Mackay admin@whphysiomackay.com.au 0476 616 324
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A duck walks into a newsagency, approaches the counter and asks the newsagent: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent says: No, we don’t have corn. There’s a grain store a few doors up the street and they sell corn.” The duck says “okay, thanks” and waddles out. The next day the duck walks into the newsagency, approaches the counter and asks the newsagent: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent says: “No, as I said yesterday, we don’t sell corn but the grain shop up the road sells it.” The ducks says “okay, thanks” and leaves the shop. The next day the duck waddles into the newsagency and approaches the newsagent and says: “Do you have any corn?” The newsagent is now sick of it. Exasperated, he says: “Look, mate we don’t sell corn! We are a newsagency! We sell cards and newspapers and lotto tickets. We don’t bloody well sell corn! If you want corn, you go to the grain store up the street and get your corn there.” The next day the duck walks into the newsagency. The newsagent sees him and thinks to himself, “right, if this friggin’ duck asks for corn again, I am gonna go off”. The duck waddles up to him and says: “Have you got any corn?” The newsagent is furious and has had enough. Now he’s shouting: “LISTEN MATE. WE DON’T SELL CORN! I’M SICK OF THIS. IF YOU COME INTO MY SHOP AGAIN AND ASK FOR CORN I AM GONNA GRAB YOUR HEAD AND NAIL YOUR STUPID DUCK BILL TO THIS COUNTER! The ducks says, “okay, thanks” and leaves. The next day the duck walks into the newsagency, goes up to the counter and says to the newsagent: “Have you got any nails?” The newsagent shouts in frustration: “No I don’t have any nails!!” The duck says: “Okay, do you have any corn?” Now that is one very annoying duck. In life, I try not to be as annoying as that duck. But there are some annoying things I do that I can’t eradicate. One of them is consistently turning up to photo shoots for a property I am listing. I use the same photographer for every listing and she is very good and knows what is required. Yet I turn up. Not on a two-bedroom unit I do for most houses because, even though I know the photographer is very good, I still need to tell her about the importance of certain features. I need to stress how important the shed is, how vital it is that we show how wide the side access is for buyers needing access for a boat or a caravan. Even if there isn’t a shed, I have to say something. “Listen I know there’s no shed but there is really good side access and look at all the space in the yard to put a shed. If you take a photo from over in that corner of the yard I reckon people will be able to see the side access and also the space that’s available for the shed in one picture.” It must be very annoying for a highly professional photographer who has done it thousands of times. It’s the same inside the house. I say things like: “If you take a photo from this angle in the family room, people will be able to see the lounge, dining and part of the kitchen and get a feel for the space.” Annoying. I know most agents consider attending the photo shoots a waste of time and maybe they’re right. For me, we only get one chance at a first impression and that’s the photos so let’s make sure they’re right. Even though the poor photographer has to turn up to a property and see that stupid duck waiting.
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Much of Council’s most important work happens quietly — without ribbon cuttings, announcements or headlines.
It’s the compliance checks that prevent bigger problems down the track. The asset maintenance that stops roads, pipes and facilities from failing. The risk assessments, audits and long-term planning that keep essential services running safely and reliably.
This work isn’t glamorous, but it’s vital.
When systems fail, people notice immediately. When they don’t, it’s usually because someone did the work early — checking, maintaining, repairing and planning ahead. That’s the unseen side of local government.
Council staff spend countless hours reviewing infrastructure, managing safety risks, responding to regulations and planning for future demand. Decisions are made every day to avoid issues most people will never know were possible.
That might mean replacing something before it breaks, upgrading quietly before it becomes urgent, or setting aside funds now to avoid much larger costs later. These are decisions made carefully, often without public attention, but always with the community’s long-term interests in mind.
It’s also about accountability. Council operates within strict legislative and financial frameworks. We’re required to manage public assets responsibly, protect community safety and plan beyond election cycles.
I believe residents deserve confidence that their Council isn’t just reacting — but actively preventing problems before they arise.
So while you might not always see this work happening, I can assure you it’s constant, deliberate and essential.
And it’s one of the reasons the Whitsundays continues to function — day in, day out — even when no one’s watching.
Next week, I’ll reflect on how Council listens to community feedback — what we’ve learned from recent consultations, why not every issue ends in consensus, and how local input still shapes the decisions we make.
Acres of Support is a new NDIS service provider based in Bowen and offering qualified nursing and social support services to the disabled and the elderly.
The company is a small but dedicated team who provide nursing, cleaning and social support services to clients in Bowen.
“We are fully registered to work with clients who have been approved for NDIS services in the area - that might be as minimal as offering companionship and assistance with the basic daily living needs, to the provision of qualified professional nursing care, advice and liaison with other services as required," said company director Carol Wallace.
“Our support services, clients’ personal independence and ability to live safely in their own environment, allows them to protect their dignity, decision making and quality of life. Our passion is to provide individual care to clients to enable them to get the best out of life, their health and wellbeing.”
With an educational background in psychology and prior experience working in healthcare services – including support Alzheimer’s patients – Carol is putting her knowledge to great use, helping those who need support.
With a strong foundation, the company is looking forward to the future in Bowen and being a NDIS provider into 2026.
“We are available and ready.”
Company director Carol Wallace and registered nurse Maria Carty. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Additional disaster assistance has been activated to support Whitsundays communities and primary producers impacted by ongoing flooding linked to the North Queensland Monsoon Trough and Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji.
Flood-affected primary producers in the Whitsundays are now eligible to apply for disaster loans of up to $250,000, as well as freight subsidies of up to $5,000, to help businesses recover and maintain operations following widespread damage. The assistance is being delivered through the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), with 45 local government areas across northern Queensland now receiving support.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the scale and duration of the flooding had required further expansion of assistance.
“We’re making sure every area of Queensland impacted by this damaging event is receiving the help they need to recover,” Minister McBain said.
“As we continue to learn of the impacts from this period of severe weather, we’ll keep providing the financial assistance to councils and communities as required.”
Federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry Julie Collins said the assistance was vital for farmers and food security.
“We’ll always back our farmers and primary producers, with this support to help those impacted in North Queensland to clean up, sustain livestock, and mitigate the impacts of flooding and loss of pasture,” she said.
Whitsundays producers can access more information at www.qrida.qld.gov.au and www.dpi.qld.gov.au, with personal hardship assistance available via www.disaster.qld.gov.au or 1800 173 349.
Residents and primary producers are encouraged to apply for the newly released disaster loans. Photo credit: Chelsea Ravizza
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre has a large range of local products and merchandise for sale, including books by local and regional authors.
The range of books available has been expanded to include two books by Bowen author Gary Wood about his solo motorcycle torus around Queensland.
Recently, the centre also started stocking a children’s book by Whitsundays author Cas Rae and a coffee-table book featuring beautiful Whitsunday images produced by Cannonvale resident Tolita Dukes.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and business, Leanne Abernethy said the new books added to the range already available including several books about the region by well-known author Annie Seaton and the children’s series written by Maggie Bowden.
“We also have the children’s book No Drama Cane Farmer by Mackay author Nikki Townley which is very popular,” she said.
“These books all make great gifts and stocking them right here at the Big Mango is our way of showcasing the works of local and regional authors.”
The centre also stocks many other regional products including delicious mango sorbet produced in Bowen, beef jerky from Proserpine, chutneys, sauces and peanut butter from Mackay, body products and candles from Conway and honey from Bowen.
“Visitors love sampling local products when they are travelling and we love supporting local businesses,” Leanne said.
The Bowen Visitor Information Centre next to the Big Mango is open from 9am until 5pm Monday to Friday and from 10am until 3pm on weekends.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy and team member Cindy Tonks with some of the books by regional authors now available at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre. Photo supplied
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St Catherine’s Catholic College, The Whitsundays, is ready to welcome students and
families for the new school year.
In 2026, the College has expanded its team with the appointment of 15 new staff members across administration, finance, teaching and school officer roles. These new appointments reflect St Catherine’s ongoing commitment to providing a supportive, well-resourced and future-focused learning environment for every student.
Among the new staff is Mahezakeen Khan, known as Mez, who brings more than 20 years
of teaching experience from the Fiji Islands, including six years as a Secondary Principal. After migrating to Australia in 2024, Mez continued her teaching journey in Mount Isa, within a school in our Diocese, before being drawn to the St Catherine’s Catholic College community. We are pleased that Mez has chosen to continue her teaching within Catholic Education.
Mez said the College’s strong sense of community and commitment to holistic learning were key factors in her decision to join the team.
“I’m excited to get to know the students, staff and families and to contribute to a school environment that values both academic excellence and student wellbeing,” she said.
St Catherine’s Catholic College Principal, Katherine Nelson said the start of the new school year is an exciting time for the entire College community.
“We are thrilled to welcome so many talented and passionate staff to St Catherine’s,” Ms Nelson said.
“This year we have also seen an increase in Prep enrolments, allowing us to open a third Prep class, which is a wonderful reflection of the trust families place in our College. Each new team member brings unique skills and experiences that will enrich our learning community and support our mission to nurture the whole child.”
“With a growing team and a shared commitment to faith, learning and wellbeing, St
Catherine’s Catholic College is well prepared for a positive and successful year ahead.”
St Catherine's Catholic College welcomes new staff member Mahezakeen Khan. Photo supplied
Since 21st January, 2026 marks the centenary of the CANEGROWERS Association, it is an appropriate time to recognise the pioneers from Proserpine who helped establish this organisation. One such pioneer was W H Doherty.
From the cane farm to State secretaryship of Queensland Cane Growers' Council; such was the career of Mr. W. H. Doherty who worked tirelessly building up of a spirit of co-operation among Queensland cane growers.
Born at Yambuk, Victoria, in 1868, Mr. Doherty spent fourteen years in New Zealand, drawn to mining. This interest lured him to the Northern Territory and to Charters Towers. In 1908, while in Charters Towers, in partnership with Mr Ralph Lewis, he purchased W Compton’s farm at Mt Marlow, later selling half of his share and growing cane in his own right.
While at Mt Marlow, Doherty was responsible for paying for beetles for the Insect Pest Destruction Committee. For two years, he was president of the United Farmers and Cane Growers’ Association and then continued as Mt Marlow delegate. In 1912, he was appointed secretary of the newly formed Cannon Valley District Branch of the association and successfully proposed that farmers in outside districts have the right to vote on all Executive Council business. This power given to branches was a major factor in retaining their importance.
From 1910 until 1918, he was a member of the Proserpine Shire Council and was Chairman in 1911. The formation of the United Cane Growers' Association (UCGA) in 1914, foreshadowed Doherty’s long service as an executive on the statewide body. In 1918, with the imminent retirement of the secretary, delegates urged Doherty to apply. Disheartened by the devastation to his crop in the Mackay cyclone of that year, he did so and was duly selected from twenty-three applicants.
At this time, the organisation had sufficient funds to carry on for only three months, so it was necessary for Mr. Doherty to go out into the sugar districts and endeavour to further organise the farmers who were too busy for meetings. Consequently, Doherty had to make personal calls particularly in the Innisfail, South Johnstone, Tully, Ayr, Mackay, and Bundaberg districts.
In the early days of the UCGA, roads (where they did exist) were in a pitiable condition and the UCGA was too poor to hire a sulky or horse. Doherty was often obliged to discard boots and carry them from farm to farm because of torrential rains and lack of adequate thoroughfares. Such was his determination and dedication! On one of these treks, he walked thirty miles while calling on two dozen farmers. Many and varied were the unusual incidents which befell Doherty, but he always spoke appreciatively of the ready and good-natured hospitality of the hard-working cane farmer to “the wayfarer”.
In just seven months, Doherty raised the membership of the association to over 3000 and the revenue from £750 to more than. £2000 per annum. During the next two or three years, the membership represented 82 per cent of the growers in Queensland.
In 1926, the Primary Producers Organising and Marketing Act came into being. This act made it compulsory for every cane grower to contribute towards the Queensland Cane Growers' Council. Building on the foundation of the UCGA, the Queensland Cane Growers' Council was formally established as a statutory body in Mackay on January 21, 1926. The Council invited applications for the position of general secretary (equivalent to its Chief Executive) and Mr. W H Doherty was accepted from twenty-five other applicants.
During Mr. Doherty’s twenty-one years as secretary of these associations, he lectured on matters of interest to the industry throughout most states except Western Australia. For many years, he was the Council's advocate in the Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Court. He retired in 1939 and served on the Royal Commission on Sugar Peaks and Cognate Matters later that year.
Story courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum.
William H Doherty, 1911. Photo Source: Whitsunday Regional Council
Inaugural CANEGROWERS Meeting, 1926. Photo Source: Australian CANEGROWERS' Magazine
East-West Airlines. The State Government approved East-West to run regular flights out of Rockhampton possibly to include Proserpine Airport. Federal Government approval is also required.
Australia Day Honours.
Edna Winton, nominated by Alpha Phi Chapter of ESA. For Citizens Award. She was chairman of its Cancer Research and been very active in fundraising for nursing and the Proserpine Nursing Home.
Helen Raiteri, Junior Citizen Award, nominated by Red Cross Society for achievements in raising money for the Crippled Chidren’s Society in the Miss Australia Quest and a State Finalist.
Ron Demartini, Year’s Sports Medallion, nominated for achievements in bowls during the year having won Whitsunday and North Queensland Pairs and semi finalist in Brisbane.
Awards will be presented by Shire Chairman Peter Faust.
Obituary
Edna May Skaife aged 64, a Foxdale resident.
William Ernest [Bill] Compton, aged 90 was for many years a leading staff member at the old Co-operative store.
Vivian Alan [Viv] O’Brien, aged 81 an old local resident who lived in Marathon Street.
First Days at Schools. The High School had a roll of 558 students.
Other Schools rolls were as follows: Cannonvale SS 247, St Caths. 167, Bloomsbury 37, Proserpine 500.
Pistol Club Opens. The newly established pistol club with its range and other facilities in an impressive outdoor setting in Dryander Hills was opened by local member Geoff Muntz on Saturday.
Donation For Underwater Hockey. Radio 4 donated $150 to the newly formed Whitsunday Underwater Hockey Club accepted with thanks by Treasurer Steve Helvig.
Jelly Wrestling. Twelve ladies entered and the final between Mary and Vicki Watts ended in a draw.
Body Painting Championships. This was won by Chris Snoeke for his design which included a lizard,and a brolga flying in front of the moon painted on Katrina Brown..
Grays Sawmill- Fifty Years. In 1936 a 22 year old Proserpine man rigged up a circular saw in a backyard to cut timber for his home. He little realised that he was starting a flourishing business with no sign of it ending after half a century.
Uniting Church at Cool Palms, Mandalay Road. Evening worship 7.30 pm
Mackay Intertown Australia Day Cricket Weekend. Proserpine ‘A’ Grade 102 beat Bowen 89 [ S.Rock 5/20]
Proserpine 170 [ F.Quod 85] lost to Sarina 180 [B. Shepherd 4/14]
Proserpine ‘B’ Grade beat Home Hill but lost to Farleigh.
Tug-O-War Bora’s Hopes toppled eight teams at Malanda to win over a big field.
This week's Photo of the Week winner is Gladys Young for their image from outback Winton, Queensland.
The theme was: Something Broken
Sally is a beautiful 2- to 3-year-old Cattle Dog x Staffy mix with a gentle, easy-going nature and a heart full of love. Weighing around 25kg, she’s the perfect medium-sized companion for someone looking for a calm, affectionate dog.
Sally is: friendly and relaxed, good with children, calm and social with other dogs, easy to live with and settles well.
She enjoys company but doesn’t demand constant attention, making her a wonderful fit for a family or individual wanting a loyal but low-stress companion.
To ensure Sally thrives, owners must have a 4ft+ fence and not own any cats, livestock or chooks.
She has had all ecto-parasite treatments completed and is currently undergoing heart-worm treatment. Otherwise, Sally is healthy and thriving in care.
Sally would suit a calm household with secure fencing and a family who will include her as part of everyday life. She's not demanding, just happy to be loved.
Sally's adoption fee is $400. The fee covers veterinary care and allows the shelter to continue rescuing dogs in need.
For more information or an expression of interest, you can go to the Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc Facebook page. If you know someone who may be interested, spread the word to ensure Sally finds her forever home.
Col Benson’s name was met with cheers and heartfelt applause last Sunday, 25 January, when he was named the 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year. Known across the region for his extraordinary knowledge of Mackay’s history and the people who have shaped it, Col has dedicated decades to keeping stories alive through his storytelling, memorial services, and community work.
A Vietnam veteran, former Royal Australian Air Force radio technician, and long-time Mackay RSL member, now Senior Vice President, Col has quietly supported veterans and their families for more than 40 years. His tireless efforts range from organising solemn commemorations to educating young people about the region’s past.
Humbled by the recognition, Col described his work as a labour of love, driven by a desire to preserve history rather than seek accolades. Despite his "unexpected" win, he has proven himself truly deserving, and his dedication continues to inspire the Mackay community.
By Hannah McNamara
Col Benson is a man of great integrity, best known for his extraordinary knowledge of the Mackay region and the people who have shaped it, both past and present. His passion for keeping history alive through storytelling is nothing short of remarkable, and his long-standing dedication to organising and hosting memorial services has earned him recognition he never quite expected.
That recognition came last Sunday, 25 January, when Mr Benson was named the 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year at the Mackay Australia Day Awards.
Mr Benson said he was shocked and greatly moved by the honour, admitting he “can’t believe it” and was “quite emotional” when his name was announced.
In an earlier interview about Mackay’s worst natural disaster that happened in 1918, Mr Benson reflected on his work, saying, “We don’t do these things for recognition… I just do it because I want to see these people’s stories kept alive.”
He also referenced the 1918 cyclone in his awards night speech, further emphasising his passion as a local historian, with a heart for preserving Mackay’s history, and the stories of those affected.
As a Vietnam veteran, former RAAF radio technician, Senior Vice President, and long-time member of the Mackay RSL Sub-branch, Mr Benson has spent more than 40 years supporting veterans and their families.
Mayor Greg Williamson noted Mr Benson’s contributions in organising some of the community’s most significant commemorations.
“ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day, Victory in Europe Day, Victory in the Pacific Day, the Rats of Tobruk ceremony, the Bakers Creek Memorial and the annual tribute to the 29 lives lost in the Fokker Friendship crash – each of these solemn occasions is delivered with precision, dignity and deep respect because of Col’s tireless coordination,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Col also educates young people through school visits and supports veterans and families during times of hardship – offering guidance, compassion and dignified poppy services at funerals,” he said.
Col was one of eight individuals and one community group that were recognised for their exceptional contributions to the Mackay region. His humble nature and passion for preserving history, particularly within the landscape of war and some of Mackay’s most memorable events, have had a major impact on those who know him, as well as the wider community.
Congratulations Col!
Local historian and Vietnam veteran Col Benson took home the 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year award for his lifelong dedication to preserving Mackay’s history and serving the community. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Col Benson, a Vietnam veteran, former RAAF radio technician, long-time Mackay RSL member, and passionate local historian, was named 2026 Mackay Region Citizen of the Year for his decades of dedication to preserving history, supporting veterans, and serving the community. Photo source: Mackay Tiger Moth Museum
Hi lovely readers!
Last Sunday I attended the 2026 Mackay Region Australia Day Awards for the first time, and it was so wonderful to celebrate the local legends of our region. Thank you to the MECC and Mackay Regional Council for hosting such a great event.
As you can see on the front cover and page 3, Mr Col Benson was named Mackay Citizen of the Year, and I’d like to take a moment to personally congratulate him on this incredible achievement!
Col often rings me with stories about Mackay’s history – whether it’s about the war, some of the region’s most devastating disasters, or even to help gather resources from old newspapers and snippets of the past.
He’s incredibly knowledgeable and often encourages me in my own journalism. Well done, Col!
Congratulations also to the other seven individuals, and Mackay Parkrun, who took home wins in their respective categories. Stay tuned for next week’s paper to read more about the other recipients.
Speaking of Mackay Parkrun… if you turn to page 23, you can read about another remarkable gentleman, David, who broke a running record in his age category on the same weekend as his 80th birthday! He’s achieved so much throughout his life, and I had the pleasure of getting to know him last week.
It’s moments like this that remind me of why I love what I do – what a blessing to be able to highlight the best of our local community!
Scripture of the week: “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” – Psalms 118
In Mackay, a simple act of kindness is making a powerful difference — clean clothes, a warm shower and a genuine conversation.
That’s the heart of the work being done by Orange Sky Australia, whose Mackay service supports people experiencing homelessness and hardship through regular laundry and shower services, delivered with empathy and dignity.
Orange Sky’s model is refreshingly simple. Volunteers aren’t social workers or specialists — they’re everyday locals who show up to listen, chat and connect. The focus is on creating a safe, positive and welcoming space for people who are too often overlooked or feel disconnected from the wider community.
That community spirit was on full display late last year, when the Mackay Airport community once again rallied behind Orange Sky during the festive season. Continuing a much-loved tradition, the team donated personal care packs to support people doing it tough over the holidays.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to looking after Mackay’s most vulnerable, especially at a time of year when loneliness and hardship can hit hardest.
"Thank you so much for this generous support and for backing our Mackay service year after year Mackay Airport. We’re grateful to be part of such a caring region," said an Orange Sky spokesperson.
In a world where problems can feel overwhelming, Orange Sky proves that meaningful change often starts small — with clean clothes, a kind word and someone willing to listen.
It’s a reminder that when locals look after locals, the whole community is stronger.
Photo source: Mackay Airport
The Australia Day 2026 Honours List proudly recognises the exceptional service, leadership and commitment to community that exists across the Dawson electorate. This year, Dawson is represented by one outstanding local honoured for distinguished service to the nation, while the Honours List also celebrates former Mackay local and Australian sporting icon Cathy Freeman for her extraordinary contribution to sport, reconciliation and national life.
Warrant Officer Class One Michael Killalea, OAM (Mil) – Medal of the Order of Australia (Military Division)
Warrant Officer Class One Michael Killalea of Annandale, Townsville, has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (Military Division) for meritorious performance of duty advancing and fostering the Distribution Specialisation trade. His dedication exemplifies the professionalism and steadfast commitment to excellence that are hallmarks of the Australian Defence Force.
The Honours List also recognises distinguished Australians from a broad array of endeavours, including economic leadership, community service, and sporting excellence.
One of the nation’s most revered sporting figures, former Mackay athletics champion and Olympic gold medallist Cathy Freeman AC, is among those honoured in this year’s Australia Day list. A proud Kuku Yalanji woman, Freeman has been appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia, recognising her service to athletics and the reconciliation movement, as well as her positive community impact and status as a role model to young people.
Freeman’s historic victory in the 400 metres at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most iconic sporting moments and a defining chapter in the nation’s Olympic history.
Freeman, born and raised in Mackay’s Slade Point, began her athletics journey racing on local tracks, including the recreation area now named in her honour, where she first demonstrated the talent and tenacity that would later captivate a nation.
More recently, the Cathy Freeman Sports Performance Centre, part of the Great Barrier Reef Arena’s multimillion-dollar Stage Two development, has been announced in Mackay as a state-of-the-art training hub designed to inspire and nurture future athletes. The facility carries her name as a lasting legacy to her achievements and her belief in empowering young people to pursue excellence in sport.
Andrew Willcox MP, Member for Dawson, said that Australia Day is a time to honour remarkable Australians whose service, courage and commitment strengthen our nation.
“To see Warrant Officer Class One Michael Killalea recognised for his meritorious military service reflects our deep respect for those who serve with distinction in the Australian Defence Force,” he said.
“Townsville, as one of our nation’s strongest garrison cities, has a proud military heritage and a long tradition of producing leaders who embody selfless service and operational excellence.
“And who could forget the inspirational legacy of Cathy Freeman?
“Her breathtaking 400 metres gold medal run at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games united a nation and remains one of our greatest sporting moments of all time. Growing up in Slade Point, she raced on the old athletics ground that today honours her name, and that same spirit of determination is now reflected in the new sports performance centre at Mackay’s Great Barrier Reef Arena, a facility that will support aspiring athletes for generations.
“It was fantastic to catch up with Cathy last year when she visited the arena, reinforcing how sporting excellence and community pride go hand in hand here in regional Queensland.”
Mr Willcox added that these honourees reflect the best of our community, individuals who serve others, enrich our cultural and sporting landscape, and inspire us all to reach higher.
The Australia Day 2026 Honours List includes 949 Australians recognised across the Order of Australia (General and Military Divisions), meritorious awards, and distinguished defence service medals, representing an increase of more than 200 awards from last year’s list.
Contributed with thanks to the office of Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox
On Saturday 17th January, the Mackay Conservation Group conducted a post-cyclone rubbish clean-up at Harbour Beach, Mackay, following the impacts of recent severe weather.
Cyclones and storms are known to wash plastic and debris onto local beaches, posing a threat to marine life and coastal ecosystems. The clean-up brought community members together to remove rubbish that had accumulated after ex-Tropical Cyclone Yoji, with the group meeting at Mulherin Park before working along the shoreline.
Organisers described the event as an impressive community effort, with volunteers collecting a wide range of debris including plastic bottle tops, piping, foam and other discarded items, highlighting the scale of waste that can be deposited during storm events.
The group urged the community to take simple steps to help keep local beaches clean, including proper waste disposal and reducing plastic use.
Community members joined the Mackay Conservation Group on Saturday 17 January for a post-cyclone clean-up at Harbour Beach, removing storm-washed debris and highlighting the importance of protecting local coastal environments. Photo source: Mackay Conservation Group
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Mackay women are set to benefit from a series of workshops designed to improve financial literacy and security, thanks to inaugural grants from the Queensland Government’s Empowering Women initiative. Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton announced the grants last week, highlighting the impact these programs will have for women across the region.
“This is really exciting news. We’re blessed to have four recipients in Mackay,” Mr Dalton said.
One of the grants will fund a workshop run by the Older Women’s Network, focused on helping women navigate financial decisions and housing options.
Mr Dalton said, “The workshops allow women, particularly those in the later stages of life, to understand their financial responsibilities, accommodation options, and strategies for managing superannuation or downsizing their homes, especially if they live alone.”
Another grant targets women living with autism, ensuring support for those who face unique financial challenges.
A third workshop, hosted at a local neighbourhood hub on Evans Street, will address financial security more broadly for women in Mackay.
The fourth grant will go towards Broken to Brilliant, which will assist women who have experienced domestic and family violence, with programs extending across Mackay, Townsville, and the Whitsundays.
Combined, the four grants represent $40,000 of the $297,000 awarded state-wide, with 29 projects funded across Queensland.
“This is a fantastic proportion for Mackay, and these funds will really help our ladies in Mackay gain more financial security.” Mr Dalton said.
For Rosemary Paidley, State Treasurer of the Older Women’s Network Queensland, the grants are a vital step in supporting women navigating the challenges of later life.
“As women get older, circumstances change. Some don’t know how to manage their housing, finances, or superannuation, and others are forced to make difficult decisions about downsizing or living arrangements,” she said.
“Through these workshops, we aim to give them the knowledge and confidence to make the right choices.”
Helen Stanton, co-convener of the network, emphasised the importance of spreading information beyond the immediate groups.
“We bring speakers on topics that matter, and our members take that knowledge into other parts of the community. It’s about supporting women wherever they are,” she said.
Ms Paidley added that the workshops also provide support for women experiencing domestic violence.
“Many women find themselves in unsafe situations or at risk of homelessness. We can’t provide housing, but we can guide them to the right services and give them confidence to take the next steps.”
For the Older Women’s Network, the grant is the first of its kind, and its impact is expected to be long-lasting.
“This funding allows us to bring experts to Mackay, provide face-to-face guidance, and create a safe environment where women can learn and feel supported,” Ms Paidley said.
With the workshops now confirmed, organisers hope to reach as many women as possible, providing the tools and knowledge to improve financial security and independence across the region.
Mackay women will benefit from new Queensland Government–fundeding aimed at strengthening financial literacy, housing knowledge, and long-term security for women across the region.
Helen Stanton, co-convener of the network with Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton MP, and Rosemary Paidley, State Treasurer of the Older Women’s Network Queensland. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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