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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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I think it’s obvious to people now that things like New Year’s Resolutions, New Year New You, and being instantly motivated to make changes simply doesn't work. So, what DOES work?
1. It’s not selfish to prioritise yourself and allow yourself a little bit of you time daily to exercise. If you don’t look after your own health, then ultimately how is that being a role model to your loved ones who are watching and mimicking your every move?
2. Motivation only lasts so long. Commitment and consistency is much more powerful. Setting a routine by starting to wake up the same time every day is the easiest place to start. There is some powerful science to suggest this is one of the best things you can do for your overall health.
3. Set some personal values. What is important to YOU. You are unique so your values will more than likely even be different to that of your partner’s. Openly discuss your own personal values so they are known and openly communicated. Then, make sure all of your actions are aligned with your own values. If being a healthy person is an important value to you, then something like binge drinking should be obviously misaligned to you.
4. Surround yourself with people that will uplift and support you and understand you and your values. I have had to cut people out of my life simply because of value misalignment. Is it time to look at who you are surrounding yourself with daily?
2024. The year that self-care should be your new Power Move!
In the rise of young people using unnecessary treatments on their skin, these trendy brands and skincare are often doing more harm than good. Using skincare not specifically formulated for your skin type can pose a myriad of dangers, potentially leading to adverse effects and long-term damage.
One of the primary risks lies in exacerbating existing skin conditions. Different skin types require specific ingredients and formulations to address concerns effectively. Using products not designed for your skin type may contain harsh chemicals or ingredients that can worsen issues such as acne, sensitivity, or excessive dryness.
Furthermore, improper skincare choices may compromise the skin's natural barrier. Using products with overly aggressive ingredients can strip the skin of essential oils, leading to dehydration and increased vulnerability to environmental aggressors. This weakened barrier may result in redness, inflammation, and a heightened risk of infections.
In the long run, using skincare not suitable for your skin type may accelerate premature aging. The absence of proper hydration, nourishment, and protection can contribute to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
To safeguard your skin, it is crucial to understand your skin type and choose skincare products tailored to your individual needs. Consultation with a dermatologist can provide valuable insights into the most suitable products for your skin, helping you achieve a healthy and radiant complexion without compromising your skin's well-being.
Listen up treasure seekers and knick knack finders, Whitsunday Creatives’ Car Boot Sale is back and boasting an opportunity to rediscover preloved treasures from local residents.
With 20 cars and their boots on offer, the shopfront of Whitsunday Creatives will also be operating as normal, meaning you can discover all the second-hand goodies, before venturing indoors and explore all the handmade, locally produced goodies which boast imaginable local talent.
WHAT: Car Boot Sale
WHERE: Whitsunday Creatives, 4/16 Main Street, Prosperine
WHEN: Saturday January 13, from 8am to 12pm
Get ready for some searching! Photo supplied
Do you know what to do this Australia Day?
Why not head to the Proserpine Youth Space annual Slime Fest, and have a great family fun day!
With an Australian barbeque on offer, fun run, slime slip n’ slide, games, and so much more, this will be fun for the whole family!
Registration begins at 9.30am, with the run starting at 10am.
Costing just $5 per person, or $20 per family or team, up to five people, this is a great opportunity to get active this Australia Day, with all proceeds going towards the Proserpine Youth Space programs and support of local disadvantaged youth.
For more information, contact the Proserpine Youth Space, on grant1@proserpineyouthspace.org.au
WHAT: Whitsunday Slime Fest
WHERE: 65 Marathon Street, Proserpine (Old St Catherine’s School)
WHEN: Friday, January 26, from 9.30am
Local children enjoying the 2023 Whitsunday Slime Fest. Photo: Rachael Smith
Jude Maxwell Jenner achieved the special honour of being the first baby born in Mackay for 2024 when he arrived on 2nd January, five days after his due date of December 28.
While his older sister Tatum, who is two and a half, was a little disappointed he wasn’t a girl, parents Kellen and Tori are thrilled with their new arrival and feeling much more relaxed the second time round.
“My waters broke prematurely a few days ago, so I needed antibiotics to guard against infection and needed to birth in the maternity unit for that reason,” Tori said.
“I was due to come in today for an induction, but labour started last night, and we came in to the hospital about 2am.”
Jude Maxwell arrived soon after at 6.09am weighing 3600g (7lb 9oz).
Tori was grateful for the care of her Mackay Birth Centre midwives.
“My midwife Julie was on leave, so I had Marion looking after me,” Tori said.
“But Julie came in for the last two hours to be with me, so I had care from both midwives, and they were wonderful.”
Welcome to the world little Jude Maxwell and congratulations to the Jenner family of Walkerston!
The Jenner family; Kellen and Tori with two-and-a-half-year-old Tatum and new baby boy Jude. Photo supplied
‘Tis the season for toys, and with that, comes a plethora of batteries.
Mackay residents are being reminded to keep batteries and flammable materials out of kerbside bins.
One spark from an old battery can cause a fire in a rubbish truck or even send an entire waste facility up in flames.
Remove batteries where possible and place clear sticky tape over the connecting parts, before storing in a cool place until they can be disposed at an appropriate collection point.
Residents can dispose of batteries free of charge at council’s transfer stations, at the Incredable Drop-Off or at several businesses around the Mackay region. To find a battery drop-off location, visit bcycle.com.au
Flammable and hazardous materials also need to be kept out of kerbside bins and disposed of responsibly to avoid fires.
What can start a fire in kerbside bins?
• all batteries
• electronics containing batteries
• vapes, which contain batteries
• gas bottles
• chemicals
• fuels
• waste oils
• aerosol cans that are not empty
To find out how to dispose different items, visit council’s A-Z of waste disposal page at mackay.qld.gov.au/wastedisposal
Recycle batteries at a unit like this one found at the Incredable Tip Shop
Two outstanding members of the Clinical Measurements Unit (CMU) at Mackay Base Hospital have soared to a remarkable milestone, revolutionising care across the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (MHHS) region.
Cardiac scientists Janine and Annie work closely with the Cardiology team when either a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is implanted in a patient. They then provide ongoing follow up and monitoring for patients.
‘Since we began implanting more complex ‘high voltage’ devices, a total of 40 ICDs have been implanted at MBH, where previously these patients were transferred to either Townsville or Brisbane for their implant," Annie said.
“We reached a one-year milestone on November 18 since our first ICD implant (Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator), and we are proud of this achievement.”
“It’s a huge development for Mackay to have the ability to offer this service,” Janine said.
“I believe Mackay Base Hospital (MBH) is punching above its weight in delivering cardiac care, and this has greatly improved the service we can give to our patients.”
The development has been made possible due to the efforts of cardiologist Dr Dominika Budzbon, who had previously implanted cardiac devices while working in the UK.
Her experience and willingness to impart her knowledge was instrumental in developing the MHHS cardiac device service.
The cardiac device team monitors approximately 500 patients with either implanted pacemakers, ICDs or CRTs (Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy) across the MHHS region.
Patients attend outpatient clinics in CMU where their devices are checked every six or twelve months.
“Most of these patients also have remote monitors at home, which transmit alerts and notifications to our clinic,” Annie said.
It makes for a busy workload for this small team, but Janine and Annie, who both completed a Bachelor of Biomedical Science degree at the University of the Sunshine Coast, love the role.
As part of their studies, they undertook a 12-week placement in the Cardiac Investigations Unit at Nambour General Hospital.
“I completed my degree as a mature age student and studied science due to my previous interest in it at school; I had no expectations and just wanted to challenge myself,” Janine said.
“I chose a cardiac placement because my mum had had a previous heart attack which resulted in her having a heart bypass.”
Annie also stressed the significance of her placement.
“I just loved it because students on placement do everything from attaching holter monitors to people, to watching pacemaker checks and the cath lab in action.
“It was just great, particularly as it consolidated all the theory we’d learned at uni, and it just made sense.
“Cardiac is really interesting. I feel like we could study every day for the rest of our lives and still never know it all.”
By Mackay Hospital and Health Service
Cardiac scientists Janine and Annie. Photo supplied: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
Alright, so, confession time. New Year, no resolutions—just learning to live my best life. You see, I had this epiphany on New Year’s Eve. There I was, eyeing this bottle of Champagne I've been hoarding. I almost didn't pop it because, well, I was waiting for a 'special' moment. But then it hit me: every moment is special!
I mean, I've barely used these fancy glasses from my 40th, I’ve been saving scented candles like they're rare relics, and keeping luscious chocolate for... I don't know, an apocalypse? The thing is, life's too short for waiting around. The chocolate could turn into a chalky mess, the candles might lose their scent, and that Champagne—oh, it could've gone flat! So, I drank the Champagne, in a hot bath, in a fancy glass, with ALL of my candles burning, using all the bath bombs and salts I could find.
In this world of financial rollercoasters and pinching pennies, I realized we're all in a way hoarding bits of joy for an imagined rainy day. But seriously, why? The 'today' is just as deserving! So, no more 'saving for a rainy day' or 'special occasions only'. I'm all about seizing the fizziness of life.
I've decided to spend more time with my gang—the hubby and my little champ. Because, truth be told, there's no grander celebration than the giggles of my kiddo. That's the real champagne poppin', folks!
So, this year's not about ticking off a list; it's about embracing those everyday bubbles—whether it's splurging on the good bath bombs or just being goofy with my loved ones. Life's all about creating our own celebrations, right?
Here's to a year of relishing life's sweet, fizzy moments and ditching the 'saving it for later' attitude.
To all you wonderful readers, thanks a bunch for grabbing this paper! Here's to hoping it brings a sprinkle of joy and a truckload of good vibes your way in 2024.
May your days be filled with giggles, your moments laced with smiles, and your adventures loaded with fantastic tales. Cheers to each of you—may this year be your grandest one yet!
Amanda
In the bustling aisles of the HomeCo shopping precinct on Mackay Bucasia Road, a touching moment unfolded, highlighting the kindness and support present within the community. Danii Seres, a mother managing the challenges of parenting, encountered a heartwarming act of compassion amidst a challenging situation. As her son experienced a significant meltdown, Danii found herself in a moment of distress. However, amidst the chaos, a stranger named Maddy from the local pet store stepped in to offer a helping hand during a difficult time.
Amidst the chaos of her son's mega-meltdown, Danii was full of immense gratitude for Maddy's unexpected aid. With her little one reaching full volume mode, Danii felt a mix of embarrassment and relief. She jokingly apologised to anyone within earshot whose day might have been audibly disrupted by the mini-tornado. Maddy's help became a lifeline in that mad moment!
In a Facebook post on a community mother’s board Danni said, “You have no idea how much this meant to me.
“I was so embarrassed and apologies to those who may have had their eardrums burst in the process,” she said.
Other mothers agreed that small acts of kindness are greatly appreciated during hectic parenthood moments.
Bonnie Rose commented, “Makes a huge difference when someone is so kind, especially when the kids have a meltdown. Glad someone made it easier for you.”
Council will soon begin works at Paradise and Webberley streets, West Mackay, to improve safety at the intersection for motorists and pedestrians.
The extensive upgrade project will begin in late January 2024, and finish in December 2024, weather permitting.
The project will include installing traffic signals at the intersection of Paradise and Webberley streets and incorporating designated slip lanes onto and off Webberley St.
Additional lanes will be added through the intersection on Paradise Street to facilitate two lanes for through traffic, both northbound and southbound.
There will also be signals for pedestrian access through the intersection for safety, and a designated bike lane.
A pathway will be built to connect to existing pathways in Paradise Street, Webberley Street and the bus stop.
During the works, Webberley Street will be closed between Paradise and Simpson streets, with detours in place. Paradise Street will remain open throughout the works.
The existing bus stops and routes on Paradise and Webberley streets will have some changes, and temporary bus stops will be implemented for commuters. Signage will be installed at the existing bus stops detailing the location of the temporary bus stops and timeframes for their use.
Prior to work beginning, the removal of trees along Paradise Street will be necessary to allow for the construction. This is expected to be undertaken in late January, 2024.
Trees will be replaced with native species along the Paradise Street pathway.
There will be some minor noise and dust disturbances due to various plant and equipment that will be used on site.
Council apologises for any inconvenience caused and appreciates your patience during these essential improvement works.
For more information visit connectingmackay.com.au
This project is proudly funded by the Queensland Government through the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme and Mackay Regional Council.
A map shows the area of works at the intersection of Paradise and Webberley streets, West Mackay
Get ready to witness the magic of empowerment and celebration as the JSP Women’s Awards 2024 gears up to honour the phenomenal stories and accomplishments of the women in the Mackay region. This annual event transcends mere awards, transforming into a vibrant celebration of resilience, triumphs, and inspiration.
Nominations are now open, offering a platform to recognize the strength and success of women across diverse spheres of life, culminating in a magnificent gala slated for March 2 at the MECC.
Embracing the diverse tapestry of narratives, this event shines a spotlight on the inspiring stories, challenges overcome, and successes achieved by the women who shape the region. It’s a celebration of empowerment and recognition, a platform where stories of determination, leadership, and sheer resilience take centre stage.
JSP Women’s Awards 2024 proudly presents an extraordinary guest speaker, Claire Christian, a multifaceted artist whose vibrant storytelling illuminates stages and hearts alike.
A prolific writer, theatre maker, and facilitator based in Meanjin, Claire is renowned for her three published novels, including "It’s Been A Pleasure, Noni Blake." As a Queensland Theatre Fellow and a dynamic member of the Mama’s Boys theatre collective, she infuses her work with unapologetic brilliance, exploring themes of body positivity, pleasure, and the unfiltered joy of life.
Claire’s stories not only entertain but also provoke reflection, celebrating the beauty of life's intricacies while resonating deeply with audiences.
CATEGORIES
Magic Muse (Merged Categories): Formerly known as the Modern Muse and Magic Maker, the Magic Muse celebrates women who serve as muses through various artistic mediums like performing arts, visual arts, fashion, photography, broadcasting, or writing. They inspire others, fostering self-esteem and positive change through their creativity and passion for the arts.
Mother of All Mothers: Honouring exceptional mothers, this category acknowledges their leadership, selflessness, and dedication within their families and communities. It applauds their resilience, serving as role models for future generations.
Health and Wellbeing Warrior: Recognizing advocates for health, fitness, and mental wellness, this category celebrates women committed to raising awareness and making a positive impact in healthcare, fitness, or mental health advocacy.
Resilient Rebel: Celebrating resilience and courage, this category honours women who turn challenges into triumphs. They embody strength in adversity, inspiring others with their determination and individuality.
Woman Who Breaks the Mould (New Category): This award celebrates women embracing their uniqueness unapologetically. They embody intelligence, humour, and individuality, breaking stereotypes and shining as beacons of authenticity.
The Equaliser (New Category): Honouring men who champion gender equality and support the women in their lives, this category celebrates allies advocating for gender parity, challenging biases, and empowering women in their communities.
The Rising Star: This recognition celebrates the rising generation of empowered women aged 15 to 25, standing as the embodiment of #thefutureisfemale. It honours young women making significant strides in their communities, serving as inspirations to others by championing causes, exhibiting extraordinary talent in various fields like sports, arts, activism, volunteering, or blazing trails with their innovative endeavours.
JSP Founder, Fallon Drewett
Detectives from the Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit declared a crime scene at a house in Eungella following the sudden death of a two-year-old girl on 31st December, 2023.
Police were called to the property on Bee Creek Road at 2.20pm and found the child unresponsive in a vehicle.
An investigation has commenced and detectives will work to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
No further information was available at time of print.
In a swift response to an emergency call, the RACQ CQ Rescue team sprang into action on 30th December, following a Queensland Police Service directive to aid in the search for three individuals aboard a tinny that had gone adrift near Sarina.
The rescue team located the trio safe and sound, ashore at Freshwater Point Beach.
This timely mission highlights the invaluable role played by emergency response services. 2023 was the busiest year on record for the rescue service, clocking up more than 700 missions.
Mackay families worried about expensive back-to-school costs for the new year can breathe a sigh of relief with the news that School Savvy is coming back to town.
Selling secondhand school uniforms and quality booklist stationery supplies at extremely low-cost, School Savvy will be opening their pop-up shop at the St. Patrick’s Senior Campus Hall from January 8 – 12.
The program’s incredibly popular free haircuts for kids will also be on offer again.
CatholicCare’s General Manager for Health and Wellbeing, Flavia Prospero, said that she and her local School Savvy team were excited to be bringing the much-needed event back to the region for its second consecutive year.
“We believe very strongly that a family’s financial situation should never be a barrier to accessing a good education,” Flavia said.
“We saw such a huge demand for this program the first time we brought it to Mackay, and we’re anticipating that the demand will only continue to grow in 2024.
“Our pop-up shop prices generally range between one to five dollars, and we’re committed to making sure that no student is left without the resources they need.”
Providing essential back-to-school resources for kids is something that Flavia says the CatholicCare Central Queensland team feel particularly passionate about.
“For us it’s about making sure that kids not only get back to school with what they need, but also that they have the exact same things that their mates do.
“It’s hard enough being a kid in today’s day and age and going to school feeling different or left out isn’t ideal for a child’s confidence or self-esteem.
“By helping to provide them with access to the right uniform, the right stationery supplies, and a nice fresh haircut, we’re able to help parents and caregivers worry about a few less things.”
The School Savvy pop-up shop will open on January 8 at 9am and will be open throughout the week until January 12. The shop is open to the public and does not have an eligibility criteria. For more information, find School Savvy CQ on Facebook.
The Mackay Mens Shed designed and built portable clothing racks for the School Savvy pop-up shop with 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝘆 donating the PVC product
As the 50th anniversary of the Good Shepherd Lodge approaches next year, we take a reflective journey back to its inception. Founded in 1974, this institution's genesis can be traced back to the visionary Canon Gordon Guy, who foresaw the pivotal role the Anglican Church could play in caring for the elderly.
The Good Shepherd Lodge project commenced in 1967 with the arrival of Canon Guy in Mackay, recognising the Anglican Church's need for active involvement in aged care. By May 1968, a steering committee formed to establish an Aged Persons' Home in Mackay. On February 16, 1970, Dr. Rex Patterson, the Federal Member of Parliament for Dawson, was approached to lead the executive committee. To secure Federal Government grants, Geoff Nolan, a consulting engineer, became secretary, Stan Tait, a chartered accountant, treasurer, and real estate agent Doug Graham and town clerk Laurie Payne joined as committee members alongside Canon Guy.
Once the steering committee was formed, the search began for suitable land. A four-acre site in a residential area, not too far removed from the seashore, was purchased for $26,000. It was said that people who were still spry could walk into the city centre to do their shopping.
Collaboration with Diocesan architects and local talent gave birth to the lodge's architectural blueprint, leading to its grand unveiling on September 14, 1974. The foundation stone was laid by Bishop John Lewis on 26th August, 1973 and exactly one year later the first residents moved into their units.
As the lodge's doors opened, it marked the beginning of an era cantered on compassionate pastoral care, helmed by Chaplain Father Cecil Smith, who became the guiding spiritual force within the lodge's walls.
Over the years, the lodge underwent significant expansions. St. Oswald's, envisioned as the first of many buildings, came to fruition, setting the stage for a naming competition inspired by the Cumberland Islands. This period of growth culminated in the addition of Keswick House, Brampton Villas, and a specialised dementia care unit in 2000, emphasising the lodge's commitment to comprehensive care and innovation.
Under the broad umbrella of Good Shepherd, Kerrisdale Gardens emerged as an epitome of modern-aged care. Its construction commenced in 2014, reflecting an innovative approach focused on wellness and life engagement. Boasting contemporary living spaces, the facility emphasised healthy aging and innovation, a concept embraced by the community.
As Good Shepherd Lodge approaches its 50-year milestone, it signifies more than mere caregiving. It represents adaptability, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to enriching the aging experience in Mackay. The recent expansion of Kerrisdale Gardens, with its 10 spacious apartments, 3 villas, and 40 residential aged care beds, further underscores the lodge's commitment to evolving care standards, cementing its place as a revered icon of compassionate care in the community.
Photo credit: Good Shepherd Lodge 30 year anniversary book
Good Shepherd Lodge, 2000
Prime Minister, Mr Whitlam with G.F. Guy, Archdeacon of Mackay and the Bishop of North Queensland, Rt. Rev, John Lewis at the official opening of Good Shepherd Lodge on 14th September, 1974
The Anglican Bishop of North Queensland, Rt, Rev, John Lewis blessing the foundation stone for the infirmary extensions to Good Shepherd Lodge
Nursing home facilities in 1980
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