Your Guide To Council Services This Christmas

Customer Service Centres

Mackay
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Reopening 9am, Monday, January 5

Mirani
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Reopening 9am, Thursday, January 8

Sarina
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Reopening 9am, Thursday, January 8

Animal Management Centre
Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day (on call for emergencies)
Monday, December 29 to Wednesday, December 31 - open by appointment only between 10am to 12pm
Closed New Year's Day (on call for emergencies)
Friday, January 2, 2026 - open by appointment only between 10am to 12pm

Artspace Mackay
Closed 3pm, Sunday, December 14, 2025
Reopening 10am, Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Mackay ARC
Closed Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
Open Friday, December 26 (Boxing Day) 8am-6pm
Open Thursday, January 1 (New Years Day) 8am-6pm

Bluewater Lagoon
Closed Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
Open every other day from 9am to 6pm

Memorial Swim Centre
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Closed December 25 (Christmas Day)
Closed Friday, December 26 (Boxing Day)
Open from noon, Friday, December 27
Closing noon, Wednesday, December 31
Closed Thursday, January 1 (New Year's Day)
Open from noon, Friday, January 2

Pioneer Swim Centre
Thursday, December 25 - Closed (Christmas Day)
Friday, December 26 - Closed (Boxing Day)
Thursday, January 1 - Closed (New Year's Day)

Mirani Swim Centre
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Closed Thursday, December 25 - Closed (Christmas Day)
Closed Friday, December 26 - Closed (Boxing Day)
Open Saturday, December 27, noon to 5pm
Closed Thursday, January 1 - Closed (New Year's Day)

Sarina Pool
Closed Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve)
Closed Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
Closed Friday, December 26 (Boxing Day)
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 31 (New Year's Eve)
Closed Thursday, January 1 (New Year's Day)

Foodspace
Closed 2pm, Friday, December 19
Reopening 8am, Monday, January 5, 2026

Jubilee Community Centre
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24
Reopening 8.30am, Monday, January 5, 2026

Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre Box Office
Closed 4.30pm, Monday, December 22, 2025
Reopening 9am, Monday, January 5, 2026
Tickets for shows and events can be purchased online via themecc.com.au during this time.

Mackay Natural Environment Centre (Nursery)
Online nursery orders have closed. Online orders will be available from January 1.
The last day for plant collection will be Wednesday, December 17
Collections will resume from Wednesday, January 28.

Botanic Gardens Visitor Information
Closed Monday, December 22, 2025
Reopening 9am, Monday, January 12, 2026

The Botanic Gardens Café and Lagoons Gallery
Closed Monday, December 22, 2025
Reopening 9am, Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Mackay Regional Council Libraries
Closed noon, Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Reopening Monday, January 5, 2026

Pioneer Valley Museum
Closed Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Reopening 1pm, Monday, January 5, 2026

Sarina Sugar Shed
Closed 2pm, Wednesday, December 24 (Christmas Eve)
Closed Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day)
Closed Friday, December 26 (Boxing Day)

Sarina Youth Centre
Closed Thursday, December 25 (Christmas Day) until Friday, January 2, 2026 inclusive
Reopening Monday, January 5, 2026

Council's Contact Centre will close noon, Wednesday, December 24 and reopen 8.30am, Monday, January 5, 2026. Customers can still contact council during the closure period for any urgent or emergency issues by calling 1300 MACKAY (622 529). For non-urgent matters, requests can be submitted online at www.mackay.qld.gov.au/request or via the Snap Send Solve app.

Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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As we head into a new year, there’s a powerful message for young people across our region: back yourself in 2026. Whether you’re finishing school, starting an apprenticeship or taking the leap into a university degree, the path ahead is yours to shape and you don’t have to walk it alone.

To celebrate its 20 years in 2025, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank has expanded its scholarship program for 2026, offering five CQUniversity scholarships worth $39,000, including an additional higher education scholarship.

Three scholarships of $9000 each are available for those entering higher education degrees, while two $6000 scholarships will assist first year apprentices. Recipients benefit not only from financial assistance but also from opportunities to build confidence, develop new skills and strengthen the future workforce across our region.

For Chloe Paul, a 2023 scholarship recipient who has just graduated with a Bachelor of Agriculture (CQUniversity), the support was more than financial.

“I chose a Bachelor of Agriculture because I’m passionate about cattle genetics and I want to contribute meaningfully to bovine reproduction,” Ms Paul said.

“The Community Bank Sarina scholarship is an amazing opportunity, the support that it supplied throughout my studies was a key factor in the success I’ve achieved.”

“This scholarship not only has supported me in reaching my goals, but also it provides recipients with a support network that helps us strive, so I encourage everyone to apply.”

Community Bank Sarina Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the scholarships encourage local students to step forward with certainty.

“We want young people to feel empowered to take the next step toward their future,” Ms Franettovich said.

“Scholarships remove barriers so students can focus on learning, whilst gaining exposure to local professionals, potential mentors and a community that genuinely wants to see them succeed.”

With eligible fields ranging from apprenticeships to undergraduate degrees in technology, nursing, agriculture, teaching, digital media and more, the program encourages students to pursue careers that strengthen both their future and the region’s future.

If 2026 is your year to back yourself, applications close 28 February. To request an application pack, email executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.

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2023 Community Bank Sarina CQUniversity scholarship recipient Chloe Paul has just graduated with a Bachelor of Agriculture. Photo supplied

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Crime Watch In Mackay

Police seek assistance following the theft of a motorcycle in Blacks Beach

A motorcycle was stolen from the driveway of a residence on Aquatic Place, Blacks Beach, between 6pm on 11 December and 5am on December 12th.

The stolen motorcycle is a white and orange coloured 2019 model KTM 390 Duke motorcycle, registration number 5BP94. Anyone who might have information about the current location of the stolen motorcycle, or the offence itself, is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible.

High Speed Incident in Nebo
A 23 year old man from Slade Point has been stopped by police for an alleged high speed incident at 6.49pm on December 10th 2025 on the Peak Downs Highway at Oxford (Nebo).

During mobile speed enforcement patrols, Police recorded the alleged speed of a Hyundai Hatchback was checked to be 147 kilometres an hour in a 100 kilometre an hour speed zone.

Police stopped the Hyundai and spoke to the 23 year old alleged driver.
He was subsequently issued with an infringement notice to the value of $1,919 resulting in the loss of 8 demerit points and a drivers licence suspension period of 6 months.

Man charged for driving under the influence in Paget
A 37 year old man was arrested and charged after an alleged incident on December 8th at 11pm in which he was caught driving his Holden Sedan erratically.

Officers gave a breath test which brought back a positive reading, therein being arrested and charged with driving a vehicle under the influence of liquor. The matter will be heard in the Mackay Magistrates Court on January 5th, 2026.

Release of CCTV footage of armed robbery in Moranbah
Police have released CCTV vision in an appeal for information to identify a person who could assist investigations into an armed robbery incident in Moranbah on October 17th.

Investigations indicate around 7am, a man entered a tobacco store on Town Square Avenue, allegedly armed with a knife. The man then allegedly threatened an employee before leaving the scene on foot with a quantity of cash.

The man was observed fleeing the scene in a silver VE Holden Commodore Sedan, with Queensland registration plates 646YDC, with a driver in a hi-vis shirt heading eastbound on Belyando Avenue at around 7.03am before travelling towards the Peak Downs Highway.

Investigators are appealing to witnesses, or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage from between 6am and 8am on Town Square Avenue, Griffin Street, Batchelor Parade, and Belyando Avenue, or anyone who has observed the Commodore Sedan, to contact police.

Refer to police reference number QP2501872563.

Ongoing missing person case in West Mackay

Police are continuing their investigation into the disappearance of 71-year-old Wayne Pedro Morseu, who was first reported missing to police on November 10th.

Wayne is described First Nations, with a slim build, grey hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts or information about Wayne is urged to contact police immediately.

Refer to police reference number QP2502035864.

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Photo sourced

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Mackay Community Foundation has announced a leadership transition, with outgoing Board Chair Frances Easton handing over the role to local philanthropist Melissa Green, supported by Marcus Pillhofer as Deputy Chair.

Ms Easton served as Board Chair during a period of significant consolidation and progress for the Foundation, overseeing the strengthening of governance frameworks, the introduction of new operational processes and extensive behind-the-scenes work to position the Foundation for long-term growth and impact.

Incoming Chair Melissa Green will lead the Board alongside Mr Pillhofer, with Board members Ian Joblin, Tina Sanders and Jade McAuley continuing to serve.

Outgoing Chair Frances Easton said the focus throughout her tenure had been on building a strong, enduring foundation for the Mackay community – focusing on the Foundation’s guiding principle to “give where you live”.

“Mackay Community Foundation exists to make sure generosity today continues to benefit our community well into the future,” Ms Easton said.

“A lot of the work has happened behind the scenes, but it has all been about creating a solid, well-governed organisation that can grow and give back year after year to our local community.”

Over the past five years, the Foundation has increased its annual community grant distribution from around $70,000 to approximately $250,000, reflecting both growth in its investment base and a stronger platform for long-term giving.

Ms Easton said she was “confident” the Foundation was well placed for its next chapter.

“The strength of this organisation comes from people who genuinely care about Mackay and want to see local generosity protected and amplified for generations to come.”

Incoming Chair Melissa Green said she was honoured to step into the role and continue that work.

“This Foundation has a unique role in our region. By protecting donations and distributing grants every year, we’re creating lasting local impact, and that’s something I’m proud to be part of.”

Ms Green said the Board remained focused on strong governance and a clear long-term vision.

“Our goal is to grow the Foundation’s investment base to $10 million by 2040 or earlier, so we can distribute in excess of $500,000 in grants every year to organisations right here in Mackay. Everything we do comes back to giving where we live.

“If anyone is interested in learning more about the Foundation, or how to donate, I invite you to contact me directly on melissagreenmky@gmail.com.”

The 2026 grants round will open in March – follow Mackay Community Foundation on Facebook for applications dates and more details.

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Outgoing Chair Frances Easton with incoming Mackay Community Foundation Chair, Melissa Green. Photo supplied

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This Christmas, Mackay’s true spirit has shone brightly, with local businesses, teams and individuals coming together to support those who need it most. From families facing illness and hardship to women seeking safety, people experiencing homelessness and essential health services, the generosity shown across the region has been nothing short of heart-warming.

Acts of kindness have arrived in many forms — food hampers, toys, clothing, gifts and hands-on volunteering — all driven by a shared desire to bring comfort, dignity and joy during the festive season.

Some of the many recipients include:

• Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia – Mackay Family Room
• Chances House Mackay
• Whitsunday Foodbank Mackay
• Mackay Hospital Foundation
• Mackay Women’s Services
• BMA CQ Rescue
• Broken Ballerina Inc
• Mackay Salvation Army
• Mackay Pet Rescue Inc

These are just some of the organisations supported this Christmas, with many more quietly receiving help beyond this list.

How wonderful is our region!

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Functional Training For Every Age And Stage

When most people hear the word “strength,” they picture heavy barbells or elite athletes pushing their limits. But strength isn’t just for bodybuilders or professional sports. It’s for everyone. Strength is what allows you to carry groceries, play with your kids, recover from injury, and live a long, independent life. That’s why at Fitness Cartel Mackay, we’ve designed a facility that makes functional training, rehab, and mobility just as important as lifting big weights.

What is functional strength?

Functional strength is about building the muscles and movements that carry over to real life. Squatting down to pick something up, twisting to reach, pushing, pulling, balancing — these are everyday actions. Training them in the gym makes you more resilient outside the gym.

For athletes, functional strength means sharper performance. For older adults, it means staying mobile, confident, and safe. For everyone, it means living better, for longer.

A purpose-built functional training zone

To deliver this, Fitness Cartel Mackay features a dedicated functional training zone — a large, purpose-built space designed for everything from individual workouts to high-intensity group sessions. This area is equipped for Hyrox-style training, one of the fastest-growing fitness competitions in the world, combining endurance, strength, and functional movement into a single challenge.

But you don’t need to be an elite competitor to benefit. Our expert Functional Personal Trainers will lead structured functional training classes right here, guiding members of all levels through workouts that improve strength, agility, and conditioning. Whether your goal is to prepare for competition, get fitter for everyday life, or simply mix up your training with something new, this space has been created to deliver.

A facility designed for inclusivity

Not every member wants to dive straight into the deep end of training, and that’s perfectly fine. Our Comfort Zone provides a dedicated space where beginners, older adults, or anyone returning after time away can ease into fitness at their own pace. The design of our facility ensures there’s a place for every goal — from functional strength training to bodybuilding, from rehabilitation to high-performance conditioning.

The science of mobility and rehab

Mobility and rehabilitation aren’t just “add-ons.” They’re essential. Research shows that improving joint range of motion and stabilising key muscle groups reduces the risk of injury, accelerates recovery, and even enhances mental health by reducing chronic pain.

That’s why our facility offers not only the equipment to train strength, but also the tools and expertise to improve flexibility, stability, and function. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, working on posture, or simply want to move better, the support will be here.

Strength is for everyone

At Fitness Cartel Mackay, strength doesn’t belong to one group — it belongs to everyone. From the first-time member learning a squat, to the athlete loading a barbell, to the retiree improving balance, the outcome is the same: more confidence, more capability, and more life.

Because in the end, strength isn’t about numbers in the gym. It’s about freedom outside of it. And that’s something every member of Mackay deserves.

By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach

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A Proper Christmas For Growers

By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay

It is that time of year again; we are in the lead-up to the most anticipated time of the year, that being Christmas. A time when it is most important to spend time with those people you hold dear. A time of rest, a time of reflection, and most importantly - Santa Claus making his way around the district.

One difference this year is that Santa won’t have to be worried about weaving his way through sugarcane harvesters, haul-outs, and cane train crossings. For the first time in about five years, the harvest in both the Mackay Sugar and Plane Creek areas will have been completed at least 10 days before Christmas Day. This means that people in the growing, harvesting, and milling sectors will hopefully be able to celebrate Christmas at home on the verandah rather than in the workplace, which has been the case over the last few years.

Although this is a positive, of course, it must be remembered this is the result of a reduced crop size in both areas, which takes the gloss off what has been a slightly improved factory performance. That performance has not reached expectations but is an improvement all the same. The problem is that any gains in this sector have been handicapped by massive logistical shortfalls in cane transport. This has resulted in a tremendously difficult and trying year for harvesting contractors in particular, but also the wider industry.

With the crushing season now concluded, Mackay Sugar has recorded a total harvest of 4.76 million tonnes with a seasonal CCS of 13.6. This is surprisingly close to the five-year average considering the amount of standover cane processed, given that standover cane usually lowers CCS levels due to lower sugar content. Plane Creek Mill ended up crushing about 1.332 million tonnes of cane with a CCS for the season of 13.87, which was also impacted by a significant amount of standover cane.

On behalf of Mackay Canegrowers and the wider growing sector, we would like to thank the wider Mackay community for their patience in this past harvesting season. Those of you who grew up in this district have become accustomed to haul-outs on roads and cane trains amongst others. For the newer residents, it is probably a surprise to see a tractor driving down a major arterial road or even through a subdivision, but these are the logistical challenges the industry faces.

We hope that everyone has a restful, safe, and enjoyable Christmas and New Year with those whom they hold dear. We hope that 2026 dawns brighter and more prosperous for all who live in this wonderful wider Mackay region.

There is no doubt that Mackay truly is the Sugar City.

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Plane Creek Harvester parks up after finishing the crushing season for 2025. Photo credit: Jason Borg.

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How Christmas Routines Affect Your Pelvic Floor — And How To Support It

Lauren Neill, Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist at Women's Health Physio Mackay

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, but it’s also one of the biggest disruptions to our usual routines. Long days, late nights, travel, hosting, extra lifting, more sitting, and less structure can all take a quiet toll on the body. And one area that often feels the impact, without us realising, is the pelvic floor.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that supports the bladder, bowel, and pelvic organs, and works closely with breathing, posture, and movement. It responds not just to exercise, but to everyday life. During the festive season, however, everyday life looks a little different.

Travel is a big one. Long car trips to see family, flights, or hours sitting around a table can leave the body stiff and compressed. Many people also change their toilet habits over the holidays; maybe holding on longer in the car, going “just in case,” or delaying trips to the toilet while busy or travelling. These small changes can increase pressure on the pelvic floor and contribute to symptoms like bladder urgency, leaks, constipation, or a feeling of pelvic heaviness.

Food and drink choices often shift at this time of year too, which can quietly affect bowel health. Richer foods, less fibre, more alcohol, and not drinking enough water, (especially in the summer heat) can leave the bowels sluggish and stools firmer than usual. When constipation creeps in, straining becomes more likely, increasing downward pressure through the pelvic floor. Supporting bowel health with regular fluids, fibre-rich foods, and responding to natural urges can help keep everything moving more comfortably.

Christmas also involves more lifting than we often realise. Eskies, suitcases, kids, prams, shopping bags, and rearranging furniture for guests all place extra load through the body. When we rush or hold our breath while lifting, pressure increases downwards onto the pelvic floor; particularly if it’s already fatigued or tense.

Add to that the mental load of organising celebrations, caring for others, and keeping everything running smoothly, and it’s no surprise many women feel uncomfortable, sore, or “not quite right” by the end of the festive period.

The good news is that a little awareness goes a long way. Simple habits can help protect your pelvic floor over the holidays. Staying well hydrated supports bladder and bowel health. Taking regular movement breaks during long drives or days of sitting helps reduce stiffness and pressure. Exhaling when you lift, rather than holding your breath, can significantly reduce strain on the pelvic floor. Gentle movement like walking, swimming, stretching, or short resets between events helps your body feel supported rather than overwhelmed.

It’s also important to listen to your body. If you notice new symptoms like leaking, urgency, heaviness, or discomfort, that’s not your body “failing;” it’s communicating. The festive season often highlights issues that have been quietly present under the surface.

As the year wraps up, remember that looking after your pelvic floor isn’t about restriction or perfection. It’s about support. Supporting your body so you can enjoy the festive season with comfort, confidence, and energy — and head into the new year feeling more connected to your body, not at odds with it.

Because Christmas memories are best made when your body feels looked after too.

Pelvic Floor-Friendly Festive Tips1
• Exhale when lifting eskies, kids or suitcases -avoid breath holding.
• Drink water regularly, especially in the summer-heat.
• Include fiber-rich foods tokeep.bowels.moving-comfortably.
•Take movement breaks.on long drives.or travel days.
• Avoid excessive 'just in case' toilet trips.1
• Add gentle movement-like walking, swimming, orstretching.between events.

Lauren Neill
Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist at Women's Health Physio Mackay

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As Christmas arrives, Life Publishing Group extends our warm wishes to the Mackay community and surrounding regions. This season invites a moment to pause, reflect and reconnect with family, friends and the places that feel like home.

Across our towns and neighbourhoods, Christmas is shaped by small kindnesses, shared meals, community events and the quiet generosity that defines this region. It is a time to celebrate resilience, gratitude and the people who show up for one another throughout the year.

To our readers, contributors, advertisers and community partners, thank you for trusting Life Publishing Group to share local stories that matter. Your support allows local voices, achievements and challenges to be recognised and valued.

As the year draws to a close, may the festive season bring peace, rest and renewed optimism for the year ahead. From all of us at Life Publishing Group, we wish you a safe, joyful and meaningful Christmas, and a bright start to the New Year.

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Mackay Regional Mayor of Mackay, Greg Williamson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and photo sourced.

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Community organisations across the Mirani electorate are celebrating a significant funding boost, with a total of $536,000 awarded through Round 124 of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

The funding, announced by Member for Mirani Glen Kelly MP, will support a range of local not-for-profit groups, with grants of up to $100,000 helping to cover the costs of delivering essential services, programs and community activities.

The investment is set to strengthen grassroots organisations and enhance opportunities for residents across the region.

Mr Kelly congratulated all the recipients within the Mirani electorate that were successful with their applications.

“There’s some absolute crackers in this round of funding with 10 groups receiving grants for projects to improve what they can provide to the community,” Mr Kelly said.

“These grants are so important to giving our community groups a chance to purchase upgrades, equipment, or help fund events providing levels of funds that are difficult to get through fundraising alone.”

“Walkerston Cricket Club is getting a new mower, and that’s always a great little investment for these clubs, it’ll help them be able to keep those outfields more consistent and provide for a better experience for the players up there.”

Lloyd Blomfield, Secretary of the Walkerston Cricket Club, who received $23,004.12 to install awnings over their walkways said that it will improve wet weather access to the hall.

“Getting the grant money saves us a lot of chook raffles, and allows us to get bigger items that we wouldn’t normally be able to afford.

“As a club we support so many in the community through the teams that play for us so being able to get new equipment helps us to keep that sustainable.

“It’s certainly a Merry Christmas to the groundsman because the money will be buying a new mower to replace our old one that is starting have issues that would have cost the club money to get fixed as well.”

Recipients include:

• Alligator Creek State School P&C – $12,620.35 - Installing a chilled drinking station
• Alton Downs Hall Association Inc. – $9,790.00 - Installing fans and weather protection
• Country United Football Club Inc. – $100,000.00 - Installing a shade structure
• Crediton Hall Recreation Club Inc. – $31,815.28 - Installing a shed and purchasing a mower
• Mackay and District Hack and Pony Club Inc. – $100,000.00 - Facility upgrades
• Rockhampton Water Ski Club Inc. – $82,186.50 - Installing a new dock
• Sarina State School P&C – $82,401.00 - Installing drinking fountains
• C&K Hoey Street Community Kindergarten – $9,573.01 - Facility upgrade
• Walkerston Cricket Club Inc. – $23,004.12 - Purchasing a new mower

To view the full list of Round 124 recipients, and find out more about current GCBF rounds, visit: www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/community-grants.

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Peter Darby, President Rockhampton Water Ski Club, Glen Kelly MP, Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander MP on the floating Pontoon at the Rockhampton Ski Club. Photo supplied

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Last Tuesday, the Mackay Bowling Club extended their warm hospitality to 30 residents and carers from Homefield Nursing Home for a delightful Christmas lunch. This heartwarming event was made even more special by having Ruby, founding member and Life member of the club join in the festivities along with Violet another bowler from interstate.  The dedicated efforts of the members, who not only prepared the meal but also served it with grace and care.

The atmosphere was filled with festive cheer as the residents enjoyed the delicious food, lovingly cooked by the members. The lunch provided an opportunity for socialising, laughter, and the creation of cherished memories, making it a truly memorable occasion for all involved.

Such events highlight the spirit of community and the importance of coming together to spread joy and kindness. The Makay Bowling Club's commitment to supporting and uplifting the elderly members of the community is truly commendable, and their efforts in organising this Christmas lunch were deeply appreciated by the Homefield Nursing residents.

All in all, the day was a resounding success, filled with goodwill, festive spirit, and the joy of giving.

The residents left with smiles on their faces and warmth in their hearts, looking forward to more gatherings in the future.

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A joyous celebration was had by all at this years Christmas lunch, hosted by Mackay Bowling Club. Photos supplied

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Hi lovely readers,

It’s officially that time of year!

In the lead-up to Christmas, the stores are crowded, the roads are packed, and our hearts are often fullest when we’re surrounded by the people we love.

You don’t quite realise how much our region is growing until you experience the Christmas traffic!

It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of gift-buying and end-of-year expectations. Sometimes even a little pressure can creep in, so please let this be a gentle reminder to be kind to yourself and give yourself some grace.

We also know Christmas can be a difficult time for some, which makes kindness and compassion towards others more important than ever.

After a recent health scare, (which I’m now recovering well from), I’m especially reminded that gifts go far beyond the material things we can see and touch.

Even just waking up today is a gift!

If you’re spending Christmas alone, or if you’re curious about the true reason for the season, I encourage you to connect with a local church and share in fellowship, because we thrive best when we’re grounded in community.

You don’t have to have it all together to experience the love of God – you just need to be open to receiving it.

Jesus actually teaches us that giving is better than receiving... and what greater gift do we have than the life He has already given us?

2025 has been full of blessings – and lessons – and I can’t wait to see what 2026 holds.

Merry Christmas, and blessings to you all. Stay safe, and I’ll see you in our 9th Jan edition!

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Labor Did

Opinion Piece

Dear Santa,

We know you’re busy this time of year, but down here in Australia, we’re hoping you can spare a moment. Christmas under Labor is looking less like It’s A Wonderful Life and more like The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.

We’ve written our wish list, Santa, the same list Labor promised to deliver when they came down the chimney in 2022. Just like countless kids who wake up on Christmas morning to find socks instead of a shiny new bike, Australians are discovering that Labor’s promises don’t quite match the packaging.

So here it is, Australia’s Christmas Wish List, complete with the reality we found under the tree:

1. “All You’ll Need to See a Doctor Is Your Medicare Card!”

What We Wished For: Free, simple, accessible healthcare, a Christmas miracle for families already counting every dollar.

What We Unwrapped Instead:
• GP visits now average over $50 out of pocket;
• Specialist fees have soared, leaving Australians $117 out of pocket per visit;
• Health inflation has climbed 15 per cent.

Medicare was sold as the answer to cheaper care, yet in Dawson bulk-billing is increasingly rare, there are no Medicare clinics, and families still need their credit cards as well as their Medicare cards.

2. “Labor Will Deliver Cheaper, Cleaner, Reliable Energy!”

What We Wished For: Stable, affordable electricity to power homes, businesses, farms, factories, and schools. The kind of energy system where turning on the Christmas lights does not require taking out a personal loan.3. 4. 5. What Reality Delivered:

Power bills are up nearly 40 per cent; energy-intensive industries are on the brink, and households are forced to choose between running the air-con or affording Christmas lunch.

It is not just about household bills. When energy is unaffordable, everything becomes more expensive:
• Food costs more to grow, refrigerate, and transport;
• Construction costs have exploded;
• Manufacturing has become uncompetitive;
• Small businesses are buckling under the pressure;
• Supply chains pass every extra dollar on to consumers.

Labor’s reckless, ideologically-driven race to renewables, without firming, without planning, and without a realistic path, has created an energy market as unpredictable as a summer storm. Cheap, reliable energy is the beating heart of everything, from making steel to baking gingerbread.

“Labor Will Make Life Easier for Australians!”

What We Wished For: A cost-of-living Christmas miracle, with lower inflation, stable interest rates, and room in the weekly budget for a box of chocolates that is not on clearance.

What Reality Delivered: Inflation remains high, and the Reserve Bank of Australia has held the cash rate for the third time in a row, citing Labor’s reckless spending and mounting inflation pressures.

Mortgages are rising, households are squeezed, and hope for relief before Christmas is evaporating.
• Mortgages are $1,800 higher per month since Labor took office;
• Food is 15 per cent more expensive;
• Housing is 19 per cent more expensive;
• Insurance is 37 per cent more expensive.

Labor’s spending is running at four times the economy’s growth, leaving taxpayers to foot $50,000 in interest every minute on Labor’s trillion-dollar debt. Under Labor, Australia has suffered the biggest fall in living standards in the developed world. Some families now have $33 left after essentials, according to Anglicare. That is not festive cheer; that is a cost-of-survival crisis.

“We’ll Help First Home Buyers With a 5% Deposit Scheme!”

What We Wished For: A realistic chance for young Australians to unwrap the keys to their own home.

What We Actually Got: Higher prices, higher mortgages, and a generation staring down 40-year home loans. Only 16 per cent of homes nationwide are affordable for first-home buyers. In some suburbs in Dawson, just 4 per cent of homes are affordable for essential workers: nurses, educators, childcare workers, the people who keep our communities running.

Labor did not make home ownership easier; they simply gave buyers a bigger mortgage and a Christmas stocking full of false hope.

“HECS Relief Will Ease the Burden on Young Australians!”

A 20 per cent HECS wipe sounds generous until you realise it is funded by more debt, fuelling more inflation, which pushes rents and grocery prices up, hurting the samestudents it claims to help. It is like giving a child a present, then sending them the invoice.

Australia does not want extravagance, just fairness, stability, and the chance to get ahead.

Under Labor, it seems the only one enjoying a very merry Christmas is the tax office.

So, Santa, if you have room on the sleigh this year, Australia has a simple Christmas wish: a
government that lives within its means, so Australian families and businesses can, too.

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Australians are getting a lump of coal in their stocking this Christmas, with no cost-of-living relief in sight. While families are tightening their belts, Labor keeps delivering higher power bills, rising grocery prices, and bigger mortgages, leaving households paying more and getting less. Photo supplied

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If you’re looking to start the year green-fingered, January in Mackay is ideal for planting heat-loving vegetables and tropical plants that thrive in summer conditions.

For vegetables, think fast-growing and resilient.

Tomatoes, capsicum, eggplant, and cucumbers flourish in the tropical heat with plenty of sunlight and consistent watering.

Herbs like basil, coriander, lemongrass, and mint are perfect for adding flavour to summer dishes while being low-maintenance. Beans and zucchini are also reliable summer performers and provide continuous harvests.

Leafy greens like kangkong (water spinach) and amaranth are excellent for warmer months, growing quickly even in tropical humidity.

If you have space, sweet potatoes and pumpkin vines are productive and easy to manage with trellising or ground cover.

Tropical fruit trees and plants also thrive when started early in the year.

Passionfruit, pineapple, papaya, and bananas love the summer sun and can provide a steady yield when established. Mulching around plants helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool, which is crucial during the peak heat of January and February.

Don’t forget companion planting to boost growth and reduce pests—marigolds, basil, and nasturtiums are great allies.

With a little planning, your summer garden can be productive, vibrant, and sustainable, setting you up for a fruitful 2026 from the very start of the year!

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Preparing Your Home For A Bright New Year

The New Year is the perfect time to give your home a fresh start.

After the hustle and bustle of Christmas, a tidy, refreshed space can boost your mood, create a welcoming environment, and even inspire healthier habits for 2026.

Start with decluttering. Clear surfaces, cupboards, and wardrobes, keeping only what you truly use or love. Donate items that are in good condition, and recycle or responsibly dispose of what you no longer need. Decluttering not only frees up space but also makes your home feel lighter and more organised.

Next, consider minor renovations or updates. Even small changes, like a fresh coat of paint on walls, updating door handles, or replacing worn-out cushions, can dramatically refresh a room. Focus on areas you use most, such as the kitchen, living areas, or outdoor entertaining spaces, so you feel the benefits every day.

Lighting can also transform your home. Switch to brighter, energy-efficient bulbs, add a statement lamp, or install LED strip lights under cabinets to create warmth and functionality.

Finally, add finishing touches to make your space feel inviting. Soft textiles, fresh flowers, scented candles, or even a few well-placed artworks can instantly elevate the vibe. Outdoor spaces benefit from a sweep, potted plants, and tidy furniture arrangements.

By decluttering and refreshing your home now, you set the tone for a bright, organised, and energised 2026.

A little effort goes a long way, helping you start the year with a clear mind and a space you’re proud to call home.

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