Mackay residents will soon benefit from an influx of new medical professionals, as Queensland Health welcomes a record 930 first year graduate doctors across the State in 2026. For the first time, Queensland has attracted more first year graduate doctors than anywhere else in the country, surpassing last year’s record of over 880.

The Government says this milestone is part of its commitment to delivering easier access to health services and supporting communities across Queensland.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls met with some of the 94 first year graduates beginning their careers at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. He said attracting new doctors and retaining them in Queensland Health was a key element of the government’s Easier Access to Health Services Plan.

“This record intake of the next generation of doctors shows our plan to grow our workforce is working,” Minister Nicholls said.

“We know that attracting and retaining doctors at the start of their medical careers means more accessible care and better health outcomes for Queenslanders.”

“Talking to these new doctors as they commence their careers with us at Queensland Health, seeing and hearing their energy and commitment, gives me confidence the next generation of doctors is ready to step into the frontline and continue making a real difference in their communities.

“As Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, I’m committed to talking with clinicians at every stage of their career, to find out how the Crisafulli Government can support them in the delivery of excellence in health services.”

National data confirms Queensland now receives the highest number of first year graduate doctor applications in the country, overtaking New South Wales and Victoria.

“This speaks volumes about the reputation of our hospitals, the Queensland lifestyle, and the opportunities we provide for young doctors starting their careers with Queensland Health,” Minister Nicholls said.

Queensland’s new intake will gain experience across rotations including emergency medicine, cardiology, orthopaedics, anaesthetics, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, intensive care, mental health, general medicine and surgery.

Nine regional and rural hospitals - including Mackay - will welcome first year graduate doctors this year. In Mackay specifically, 36 new doctors will join the local health workforce, helping to strengthen frontline services for the community. Many graduates from metropolitan hospitals will also have opportunities to undertake rotations in rural and remote areas, ensuring a wider distribution of skills across the State.

Additionally, 56 of the 2026 cohort have already chosen specialist careers through the Queensland Rural Generalist Pathway, which equips doctors to deliver high-quality care to regional, rural, and remote communities.

With this record intake, Queensland takes another step toward its goal of adding 46,000 health staff by 2032, ensuring residents in Mackay and across the State have access to world-class healthcare now and into the future.

‍

Mackay will receive 36 new doctors in 2026. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

Fitness Cartel Mackay Co-Franchisee Owner

Cliff Forster is the man behind Fitness Cartel Mackay, a world-class gym and wellness centre that has quickly become a staple in the region. His journey into fitness entrepreneurship is as dynamic as the man himself.

“I joined the Royal Australia Navy at 16 years of age and stayed there for 5.5 years. Following this I operated numerous businesses including Danceparty Production companies, Café and Nightclubs and then moved on to be a Business Broker eventually opening my own brokerage firm 16 years ago,” Cliff explains.

His brokerage represented the sale of hundreds of businesses across all industries, and seven years ago he began specialising in gyms and fitness businesses.

“I became the largest seller of Gyms right across the country which led me to open Fitness Cartel Mackay.”

Balancing multiple ventures is no problem for Cliff, who currently operates three businesses: his brokerage firms, a Day Spa in Sydney, and Fitness Cartel Mackay.

“I work 7 days a week and don’t mind.”

“I love operating our club at Mackay and have formed some great friendships with many locals.”

Outside of work, he enjoys HIIT and Spin classes, utilising the wellness facilities most days, and dining out at nice restaurants.

Bringing Fitness Cartel to Mackay was a natural next step. Cliff had already become the largest seller of gyms in Australia and built a global network in the industry. Recognising Fitness Cartel as the leading gym brand in the world, and with a prime site available in Mackay, he and his team seized the opportunity, creating a world-class fitness and wellness experience for the region.

The core purpose of Fitness Cartel Mackay, he says, is “servicing our members for the best member experience possible.”

Cliff works alongside business partner Micheal James, whose extensive experience complements his own, making Fitness Cartel the top-performing fitness and wellness business in North Queensland.

While leadership often comes with challenges, Cliff says it’s the team behind a leader that drives the greatest success.

“We have approximately 70 staff at Fitness Cartel Mackay as we are one of the biggest gyms in the country.

“We have a great management team and wonderful team of employees which make life a lot easier.”

“I love what I do so I don’t call it work… even though I’m always super busy.”

For Cliff, building a team with strong values and a positive, helpful culture is non-negotiable.

“Each day we endeavour to do better than the day prior.

“We plan to build many clubs right across Australia that have 7-star wellness facilities in every one of them. Mackay has jumped onto wellness brilliantly and the community is loving it.

“Again, we will only build them bigger and better with every new build.”

Advice for those investing in their health? “Don’t leave it till tomorrow, take the leap to a healthier life and come do it is style in the biggest and best facility at Fitness Cartel Mackay.

P: 0422 486 277
cliff@fitnesscartel.com.au
www.fitnesscartel.com.au/clubs/mackay/

‍

Sahara came into the care of Lucks Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc heavily pregnant after being dumped in the bush. Once her puppies were born safely, she then faced the extremely painful and stressful process of heartworm treatment after testing positive for the disease.

Just as Sahara was beginning to feel comfortable, safe and happy again, events took a devastating turn. On New Year’s Day, the much-loved dog passed away following complications from treatment.

Sahara will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who cared for her. Her fight is over, but her legacy lives on through the lives she touched.

Heartworm prevention reminders:
• Keep pets on year-round heartworm prevention as recommended by your veterinarian
• Ensure regular veterinary check-ups and annual heartworm testing
• Use vet-approved preventative medication consistently and on time
• Protect pets from mosquito exposure, particularly during warmer months
• Never skip doses, even if your pet appears healthy

Early prevention saves lives. Heartworm disease is preventable, but once contracted, it can be deadly. Donations help Lucks Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc continue to save dogs like Sahara.

Name: Lucks Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue Inc
BSB: 064-722
Account: 1069 7243

‍

Sahara, a much-loved rescue dog, is a reminder to Mackay residents to keep pets up to date with heartworm prevention and veterinary care to protect them from this deadly disease. Photos supplied

‍

Mackay’s Premier Mayor’s Charity Ball Returns In 2026

Excitement is already building across the region as planning officially gets underway for the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball, with organisers promising an even bigger and better event following last year’s outstanding success.

The 2025 Mayor’s Charity Ball was held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Saturday, May 10, delivering a glamorous red-carpet evening that brought together local businesses, community leaders and supporters for a collective cause.

The event raised more than $50,000, with funds presented to Grapevine Group and The Salvation Army at a special sponsors’ morning tea on May 28, 2025.

A number of sponsors have already recommitted to the event, with Fergus Builders, Daly Bay and BMA confirmed as Platinum Sponsors. Mickala Group has also come on board as a new Platinum sponsor for 2026.

Organisers also acknowledged the many returning sponsors who have once again thrown their support behind the Ball including Pentacon, CQ Soil Testing, North Queensland Bulk Ports, Seven News Mackay, Tropical Exposure, Hit Mackay and Triple M, Signarama and Twilight Events.

Building on last year’s tour of The Neighbourhood Hub on George Street in November, the Mayor, event committee and sponsors recently gathered to gain valuable insight into the important work being delivered by staff and volunteers on the ground. The visit also marked the official announcement of the two beneficiary charities for the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball.

The Neighbourhood Community Hub’s Second Bite Program was revealed as a new charity partner, while The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service will return for its second year, continuing the Ball’s two-year charity support model.

The Mayor’s Charity Ball has raised more than $1 million since its inception and is on track for another successful event in 2026.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Ball is “one of the biggest community fundraisers we run from a council perspective, and we’ve always delivered fantastic funding to really worthy community causes.

“The two charities we’re supporting at the moment are incredibly deserving.”

He said the goal for 2026 was to lift the event to an even higher level.

“We’re aiming to deliver the biggest and best Mayor’s Charity Ball this year, and we can’t do it without media partners like you,” he said, with Life Publishing Group proudly coming on board as the event’s exclusive print media partner for 2026.

It’s safe to say the 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball is shaping up to be another unforgettable night that blends entertainment, generosity and community impact, all under the one roof of the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre.

Those interested in sponsorship opportunities, or wishing to donate auction prizes or raffle items, can email communications@mackay.qld.gov.au for further information.

‍

Planning is underway for Mackay’s 2026 Mayor’s Charity Ball, promising a bigger and better night of giving for the community. Photo supplied

‍

By Cr Namarca Corowa

In my last column, I shared how my values were shaped long before I ever sat at a council table, growing up in Slade Point and working with families, young people and men trying to finish their stories differently. Those experiences didn't disappear when I was elected. They came with me. What has changed is the scale of responsibility.

Council decisions are rarely simple. Budgets, service levels, capital works and growth planning aren't abstract ideas, they quietly shape daily life across our region. It's fair to ask, why doesn't council just do more?
But every decision involves trade-offs. Funding more in one area means less in another.  Maintaining services requires long-term planning, not short-term reactions.  Growth must be realistic, not just aspirational on paper.

One lesson I continue to learn is that good governance isn't about grand gestures or election cycles. It's about being intentionally realistic and understanding the responsibility of the role. Councillors are here to provide oversight, strategy and direction, not to interfere in operational detail. When those lines blur, trust erodes and outcomes suffer.

That's why early visibility and transparency matter. Councillors need to understand risks and long-term impacts before decisions are locked in. This thinking sits behind my recent Notified Motion. It's not about politics or control; it's about responsible governance. Better visibility leads to better questions, stronger oversight and better outcomes for the community.
What hasn't changed is how I see the people behind the numbers. Housing figures represent families seeking stability. Infrastructure plans shape what we leave for future generations. Financial reports reflect the trust ratepayers place in council to manage their money carefully and honestly.

Leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about listening, weighing different perspectives and making decisions that are fair, sustainable and grounded in reality, even when they're not popular.

This is a shared journey, and I'm grateful for the trust placed in me to serve our community.

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.

Details on upcoming sessions can be found on the Connecting Mackay website.

‍

How the First Tropical Cyclone of 2026 Unfolded Across Mackay

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji was the first tropical cyclone of the 2026 season to impact North Queensland, bringing damaging winds, heavy rainfall and flooding concerns to coastal and inland communities, including the Mackay Shire.

The system developed in the Coral Sea before intensifying into a tropical cyclone, marking the official start of the 2026 cyclone season. According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), Koji reached category two strength while offshore before weakening as it approached the North Tropical Coast. Despite this downgrade, the system continued to pose a significant threat due to intense rainfall, strong wind gusts and the potential for river rises and flash flooding.

As Koji tracked westward towards the coast, emergency services and local disaster management groups across North Queensland activated preparedness and response measures to ensure communities were informed and supported. Forecasts indicated the system would cross the coast between Townsville and Bowen before continuing south and weakening further, with impacts expected to be felt across multiple local government areas.

Koji crossed the coast at reduced intensity; however, saturated catchments, ongoing rainfall and rising river levels prolonged the impacts well beyond landfall. Localised flooding, road closures and isolation concerns followed, highlighting the challenges often associated with wet season systems, even after they weaken below tropical cyclone strength.

The event served as a timely reminder of the unpredictability of the North Queensland wet season and the importance of preparedness early in the year.

Burdekin Life have prepared a comprehensive timeline and in-depth coverage into the event, outlining how Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji unfolded across the Mackay Shire, detailing key warnings, emergency responses and significant developments from Saturday through to Tuesday.

‍

Photo credit: Joseph Borg

Saturday, the 10th of January
Throughout Saturday morning, Mackay Regional Council issued several weather warnings, building on previously published precautions including the establishment of emergency sand stockpiles and advisories relating to extreme weather across the region.

Just after midday, Council released an official severe weather warning for heavy to locally intense rainfall and damaging winds as a tropical low approached the northeast tropical coast. Residents were advised heightened weather conditions were expected from Saturday afternoon and would likely continue throughout the weekend. At 12:45pm, Council confirmed the Sandfly Creek floodgates had been closed as a precautionary measure.

Just before 4pm, the Bureau of Meteorology issued a minor flood warning for the Pioneer River at Mirani. In response, Mackay Regional Council implemented a flood watch for the area and advised residents near waterways to remain vigilant.

A Council spokesperson reminded residents, particularly campers and those staying near creeks and waterways, to remain alert and prepared, noting conditions around rivers and streams could change rapidly with further rainfall forecast.

At 7:55pm, Council issued a Watch and Act warning for the Mackay Local Government Area following confirmation that Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji had developed in the Coral Sea. Council relayed Bureau forecasts of gale-force winds moving south toward Mackay overnight into early Sunday, with the potential for heavy rainfall and flash flooding.

Sunday, the 11th of January
At 8am, Mackay Regional Council confirmed the closure of several council facilities, including all waste transfer stations and green waste facilities (excluding Paget), Dudley Denny City Library, Bluewater Lagoon Mackay, Mackay Aquatic Recreation Complex, and all council pools.

At 9:30am, Council confirmed all flights scheduled to operate from Mackay Airport on Sunday had been cancelled. The airport terminal remained closed to the public, while the aerodrome stayed operational for emergency movements.

Following the Bureau’s 9am forecast, Council issued an intense rainfall and severe thunderstorm warning, cautioning residents in the Mackay and Eungella regions about the risk of life-threatening flash flooding.

At midday, Council published a comprehensive road conditions update, confirming multiple closures due to flooding and hazards. Affected roads included Mackay–Eungella Road, Mirani–Eton Road, Pugsley Street, Hicks Road, Beaconsfield Road and Golf Links Road, with hazards also reported on sections of the Bruce Highway. Motorists were urged to avoid flooded areas and exercise extreme caution.

Also at midday, an emergency warning was issued as major flooding was expected to impact Finch Hatton, Cattle Creek, Eungella, Gargett and Pinnacle. Council advised the Pioneer River was continuing to rise, with moderate flooding expected at Mirani and possible major flooding later in the afternoon. Residents were warned bridges and low-lying roads could be impacted, potentially causing isolation.

At 2:30pm, the Local Disaster Management Group issued a severe weather alert, confirming Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji had made landfall, bringing heavy rain and damaging winds across the region.
Just after 5pm, Council released a water supply update for Pinnacle and Gargett, advising temporary water tankers would be installed to provide drinking water due to supply disruptions caused by access issues.

At 6:30pm, residents in Cremorne and Foulden were advised to prepare for potential inundation as river levels across the Pioneer River catchment continued to rise, with peak levels expected later that evening.

Just after 7pm, severe weather warnings remained current across parts of northeast Queensland, including the Mackay region. A Major Flood Warning remained in place for the Pioneer River, with major flooding occurring at Mirani and moderate flooding possible at Mackay later that night.

Monday, the 12th of January
Council confirmed Bluewater Lagoon Mackay remained closed due to damage sustained during the severe weather event, with reopening dependent on external repair assessments.

By 8:40am, Council advised significant damage to local water infrastructure had left Gargett and Pinnacle without reticulated drinking water. Temporary water tankers were deployed to ensure residents could access safe drinking water.

Throughout the morning, Council issued wet weather facility closures, citing staff safety and ongoing localised flooding. Several libraries, green waste facilities and transfer stations remained closed, while others reopened as conditions improved.

At 9:30am, a further road conditions update confirmed widespread closures and hazards across the region, including continued closures along Mackay–Eungella Road and reduced access along sections of the Bruce Highway.

At midday, Council confirmed access to Eungella remained closed due to extensive damage, with Transport and Main Roads deploying a geotechnical engineer to assess the area. Arrangements were underway to facilitate emergency resupply of fuel, food and medical supplies.

At 3pm, residents were urged to conserve water, as heavy rainfall and river flooding had introduced debris into raw water catchments, placing pressure on treatment facilities.

By 4pm, Council confirmed repairs to the water infrastructure servicing Gargett and Pinnacle had been completed, with supply expected to return later that evening. A “do not consume” notice remained in place until testing was finalised.

Council also confirmed free green waste disposal would be available at multiple transfer stations across the region to support community clean-up efforts following the cyclone.

Tuesday, the 13th of January
At 11:15am, Transport and Main Roads reopened the Eungella Range to one-lane traffic under controlled conditions, allowing limited access for local residents while damage assessments continued. Heavy vehicles remained restricted, and residents were advised to monitor conditions closely.

At the time of publishment, conditions across the Mackay region had eased, with no further warnings in place for the area.

‍

Photo credit: Joseph Borg

‍

Emergency Flooding Hits Clermont as Recovery Efforts Begin

An emergency flash flood warning was issued for Clermont on Monday, the 12th of January as rapidly rising waters inundated low-lying areas of the town, prompting urgent safety warnings and the establishment of a place of refuge for residents.

At 1.38pm on Monday, Isaac Regional Council issued a Flash Flood Emergency Warning, advising that flooding was occurring in Clermont and conditions could change quickly. Residents in low-lying areas were urged to closely monitor conditions, prepare to move to higher ground if required, and warn neighbours where it was safe to do so. A place of refuge was established at Clermont State Primary School on Hetherington Street.

Queensland Police Service reiterated the warning later that afternoon, advising residents to seek immediate assistance by calling Triple Zero (000) in life-threatening situations, or the State Emergency Service on 132 500 for storm or property damage. Locals were also encouraged to stay informed via local radio, the Isaac Disaster Dashboard and Bureau of Meteorology updates.

Overnight and into Tuesday morning, heavy rainfall continued to impact Central Queensland, with Queensland Fire Department swiftwater rescue crews responding to multiple incidents across the region. Authorities again urged the public not to drive through floodwaters, warning that doing so placed both motorists and emergency responders at serious risk.

By Tuesday, January 13, floodwaters surrounding Clermont had begun to recede, allowing the town’s main access road to reopen to light vehicles and recovery efforts to commence. SES teams and the Queensland Fire Department were deployed across the town, conducting rapid damage assessments and assisting residents with clean-up efforts, including hose-outs of affected properties.

Mayor Kelly Vea Vea confirmed Sandy Creek Bridge would be assessed for heavy vehicle access once water levels dropped sufficiently for structural inspections to take place.

“Residents will soon be able to visit the old front desk at Clermont Council Office to get connected with services. We will keep the community updated on opening hours,” Mayor Vea Vea said.

She also urged residents and businesses to prioritise safety during the clean-up phase.

“Now the water is subsiding, the last thing we want is for people to get sick or injured. Make sure you’re wearing PPE, wash your hands often, and always keep out of flood water,” she said.

“Our community is doing a fantastic job supporting each other. Neighbours are opening their homes and paddocks, businesses are providing equipment, and the local footy team are rolling up their sleeves to clean up.”

Residents and visitors are encouraged to continue checking the Isaac Disaster Dashboard for the latest updates on road conditions, flood mapping, weather warnings and power outages as recovery continues across the region.

‍

Photo source: Fraser Coast Community News
Photo source: Fraser Coast Community News
Photo credit: Damian Freiberg
Photo credit: Tyler Sutton
Photo credit: Damian Freiberg
Photo credit: Maddie of Hide to Tide
Photo credit: Maddie of Hide to Tide
Photo credit: Maddie of Hide to Tide
Photo credit: Maddie of Hide to Tide
Photo credit: Lynette Fry
Photo source: David Crisafulli MP
Photo credit: Jay Harwood
Photo credit: Jay Harwood

‍

The Government is delivering 20 new homes across Queensland, including Mackay, specifically designed to provide safe, supported housing for young mothers and their children experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.

As part of a $30 million package, the initiative will create purpose-built homes with on-site wraparound support, giving young families stability and a pathway to long-term housing. In Mackay, Connect Housing Group will construct three new homes for young parents and children as part of a growing supported community housing precinct.

“Housing is the foundation of life and more young families in Mackay will now have access to safe, secure homes and the support they need to build independence,” Connect Housing Group Executive Manager Darren Mew said.

“We’re proud to be part of a project that delivers real, lasting outcomes for vulnerable parents.”

Minister for Housing, Public Works and Youth Sam O’Connor said the investment was part of the government’s commitment to provide young Queensland mums with the tools they need to build a better life for themselves and their children.

“Every young mum deserves a safe home and the chance to give her kids the best start in life,” Minister O’Connor said.

“By delivering specially-designed homes with on-site supports across Ipswich, Townsville and Mackay, we’re giving vulnerable young families the stability they need today to have a pathway to a better future.

“This is the kind of practical, early-intervention investment that keeps families together, prevents crisis situations and delivers lasting change.”

The package will also see new homes delivered in Ipswich by the Lady Musgrave Trust, Townsville by Yumba-Meta Ltd, and Brisbane by Mercy Community, all with on-site support services tailored to the needs of young mothers and their children.

Connect Housing’s new Mackay homes will provide essential stability, helping young parents access education, training, and community services while offering a safe environment for children to thrive.

With these 20 homes across four locations, the Government aims to address a decade-long shortfall in social housing and ensure vulnerable young families in regional areas like Mackay have the support they need to build lasting, secure futures.

SWIMMING

North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club has dived into 2026, ready to churn up the water with a year packed full of laps, laughter and good times.

The club kicked off the year with its regular Saturday morning swim, followed by a relaxed social morning tea featuring delicious food, great coffee and plenty of chatter as members caught up after the break.

Saturday morning sessions offer two lanes for those keen to chat, socialise and enjoy some gentle exercise, plus a lane for swimmers who prefer to take things slowly — because the water isn’t just for serious swimmers.

Monday night is coaching night with Millie at the Memorial Pool, with a 5.15pm sign-in for a 5.30pm start. Informal early morning swims for the serious, the keen and the brave also take place throughout the week.

The first meet on the 2026 calendar is FUN in FEB, planned for Saturday the 28th of February. This local short-course (25m) carnival will be held at the Mackay North State High School Pool on Valley Street and will finish with a fun after-party.

Swimmers can choose to race 25m, 50m, 100m or 400m in any stroke, with up to six events available to nominate. Last year, a crocodile was spotted on the starting blocks — organisers aren’t quite sure if it has been relocated or will be making a return appearance as a starter this year.

In 2025, Sinkers took on the challenge of 50 laps x 50m x 50 weeks, with a number of members achieving the goal. For 2026, two new challenges are on offer.

The Endurance 1000 is designed for swimmers who enjoy longer distances, with a program of distances and strokes starting at 400m. The second challenge, 26 x 26 x 26, encourages swimmers to complete a total of 2.6km in any stroke or combination of strokes and distances within each fortnight, for a minimum of 26 completions across 2026.

Sinkers will also continue their strong focus on community fundraising. In 2025, fundraising efforts reached an all-time high of almost $27,000, supporting Starlight Children’s Foundation, youth mental health initiatives, breast cancer, Mackay Women’s Services, Chances House and MS. Over 11 years, the club has raised just over $102,000 for various charities and foundations.

Support didn’t stop at fundraising. In 2025, 27 Sinkers members made a combined 115 blood donations. Out of 79 clubs in their category, Sinkers placed second, and sixth overall out of 251 clubs Australia-wide.

These efforts were recognised with the club receiving the Community Group Award at the 2025 Mackay City Council Australia Day Awards.

Sinkers Masters Swimming Club is about far more than swimming. The club is inclusive and welcoming, catering for non-swimmers, those returning to the water, members recovering from injury and competitive swimmers alike. Regular social events are held, including a morning tea after each Saturday session at the DMR Memorial Pool.

For more information, contact Megan on 0439 980 103.

‍

Hello Everyone,

I'm in the Editors chair this week as Rachael is away enjoying a holiday. And what a week for her to be gone.

Before she left, I jokingly told her everything would be fine, that the cyclone would miss us and we would see a bit of wind and rain. While Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji was downgraded to a Category 1 system as it crossed the coast, it still delivered a timely reminder that the wet season is no joke in North Queensland.

Many of us were lucky. I was lucky enough not to lose power during the event, but hearing of power outages for others reminded me of how unprepared I was.

Last year in February, I experienced the worst floods in over 50 years up in the Hinchinbrook region, that again was a disaster nobody was expecting. I should have used this learning experience to be prepared, but as Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji was trajected to hit further north I anticipated nothing.

This shifted my mindset and reminded me how quickly conditions can change and how vulnerable our region can be at this time of year. Cyclones, floods and severe weather are part of life here.

Preparation matters. Whether it’s having an emergency kit ready, knowing your local warnings, or checking in on neighbours, these moments remind us why staying informed and prepared is so important.

As we move deeper into the wet season, let’s take this as a reminder to look out for one another, stay weather-aware, and never underestimate the power of nature even when it seems like “just a bit of wind and rain”.

‍

Local resident Linda Gibson has expressed her sincere thanks to the Bowen SES volunteers for their prompt response and friendly support when she called for assistance.

After returning home from spending Christmas out of town with family, Linda discovered that her box gutter had overflowed during heavy downpours, causing water to burst through her ceiling. At the request of her insurance company, she contacted SES to help prevent any further damage.

The SES team responded quickly and came up with an innovative solution to safely drain any additional water until permanent repairs could be carried out. Linda also extended her gratitude to her neighbours and friends for their help during a stressful time.

‍

Photos supplied

‍

"You've Gotta Take It On The Chin"

Four years ago, seasoned sailor Wayne Hawkins purchased his boat in Airlie Beach, he poured hundreds of thousands and countless hours into restoring it with plans to finally set off cruising the Whitsundays and beyond.

But Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji halted this plan.

In just two-to-three weeks sailor Wayne Hawkins and wife Elsa, were about to embark on a trip, six months at sea after a lifetime of adventure.

When the weather system moved in, the decision was made to shelter upriver, believing it would be safer than riding it out at sea. Triple mooring lines were set. The forecast warned of rain more than wind, but the conditions escalated rapidly.

“It was horrendous,” he said.

“Absolutely horrendous.”

Winds reached an estimated 60 to 70 knots, shifting direction suddenly and violently. A three to four metre swell rolled through for hours. Despite experience that included sailing halfway around the world there was no preparing for what followed.

“In two minutes it was all over,” he said.

“The lines snapped, everything went. I couldn’t even get to the dingy. That was it.”

Fear quickly gave way to frustration.

“I wasn’t scared so much, I was angry,” Wayne said.

“Angry at the gods.”

In the days since, the response from the Airlie Beach community has been overwhelming. Friends, locals and even strangers have turned up to help with recovery efforts, offering time, labour, and moving of debris.

“People just showed up - that’s the part that gets you.”

One volunteer helping out said they had no work, a friend showed them people were helping, so he simply went along to help.

With the vessel now beyond repair, Wayne and Elsa are facing the reality of starting again from scratch. Despite the loss, he remains grounded, acknowledging others have suffered far worse in recent disasters.

“Someone always cops it - this time, it was us.”

‍

Wayne Hawkins and his wife Elsa at Cannonvale Beach. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

‍

Opinion Piece By Andrew Willcox MP

It’s been another wet and wild start to the year. Across North Queensland, there are many
anxious people asking familiar questions: will the roads flood, how many cyclones will
we face, and will there be food on the shelves?

No one can accurately predict the weather. Some try. And while a few may pride
themselves on sticking their head out the window to make a call, no organisation is more
relied on by Australians for weather advice than the Bureau of Meteorology. Its
forecasters are highly credentialed professionals who play a critical role in keeping our
communities informed and safe.

That is why confidence in the Bureau’s systems matters. In particular the BoM website.

A modern, reliable website is essential when families, farmers, truck drivers, and
emergency services are making decisions during severe weather.

Unfortunately, the recent attempt to upgrade the Bureau’s website has fallen well short
of expectations.

Initially priced in to cost $4.1 million, the blow out hit $96.5 million. That’s 23.5 times
what was budgeted. This is an eye watering figure even for the level of sophistication
required. And for that price tag, what exactly did we get. Not much.

Today, Australians are eAectively using a combination of the new website and legacy
systems, with limited confidence that the upgrade has delivered meaningful
improvement. In simple terms, nearly $100 million has been spent and we are still relying
on much of the same old website and functionality.  Don’t’ forget it is likely that more
money will still need to be spent to get the website to where it should be right now.

People are rightly asking how a government project ended up costing so much while
delivering so little. When a project promised to deliver a better service and instead
creates confusion, there must be accountability.

The Minister responsible, Senator Murray Watt, expressed frustration after the blowout
became public. But the real question is where was the ministerial scrutiny as costs
escalated and when were the warning signs noticed? Why wasn’t the project paused or
reined in earlier? Additionally, a large portion of the money paid to external consultants
was attributed to testing. What sort of testing did they do? Because within hours of the
new website going live, members of the public were pointing out the problems and they
weren’t even paid to give their advice.

In the grand scheme of things $96.5 million may seem like a relatively small governmental
expenditure but put a few of these costs blow out together, as has been the case under
the Albanese government and there are major budgetary problems. No wonder this
government’s account keeping is all over the place.

As we have seen again these past few weeks, North Queensland’s weather can change
rapidly. That is why preparation matters.

• Keep emergency supplies such as water, non-perishable food, batteries and medications at the ready.
• Secure loose items around your home.
• Check in on family, friends and neighbours.
• Monitor local council disaster dashboards.
• Avoid driving through floodwaters.

Our weather may be unpredictable, but preparation saves lives. Be storm ready, look out
for one another, and above all, stay safe.

‍

Premier David Crisafulli MP was quick to respond to Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, quickly visiting regions that faced the brunt of the system that hit the morning of Sunday, the 11th of January.

On Monday, the 12th of January, Premier Crisafulli MP touched down in Bowen to inspect work on the ground, check on emergency services and announce his commitment on following recovery work through to the end.

Premier Crisafulli MP also stopped in Proserpine to assess the Whitsunday Local Disaster Coordination Centre. He looked at impacts on the ground that included minor infrastructure damage, and he announced the things were run well.

“I think it was a great opportunity for Proserpine today to be at the Whitsunday Centre of Disaster Recovery, with the state meeting chaired from there. Honestly, more of that is needed," he said.

“We’re the most decentralised state in the country, and some people see that as a challenge, but I see it as an opportunity.

“I want to make sure that wherever possible we get on the ground. I’ve had ministers out in Western Queensland and we’ll continue to do that.

“It’s great to be on the ground this morning, meeting with the Mayor Ry Collins and going out to thank the local people and the local disaster management group…that’s really important.

“It’s important for people to know that they matter.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said it Premier Crisafulli MP and himself discussed local impacts, recovery priorities and the support our communities may need moving forward.

"Importantly, the Premier took the time to personally thank our responders, disaster management teams and crews for their hard work before, during and after TC Koji, and to see how the Whitsundays prepares for, responds to and recovers from severe weather events," said Mayor Collins.

"I want to echo that thanks. A huge acknowledgement to our frontline crews, Whitsunday Regional Council staff, emergency responders, SES, Ergon Energy and all partner agencies, as well as the teams working behind the scenes.

"Your long hours, professionalism and community-first approach in tough and unpredictable conditions are something the entire Whitsundays can be incredibly proud of.

"Support by our leaders for our region is always welcome, and it was appreciated to have the Premier on the ground with us during recovery."

‍

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli MP visited the Whitsunday Local Disaster Coordination Centre on Monday.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins and Queensland Premier David Crisafulli MP on the ground after Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji

Photos sourced

‍