Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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According to the Whitsunday Conservation Council, ecotourism should prioritise conservation and education, not serve as a green label for developments that degrade the natural values they claim to protect. Photo source: Queensland Government
Concerned Conservationists have spoken up following the announcement of the Whitsunday Skyway Project.
Stage One of the proposed new attraction will feature a 1.8km cableway from Airlie Beach to the summit of Conway National Park, a luge-style ride, as well as dining and cultural experiences, special events facilities and bushwalking tracks.
A second stage, including downhill mountain bike trails, is also planned and will be subject to a future feasibility review.
"The Whitsunday Conservation Council’s policy is that National Parks exist to protect nature, not to serve as sites for commercial infrastructure," said Tony Fontes, President of the Whitsunday Conservation Council (WCC).
“Protected areas such as Conway National Park provide refuge for wildlife, safeguard ecosystems, preserve Indigenous heritage, and offer opportunities for sustainable, low-impact recreation and education.
"We are most concerned with the proposed mountain bike trail associated with the Skyway project… A thrill-seeking downhill mountain bike race is not ecotourism and has no place in a National Park.
“Ecotourism is based on conserving natural environments, minimising impacts, and fostering appreciation and understanding of nature. Mountain biking, by contrast, is primarily a recreational activity that requires trails, infrastructure, and ongoing maintenance, often resulting in vegetation clearing, soil erosion, wildlife disturbance, and habitat fragmentation. While mountain biking can occur in natural settings and may support local economies, these benefits alone do not make it ecotourism. Labelling mountain biking as ecotourism risks diluting the meaning of the term and undermining genuine nature-based conservation outcomes.”
"We are also very concerned that the current Queensland government is determined to open our National Parks to a slew of commercial interests, under the guise of ecotourism, with a “streamlined approval process” and no room for public consultation."
“National Parks are established primarily to protect biodiversity, landscapes and cultural heritage, not to serve as commercial assets. A streamlined approval process may weaken environmental scrutiny and limit consideration of cumulative impacts on sensitive ecosystems. Equally troubling is the apparent lack of meaningful public consultation, which removes the community's ability to scrutinise proposals and hold decision-makers accountable.
“Calling a development “ecotourism” does not automatically make it environmentally responsible. Too often, the term is used to market projects that involve habitat clearing, new infrastructure, increased visitation and disturbance to wildlife. Genuine ecotourism should prioritise conservation and education, not serve as a green label for developments that degrade the natural values they claim to protect.”
“The problem with undisturbed natural areas is that they don't make them anymore.”
In response to the WCC’s concerns, Member For Whitsunday Amanda Camm said:
"I respect that some members of the community have concerns about the proposed Whitsunday Skyway and the protection of Conway National Park.
“The Whitsundays' natural environment is one of our region's greatest assets, and any proposal will need to meet the relevant environmental and regulatory requirements. At the same time, the project presents an opportunity to strengthen our tourism industry, support local jobs and contribute to the region's economic growth.
“It is important that discussions around the project are informed by evidence, balanced consideration of environmental impacts and the long-term interests of the Whitsunday community."
With plans projecting that the Skyway would create 390 direct and indirect jobs, and draw 250,000 visitors annually, this debate is part of a broader ongoing discussion within our region: how to encourage tourism growth and economic investment while preserving the environmental and cultural values that make the Whitsundays so unique.
A $1 million project is set to construct women’s changerooms for the Rugby League Mackay & District playing fields
The Government have announced a $1 million project to construct women’s changerooms for the Rugby League Mackay & District playing fields in an aim to support the next generation of female players in the region amid an increasing demand for participation.
The commitment to deliver the changerooms comes after local MP Nigel Dalton petitioned for the investment and was backed by more than 300 community members.
The changerooms will also be adjacent to BB Print Stadium, the home of the Mackay Cutters, which is used by a range of other sports including rugby union and soccer for major fixtures.
The project will be jointly funded by the state government and Mackay Regional Council and will include two fully-serviced changerooms with dedicated female amenities.
Premier David Crisafulli said the new changerooms would provide greater dignity for women and girls wanting to play rugby league.
“Every Queenslander who plays sport, regardless of their gender, age or ability, deserves to have access to changerooms and facilities,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“Mackay is one of Queensland’s greatest rugby league nurseries and the growth of the women’s game in the region has been outstanding.
“It’s imperative women and girls who play the game are made to feel as welcome as possible, and these new changerooms will make rugby league even more inclusive for the Mackay community.
“This upgrade is overdue and our government is delivering the infrastructure local sporting clubs need to thrive, while creating more opportunities for women and girls to get involved in sport.”
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the new changerooms were a gamechanger for sport in the region.
“Having the right infrastructure in place will attract more women and girls to want to play rugby league, and that is a huge win for Mackay,” Mr Dalton said.
“This project is a direct result of listening to our local sporting clubs and the wider community over the past year. Time and again, people told me they wanted better facilities to support the growth of women's sport, and I'm proud we have been able to deliver on that feedback.
“Having the new changerooms adjacent to BB Print Stadium means female participants using that venue, whether it be for rugby league, rugby union or soccer, will also be catered for.
“This is a fantastic outcome for our community and for Mackay sport, and it's another example of what can be achieved when we listen to local people and deliver on their priorities.”
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the project was a significant win for local sport.
“We’re seeing strong participation in women’s sport right across Mackay, and these new changerooms will make it easier for more women and girls to get involved and stay involved in sport,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The Mackay Regional Council is pleased to partner with the Crisafulli Government on a project that will deliver benefits for local clubs and the wider community for years to come.”
Mackay Cutters Board Member Emma Coburn said the upgrades would allow female players access to safe, modern and inclusive facilities that support their participation in the game.
“We’ve seen incredible growth in women’s rugby league across Mackay, and having modern, dedicated female facilities is essential to supporting that growth,” Ms Coburn said.
“This investment will help strengthen the pathway from grassroots participation through to representative rugby league and ensure the next generation of female talent can continue to thrive right here in our region.”
Premier David Crisafulli announced the upgrades when he visited Mackay earlier this week. Photo credit: Suzanna McLoughlin
A notorious Bruce Highway intersection long considered one of the region’s most dangerous blackspots is set for a major safety overhaul, with Premier David Crisafulli announcing plans to upgrade the Habana Road junction.
The project forms part of the joint State and Federal Government’s $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program and will include a reconfigured intersection and road widening to improve safety and heavy vehicle access.
Premier David Crisafulli has announced a major safety upgrade to the notorious Bruce Highway intersection blackspot at Habana Road.
The Premier visited the site on the morning of June 9th to share plans for the project, which will be funded by the $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program jointly delivered by the state and federal Governments.
The intersection will be reconfigured to improve safety and boost capacity, with the road widened to improve safe heavy vehicle access.
The site is a known crash hotspot, with four hospitalisations following serious incidents in the past decade, and many more accidents reported.
Planning and design will now commence for the upgrade, with construction expected to commence in 2027.
“We are delivering the safer Bruce Highway that regional Queensland has demanded and waited too long for,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“This is about getting Queenslanders home sooner and safer, starting with the worst blackspots to boost safety on the Bruce.”
According to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm:
“The Bruce Highway and Farleigh Habana Road intersection is notoriously dangerous, and these overdue upgrades for our community will deliver a major boost to safety,”
“In addition to saving lives, this investment is ensuring we have the regional connectivity to support our tourism, mining and agricultural industries.”
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said he was proud to be part of a government delivering for regional communities.
“These upgrades to the Bruce Highway are something the community has been calling for and now thanks to the Government securing a $9 billion program, it’s getting the critical upgrades it needs,” Mr Dalton said.
A Commemorative Ceremony marking the 83rd anniversary of Australia worst air disaster was conducted at the Bakers Creek memorial on Sunday 7th June.
The B-17c Flying Fortress, a former bomber which had been converted to a transport aircraft, carrying 41 American military personnel back to ‘Maple’ (Port Morsby following their rest and relaxation leave in Mackay, crashed shortly after taking off from the Mackay airport before sunrise, at 6.02am, on the morning of 14th June 1943, in the area now occupied by the abattoir. There was only one survivor.
The memorial which is located at the Bakers Creek Community Hall, less than a kilometre from the crash site, was unveiled and dedicated on 11th May 1992, and remembrance services have been conducted annually since that date.
Following the arrival of special guests by WW2 Jeeps, American, Australian and 24 ‘Home State’ flags (representing the casualties) were marched on, with music provided by a band comprised of primary school students from several schools. A contingent of No.105 (City of Mackay) Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) followed the flags, and a guard of cadets was mounted at the corners of the memorial.
The ceremony commenced with the Australian National Anthem and the American National Anthem, and an address by Mr. Greg Williamson, Mayor of Mackay Regional Council.
An aerial tribute was provided by a Fly Past and ‘Dipping of Wings’ by a Tiger Moth aircraft from The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum.
Piper Isaac Williamson, a member of the Mackay and District Pipe Band, played a lament as flowers of remembrance were being laid, and the last, representing the sole survivor by a staff member of the Dundula State Primary School.
Taps and The Last Post were sounded by the Bugler, and the Ode to the Fallen recited following a minutes silence, after which Rouse was sounded. The ceremony concluded with a march past of the AAFC.
To help keep this vital service in the sky, residents are encouraged to support the 2026 Annual Appeal. Every dollar counts and could be the difference in someone’s life. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue
After its busiest year on record and more than 300 missions already completed in 2026, BMA CQ Rescue is calling on Mackay and surrounding communities to help ensure the region's rescue helicopter service remains ready for the next emergency.
The community-funded organisation this week launched its 2026 Annual Appeal, aiming to raise $280,000 to help offset rising operational costs and maintain its around-the-clock rescue capability.
Based in Mackay, BMA CQ Rescue provides critical aeromedical, search and rescue, and emergency response services across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Demand for the service continues to grow. In 2025, crews responded to a record 778 missions and flew more than 339,000 kilometres across Central and North Queensland. So far this year, they have already completed more than 300 lifesaving flights.
Chief Executive Officer Tim Healee said every mission represented a family facing one of the most challenging moments of their lives.
“For 30 years, our crews have answered the call without hesitation, no matter the time, weather, or how remote the location,” Mr Healee said.
“But every mission relies on the strength of our community. There will always be another accident, another medical emergency, another family needing help fast. And when that call comes, we must be ready.”
While government funding supports part of the service, BMA CQ Rescue must still raise almost $7 million from the community each year to continue operating.
The 2026 appeal centres on the story of 13-year-old Tallis Anderson, who suffered critical injuries in a serious motorbike accident near Moranbah.
When the emergency call came through, BMA CQ Rescue crews responded rapidly, providing urgent medical care before transporting Tallis to Mackay for specialist treatment.
For his family, the helicopter's arrival was a moment they will never forget.
“You don't realise how precious they are until something like that happens,” Tallis' father Ryan said.
Today, Tallis continues his recovery surrounded by family, something his parents believe may not have been possible without the quick response of the rescue crew.
Mr Healee said Tallis' story highlighted why community support remains so important.
“The people who need us tomorrow don't know it yet, but when that moment comes, our communities support means we can be there,” he said.
This year's appeal also marks 30 years of service for the rescue organisation, which has become a vital lifeline for regional communities where distance can often mean the difference between life and death.
Operating 365 days a year, the service now flies further and faster than ever before, thanks to its fleet of AW139 rescue helicopters. However, officials say continued community support remains essential to ensuring crews can respond whenever the next call for help comes.
Community members can support the appeal by donating through the BMA CQ Rescue website via www.cqrescue.org.au.
Russell Taylor, Sales Associate at RE/MAX Select Mackay. Photo source: RE/MAX Select Mackay
Russell Taylor is making his mark in Mackay’s property market as a Sales Associate with RE/MAX Select Mackay, bringing a driven approach and strong sales background to the industry.
With previous experience in both display homes and vehicle sales, Russell joined the RE/MAX Select team in 2025 and has quickly built a reputation for his communication, responsiveness and market knowledge. Over the past 12 months, he has helped secure strong results for clients across the region, earning consistent five-star reviews from buyers and sellers alike.
Russell said he is passionate about helping locals achieve their property goals while delivering a professional and personable experience throughout the sales process.
Russell Taylor can be contacted on 0418 842 872.
More than 1,000 primary students experienced the energy and talent of St Patrick's College during this year's Cultural Tour, with eight performances delivered across three days to local Catholic primary schools.
Featuring the College's Dance Troupe, Choir, Drum Corps, Stage Band and Concert Band, the high-energy showcase highlighted the many co-curricular opportunities available to students while captivating audiences with music, dance and performance.
Feedback from primary students included praise for both the performances and the opportunities on offer.
One student said, "All of the performances were really good, I really liked the band and the drumming at the end," while another shared, "I liked the dance.”
Other students commented that "everyone gets to do something they like" and that there are "lots of different opportunities" available at the College.
The enthusiastic response from audiences made months of preparation worthwhile.
St Patrick's College congratulates all students involved for their dedication and thanks parents and staff for their support in making the Cultural Tour such a success.
Contributed with thanks to St Patrick’s College.
Mackay Regional Council has adopted a new activation plan for the Sarina Field of Dreams Precinct, focused on boosting tourism, community engagement and collaboration across the popular Sarina destination. Photo supplied
Mackay Regional Council has adopted an activation plan for the Sarina Field of Dreams Precinct, aimed at strengthening the site as a vibrant community and tourism destination.
The precinct brings together attractions including the Mackay Region Visitor Information Centre, Sarina Sugar Shed, Sarina Art Gallery, Sarina Arts and Craft Centre and the new Sarina District Historical Centre, formerly Sarina Museum.
The plan focuses on attracting locals through regular events and experiences, increasing tourism visitation and strengthening collaboration between community groups and volunteers.
During consultation, the decision was made to hand the Sarina Museum collection back to the community through the newly incorporated Sarina and District Historical Society, which will operate the Sarina District Historical Centre from the former Sarina Museum building under a licence agreement provided by council.
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L-R Gary Minter Jumbo's Business Supplies, Erin Ryley Community Bank Sarina Manager, Kylie Schulze Customer Relationships Officer, Geoff O’Connor SBB Partners Director.
As the end of financial year approaches, it’s a good opportunity for business owners to review their goals and performance while making sure everything is organised heading into the new financial year.
If you run a small business, work as a sole trader or manage a growing team, taking the time to review your finances and business operations can reduce stress later.
For example – here are five practical EOFY tips you can consider:
Running a business can mean wearing many hats, so having the right support and staying on top can make a real difference.
We’re proud to support local businesses and the people behind them. As a profit for purpose organisation, every customer who chooses to bank with Community Bank Sarina also contributes towards investing in our community.
For assistance to review your business goals or current circumstances, come in and see the friendly team at 37 Broad Street, Sarina or call us on 07 4943 2634.
Any advice provided in this article is of a general nature only and does not take into account your personal needs, objectives and financial circumstances. You should consider whether it is appropriate for your situation. Please read the applicable product disclosure statement(s) on our website bendigobank.com.au before acquiring any product. All loans are subject to the bank’s normal lending criteria. Fees, charges, terms and conditions apply and are subject to change. Credit provided by Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178 Australian Credit Licence 237879.
CANEGROWERS says growers support strong environmental protections but want greater clarity around how proposed changes to federal environmental laws could affect routine farming activities. Photo source: ABC
Mackay businesses, landholders and community groups are being encouraged to have their say on proposed changes to Australia's national environmental laws, with the Queensland Productivity Commission (QPC) opening public consultation on the economic impacts of reforms to the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act.
The independent inquiry will examine concerns around compliance costs, project delays and regulatory uncertainty, as well as the potential impacts of excluding resource projects from the EPBC National Interest Fast Track Assessment Pathway.
Mackay is one of seven regional centres selected to host consultation events as part of the review, with submissions open until 13th July.
Queensland Treasurer David Janetzki said the inquiry would help assess how the proposed federal changes could affect key industries across the state.
"Queensland's economic strength has been built on the industries that feed, fuel and supply markets right across the world," Mr Janetzki said.
"Creating jobs, lifting productivity and ensuring environmental policy strengthens our economy is firmly in the national interest."
Mr Janetzki said the State Government wanted to ensure environmental policies supported economic growth while maintaining strong environmental standards.
The consultation is seeking input from stakeholders across the agricultural, housing, construction and resources sectors, alongside environmental organisations and community members.
While the federal approval process is not typically a major issue for day-to-day cane farming operations in the Mackay region, CANEGROWERS says growers are closely watching the proposed changes and the potential implications for agricultural landholders.
CANEGROWERS Chief Executive Officer Dan Galligan said growers supported effective environmental protections but wanted greater certainty around how the laws would apply to routine farming activities.
"Cane growers understand the importance of strong environmental protections, but any regulation has to be practical, clear and proportionate," Mr Galligan said.
"Our concern is that these proposed changes could create further uncertainty around normal farming operations, future land use flexibility and long-term investment decisions."
Mr Galligan said growers should not be left uncertain about whether routine activities such as drainage maintenance, erosion repair, firebreak management, flood recovery works or returning agricultural land to production could trigger additional federal approvals.
"What we would like to see is greater clarity for landholders, proper recognition of Queensland's existing environmental regulations, and a more practical approach to continuing agricultural use and routine farm management," he said.
CANEGROWERS will encourage members to participate in the consultation process and provide feedback on how the proposed changes could affect farming businesses.
An interim report from the inquiry is expected in November, with a final report to be delivered to the Queensland Government in April next year.
The sale of Anglo American’s Queensland metallurgical coal portfolio in a deal worth up to $5.4 billion has been welcomed by the Queensland Government as a major vote of confidence in the state’s mining sector and the Bowen Basin economy.
UK-based mining company Dhilmar Limited will acquire stakes in Anglo American’s Grosvenor, Moranbah North, Capcoal, Aquila and Dawson coal mines — key operations connected to the Mackay region’s mining workforce and supply chain network.
The deal follows several major investments across Queensland’s resources sector, including Yancoal Australia’s investment in Kestrel Coal Mine and Argo Queensland’s deal involving Broadlea, Carborough Downs and Ironbark mines.
Queensland Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last said the sale reflected strong international confidence in Queensland coal assets.
“The Crisafulli Government is restoring investor confidence through a stable and predictable operating environment - exactly as we promised - and the sheer interest from global investors in these assets is reflective of that,” Mr Last said.
“I have said time and time again – there is strong global interest in Queensland’s world-class metallurgical and thermal coal assets, and the sale of Anglo’s coal portfolio brings welcomed investment in our resource rich State.”
Mr Last said the Bowen Basin remained one of the world’s leading coal regions, supported by a skilled workforce and strong industry demand.
“Queensland’s Bowen Basin is home to some of the world’s best coal backed by a highly skilled workforce, leading environmental approvals and a government that delivers on its word.”
The sale remains subject to approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board.
The Government said projects backed since coming to office are expected to support more than 5,000 mining jobs across Queensland.
Coalition representatives are urging the Australian Government to strengthen protections for cane growers as the nation’s Sugar Code of Conduct undergoes a major review.
The review comes as the existing code, introduced by the former Coalition Government, approaches its 10-year sunset period and faces a decision on whether it will be renewed or remade.
Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Susan McDonald said the code had played a critical role in protecting growers during negotiations with large milling companies.
“The Sugar Code of Conduct was introduced for a reason, and it has proven effective,” she said.
“Cane growers often have limited leverage when negotiating with large mills, and the code provides important protections to ensure negotiations are fair and disputes can be resolved. We do not want to see growers lose the safeguards that have helped deliver certainty and stability across the industry.”
Senator McDonald said the review also presented an opportunity to consider how the code could apply to emerging sugar cane products including ethanol and biofuels.
“As the industry evolves into ethanol, biofuels and other value-added products, it makes sense to consult growers and industry about whether sensible adaptations are required,” she said.
“But any future changes must preserve the strong protections already provided under the code.”
Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said the review needed to recognise the mounting pressures already facing cane farmers.
“This review must recognise that our cane farmers are the ones taking all the risk with mother nature, while dealing with massive global price fluctuations and rising input costs,” he said.
“This Code was designed to level the playing field and ensure that negotiations are handled in good faith. We have already seen Labor leave regional Australians out in the cold in this week’s Budget, and we cannot afford for them to do the same with the Sugar Code.”
Mr Willcox said growers needed to benefit from the industry’s transition into bio-manufacturing and renewable energy sectors.
“As our industry evolves into biofuels, ethanol, and other value-added products, the Code must evolve with it,” he said.
“We need to ensure that our cane farmers are rewarded for the innovation they bring to the sector, not just the raw product they deliver to the mill gate.”
Deputy Leader of the Nationals and Shadow Agriculture Minister Darren Chester said consultation with growers would be crucial throughout the process.
“The Coalition introduced the Sugar Code to give growers practical protections and a fairer playing field, and this review must strengthen those safeguards, not water them down,” he said.
Queensland Natural Resources and Mines Minister and Burdekin MP Dale Last said the Burdekin had previously experienced the uncertainty caused when negotiations between growers and mills stalled.
“A decade ago, the Burdekin witnessed first-hand what can happen when that safety net does not exist and those crucial negotiations are left at a stalemate,” Mr Last said.
Industry consultation and regional shed meetings are expected to form part of the review process in coming months, with growers and communities encouraged to provide feedback.
Behind every successful creative agency are businesses willing to take a leap, back a vision, and commit to building something meaningful. Real Conversations puts the spotlight on those businesses sharing, in their own words, how strategic branding and marketing have shaped their growth.
Project 28 has built a strong reputation as a leading construction company on the Gold Coast, known for quality craftsmanship and a commitment to excellence. When owners Leigh and Steve Hearl made the decision to elevate their brand and grow the business further, they wanted more than just great design. They were looking for a strategic partner with the experience to guide their marketing direction and strengthen their positioning in the market.
Leigh Hearl shares the experience of working with redhotblue and the impact the partnership has had on the business.
You’ve been in business for a long time, how did working with redhotblue differ to previous branding and marketing experiences.
Redhotblue didn’t just give us a logo, they delivered a bold, fresh visual identity that perfectly captured the essence of our business. Every detail was meticulously thought through, from colour palette to typography, and the end result feels modern, professional, and entirely “us.”
What stood out most to you about redhotblue’s approach compared to other agencies you had worked with or considered?
What really stood out was the level of consultation and care redhotblue brought to the process. They didn’t just jump into design they took the time to truly understand our business, our values, and what we were trying to achieve. Every conversation felt collaborative, strategic, and intentional.
From there, redhotblue completely transformed our marketing brochure with stunning design and messaging that feels not only cohesive, but genuinely compelling. The end result is a brand presence that looks more polished, communicates more clearly, and feels deeply aligned with our mission.
Was the process with redhotblue worth the time and investment?
100%. Since the rebrand, we’ve received an outpouring of positive feedback from clients, partners, and even competitors. Redhotblue gave us more than a new look, they gave us a renewed sense of confidence and clarity in how we present ourselves to the world.
If you’re looking for a creative partner that listens, challenges, and ultimately delivers outstanding results, we can’t recommend Jody Euler and her redhotblue team highly enough.
Tax, the three letter word Labor loves most, goes hand in hand with the other three letter word Labor does best - lie.
It would be mission impossible to count the number of times the Prime Minister, the Treasurer and senior Labor ministers promised there would be “no changes” to Capital Gains Tax or negative gearing. They said ‘no changes’ before the election, after the election and even earlier this year. Literally hundreds of times, they gave Australians the same assurance. Repeatedly challenged by the media, they doubled down every single time.
Then on Budget night, only a few weeks ago, the government announced that the changes would be brought in. These tax changes are not “intergenerational fairness”. They are nothing more than a tax grab designed to fund Labor’s wasteful spending and economic incompetence.
And the people who will pay the biggest price are young Australians with aspiration.
Under Labor’s changes, existing investments will be grandfathered. Those already in the market keep the current rules, while younger Australians looking to build wealth through investment face higher taxes and fewer opportunities.
A young couple hoping to invest in a rental property will no longer receive the same negative gearing benefits. A young worker wanting to build a share portfolio, trade crypto, or invest in a small business will face a higher Capital Gains Tax burden than previous generations. Laborclaims to stand for fairness, but there is nothing fair about pulling the ladder up behind you.
Taxing aspiration is profoundly un-Australian.
The economic consequences will also be severe. Labor itself admits these changes will place upward pressure on rents, although it claims the impact will only be around $2 a week. This is the same government that promised households would be $275 better off on their power bills. So, if the government’s own modelling is pointing to increased costs, the reality will be a disaster for renters.
With interest rates again marching north and home ownership becoming harder, more Australians, especially younger Australians, are relying on the rental market. Yet Labor is actively discouraging property investment.
The economics are simple. Fewer investors mean fewer rental properties, tighter vacancy rates and higher rents. That hurts every Australian renter.
These changes will also discourage people from moving investment capital into more productive opportunities. Investors who remain under the existing rules will be reluctant to sell assets because any new investment will fall under Labor’s new tax regime. Flipping houses will become a thing of the past, meaning less stock returning to the market for prospective home owners. Instead of encouraging economic activity and investment, Labor is creating uncertainty and stagnation.
The Coalition opposes these damaging new taxes and will repeal them in government.
Australia should be a country that rewards hard work, encourages investment and supports aspiration, not one that punishes people for trying to get ahead and set up their future.
Stop the lies – Reverse the Tax.
A good councillor is guided by sound governance and careful due diligence, so they can make lawful, informed decisions in the best interests of the community.
As councillors, we must balance community expectations with the oath we took to act in accordance with legislation and the principles of local government. That means having the relevant facts before supporting any significant change.
Council decisions are best made openly and formally in a properly constituted meeting. In that context, public discussion about repurposing the Gordon White Library before the current council has received the necessary information or had the opportunity to consider the matter formally may have been premature.
Over the past five years, council has consulted on the Northern Beaches Community Hub and the Northern Beaches Library. What remains less clear, however, is the potential impact of repurposing the Gordon White Library. Had this been examined earlier, council may now be considering a different position. At the very least, we would be better placed to assess whether a new library is warranted when an existing library asset is already available.
My main concern is that some key information is still unavailable. I have asked for the cost of revamping or repurposing the Gordon White Library and those figures are still to come. There has also been limited consultation with the community and staff about the consequences of such a decision. Without that information, it is difficult for councillors to confidently justify or explain a decision of this scale to the public.
The cost of obtaining this information now is modest compared with the financial risk of proceeding without it. Council is already managing pressure in relation to asset reduction, depreciation, employment costs and the operational budget. If decisions are made without a full understanding of the long-term implications, we may place added pressure on this council and future councils, including the possibility of higher rates. For that reason, taking time for proper assessment should be seen as responsible governance.
Good governance requires transparency, meaningful consultation and decisions based on sound analysis. On that basis, I do not believe council is yet in a position to approve this matter without further assessment.
Let’s Chat – Council Connect
Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region. The next session will be held at Koumala Community Hall on July 7 at 5pm. Further details can be found on the Connecting Mackay website
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