Parts Of Bluewater Trail To Temporarily Close

The Mackay Base Hospital helipad has reopened after a temporary closure to meet new national helicopter landing guidelines.

The RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter service conducted a successful test landing last week to trial new security procedures for take-off and landings. CASA guidelines issued in November require a 50metre exclusion zone that is clear of parked vehicles and people during helicopter take-off and landings. The exclusion zone is due to the helicopter downwash from the blades which can cause objects such as prams or bikes to be blown away if they are closer than 50metres to the helicopter.

Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon said this meant the section of the Bluewater Trail near the hospital would be closed for short periods of time.

“Mackay HHS has worked closely with RACQ CQ Rescue and Mackay Regional Council to see how we can meet the new CASA requirements and reopen the helipad,” Ms Gannon said.

“Mackay Regional Council is happy to support the health service temporarily closing the Bluewater Trail for short periods of time when the helipad is in use.

“Access will be limited during both approach and landing and take-off and departure.

“To minimise disruption to path users, the Bluewater Trail will be reopened when the helicopter is on the ground and the engine has been shut down,” she said.

Ms Gannon asked for community support during the periods when the trail will close. There are an average of one to two helicopter landings a day.

“People will notice a flashing light on the path, and we ask for cooperation from trail users.

“We will also have security staff at the flashing lights and a temporary barricade, and I ask that people are respectful to them.

“They are there for the safety of our patients and to ensure the helicopter can land. If there are any people within the exclusion zone the helicopter will not land,” she said.

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Enhanced safety measures ensure the re-opening of Mackay Base Hospital's helipad, complying with CASA guidelines for secure helicopter landings and take-offs. Photo supplied: MHHS

On the 11th of December, a group of 16 workmates arrived at a restaurant for their Christmas dinner. One of the individuals in the group needed wheelchair access. Despite multiple confirmations with the venue that this would not be a concern, trouble arose. After multiple attempts to lift the 300kg wheelchair into the restaurant, they were unable to attend their booking and had to form a contingency plan.

Unsure of how their evening would unfold, they contacted Harrup Park Country Club and explained their situation. The reception staff on the phone understood the situation and were elated at the opportunity to help. The staff at Harrup Park were more than happy to accommodate the group, even though it was a last-minute booking during a very busy time.

When the group arrived at the country club, they were overjoyed to find bistro staff moving tables and going out of their way to make all necessary accommodations, so that the work colleagues could enjoy their evening, free of concern.

The group have since praised Harrup Park for doing so much to make the Christmas party special and ensure that everyone felt included and had the space to enjoy their night. They have also noted how accessible the building is for those in need of handicapped access, with ramps, toilets and the ability to order food without leaving the table.

Overall, everyone enjoyed their evening, even after the earlier hiccups.

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Harrup Park Bistro. Photo credit: Harrup Park Country Club

I’m eager to know and share in the festive joy!

I’m on a quest to uncover your ultimate Christmas traditions—whether they’re quirky, heart-warming, or downright hilarious. Why, you ask? Well, this year’s Christmas isn’t just about me anymore, it’s the first with our son, who will be almost 9 months old. I’m determined to create traditions that’ll make him giggle, ponder, and possibly spill his milk in astonishment.

What’s your festive secret sauce? Whether it’s an offbeat Christmas Eve ritual involving reindeer socks or a post-Christmas feast sandcastle contest, I’m all ears! Oh, and a burning question: in homes without fireplaces, how does Santa work his magical entry? Is there a secret kangaroo expressway we’re missing?

Traditions are the delightful sprinkles on the holiday cupcake—those quirky rituals that make our hearts merry. Take, for instance, my recent Kiwi holiday home where I tooted my way through the Kaikoura tunnels. Yep, it’s a Kiwi tradition. And just this week, as our home got a fresh concrete slab in the backyard, my little one's footprints and initials now grace our territory. I guess you could call it the foundation of our traditions!

Now, speaking of festive shenanigans, I’ve been invited to an Aussie Christmas blowout at a friend's family farm. Since my folks are far, far away, it's all about diving headfirst into the Aussie festivities! They’ve asked for a classic Kiwi lolly cake, but I couldn’t resist adding a touch of Kiwi flair with a pavlova. I'm also attempting my first trifle. Disaster or masterpiece? Only the North Pole elves know!

But hey, I'd love to hear about your Christmas traditions. Even better, share a photo from past years and tell me the story behind it at amanda@mackayandwhitsundaylife.com. In next week’s edition, our last for 2023, I’ll create a collage of your cherished traditions, capturing the true essence of this festive season.

We will also share a selection of Santa photos, so if you managed to grab a snap with the jolly man in red, send them to me with the names of everyone in the photo.

Here’s to traditions, magical memories, and sharing the laughter that truly makes this season magical!

Warm festive wishes,

Amanda

With Project Booyah

Nine young girls recently graduated from an action-packed Project Booyah in Mackay. The 16-week community-inclusive police mentoring program offered a unique blend of education, work experience, and adventure-based learning.

Teaming up with multiple local community groups, the cohort first collaborated with Mad Cow Coffee, who provided their time, resources, and knowledge, to teach our young ladies the skills required to make the perfect coffee over a four-week Barista course.

This not only earned the girls’ certificates for their resumes but also enhanced their communication skills and confidence. They showcased their coffee-making and customer service skills at Mackay’s Local Farmers Market, receiving positive feedback and some of the ladies have even obtained job interviews from their interactions.

Further expanding their skills, the girls attended the Mackay Woodturners Association for a crash course in woodturning, making hand-crafted wooden pens with guidance from experienced members. Frank and the Woodturners Association selflessly offered their time and resources to teach them the basics of using the lathe and other tools in the workshop. The final product was a hand-crafted wooden pen that gave the girls a sense of ownership and pride in what they had achieved.

The girls were also exposed to the world of virtual reality by Senior Constable Jaime Brooks, who delivered a Drive to Thrive Road Safety VR session, educating the group on road rules and safety. The girls enthusiastically participated, engaging in the session, and learning the effects of operating a vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicating substance.

To culminate an exceptional semester, Project Booyah Mackay partnered with Whitsunday Water Police to surprise the girls with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Whitehaven Beach aboard Police Vessel Damian Leeding. The girls expressed their excitement and gratitude for the opportunity, building rapport with police officers and showing genuine interest in their roles.

Program Coordinator Senior Constable Keiran Horsfall was overwhelmed with pride seeing his cohort graduate and is excited to see what the future holds for them.

“Project Booyah doesn’t use a cookie cutter approach, we base our course content around the cohort that we have to achieve the best outcomes for them, “he said.

“The blend of education, work experience, but also knowing when to have fun is intentional. It’s not just about preparing for a job or school; it’s about preparing for life.

“The nine graduating girls have had a lasting effect on me and I’m certain the program will have a lasting effect on them.

“Seeing these young girls graduate with new skills and confidence is the greatest reward.”

Senior Constable Keiran Horsfall’s leadership, coupled with community collaborations, has not only empowered these young women with practical skills but has also opened doors to exciting opportunities and career prospects.

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Mackay Booyah girls making coffees with Sonia from Mad Cow Coffee

Booyah girls and Mackay Woodturners members with their handmade wooden pens

Booyah girls using the lathe to make wooden pens

Trying out the VR headsets

Mackay Booyah girls aboard the Damian Leeding vessel

Photo credit: myPolice Mackay

Nine young girls recently graduated from an action-packed Project Booyah in Mackay. The 16-week community-inclusive police mentoring program offered a unique blend of education, work experience, and adventure-based learning.

Teaming up with multiple local community groups, the cohort first collaborated with Mad Cow Coffee, who provided their time, resources, and knowledge, to teach our young ladies the skills required to make the perfect coffee over a four-week Barista course.

This not only earned the girls’ certificates for their resumes but also enhanced their communication skills and confidence. They showcased their coffee-making and customer service skills at Mackay’s Local Farmers Market, receiving positive feedback and some of the ladies have even obtained job interviews from their interactions.

Further expanding their skills, the girls attended the Mackay Woodturners Association for a crash course in woodturning, making hand-crafted wooden pens with guidance from experienced members. Frank and the Woodturners Association selflessly offered their time and resources to teach them the basics of using the lathe and other tools in the workshop. The final product was a hand-crafted wooden pen that gave the girls a sense of ownership and pride in what they had achieved.

The girls were also exposed to the world of virtual reality by Senior Constable Jaime Brooks, who delivered a Drive to Thrive Road Safety VR session, educating the group on road rules and safety. The girls enthusiastically participated, engaging in the session, and learning the effects of operating a vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicating substance.

To culminate an exceptional semester, Project Booyah Mackay partnered with Whitsunday Water Police to surprise the girls with a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Whitehaven Beach aboard Police Vessel Damian Leeding. The girls expressed their excitement and gratitude for the opportunity, building rapport with police officers and showing genuine interest in their roles.

Program Coordinator Senior Constable Keiran Horsfall was overwhelmed with pride seeing his cohort graduate and is excited to see what the future holds for them.

“Project Booyah doesn’t use a cookie cutter approach, we base our course content around the cohort that we have to achieve the best outcomes for them, “he said.

“The blend of education, work experience, but also knowing when to have fun is intentional. It’s not just about preparing for a job or school; it’s about preparing for life.

“The nine graduating girls have had a lasting effect on me and I’m certain the program will have a lasting effect on them.

“Seeing these young girls graduate with new skills and confidence is the greatest reward.”

Senior Constable Keiran Horsfall’s leadership, coupled with community collaborations, has not only empowered these young women with practical skills but has also opened doors to exciting opportunities and career prospects.

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Mackay Booyah girls making coffees with Sonia from Mad Cow Coffee

Booyah girls and Mackay Woodturners members with their handmade wooden pens

Booyah girls using the lathe to make wooden pens

Trying out the VR headsets

Mackay Booyah girls aboard the Damian Leeding vessel

Photo credit: myPolice Mackay

Petition To Halt Works

Residents of the region are encouraged to sign the ‘Save Eungella’ petition, to halt the proposed construction of a pumped hydro scheme, backed by the Queensland Government.

The petition is a part of Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry’s Save Eungella campaign and aims to preserve the rich biodiversity of Eungella for wildlife and the local community.

According to Ms Landry, the government is hastily pursuing a target of 70 per cent of renewable energy by 2032.

“However, in their urgency for renewable energy, both levels of government are jeopardizing untouched wilderness, valuable agricultural land and mental wellbeing of locals,” Ms Landry explained.

“In their rush to renewables, Labor is investing billions of dollars to build the world’s largest pumped hydro scheme right in the heart of one of Australia’s most diverse rainforest wilderness areas. It will completely decimate the habitat of iconic native animals, such as the platypus and northern quoll. Once Eungella, land of clouds, is under water, we will never get it back,” she said.

“Queenslanders are rightly concerned about how much these renewable projects are going to be affecting our wonderfully unique environments, particularly projects which will be constructed in one of Australia’s most ecologically diverse areas.

“Not only is this impacting the habitat of native animals, but it is also forcing locals from their homes,” Ms Landry said.

“Meanwhile, those residing in close proximity contend with devaluation of their land, disruptions to their lives, and the challenging toll on their mental health.”

Residents can find the ‘Save Eungella’ petition here: michellelandry.com.au/saveeungella.

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Charlene and Joe Slack with David Littleproud and Michelle Landry. Photo supplied

Mackay police have charged a 46-year-old woman following a two-year investigation into the suspicious death of a child at Munbura, near Mackay on August 29, 2021.

Emergency crews were called to a Munbura Road address on that date, after a four-year-old child, Tarrin-Macen O'Sullivan, was reported to have drowned in a backyard pool.

After extensive investigations through Operation Tango Anise, detectives will now allege the four-year-old child died before entering the pool.

Last Friday, December 8, detectives from the Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit (CPIU) arrested the mother, 46-year-old Tara Richardson, at a South Mackay address.

Ms Richardson has been charged with one count of murder (domestic violence offence) and one count of misconduct with corpse by interference.

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Tarrin-Macen O’Sullivan. Photo source: Facebook

Mackay Airport is celebrating Christmas early this year, gifting a total of $10,000 to five charities.

Each will receive their share of $2,000 of five different charities and not-for-profit organisations.

With the public able to vote for the charities up until yesterday, Thursday 14, the ‘Mackay Airport Making Christmas a Little Brighter’ campaign is aimed to promote and support smaller charities.

Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said the new initiative would aim to support lesser-known charities who may be overlooked during typical festive season fundraising.

“Charity donations are often more frequent during the Christmas period; however, community groups with limited marketing capacity often miss out on this much needed money,” he said.

“Many smaller organisations across our region do vital work that can improve people’s lives immeasurably. A donation to these groups can make a real difference to their bottom line and enable them to extend their reach to more people in need.”

“We plan to make this initiative an annual and evolving event. Along with providing financial support, we hope this campaign will help to increase awareness around the many charities and projects that are doing important work around our region.”

Each successful organisation will be handed a life-size cheque of $2,000 in the lead up to Christmas, delivered by a Mackay Airport representative and Santa himself.

The five public chosen charities will be announced on Wednesday, December 20.

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Santa Claus with Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles, with the $10,000 cheque for charities. Photos supplied

She’s only 11 weeks old, but baby Rosie Connell already starred in her first role last Friday at Mater Private Hospital Mackay.

Rosie fulfilled the role of Baby Jesus in Mater’s annual nativity play, which has become a tradition at the facility performed for Mater staff and patients – and starring the children of Mater People.

Rosie’s mother, Mater Private Hospital Mackay Registered Nurse Jasmine Connell, said she was thrilled to have both her children starring in the nativity play for the first time.  

“Even though I’ve worked at Mater Mackay for 12 years, this is the first year that I’ve had the chance for my children to be in the nativity play, which is performed every year,” Ms Connell said.

“Rosie played baby Jesus while my eldest, who is five years old, played one of the angels.

“I’m on maternity leave with Rosie at the moment, but am normally a registered nurse on our surgical ward.

“One of the reasons I enjoy working at Mater is the family environment, which is reflected in the staff and our families being able to come together for the nativity play.

“I also feel the nativity play is a fantastic way to give insight to the true meaning of Christmas and Mater’s own Mission of providing compassionate care to our community.”

Mater Private Hospital Mackay Acting General Manager Chris Junge said he was proud the nativity play tradition was continuing.

“Mater Mackay’s nativity play has been performed annually for more than 30 years by Mater staff and their families, and is a wonderful opportunity for us to celebrate our Mater People, entertain our patients and visitors, and reflect on the meaning of Christmas,” Mr Junge said.

“Our Mater People embody our vision to empower people to live better lives – and in Mackay we are very proud to put these values into action and provide opportunities for our staff and their families to feel supported.”

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Mater Mackay’s nativity play has been performed annually for more than 30 years. This year, baby Rosie Connell starred as Baby Jesus. Photos supplied

Excitement was palpable in Mackay last week, with the Wiggles performing at the MECC, as part of their national The Wiggles’ Wiggly Big Day Out Tour. During the show, there was a special message, supporting the upcoming free kindy for 2024.

A partnership between the Queensland Government and The Wiggles, the advertising campaign showcased the free kindy initiative, beginning January 1, 2024 for eligible families.

It is estimated that 64,000 children will benefit from this initiative, and have access to quality early education program in the year before Prep, for 15 hours a week, 40 weeks a year.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert was excited to spread the message in Mackay alongside The Wiggles.

"Free kindy is a huge investment and historic reform from the Queensland Government which will see local Mackay families saving up to $4,600 per year,” she explained.

"It's important that Queensland families know kindy will be free, inclusive and accessible from the start of next year, so that every child can get a strong start to their learning."

"Who better to help us share this fantastic message, than Australian children's musical icons — The Wiggles?

"It's terrific to have The Wiggles on board to share this important message and inspire audiences to enrol in free kindy from 2024."

One lucky local family was also given the opportunity to meet The Wiggles in Mackay.

Families can learn more about kindy and use the Free Kindy Finder online tool to search for a free kindy location by searching 'Free Kindy Queensland.'

To find your local approved and free kindergarten, search 'Free Kindy Queensland' or visit www.qld.gov.au/FreeKindy

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Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert was at the MECC to help The Wiggles spread the message of ‘free kindy’ beginning in 2024

The visionary leader of Australia’s largest resource region announced her retirement from local government in Queensland last week.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker broke the emotional news that she has made the decision not to contest the local government elections in March 2024.

Mayor Baker, who is one of Queensland’s most respected local government leaders, is known as a powerhouse community champion for her monumental lobbying and her authentic approach of putting people before politics.

Council CEO Ken Gouldthorp described Mayor Baker as the political architect steering the ship for over a decade and the driving force behind a series of remarkable achievements.

“The Isaac region’s trajectory has been forever altered under her visionary guidance and she leaves a legacy that lays strong foundations for Isaac’s next chapter,” Mr Gouldthorp said.

“As we bid farewell to an Isaac icon, we salute Mayor Baker for her indelible mark on our region's history.

“Her inspirational legacy and authentic human approach to leadership is not just a chapter in our story, but a dynamic force that will resonate for generations to come.”

Mayor Baker, who has lived in the Bowen Basin for 40 years, shared her heartfelt thanks to her communities, Councillors and Council staff that have supported her throughout her career.

“After nearly 17 years representing the Isaac region, and the last 12 of those as Mayor, I have made the decision to retire from Council,” Mayor Baker said.

“It has been a wild ride and I have put my heart and soul into fighting for Isaac, getting up every day to do my best for the community I love.

“I've cherished every moment of being Mayor, and I'm excited to see what the future holds for our incredible region.”

At the end of a term filled with monumental achievements including saving Glenden, successful lobbying for a new hospital and securing over $120M in funding for our communities, Mayor Baker plans to take a break and spend time with family and friends.

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Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker will not contest the 2024 local government elections. Photos supplied: Isaac Regional Council

The Benefits Of Shopping Local

As consumers, our choices profoundly impact the economic and social landscape of our region. Shopping locally in Mackay isn’t merely a transaction, it’s an investment back into the community that we so proudly belong to.

There are a multitude of benefits to shopping locally and within your community, and this is far from an exhaustive list, but it does illustrate just how much of a difference your hard-earned money can make to the world and the people around you.

1. Economic Empowerment

Mackay’s local businesses are the lifeblood of the community, contributing significantly to the economic health of the region. In a survey conducted in Australia in 2021, the leading reason among respondents for shopping locally was to keep money in the local community, with around 54 per cent of respondents indicating this.

2. Job Creation

Employment opportunities are crucial for the well-being of the region. Small stores, cafes, news agencies and other locally owned businesses are often major contributors to job creation. By choosing to shop locally, you’re helping to expand the opportunities for everybody, and that’s always a good thing.

3. Unique Local Offerings

Mackay boasts a multitude of small and family-owned businesses that each have their unique wares. Locally sourced produce and artisanal crafts are only a sample of the rich diversity of offerings that can be found when exploring the city. Offerings like this often won’t be available in many chain stores. Not only does this enhance the shopping experience, but also adds character to the community.

4. Environmental Impact

Beyond the economic advantages, shopping here in Mackay will also help reduce your carbon footprint. Have you ever considered the environmental impact of having goods shipped from large chain stores over long distances? Shopping locally and supporting small businesses often means you’re helping to reduce carbon emissions and helping to contribute to an eco-friendly community.

5. Community Connection

Local businesses not only provide a unique shopping experience, but they also provide a fantastic gathering place for locals and help foster a sense of homeliness and belonging among Mackay residents. As you shop locally, you’re not just buying goods, you’re investing in the social fabric of this great community.

By choosing to shop locally, you become an active participant in the growth of our community. Every local purchase you make sends a ripple of positive impact throughout Mackay, creating a community we can all take pride in.

Every year, the Rotary club of Walkerston is responsible for quite a few local awards.

Recently presented was the Dux Awards at both of the local primary schools.                                                        

At Walkerston State School it was presented to Frankie Cunningham, and at St John’s Catholic School to Khloe Noy. Congratulations to both girls!

Also every year, the club presents the Cliff Andersen Memorial Sports Trophy to an outstanding sportsperson.  

Cliff Andersen was, for many years, a councillor on the Pioneer Shire Council representing the Walkerston region. He was also a very keen sportsman both playing and coaching tennis.                          Following his death, Councillor Andersen’s family donated the Cliff Andersen Memorial Sports Award perpetual trophy to Walkerston Rotary Club. This was to be presented to a local sportsperson who had achieved above average success in his or her chosen sport/s. The trophy was first presented in 1993.

The 2023 Cliff Andersen Memorial Sports Award was rather special this year, by way of being multiplied by two! It was presented to twelve-year-old twins Aiden and Noah Porter, two very high achievers in local athletics, and beyond.

The club's Community Service Award was presented to Carmel Baretta, a highly accomplished and very well-known local identity, especially in the Italian and Maltese circles. Carmel has worked tirelessly for many years, volunteering in many local community groups, including the Italian and Maltese descendants’ community groups.

International Men’s Day, held on the third Sunday of November, was celebrated with a very successful ‘Sunday Session’. Hopefully the first of such to be organised by the Club.          

This came about from a wish expressed by this year’s club president, that he ‘would really like to set up an event focussing on men’s health’.  A clever club member suggested the not overly publicised International Men’s Day for the date.                                                          

From there the concept developed at a fast pace, gaining lots of community and business support, then culminating in a lazy relaxing Sunday afternoon of ‘Blokes Celebrating Blokes’, with great company, good food, and excellent speakers.

Walkerston Rotary Club wishes to thank Mackay Life Newspaper for its much-appreciated support throughout 2023 via the Walkerston Wonders page.

Season’s Greetings to everyone!

Contributed by Bente McDonald

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Dux Award recipient at Walkerston School, Frankie Cunningham, presented by Club Youth Director Bente McDonald

Dux Award Recipient at St John's School, Khloe Noy, presented by Club Director Ray Borg

Cliff Andersen Sports Award recipients, Aiden and Noah Porter

Walkerston Rotary's Community Service Award recipient, Carmel Baretta

We have everything you need this gift giving season – from stunning giftware and pots, to a diverse selection of plants and garden essentials. Explore the latest Weber Q range, ideal for those last-minute Christmas gifts. Dive into the largest assortment of YETI products in Mackay, perfect for surprising your loved ones!

For the DIY enthusiasts, our store boasts a comprehensive collection of power tools and outdoor equipment from renowned brands like STIHL, Milwaukee, Makita, Dewalt, and much more.

Whether you're planning home projects during the Christmas break or seeking gifts for Mum, Dad, or the whole family, we have a wide variety to choose from.

Take a break at Charlies Café with a cup of coffee while you browse our beautiful store, and don't miss our extensive outdoor furniture range.

Make this holiday season special with Porters! Full list of festive trading hours can be found on our website www.porterscando.com.au

Hello Walkerston, it's time to get your armchairs and BBQ's ready, the great annual Walkerston Fire Station lolly run will be happening Saturday 16th December from 2pm.

If you would like to donate any money or lollies to Santa, please drop them into Walkerston Fuel (please ensure they are individually wrapped).

The travel route and street listing will be posted to the Facebook event on the day so you can see Santa's route.