In a ceremony held at the Banksia Scout Den on Fernleigh Avenue, Andergrove, Ayva Grant, a dedicated member of the Banksia Cub Scout group, received the highly regarded Grey Wolf Award on the evening of September 7, 2023.

The Grey Wolf Award is the highest honour achievable in the Cub Scout Section, representing a significant milestone in a Cub Scout's journey. To attain this prestigious badge, Ayva undertook a series of challenging and educational tasks.

Her journey encompassed active participation in nine Cub Scout Activities, including leading seven of them. Ayva also demonstrated her outdoor prowess by engaging in five nights of camping and completing two hikes, each lasting a minimum of six hours. She acquired essential survival skills such as knot-tying, basic first aid, shelter building, fire-starting, and navigation.

In addition to these outdoor adventures, Ayva pursued six personal special interest activities, participated in a Cub Scout Leadership Course, and completed an exhilarating four-hour adventurous journey. One of her hikes was an eight-hour city walk throughout the streets and pathways of Mackay, while her adventurous journey took her on a bike hike from the Port of Mackay to the Botanical Gardens.

Throughout her time in the Cub Scout Section, Ayva eagerly embraced adventurous activities such as abseiling, archery, paddling, water sports, camps, and hikes. She thoroughly enjoyed the camaraderie and learning experiences around the campfire, which included fire building, campsite cooking, games, and captivating storytelling.

The ceremony, presided over by Banksia Scout Dylan Harrison, featured Ayva's parents, Nathan Grant and Cub Scout Leader Maighan Grant, who proudly presented her with the Grey Wolf Award. Adventurous Activities Leader Brendan Ross awarded her the GWA Certificate, and Cub Scout Leader Sarah Harrison presented her with a special gift from the Banksia Group.

The evening concluded with the presentation of badges earned by the Cub Scouts during this term, followed by an energetic game and a memorable closing parade. Ayva's achievement in earning the Grey Wolf Award is a testament to her dedication to Cub Scouts, making her a true inspiration to her fellow Scouts. Congratulations, Ayva!

Contributed by Mary Wallace

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Ayva Grant, with her parents Nathan and Maighan Grant presenting her with the Grey Wolf Award

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A prominent Mackay charity organisation, Broken Ballerina Inc. are hosting their ‘Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful’ Ball on Saturday October 7 to raise funds for victims of domestic violence.

The ball will be held at Northern Beaches Bowls Club, event goers will experience a night of fun and fancy dress including a charity auction and local entertainment, all for a great cause.

Break out your best black, white and pink spring cocktail attire for a night of vibrancy and amusement.

Broken Ballerina was formed with an important mission in mind – to make a difference in the lives of victims of domestic violence and disadvantaged people in our society.

Broken Ballerina can help provide referral services and offer support in filing police reports, domestic violence orders and attending court.  

The ‘Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful’ Ball will have Tegan Philpott set to MC the event, with special guest speakers and a performance by local band, Mango Junction.

A smorgasbord menu and chocolate dessert bar by The Chocolate Leaf will be on the cards for lucky attendees.

If you love supercars, you won’t want to miss out on the auction. Items up for grabs will include a limited-edition Seiko watch, signed by the V8 Supercar drivers and a Holden rim signed by Brad Jones, which was part of the very last race of a Holden vehicle.

Raffle prizes will include gift cards, gift baskets, a $1000 voucher from Local Eyes Optometrist and two nights' accommodation in a deluxe room at Pullman & Mercure Brisbane King George Square, included is a breakfast for two and a $120 food and beverage credit at Goldfinch Restaurant.

Other fun auction and raffle items will be disclosed on the night.

Don’t miss out on this exclusive event, with the option to support an outstanding not-for-profit charity that is constantly giving back to our local community.

Mackay and Whitsunday locals' generosity is paramount to the success of Broken Ballerina and enables the continuation of their services - help to be a part of the solution.

Tickets are available from mackaytickets.com.au, or alternatively you can visit brokenballerina-inc.com.au for more information. Donations are tax deductible.

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Grants For Business And Community Projects

If you have a business ready for an external refresh or an idea for a community activation, then now is the time to connect with council.

Council has two grant opportunities currently open for application, which are due to close on September 30.

The Facade Improvement Grant gives businesses the chance to breathe new life into their building facades, enhancing the vibrancy of the region’s business districts.

The grant covers improvement projects such as painting of facades and exterior walls, restoration of historic buildings, installation of new signage, renovation of entranceways and doors and installation of external awnings, lighting and street-visible windows.

The Activate My Place! (AMP!) Placemaking Grant is about transforming public spaces and bringing communities together, whether it is an art installation, or event celebrating togetherness and cultural heritage.

Council’s Economic Development team are excited to work with residents and businesses to identify projects that will breathe new life into every corner of our region.

To be eligible for a grant, applicants must meet specific criteria outlined in the guidelines, which can be found online at discovermackay.com.au/businesssupport.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity.

For more information or assistance in applying, contact the Economic Development team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or email business@mackay.qld.gov.au.

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The Mackay Base Hospital received an Activate My Place! (AMP!) Placemaking Grant in 2022

to build this Indigenous meeting place and community garden, including a mural by

Indigenous artist Dylan Mooney

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In a spectacular automotive extravaganza, the Pioneer Valley Classic Car Club transformed Mirani's main street into a vintage wonderland for their annual event, "Dad's Day in the Valley." With over 100 classic cars, trucks and bikes on display, this year's gathering proved to be the ultimate Father's Day treat.

The event, now in its 12th year, showcased vehicles spanning over a century of automotive history, drawing more than 6,000 people through the gates. From the elegant 1904 Renault to the rugged 1908 WWII truck and even a sleek 2018 McLaren, enthusiasts of all ages revelled in the beauty and craftsmanship of these mechanical marvels.

Not only did "Dad's Day in the Valley" draw car lovers from across the region, but it also served as a heartwarming display of community spirit. The event's unique feature of shutting down the town's main street for the day added to its charm, allowing families to stroll freely among the classic cars. Mayor Greg Williamson presented trophies to the proud owners of the winning vehicles.

Beyond celebrating classic cars, the event had a philanthropic mission. Gate proceeds from the day were channelled toward supporting local charities, this year the major recipient was Special Olympics Mackay. The charity received goods and services valued at $9,300, thanks to the generosity of the car club and the event attendees.

Over the years, "Dad's Day in the Valley" has evolved into a significant annual event. Its success is not only measured by the number of classic cars on display but also by the positive impact it has on the local community. With every passing year, this beloved tradition continues to grow and provide a unique opportunity for families to create lasting memories on Father's Day.

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Photo credit: Mad for Media

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OPINION PIECE

● You WILL pay more tax

● You WILL lose your land

● This is a land grab; it is not a way forward for the First Nations People

● This WILL divide Australia even further

● $39 billion already spent on Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander programs

● Where has it gone?

● What has been achieved?

● Why are major corporations pushing for a YES vote?  

● Why is the government trying to sway your vote to YES?  

● If the government says YES, the people should say NO

● Why is the government saying YES when our elders are saying NO?

● The creators of the YES faction are Communists

● The Voice WILL be permanent

● There is no going back, this is NOT a trial run

● Why vote YES to something you don’t fully understand

● Don’t’ be swayed by celebrities pushing the YES vote  

● Don’t be swayed by commercial interests with an alternate agenda

● WHY ARE THE NO VOTERS BEING DENIED A VOICE?

This is too important for you to be undecided. The decision is yours but your concerns have not been addressed. Read the actual changes planned for the constitution and you will see it is offering nothing of substance to our First Nations People.  

Come and hear from our Birri Gubba Giya senior elders explaining why we must all vote NO.

Bluewater Quay Saturday 23rd September at 10am.

March across the bridge and bring your NO signs.

Contributed by Christine McDonald

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Entertain the kids with everything from free art and craft activities, music and live entertainment to getting them outside exploring the Botanic Gardens with the perfect weather as Mackay Regional Council facilities offer a range of activities these school holidays.

> ARTSPACE MACKAY  

Decorate a Mandap with colour and crepe paper

Until October 1, 2023

Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm

Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 3pm

Inspired by Zanny Begg’s video work ‘Stories of Kannagi’ on show at Artspace Mackay, we’ve constructed a Mandap (a four-post structure traditionally used in India for special ceremonies) and we need your help to make it a special, beautiful and colour-filled space! This project is for all ages and abilities, so bring your family and use the many colourful crepe-paper streamers and instructions provided to make a variety of beautiful garlands to adorn the Mandap. Free entry, no bookings required. See below for special opening hours by Foodspace Café over select school holiday weekends.

Giant outdoor lawn games

Saturday and Sunday, September 23 and 24, 10am to 3pm

Love playing Jenga, Connect 4 and Noughts and Crosses? Come along and enjoy playing them in jumbo sizes with the family on the shaded lawn area outside near Foodspace while grabbing a bit to eat and a cuppa at the café.

> LIBRARIES

Larrikin Puppets Kids Comedy Puppet Show

Thursday, September 28, 10.30am to 11.15am at Gordon White Library Book tickets

Friday, September 29, 9.30am to 10.15am at Dudley Denny City Library Book tickets

Join us for a colourful and exciting puppet show featuring intriguing characters, songs, skits, jokes, games and live interaction. Puppeteers Brett and Elissa have trained in the USA under puppeteers from The Muppets and Sesame Street and their fast-paced, feel-good performance encourages audiences to talk, play, sing, and dance along. Suitable for children aged 7 years and under and their families.

Puppetry Performance Workshop with Larrikin Puppets

Thursday, September 28, 1pm to 2pm at Gordon White Library Book tickets

Friday, September 29, 11am to 12pm at Dudley Denny City Library Book tickets

An interactive workshop led by Brett Hansen and Elissa Jenkins of Larrikin Puppets who received their training in the USA under puppeteers from The Muppets and Sesame Street. Learn the basic techniques that bring puppet characters to life. Suitable for children aged five to 12 years.

> MECC

MECC Presents: The Sunshine Club

Thursday, September 28, 7.30pm

MECC Auditorium

Set in 1946, the joyful and acclaimed musical The Sunshine Club, tells the story of Aboriginal soldier Frank Doyle, who is just returning home to Brisbane after serving in WW2, to find that, while the world may have changed, the same attitudes and prejudices still exist at home. The Sunshine Club is a gloriously energetic, thought provoking and above all entertaining night of theatre. Book tickets

> MACKAY REGIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS  

SELF-GUIDED ACTIVITIES

Tibbles Hunt in the Tropical Shade Garden

Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm during school holidays

FREE, self-guided kids’ activity, suitable for ages four and up. Find Tibbles the gnome and decode his latest message. Pick up your activity sheet from the Visitor Information centre weekdays, 9am to 4pm. Return the completed activity sheets to get your sticker.

Strolling Story Trail – One Remarkable Reef

Until September 22, 9am to 4.30pm

Follow the story of One Remarkable Reef along the trail throughout the holidays. Find the painted reef-inspired rock with ‘YOU WIN’ on the back along the way and return it to Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre to win a reef-inspired prize! Suitable for kids of all ages.

Creatures of the Gardens

Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm during school holidays

Discover some of the creatures found in the botanic gardens and surrounding region. Pick up your booklet from the Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre, answer the questions along the way and give yourself a sticker at each stop. This free, self-guided family friendly activity is suitable for kids aged seven years and older.

Bocce with a Buddy

Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm during school holidays

Malta Garden’s Bocce Court

Enjoy a game of bocce with a friend on our sand bocce court. Bocce sets are available to hire from Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre or bring your own to play. Cost: $5.00 to hire a bocce set.

BOOKED ACTIVITY

Creative container plants

Wednesday, September 27, 10am to 11.30am

Tropical Sun Lawn

Cost: $7/person

Spring has sprung! Get your gardening gloves on and join in to create a container garden with a difference. Reuse your plastic containers to create a decorative, tiered mini garden to attract wildlife or add a splash of colour to your garden. Bring along three plastic containers (eg 1.25L soft drink bottles, 1L milk bottle, yogurt containers, etc) and suitable clothing that might get dirty. Parental supervision is required at all times. Suitable for school aged children with colouring-in activities available for younger children. To book your spot, phone the gardens on phone (07) 4952 7300. Payment is required to confirm your spot.

> MACKAY WATERFRONT  

River Wharves Activities

Wednesday, September 27

9.30am to 10.15am: Story Time presented by Let the Children Play at the Pavilion stage.

9.30am to 11.30am: Mackay Libraries exploration stations and First 5 Forever van.

> SARINA SUGAR SHED  

Special kids tour of the Sarina Sugar Shed

Saturday, September 16 to Sunday, October 1, 10.30am every day

Adults at children’s prices (bookings essential)

Field of Dreams Parklands, Railway Square, Sarina

(Please note this tour does not include a full tasting of products for the adults)

This fun, interactive session focuses on the kids, with the added bonus of adults being welcome at kids' prices! During the 45-minute tour, the kids will discover the growing and harvesting of the sugar cane and complete a hunt for the critters that live in the sugar cane patch.

> SARINA YOUTH CENTRE

School holiday activities

All events run 10am to 2pm

A variety of school holiday activities are on offer for youth aged ten to 21 years. You must register for a spot and please indicate what day/program you would like to attend. Contact Sarina Youth Centre on 4961 9277 or email sarinayouthcentre@mackay.qld.gov.au.

Monday, September 25: Cooking

Tuesday, September 26: Trivia competition

Wednesday, September 27: Minute to win it - 60 seconds challenge

Thursday, September 28: Movie day

Friday, September 29: Board games - verse your friends

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A trusted rural charity, Rural Aid, is encouraging farmers to reach out for assistance as the Bureau of Meteorology officially declares an El Nino event.

The El Nino weather pattern means hot, dry seasons that trend towards drought.

Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the Bureau’s announcement confirmed many producers’ fears.

“The announcement of the El Nino weather pattern will bring a lot of unwelcome memories to the surface for our farmers, who’ve been anxiously watching land and waterways dry up,” Mr Warlters said.

“We’re encouraging farmers to reach out and register with Rural Aid now.”

Rural Aid offers primary producers a range of assistance measures including financial, hay, drinking water, counselling and volunteer assistance.

“We’ve already seen a huge increase in requests for emergency hay and household drinking water from farmers right across the country,” Mr Warlters said.

“In the past four months, requests to Rural Aid for emergency drinking water have increased by 240 per cent, and our free water tank offer was exhausted in just four hours with more than 95 applications. We’re aiming to deliver another 50 water tanks by the end of this year to meet demand.

“I’m encouraging farmers who are finding themselves overwhelmed to give our rurally-based counselling team a call for a free chat, to make sure they’re in the best possible position they can be to take on the upcoming seasons,” Mr Warlters said.

Primary producers are urged to register online at www.ruralaid.org.au or by calling 1300 327 624.

Rural Aid’s counsellors can be reached at 1300 175 594.

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The Queensland Government has said that future generations of Australians will enjoy greater comfort in their homes as well as cheaper power bills thanks to national laws delivering modern building standards.

To balance the needs of homeowners and industry, the State Government has agreed to a phased approach to the National Construction Code 2022, with implementation from October 1, 2023 through to May 1, 2025.

Master Builders has welcomed the delay of the energy efficiency changes to the construction Code, however, is disappointed the Queensland Government is forging ahead with the other significant changes in just over a week.

Last week, Minister Mick de Brenni announced the energy efficiency changes will have an extended transition to 1 May 2024 as the software used to measure energy ratings was still not ready.

While the government has listened to the industry’s concerns, Queensland is the lone state moving ahead with a 2023 introduction of livable housing changes.

Master Builders said the rules were only finalised last week, a little more than a week from the 1 October start date, and there has been a lack of sufficient education and awareness for industry and consumers.

Master Builders CEO Paul Bidwell reiterated that now is not the time to introduce changes that will increase the cost of housing, while the state faces a housing crisis.

“We are disappointed that the Minister didn’t delay the liveable housing requirements, as there is a lack of practical information available to licensed builders and trade contractors on how to implement the changes without incurring significant costs. Changes that commence in just 11 days.

“How can licensees comply with substantial changes to the way houses must be built when information has not been issued to them ahead of the changes commencing on 1 October.”

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Porters Mitre 10 Has An Exclusive Just For You!

Imagine a barbecue that maximises on size without compromising on portability, includes an extended temperature range that allows you to explore cooking methods as well as being easy to cook on and clean. What if we told you the new Weber Q range, exclusive to Porters Mitre 10, has all those features and more?

Introducing the Weber Q 1000N, 2000N, 2600N+ and the 3100N+. Whether you’re a grill guru or barbecue beginner, the new range has something for every enthusiast.

The entire range has more surface area and lid volume than ever before, plus front access grease management – meaning you can cook and clean more efficiently. The Weber Q 3100N+ comes with a cart that features plenty of internal storage, lockable casters and front door LPG access, while the other three Weber Qs in the new range are fit for detachable and stowable side tables – great for camping and on the go.

Feel confident in your cooking with front facing control knobs, Q burner angled ports and tri-directional venting on all models in the new line up – helping you handle the heat.

Whether it’s burgers at a family barbecue or prawns on Christmas Day – your Weber Q is the outdoor heart of your home.

As Mackay’s only Weber Specialist Dealer, Porters Mitre 10 know they can rely on Weber to deliver innovative quality and a top tier barbecuing experience for their customers. Sink your tongs into the new premium Weber Q range exclusively at Porters Mitre 10 Mackay City from September 15.

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A surge in sugar and grain exports have propelled the Port of Mackay to another bumper trade result in the 2022/23 financial year.

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation Acting CEO Belinda Kenny said the multi-cargo port posted 3.51 million tonnes of throughput, just shy of the record-breaking 3.59 million tonnes set the year before.

“The Port of Mackay has put together back-to-back bumper trade performances, reflecting the strength and diversity of the Mackay region,” Ms Kenny said.

“Over the past financial year, sugar and grain along with fuel imports and break bulk cargo have led the way.

“Sugar, the port’s second-largest trade, was up 8.2 per cent at 1.06 million tonnes on last financial year, and grain, the third largest export was up 14.7 per cent at 342,581 (2022/23: 342,581 tonnes; 2021/22: 298,682 tonnes).”

“Petroleum saw its second-highest year at 1.7 million tonnes (2022/23:1.7 million tonnes; 2021/22: 1.84 million tonnes).”

Ms Kenny said the strong results were only possible thanks to the efforts of the people who worked at the port and across the Mackay region supply chain.

“Across our four ports – Hay Point, Mackay, Abbot Point and Weipa - NQBP facilitated a combined 152.1 million tonnes of throughput,” Ms Kenny said.

“This represents an overall increase in trade of 4.8 per cent compared to last year (2021/22: 145.1 million tonnes).”

“The results reflect the essential role of our government-owned ports to regional jobs and economic prosperity.”

Throughput figures for NQBP’s ports for 2022-23 are now available on their website.

Port of Mackay Trade highlights

• Raw sugar trade best recorded in 15 years (2022/23: 858,277 tonnes; 2007/08: 883,203 tonnes)

• Grain trade surged to an 11 year-long high (2022/23: 342,581 tonnes; 2011/12: 386,324 tonnes)

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A section of Holland Street, from Lagoon Street to Barton Street, will be closed completely to through traffic while drainage works are completed.

Seaforth Civil will be completing works on behalf of council to improve drainage in the area to help reduce flood risk to properties in significant wet weather events.

Stage one of the Barton Street drainage upgrade project began in June in the Botanic Gardens parkland area.

The second stage includes a road closure in Holland Street which began on Wednesday, September 20. The closed section of Holland Street will only be accessible to residents in that section.

Works will be undertaken between 6.30am and 6pm, Monday to Friday, and some weekend work may also be required.

The existing Lagoon Street bus stop, located near the Holland Street entrance has temporarily moved to Mackenzie Street.

Pedestrians and motorists can expect detours in the area of the works and are asked to please follow all signage.

The speed limit will remain temporarily reduced to 40 km/h on Lagoon Street.

Holland Street is expected to reopen to traffic in late December, weather permitting.

For more information go to connectingmackay.com.au

If you have any concerns, please contact council on 1300 MACKAY (622529).

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Just recently on the breakfast show, we took up something later in life, tried something new. It’s something neither of us have ever done before, and for me it involved an area I’ve never been good at.

Wakeboarding!

This is in a sport I’ve never dabbled in, needing a level of coordination and balance. In the past I’ve done a surf lesson, and in the hour-long lesson I never managed to get up on the surfboard despite less than a foot wave. The strength needed to explode up onto the board, flexibility and balance when up, I just couldn’t coordinate it all.

Skateboarding was something I had a lot of friends at school doing, but I couldn’t get the hang of it, and fortunately stopped before breaking wrists, ankles and doing ACL’s.

When my son had a crack at wakeboarding at a friend’s birthday party a few years back I was proud as punch to see him do a lap on his third attempt, I knew I probably wouldn’t be able to match that.

I was right. My first two attempts were so bad when I fell off, I could still talk to the lady at reception. Someone could have offered me a bit of pizza, I had fallen off so close to the start they pretty much could have passed it to me.

Two tries down and the Me Vs Kaley challenge was looking very one-sided. Fortunately, things clicked a little on number three and I ended up over near the gymnastics building side. I don’t know who was more shocked, the Wake House people or me. I’d kind of forgotten what to do to avoid the jumps and as I approached one a little bit of panic set in.

My son got around in three, but for me the fourth attempt was close, but not as good as him. There was a little bit of swearing from me as I stacked it just metres from the “finish line”, nearly there, but not quite.

So, taking up Wakeboarding later in life, I give the tick. If you’ve never tried it before, take it from someone hopeless at this kind of stuff, you’ll have fun and enjoy the challenge.

Scotty

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The latest figures on the Mackay real estate market provide a story about opportunity, a handy snapshot of the local economy and a reminder that the principle of demand and supply tells us a lot about how any given market is going.

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland has released figures showing the median sale price for units in the Mackay area increased by 8 per cent over the past 12 months to $280,000, which tells me that while there is strong growth there are still great opportunities to pick up affordable properties.

There are plenty of units selling in the $200,000-$250,000 price range, which represents an opportunity for young people looking to break into the market as well as singles and couples who don’t need a big property.

What we have is strong price growth for units of 8 per cent for the year but prices that, at this point in time, are ridiculously cheap compared to the current Australian situation.

How much longer will you be able to buy a unit in Mackay for under $250,000? I don’t know but they are usually renting out for $360-$400 a week so, on that basis, they appear cheap to me at the moment.

So buyers can see affordable opportunities and owners and investors are getting solid growth.

The REIQ’s figures, based on CoreLogic data, show house prices have increased by 3.5 per cent in Mackay in the past 12 months, to a median price of $440,000. Again, solid growth but affordable prices in the national context.

There appear to be a few factors in play here; we obviously have plenty of business activity, job availability and a strong economy that is creating confidence and a demand for real estate.

But the old concept of demand and supply is also playing a role.

The total number of unit listings in the past 12 months is down by 6 per cent to 573 and the number of houses listed for sale dropped from 3746 to 3109 compared to the previous 12 months … that’s a 17 per cent reduction in houses listed for sale.

So supply is down while demand remains strong thanks to Mackay’s strong economy, job availability and other factors such as the great lifestyle in our region. The demand and supply dynamic remains the key factor in price movement.

The other factor is investors. I have sold a number of properties to investors in the past few months and there are some key considerations they take into account when deciding to buy here.

Affordability: it is much cheaper here than most southern markets.

Rental yield: they are achieving a net rental yield of 6 per cent and above, which is also much better than down south.

Rental vacancies and job vacancies: Rental vacancies are under 1 per cent so demand is huge among tenants and there are thousands of jobs available.

Strong economy: Well-informed investors understand the power of our economy and have confidence in opportunities for businesses in our region that employ the investors’ tenants.

So, if you are thinking about selling, call me for a chat.

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OPINION PIECE

I have a strong personal belief that we are all human beings first and foremost and that we should all be working together on a shared pathway; understanding the viewpoints of different people and groups; respecting all cultures and ensuring our community is a safe, welcoming and harmonious place for all to live, work and settle.

During NAIDOC week in July, we found ourselves with several community activities to lead us to the national Australian Indigenous day of celebrations where our community learnt more and connected with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our region. It was great to see community participation in our annual NAIDOC program of events and it was great to see council’s flag raising event include traditional performances by local groups.  There was an outstanding attendance for the march and family day – a huge congratulations to the volunteer committee for putting the program together year on year.

The pending referendum has certainly been a discussion amongst many, but I do encourage everyone to sit down and listen deeply to both sides of the debate because this is no different to a council decision where we endeavour to be informed on both sides before we decide and, regardless of individual views, we must do what is best for most of our community.  Again, I encourage everyone to have a safe and respectful discussion with family and friends because the cornerstone of our democracy is our ability to share different opinions.  Please encourage everyone to learn more to make an informed decision when it comes time to vote.

What I love and appreciate about our community is how welcoming our First Nations families are to anyone who wants to sit and listen to their story.  I have also enjoyed those times that I have had the opportunity to go out on country to learn more about the ancestors, the land and the sea that they look after.

I have been lucky to share time with our traditional custodians and from this have developed positive relationships and I look forward to continuing to work together towards reconciliation.

Cr Alison Jones

Mackay Regional Council

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Breaking free from its traditional newsagency roots, Carroll's unveils a fresh initiative – a clothing line designed to cater to the diverse needs of new mother’s, adding a contemporary twist to their ninety-year legacy in Mackay.

Juanita and Daryl Shepperson, who have operated Carroll’s for just over a decade, have expanded their product range to attract a younger audience to the storefront.

With over thirty-seven years of sewing experience, Juanita has opened an area within the store to stock her very own merchandise. She has two of her own trademarked brands, including MummActive and Boddi.

The brands collectively house a range of items, such as sport and supportive bras, action back singlets, breastfeeding bras and t-shirts, jumpers, shorts, leggings and activewear.

Juanita has her family and friends test the garments before they hit the market. The new range of Boddi underwear have a flat seam, meaning they won’t cut into skin or show crease lines under clothing.

With sizes extending up to 22 or 3XL, Carroll's offers a comprehensive selection that caters to a wide range of body types.

A bestseller in the store is the Tacticool Dad Bag, with interchangeable pockets, insulated food pouch and a built-in stubby holder!

It is a versatile product, also being adopted by motorcyclists, photographers and office workers to use for work or travel. A backpack-style of this bag is currently in the works.

On the other end of their business, along with stationery and news supplies, Juanita and Darryl stock kids and babies clothing, giftware and their famous wooden roses, an everlasting flower that comes in 58 different colours!

Juanita states, “This is evolving our business into a ‘destination’ shop, rather than [just] being known for newspapers, magazines and at back-to-school time.

“If we can cater products that young people are looking for, we hope that gets them in the doors.”

Constructive feedback from her customers is welcomed by Juanita, who is happy to take on modifications and style suggestions to improve her designs.

She even has registered colours and pattern styles, so you won’t see copies in any other store.

“We will keep evolving the range with different products, we’re just getting started.

“We are enjoying it, hopefully people will have a look at our products and see us as a regular go-to for these products.”

Carroll’s Newsagency is open 7-days-per-week, you can find them at 5/171 Victoria Street in Mackay.

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Juanita and Daryl of Carroll’s Newsagency, posing with their brand-new merchandise.

Colourful assortment of Boddi underwear for any occasion

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