
Three artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives are part of council's new budget to be adopted next week. These initiatives are the latest proactive steps from council to help mitigate significant financial pressures while continuing to deliver reliable, high-quality services to the community. Mayor Greg Williamson said the 2026/27 Budget reflected both the challenges facing local government and council’s commitment to modern, efficient service delivery. “Like many councils across the country, we are facing rising costs and reduced external funding,” he said. “Our focus is on finding smarter, more sustainable ways to deliver services without compromising quality for our community.” Council has seen a startling increase in a costs over recent years, including: An additional $665,000 increase in waste service costs due to reduced Queensland Government Waste Levy Subsidy and higher levy fees. A $1.1 million increase in waste expenses in the previous budget. A $5.92 million rise in depreciation costs this year alone. A $6 million shortfall from decreased Federal Assistance Grants in this budget contributing to a total reduction of more than $27 million in Financial Assistance Grants funding since 2016. An estimated $3 million annual increase in fuel costs. These pressures highlight the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability for residents with the real cost of delivering essential services. To help offset these impacts, council is investing in practical, targeted AI solutions that improve efficiency and reduce operating costs. A key initiative is the introduction of a new after-hours digital assistant, LUNA, which will operate from 4.30pm to 8.30am daily and all weekend from July 1. Replacing a previous afterhours model which used an outsourced, third-party call centre, LUNA will provide consistent, auditable responses using council-approved information. It will improve how afterhours calls are triaged, especially urgent and emergency enquiries, and will allow routine requests to be handled without delays or manual intervention. The transition follows changes in the external provider market and is expected to deliver about $80,000 in annual savings, while maintaining service quality and improving response consistency. Mayor Williamson said this initiative demonstrated council’s commitment to innovation while managing costs. “We’re using proven technology to deliver services more efficiently while maintaining the high standard our community expects,” Mayor Williamson said. Council is also expanding AI use in key service areas to address increasing demand and resource constraints. In Development Planning, automation of high-volume, low-complexity administrative tasks will reduce processing backlogs and allow skilled staff to focus on more complex work. A similar outcome will be achieved by using Agentic AI to enhance internal corporate services, allowing council’s staff to tackle more complex issues. This will help council maintain service levels despite workforce and cost pressures. Mayor Williamson said council was adopting a scalable approach to AI, building on existing systems to deliver improvements across multiple service areas rather than one-off solutions. “This approach ensures responsible and sustainable adoption of new technologies,” he said. “By reducing repetitive manual work and improving consistency, we can better manage costs while maintaining strong governance and oversight.” While efficiencies from these initiatives will be realised progressively, council’s immediate focus is on improving reliability, reducing inefficiencies and supporting a sustainable workforce model. These actions form part of council’s broader commitment to ensuring services remain efficient, accountable and future-ready, even as financial pressures continue to grow. Mayor Williamson said innovation would be key to navigating future challenges. “Innovation is essential to navigating the challenges ahead. By investing in smarter ways of working now, we are helping protect the services our community relies on into the future while putting downward pressure on rate rises.” Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
Read the full story
Set on the elevated hillside of this 21-acre property, the beautifully crafted, fully airconditioned residence enjoys a breathtaking north-facing 27m x 4.2m covered deck, offering ample room for entertaining or peaceful contemplation while taking in the stunning ever-changing vista. A large covered tiled patio adjoins the deck and living area, creating additional outdoor space overlooking the firepit and orchard. The Property At A Glance Spacious open plan living, dining and kitchen area with central fireplace, opening onto two stunning outdoor spaces Modern galley-style kitchen with stone benchtops, induction cooktop, rangehood, pyrolytic self-cleaning oven and dishwasher Media room with projector, with potential to serve as a fourth bedroom Three generous airconditioned bedrooms, including the master suite with walk-in robe and ensuite Modern family bathroom with shower over bath and separate toilet Laundry with excellent storage and external access Airconditioning and ceiling fans throughout North-facing covered hardwood deck, measuring 27m x 4.2m, with stunning views West-facing 9.5m x 6.5m tiled patio overlooking the firepit and plentiful orchard The home is set within a fully fenced house yard, complete with a secure electric front gate at the road. There is an abundance of water across the property, including four dams, a bore with solar-operated submersible pump (not currently connected), three rainwater tanks with a combined capacity of 62,000L, and town water to the residence. Water is also plumbed to the orchard, stables and other areas throughout the property. Additional features include fully covered walkways connecting the carport to the home, wireless NBN and full mobile signal coverage. Infrastructure And Improvements 7m x 7m carport with electric roller door at the home 14m x 7m high-clearance shed with four roller doors and service trench Adjoining 12m x 6m tool shed Stables and pig pens A lush and abundant orchard with avocados, citrus and tropical fruits, along with a well-established beehive Optional machinery includes a Fiat 750 tractor with slasher and rotary hoe, 2000 SE5 backhoe, Hustler 54" zero turn ride-on mower, assorted tools and other plant and equipment. This stunning property is a true gem in the heart of the beautiful Pioneer Valley, offering the opportunity to settle in, relax and enjoy, or get creative and explore the endless possibilities on offer. Gargett is located in the Pioneer Valley, just 15 minutes from the Finch Hatton Mountain Bike Trail and the beautiful Finch Hatton Gorge. The local Gargett Store is only a short drive away, while the nearest shopping centre is 20 minutes to Marian and 50 minutes to Mackay. It is also an easy drive to the Bowen Coal Basin, Airlie Beach and The Whitsundays, with ample opportunities nearby for fishing, crabbing, prawning and boating. Rates: Approx. $1660 per half year Zoning: Rural Price: $1.6M Block Size: 8.88 hectares (21.75 acres) Builder: Brad Kirkpatrick, 2015
Read the full story
Makinex Renewables is setting an ambitious target, saving 100 million litres of diesel in five years. In an industry long reliant on traditional diesel generators, the Australian-made and owned company is helping reshape how remote and off-grid operations power their sites. Focused on Hybrid Power Systems, Battery Energy Storage Systems and deployable solar arrays, Makinex Renewables is working with customers to lower fuel costs, reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency, while maintaining the dependable power their operations require. “The 100 million litre target gives us a clear and measurable objective to work towards while highlighting the impact renewable energy solutions can have across industries that traditionally rely on diesel power,” the company said. “It’s a goal that keeps us focused on developing practical solutions that deliver real-world results for our customers.” Designed for businesses operating in remote environments, Makinex Renewables’ modular systems can be deployed as standalone units, integrated together, or incorporated into existing site power setups. The company’s solutions are already delivering measurable results in mining. Following a trial installation, a mine site adopted Makinex Renewables’ Hybrid Power System and additional solar arrays, reducing generator runtime from 24 hours a day to approximately six to seven hours. Since the HPS45 was deployed in February, the site has cut generator fuel use by 125 litres a day, delivering annual diesel savings of around $91,000 and projected savings of $640,000 over the site’s seven-year life. Brad Cliff, Director of Generator Services Australia, said the project highlighted the benefits of continuing to challenge traditional ways of thinking and finding better solutions to longstanding industry challenges. To learn more about Makinex Renewables’ solutions, visit the team at the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition in July.
Read the full story
Most Reverend Daniel Meagher, the 11th Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton, made his first visit to St Patrick's College on Wednesday, beginning the day alongside students and staff at the College's Brekky Van outreach service. The visit provided an opportunity for Bishop Daniel to experience the College's commitment to living its Catholic values through service to the wider community before officiating the blessing and official opening of newly completed building and refurbishment works. During the ceremony, Bishop Daniel addressed those in attendance. “We really are here to pray and bless the students and teachers who will use the buildings,” he said. The redevelopment has delivered contemporary learning spaces designed to support learning, wellbeing and faith formation while reflecting the College's commitment to providing high-quality educational opportunities. Assistant Principal: Mission, Mrs Andrea Crocker, said the occasion was a proud moment for the College community. “We’re finally getting to showcase our wonderful new facilities and the way the hard work of so many different people has come to fruition,” she said. The blessing and opening marked the culmination of years of planning and investment, with the new facilities set to benefit Mercy Campus students for years to come. Photo supplied
Read the full story
The Queensland Government has opened the second round of its Residential Activation Fund, making $500 million available to councils and landowners to help deliver infrastructure needed for new housing developments across the state.
The funding forms part of the government’s $2 billion Residential Activation Fund, which aims to support the construction of new homes by ensuring essential infrastructure such as roads, water, sewerage and power are in place to enable residential development.
To date, the program has helped unlock land for approximately 98,000 homes across Queensland through a combination of construction and planning projects.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the funding would help accelerate housing supply by supporting the infrastructure required for new developments.
“More homes across the State are needed and fast, and a key way we can play our part is to unlock land and break down barriers that have been holding back councils and the industry,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.
“The Residential Activation Fund is literally making inroads, by providing funding to get the foundations right and generational infrastructure like roads, water, sewerage and power in place, so builders can get building and more Queenslanders have a place to call home.
“Queensland is open for business and we call on councils and landowners to come to us with their projects.”
Local Government Association of Queensland CEO Alison Smith encouraged councils to apply for the funding to help accelerate housing supply in their communities.
"Councils are playing their part to increase housing supply through zonings and approvals, but infrastructure is often the missing ingredient," Ms Smith said.
"Councils had called for enabling infrastructure funding, and the creation of this Residential Activation Fund is helping to meet council needs. Round One has already proven to be a gamechanger that is helping councils to tackle this infrastructure 'gap' and we applaud the State Government for this initiative.”
The second round of funding is open to councils and landowners seeking support for infrastructure that will enable residential developments and support growing communities across Queensland.

LEGENDS ON THE LAWN is thrilled to announce the next stellar line-up for their outdoor show. The next concert will be headlined by Australian music icon, Jimmy Barnes, and supported by crowd favourites Jon Stevens (The Noiseworks/INXS Collection), Birds Of Toyko, Baby Animals, Busby Marou and Bachelor Girl.
Mayor Greg Williamson said that after record attendance last year, LEGENDS ON THE LAWN was back for its fifth year in Mackay and had cemented its place as the region's biggest music festival.
“LEGENDS ON THE LAWN has a fantastic formula that works, a tremendous lineup of iconic Australian artists, beautiful outdoor location and a festival delivered like a well-oiled machine,” Mayor Williamson said.
“And what an incredible lineup we have this year, we’re excited to see Harrup Park packed once again in 2026 and look forward to welcoming thousands of passionate music fans to the Mackay region.”
Jimmy Barnes is the heart and soul of Australian rock and roll. He has 22 #1 albums, more than The Beatles, and he has sold more records in Australia than any other local artist. For over 40 years he has delivered some of the country’s most intense and iconic live performances both as a solo performer and as front man for the legendary Cold Chisel, leading him to be inducted into the ARIA Hall of fame … twice. He is truly in a league of his own.
Back by popular demand is Jon Stevens with The Noiseworks & INXS Collection Tour. Jon is back performing songs from the legendary bands that catapulted him into Aussie Rock Royalty.
The performance will bring hits like Take Me Back, New Sensation, Touch, Don’t Change, Hot Chilli Woman, Never Tear Us Apart, No Lies and much more.
Formed in Perth in the early 2000’s, Birds of Tokyo have grown from independent roots to become one of Australia’s most popular contemporary rock bands.
Since their 2008 breakthrough Universes, all five of the group’s albums have reached the ARIA top 3 including two #1 hits: March Fires (2013) and Human Design (2021). Classic songs like “Good Lord”, “Plans”, “Lanterns”, “Two Of Us”, “Brace” and “Unbreakable” have all been top 10 airplay hits and more than seventy of their tracks have featured on Triple J.
It has been 35 years since one of Australia’s most revered rock bands, Baby Animals, burst onto the scene with the release of their 8x Platinum, ARIA Award winning, self-titled debut album, featuring iconic hits ‘Rush You’, ‘Early Warning’, ‘Painless’ and ‘One Word’.
Their album went eight times platinum and won three ARIA Awards – Best Album, Best Debut Album and Best Debut Single.
Busby Marou are one of Australia’s most loved live acts, known for their unique blend of heartfelt storytelling, soaring harmonies, and exceptional musicianship. Tom Busby (Rockhampton, QLD) and Jeremy Marou (Torres Strait Islands) have been playing together for two decades, forging a deep musical connection that shines on stage and in the studio. With five critically acclaimed albums, including an ARIA #1 and multiple ARIA-charting releases, their songs have amassed millions of streams and won a fiercely loyal fan base.
Formed in 1992 by Tania Doko and James Roche, Bachelor Girl became one of Australia’s most loved acts of the 90s and early 2000s, achieving major success locally and internationally, including signing with Clive Davis at Arista Records.
Still delivering a hit-filled, dynamic live show, Bachelor Girl remain a vital force in Australian music and are currently working on a major new project set to be announced soon.
All Ages Show. Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
What: LEGENDS ON THE LAWN 2026
When: Saturday 30th May
Where: Harrup Park, Mackay Qld
Tickets: Www.Ticketmaster.Com.Au

Waiting for God is a British sitcom that ran on BBC1 from June 1990 to October 1994 starring Graham Crowden and Stephanie Cole as Tom and Diana, two spirited residents of a retirement home who spend their time running rings around the home's oppressive management and their own families.
The show, written by Michael Aitkens, became so successful that it not only ran for five series, but is still repeated on various channels in several countries including the UK, New Zealand, and Australia.
Now the stage version of Waiting for God, also written by Michael Aitkens, is coming to Kucom Theatre, and director Bronwyn Grannall – whose productions of The Vicar of Dibley delighted Mackay audiences in 2018 and 2022 - will be holding auditions at Kucom on Sunday 22 March.
For more information as it comes to hand, visit the Kucom Facebook page.

Meet Scooby-Doo 🐾
This handsome 1-year-old Rottweiler cross is bursting with love, loyalty, and personality! Scooby has spent the last few months in care getting all his vet work done and learning how to be the best boy he can be. Now, he is ready to trade kennel life for a home and a family of his own.
Scooby is a sweet and affectionate companion who thrives on being close to his people. The big softie does experience some separation anxiety when left alone — he just loves company too much.
Because of this, Scooby’s ideal home would be with a family who’s home often and ideally has another calm, desexed dog to help him feel safe and secure.
This gorgeous boy is microchipped, fully vaccinated, and desexed, and he’s now ready to find his forever family.
Scooby is the kind of dog who will greet you with a wagging tail every day and never leave your side. At just one year old, he’s just a pup, with plenty of time to grow, learn and love – all he needs is someone willing to give him that chance.
If you’ve got room in your heart (and on your couch) for a loyal best friend, Scooby-Doo would love to meet you.
Please contact Aaron T 0400 821 800 to arrange a meet and greet.
1- Can you give this gorgeous boy the love he deserves?

There is no business owner who has never said this sentence at least once: “We need more enquiries.”
The first reaction is usually more ads, more social media, more marketing.
But sometimes the real problem is much simpler. And when that happens, they move on to the next business very quickly.
Here are three common reasons businesses struggle to generate enquiries.
First: You’re not showing up where people are searching.
Most customers start on Google. If your business doesn’t appear when someone searches for your service in your area, you’re missing opportunities. A well-optimised Google Business Profile and strong reviews can make a huge difference.
Second: Your message isn’t clear.
When someone lands on your website or social media page, they should instantly understand what you do, who you help, and how to contact you. If visitors have to search for basic information, many will simply move on.
Third: There’s no clear next step.
People need direction. Make it easy for them by clearly inviting them to enquire, request a quote, or book an appointment.
And here’s something many businesses never do: ask the customers who didn’t choose you why.
A quick, polite follow-up can reveal valuable insights. The reason might surprise you, sometimes it’s response time, unclear information, or something small that can easily be improved.
The truth is, generating enquiries isn’t always about spending more. Often it’s about doing the basics very well and learning from the customers you already have.

By Cr Anne Baker
Over recent weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to attend a number of council briefings, stakeholder meetings and community gatherings across our region – and if there’s one clear message emerging, it’s this: despite challenges, our region continues to push forward with determination and optimism.
Council briefings have been particularly valuable, providing insight into the scale of work underway and the complexity of decisions being made. With several serious rain events impacting communities, road infrastructure has understandably been front and centre. Flooding and water damage have tested sections of our local and regional road networks, creating disruptions for families, businesses and freight. Restoration efforts are ongoing and, while there is still work to be done, the coordinated response between council teams, contractors and state agencies has been commendable.
These rain events have again highlighted the importance of resilient infrastructure. Investment in road upgrades, drainage improvements and long-term planning is not just about convenience – it’s about safety, economic stability and community connection.
At the same time, it’s encouraging to see continued momentum in development across the region. There is a growing sense of confidence, with new projects and proposals reflecting both population growth and industry expansion. Development, when carefully planned, strengthens our towns, supports local employment and enhances liveability.
One of the most significant long-term opportunities remains the Mackay region’s Critical Minerals Hub project. The establishment of a dedicated hub positions our area as a strategic contributor to emerging global supply chains, particularly as demand grows for minerals essential to renewable energy technologies and advanced manufacturing. The potential economic benefits – jobs, investment and diversification – are substantial.
Complementing this is the continued discussion around port expansion at the Port of Mackay. Expansion plans represent more than infrastructure growth; they signal long-term confidence in our region’s export capacity and industrial future. A stronger port enhances trade, supports local producers and reinforces our standing as a key logistics gateway for Central Queensland.
Beyond infrastructure and industry, some of the most valuable conversations have taken place at community stakeholder meetings and Progress Association gatherings. These forums are where grassroots ideas are shared, concerns are raised and local leadership shines.
One particularly uplifting highlight was attending the fantastic charity event in Sarina supporting Variety - the Children’s Charity. The spirit of generosity on display was inspiring. Events like these remind us that while infrastructure and development are essential, it is community spirit that truly defines our region. The funds raised will make a meaningful difference to children and families doing it tough, and the enthusiasm of participants and supporters alike showcased the heart of Sarina.
Across briefings, project updates and community events, there is a consistent theme: resilience paired with ambition. Yes, we face weather challenges. Yes, infrastructure requires ongoing investment. But there is also growth, collaboration and forward thinking.
There is much work ahead – but there is also much to be proud of.

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” and for good reason. It is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in Australia, yet most people with early glaucoma have no symptoms at all.
During World Glaucoma Week (8–14 March 2026), it’s a timely reminder that protecting your vision starts long before you notice a problem.
Glaucoma occurs when damage affects the optic nerve, the part of the eye that carries visual information to your brain. In many cases this damage is linked to pressure inside the eye, but it can also occur even when eye pressure is within the normal range. The worrying thing is how quietly it develops. There is usually no pain, no redness and no sudden blur. Instead, glaucoma slowly reduces your peripheral vision, often without you realising anything has changed.
By the time noticeable vision loss occurs, permanent damage has already happened. The good news is that when glaucoma is found early, treatment can greatly slow or even prevent further sight loss. That is why regular eye examinations are so important especially if you are over 40, have a family history of glaucoma, are highly shortsighted, or have health conditions such as diabetes.
Modern technology now lets us detect glaucoma much earlier. At our clinic, we use Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) a scan sometimes described as a lightbased ultrasound. It measures the thickness of the fine nerve layers at the back of the eye with great accuracy, helping us pick up early signs of damage before vision is affected.
As an independent optometry practice, our focus is on thorough, personalised care. Appointments are unhurried, allowing time to check risk factors carefully, explain results in plain language and agree on a management plan if needed. I have also completed an Advanced Certificate in Glaucoma, giving extra training in detecting and monitoring this complex condition.
Glaucoma may be silent but your eye examination shouldn’t be optional. Early testing could make all the difference to protecting your sight for years to come.
.jpg)
Most people believe memory is formed while they are awake, studying, working or learning new skills. While that is partly true, the most important part of the process actually happens after you fall asleep. Sleep is when your brain organises, strengthens and stores everything you experienced during the day, transforming short-term information into long-term memories.
Two key areas of the brain play a major role in this process. The hippocampus acts as a temporary holding space for new information. However, its storage capacity is limited. During deep sleep, your brain transfers this information to the cortex, where it becomes stabilised and stored for the long term. This process, known as memory consolidation, is essential for learning, decision making, focus and overall mental clarity. Research shows that even short periods of quality sleep, including naps, can significantly improve memory retention and cognitive performance.
When sleep is disrupted or cut short, this transfer process is incomplete. The result can be forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating and mental fatigue. Over time, chronic sleep disruption can have a noticeable impact on mood, productivity and overall cognitive function.
One commonly overlooked cause of poor sleep quality is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). OSA occurs when the airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep, causing brief pauses in breathing. These interruptions can happen many times per hour, forcing the brain to wake repeatedly to restore normal breathing. Even if you are unaware of these awakenings, your sleep becomes fragmented and less restorative.
Protecting your sleep is essential for long-term brain health and wellbeing. Sleep is not passive downtime. It is an active biological reset that organises information, strengthens memories and restores your brain so you can think clearly and perform at your best each day.

Despite a little wet weather, the atmosphere was full of energy at the recent open day held by Fitness Cartel Mackay, where families, fitness enthusiasts and curious locals gathered to explore the facility and enjoy a fun-filled day of activities.
The event, held last Saturday, served as an official open day celebration for the gym, giving the wider community a chance to step inside, experience the space and connect with the team. While the gym has already been operating for some time, the open day provided a relaxed and welcoming opportunity for residents across Mackay to visit, meet staff and see what the facility has to offer.
There was plenty to keep families entertained throughout the day, with a range of free activities creating a lively festival-style atmosphere. Children enjoyed a jumping castle, face painting and a petting zoo, while visitors of all ages were treated to a complimentary sausage sizzle. The gym also opened its doors for free entry, allowing guests to tour the facility, try out the equipment and chat with staff about membership options.
Although rain made a brief appearance during the day, it did little to dampen spirits, with many locals still turning out to support the event and take part in the festivities.
In a message shared on social media following the event, the Fitness Cartel Mackay team expressed their appreciation for the strong community turnout.
“Still not over Saturday’s Open Day: A huge thank you from our team at Fitness Cartel Mackay to everyone who came along. It was amazing meeting so many new faces and seeing so many of our regulars too. The energy, the support, the community… we’re so grateful for you all!”

Jasmin Lewis
Customer Service & Logistics Supervisor, Wilmar AgServices
As they prepare for another fertilising season, veteran contractors Andrew Chetcuti and Peter Hackett reflect on the past 40 years in the Bio Dunder business.
Koumala grower Peter Hackett began carting dunder in 1985, with a single truck and a strong understanding of the sugar industry.
What started as a small operation has steadily grown alongside the development of the industry, and the increasing use and popularity of Bio Dunder as a precision-applied liquid fertiliser.
Over the years, Peter has witnessed many significant developments within the farming and fertilising sectors, such as upgrades at Wilmar’s Sarina Distillery and manufacturing plant, improvements in machinery and technology, and product development. What hasn’t changed is his approach to business and fertiliser application: To do the job well.
Fellow application contractor Andrew Chetcuti grew up in Mackay and first started carting dunder in 1985, working for his brother-in-law. After his third season, Andrew bought the truck and has been applying Bio Dunder throughout the Mackay and Sarina regions ever since.
Over the past four decades, and after applying thousands of cubes of dunder to local cane farms, Andrew has only needed to upgrade his truck once, crediting the longevity of his vehicle to looking after it well. As he puts it: “If you put a bit of money and a lot of love into them, they keep on going.”
Forty years on, the trucks are still rolling, the seasons keep coming, and the experience of fertiliser application contractors like Peter and Andrew continues to play an important role in supporting growers across the region.
Bio Dunder contractors Andrew Chetcuti (left) and Peter Hackett (right) have each been applying Bio Dunder liquid fertiliser to farms in the Mackay region for four decades.

By Joseph Borg, Chairman, CANEGROWERS Mackay
It appears that in 2026, Australian agriculture will reach a major industry milestone, with the sector more than likely achieving the ambitious National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) target of $100 billion in farm gate output four years ahead of schedule.
Originally set for 2030, this remarkable achievement underscores the resilience, innovation, and hard work of Australian farmers, with the sugarcane industry playing an important role in powering this growth.
The NFF’s vision for Australian agriculture was bold—requiring sustained investment, technological advancement, and adaptability to unpredictable market and environmental conditions. The sector’s exceptional performance, hopefully culminating in achieving and if not eclipsing the $100 billion mark well before the projected date, is testament to the determination of rural communities and the strategic focus of industry leaders.
While grains, livestock, and horticulture have all played major parts to this target, the sugarcane industry that has emerged as one of the key drivers of agricultural prosperity. Australia plays a significant part in the world’s export of raw sugar, and Queensland’s cane fields have been at the forefront of this achievement. Sugarcane growers have weathered challenging seasons, including droughts and cyclones, but have consistently innovated to meet stringent environmental standards, enhance sustainability, and capture new markets.
In recent years, the sugarcane industry has had numerous technological advancements. Examples include the introduction of precision agriculture techniques, such as satellite mapping and real time data delivery, soil moisture sensors, AI weed detection and drone EMP mapping of soil nutrients. These have enabled growers to maintain productivity while minimising environmental impact. Efficient irrigation systems and nutrient management programs have further contributed to sustainable growth, ensuring that Australian sugarcane remains competitive on the world stage with its exceptional quality, environmental and economic credentials.
Australian sugarcane has also benefited from robust export agreements such as the free trade deals struck by the federal government in collaboration with CANEGROWERS. The UK Free Trade Agreement is an example of this and has opened doors for Australian sustainable sugar, eliminating tariffs and expanding its global footprint. Australian sugar had been locked out of the European (and accordingly, the UK) market since the 70’s. This export strength has been crucial in helping the industry weather global price fluctuations by diversifying our market base.
Growers believe that the sense of community and shared purpose across the sugarcane regions has made a difference. There have been -and still are- tough times, but the sugarcane industry always manages to adapt, invest in new technology, and stay focused on quality. It is something the industry prides itself on.
Environmental stewardship has been another pillar of sugarcane’s success. Growers have implemented programs to reduce runoff and protect the Great Barrier Reef, earning recognition for their commitment to sustainability. The adoption of the Canegrowers Best Management practice (BMP) program has helped Australian sugarcane meet rigorous international and domestic standards, reinforcing its reputation for quality and responsibility.
As the industry looks to the future, the early achievement of the NFF target inspires confidence in the sector’s ongoing growth. The sugarcane industry’s adaptability, innovative spirit, and community focus are expected to drive continued success, with new opportunities emerging in renewable energy, value-added products, and export expansion.
Federal and state governments, alongside industry leaders, have pledged to support the agricultural sector in maintaining momentum. Investments in infrastructure, rural education, and market access will be critical in sustaining growth and ensuring Australian agriculture remains globally competitive.
With Australian agriculture now appearing to eclipse the $100 billion mark, the achievements of the sugarcane industry stand out as a sweet success story. As the sector celebrates this milestone, attention turns to the next frontier—ensuring sustainable growth, fostering innovation, and continuing to deliver value for Australian communities and the world.
CAPTION: Diversified sugar export markets are critical part of industry resilience. Photo credit: NQBP

Mackay’s Zonta International Women’s Day High Tea once again proved to be a beautiful and empowering celebration, bringing together generations of women in an elegant garden party setting.
With exquisite florals, heartfelt speeches and a traditional high tea, the morning honoured leadership, resilience and the promise of the next generation. Inspired by the 2026 theme Balance the Scales, the event celebrated the achievements of women while supporting vital local initiatives.
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara














Families across the Mackay region now have the opportunity to secure a place for their children in one of the area’s three Catholic secondary colleges, with enrolments for the 2027 school year officially open.
Catholic Secondary Education in Mackay continues to offer families a rich choice of faith-based learning environments, supported by three well-established colleges: Holy Spirit College, Mount Pleasant; St Patrick’s College, Mackay; and Catherine McAuley College, Mackay. Each college maintains a strong commitment to delivering high-quality teaching and learning, supported by values grounded in the Catholic tradition.
Together, the colleges form a dynamic network focused on nurturing the academic, spiritual, and personal growth of every student entrusted to their care. Their shared mission emphasises excellence, compassion, inclusivity, and service values increasingly sought by families looking for holistic and future-focused education.
As the Mackay region grows, demand for Catholic secondary schooling remains strong. The opening of 2027 enrolments provides families with the chance to explore the unique offerings of each college and secure a place early.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to visit the colleges’ websites or contact each college for further information about tours, interviews, and transition pathways.
Catherine McAuley College, 239 Nebo Road West Mackay Enrol online via the college website https://cmcmrok.catholic.edu.au/for more information call 4994 9200. Open evening was Thursday 12 March but enquiries are still welcome.
St Patrick’s College 2 Gregory Street Mackay Open Night Tuesday 17 March at the Mercy Campus in Penn Street, Mackay from 4.00pm to 7.00pm. For more information, please visit the college website www.stpats.qld.edu.auor call 4994 8700.
Holy Spirit College 35 –39 Baxter Drive Mount Pleasant Enrol online via www.hsc.qld.edu.au/enrolmentsInformation Evening Tuesday 28April, 5.30pm to 7.30pm. For further information email enrolments@hsc.qld.edu.au or call 4994 8600

Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank believes success is measured not just by business outcomes, but by the long-term, positive impact on the community – including supporting the My Hospital Foundation Volunteers.
At My Hospital Foundation, we believe healthcare should never feel like it’s “better somewhere else”. Our community deserves access to quality equipment and support close to home – and partnerships like the one we share with Community Bank Sarina assist in making that possible.
Community Bank Sarina’s ongoing support continues to make a tangible difference, particularly through a major contribution toward purchasing the Sarina patient transfer vehicle. This vehicle now provides reliable transport services for local patients travelling from the Sarina area to Mackay Base Hospital for specialist appointments and treatment. For many in our community, this removes not only financial pressure, but also the stress and uncertainty of getting to critical healthcare appointments.
Beyond this investment, what truly stands out is the Community Bank Sarina’s active involvement. The banking team visits Mackay Base Hospital monthly, making themselves accessible to patients, families and staff. This visible presence reinforces that their commitment to community extends well beyond banking – it’s about connection and care.
We are also looking forward to hosting a volunteer morning tea in the coming weeks, proudly supported by Community Bank Sarina. Our volunteers are the heart of our patient transfer services, generously giving their time to ensure patients feel supported and safe on their journey. Recognising their contribution is incredibly important to us, and we are grateful to have Community Bank Sarina alongside us in celebrating them.
Community Bank Sarina exemplifies what community partnership should look like – local people supporting local services to create meaningful impact.
On behalf of My Hospital Foundation and the patients we serve, thank you to Community Bank Sarina for continuing to invest in the health and wellbeing of our region.
Ashleen O’Neill
Managing Executive Officer
Image 1: Mackay Hospital Foundation Volunteers accepting vehicle from Community Bank Sarina Manager Erin Ryley

Image 2: Mackay Hospital Foundation Volunteers. Photos supplied

Eight new police recruits arrive at stations in the Mackay region.
Mackay is benefitting from a state-wide, multi-year police recruitment push, that will saw 118 new officers joining the Queensland Police Service in January 2026.
Following their recent graduation from Brisbane’s Queensland Police Academy, Mackay is now welcoming eight new constables across the Mackay and Northern Beaches stations.
For the next eight weeks, the graduates will be mentored under Field Training Officers, keeping Mackay District safe, the first step in their on-the-ground career as First Year Constables.
Building on the achievements of 2025, which saw nearly 1,200 constables sworn in, the Queensland Police Service claims it remains steadfast in its commitment to bolstering the frontline and ensuring the safety of Queensland communities, boosting it’s state-wide numbers of over 12,000 active officers.
On a community post welcoming the new recruits, Retired Police Officer AJ Wittenburg commented:
“Congratulations to you all and a very huge welcome to the Mackay Whitsunday District. You have an awesome team of very talented & dedicated serving police here to guide you.
“We thank you so much for your service & for choosing your exciting police career to look after us in the community & keeping our streets safe.
“You all have our best wishes & full support for a wonderful & successful career ahead- from myself and all members of the MWS Branch of QRPA (retired police). Please take care & stay safe.”
The sentiment echoes that of many locals, who look forward to increased police presence in the area.
Reflecting on the recent Oxley Police Academy graduation, newly retired Police Commissioner Gollschewski said:
“Our newest Constables will have a career that makes a positive difference to the lives of others.
“Joining the blue family is more than a career choice, it’s a commitment to teamwork and being part of a community.
“Queenslanders can be assured that these new officers are ready to support their communities with integrity, respect and courage”.
1 - Mackay, meet Constables Danielle, Davydd and Pierce.
2- Constables Ashton, Anthony, Chyenne, Andries and Jacob. Photos supplied.