At Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant

Whether it’s a lively family gathering or a memorable office celebration, Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant on River Street offers an excellent dining experience that will satisfy every craving. Specialising in authentic Thai, Chinese, and Malaysian cuisine, the restaurant is led by a talented chef from China’s Canton region, ensuring every dish bursts with genuine flavour and tradition.

Open seven days a week, Tropical Phoenix Garden caters to all dining preferences with indoor and outdoor seating, takeaway, and convenient home delivery services. After a busy Sunday Funday or a hectic workweek, customers can simply relax and let the kitchen handle dinner with fresh, hot meals delivered straight to the doorstep or ready for pick-up.

Signature dishes showcase the rich culinary heritage of Southeast Asia, from the comforting slow-cooked Beef Massaman Curry, with tender beef simmered in creamy coconut and warm spices, to the crowd-pleasing Crispy Pork Belly – it’s perfect for game nights or any occasion that calls for a little indulgence. Fans of seafood will appreciate the salt and pepper prawns, while the curry duck and sizzling crispy steak round out the diverse menu.

Health-conscious diners aren’t left behind, with keto- and low-carb-friendly options such as wok-fried green beans, garlic chicken with fresh vegetables, and the combination omelette (ask for no sauce). These dishes deliver nutrition without compromising on taste.

Tropical Phoenix Garden is open for lunch from 11am to 1:45pm and dinner from 5pm to 8:45pm. To make dining even easier, customers can order online for takeaway or home delivery via the restaurant’s website.

For a delicious escape into authentic Asian flavours, visit Tropical Phoenix Garden Restaurant at 24 River Street, Mackay, or call (07) 4957 8218 to place your order today.

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Book your table today and experience the true taste of Vietnam. Photo source: Flavours of Vietnam

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Laffos Cookies is fast becoming a favourite stop for families seeking a delicious way to take a break. Located just up from the Target entrance and beside Caneland Central’s new playground, Laffos Cookies offers the perfect spot to recharge while the kids enjoy some playtime.

Freshly baked daily, each 125g cookie is packed with real ingredients—no nasties, just good old-fashioned indulgence. Parents can sip on a smooth, locally roasted Primal Coffee while keeping an eye on little ones enjoying the play space just outside.

There are gluten-free and vegan cookie options available every day, making Laffos Cookies a welcoming treat spot for everyone. Whether it’s a break between errands, a moment to pause with family, or simply the perfect excuse for something sweet, this convenient and cosy nook offers the ideal blend of practicality and pleasure.

For a fuss-free family outing with a side of indulgence, drop by Laffos Cookies and enjoy a treat worth savouring.

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A Tasty Trio Of Sunday Fun!

Get ready to pack your picnic rugs and dancing shoes – the 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts is bringing the party to your backyard with Savour the Suburbs!

Get ready to pack your picnic rugs and dancing shoes – the 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts is bringing the party to your backyard with Savour the Suburbs!

This July, the festival is hitting the road (and the beach, and the valley!) for three unforgettable Sunday sessions that celebrate the heart and soul of our region.

From the salty sea breeze of Bucasia to the lush Pioneer Valley and the golden sands of Grasstree Beach, Savour the Suburbs is your passport to local flavour, fun and festivity.

Mayor Greg Williamson said each event was a vibrant mix of live local music, artisan markets, regional produce and family-friendly fanfare – all set against the stunning natural backdrops that make our suburbs shine.

“Whether you're a foodie, a music lover, or just looking for a great day out, there’s something for everyone,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Savour the Suburbs is more than just a concert series – it’s a celebration of community, culture and connection,” he said.

“It’s about discovering the hidden gems in our own backyard and supporting the local talent and traders who make Mackay magic.”

“Bring the whole crew – these events are open to all ages and perfect for a Sunday family outing. Why not make it a mission to attend all three and truly savour the suburbs?”

Join in Savour the Suburbs at:

Bucasia Esplanade, July 6, noon – 4pm.
Pinnacle Cricket Club, July 13, noon – 4pm.
Grasstree Beach, July 20, noon – 4pm.

And, don’t forget Tin Can Radio will feature for the young and young at heart at Foodspace Mackay on July 2 to 4.

Kids and their favourite older person will take over the airways at a fun pop-up radio station.

For more information, visit www.themecc.com.au/festivals.

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The 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts is bringing the party to your backyard with Savour the Suburbs, a mix of live local music, artisan markets and regional produce

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Two Year 12 students from St Patrick’s College Mackay have achieved national recognition, placing third in Australia at the prestigious National High School Mooting Competition – while simultaneously becoming the only regional school to reach the semi-finals and claim a top-three spot.

Claudia Illguth and Mikayla Green represented the appellant in a challenging civil law case centred on parental liability for a child’s negligent behaviour. Their client had been injured on private property by an intoxicated teenage driver, sparking complex legal debate over a parent’s duty of care.

No strangers to mooting, the pair returned to the competition this year with renewed focus and a deep commitment to preparation.

“We were already familiar with the process and what we needed to do to prepare,” Mikayla said.

Having worked together since Year 7, their connection and chemistry as a team were evident.

“We’ve been on this journey together for years,” Claudia added.

“Working together was pretty effortless.”

The duo’s performance on the national stage was not only a win for their school but a proud moment for the entire Mackay region.

“It’s a massive achievement,” Mikayla said.

“We’re two females from a regional school going up against teams that have done this for years.

“It just shows what rural students are capable of.”

Their preparation was rigorous, involving hours of legal research, deep case analysis and practice anticipating rebuttals.

“You have to fill in the holes of your own argument before the judges can,” Claudia explained.

“And know the facts inside out… because the judges certainly will.”

Both students are now setting their sights on future careers in the legal world. Mikayla hopes to study International Relations alongside Law, while Claudia plans to study Law and Commerce.

Their message to other students, especially those from regional areas, is to “work hard because self-belief can take you anywhere.”

“Just back yourselves,” Claudia added.

“We did it for our families, our school, and for the students who might want to do this next.”

They also credited their success to their strong partnership, support from their school community, and especially their mentor, Miss Hannant.

“They were absolutely outstanding,” she said.

“Their achievement exemplifies the strength of our regional community.

“We may be outside the big cities, but we have the drive, the support, and the heart to turn opportunity into success… Our dreams are just as possible.”

Two Year 12 students from St Patrick’s College Mackay earned national recognition, proudly showcasing regional talent and determination. Photos supplied

Claudia Illguth and Mikayla Green secured third place at the National High School Mooting Competition, putting Mackay on the map. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A lovely couple in their 80’s were left stunned by a stranger’s generosity during a visit to Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre last week on Friday, 28 June.

The husband and wife had just finished shopping when they approached the checkout around 11am. As the woman attempted to pay for their groceries in cash, the unexpected happened.

“While I attempted to produce the cash necessary to pay for the items we purchased, the female attendant at the checkout told me that my groceries were all paid for,” she said.

Standing behind them was a well-dressed young man who simply nodded in agreement when she turned around in surprise.

“I was absolutely gobsmacked and overwhelmed by this chap's kind gesture and generosity. Before exiting the shop, I thanked him and bade him farewell with God's blessing.”

The couple said they did not catch the man’s name, nor do they know anything else about him – just that he made a lasting impact on their day.

“In our current prevailing set of attitudes in human affairs, media and television, this act of kindness shows that somewhere, out there is an angel who absolutely loves to share his blessings with other people, thus making this world of ours a better place to live,” she said.

Such stories of goodwill serve as gentle reminders that compassion can thrive anywhere, and that we all have the power to make someone’s day better.

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This photo is for illustrative purposes only

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What began as a simple photography meet-up has evolved into one of Mackay’s most inclusive and energising creative events.

On Saturday, June 14, the Old Cinema carpark at the corner of Wood and Gordon Streets became a dynamic stage for the SPARK! Street Scene Photo Swap — a community-driven collaboration that brought together over 20 local photographers and models in a colourful flurry of creativity, laughter, and camera shutters.

The event was part of the SPARK! Wood Street Event Hub, a pop-up initiative by the Mackay City and Waterfront team, showcasing live music, art, workshops and cultural performances across the CBD. The Photo Swap concept is led by Imagin8 Studio, a Mackay-based social enterprise creative agency, and forms part of its broader impact projects portfolio.

Founder and organiser Stacey Lia said the event’s magic lies in its simplicity and spirit of inclusion.

“One of the most powerful parts of Photo Swap is the way it brings creatives together to learn by doing,” she said. “It’s hands-on, collaborative, and a safe space to experiment, grow, and try something new — whether you're behind the camera or in front of it.”

Working on a trade-for-portfolio (TFP) model, the event removes cost barriers and encourages skill-sharing across experience levels. For photographer Kevin, it was a chance to reignite his passion: “As a photographer coming back after a break, this was the best experience.”

Returning model AJ added, “I love having a space where I can truly be myself with such a massively supportive and fun community.”

Participants were seen posing against graffiti walls, incorporating props like shopping trolleys, and embracing spontaneous dance, creating a lively street-style shoot full of artistic experimentation. “It was amazing gaining experience and collaborating with so many talented photographers,” said Olivia, one of the models.

“I had great fun and learnt a lot,” added Evalyn. “Can’t wait for the next one!”

Photographer Kelsey Hughes, who has attended all four Photo Swap events, said the community atmosphere was what kept her coming back.

“It’s a truly fun way to connect and meet likeminded individuals. You learn so much at events like these.”

Anticipation is now building for the next edition, Wear It Wild Photo Swap, to be held on Sunday, July 27 as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts. The shoot will take place at Cape Hillsborough’s Diversity Boardwalk, combining nature-inspired fashion with creative storytelling. The team is currently calling for additional photographers, models, fashion designers, makeup artists and textile artists to help bring this wild vision to life.

For more information, to view past galleries or to register for future events, visit:
https://imagin8studio.com.au/impact-projects/photo-swap/

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Photographer Marty Strecker captures Evalyn Attwood during the SPARK! Street Scene Photo Swap

Kevin A. Jones frames a striking portrait of Olivia Poynton

Model Rosemarry Waldon collaborates with Imagin8 Studio for a bold and creative street shoot

Behind the scenes: creativity, collaboration and colour collide in Mackay’s Old Cinema carpark

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As a first term councillor with a background in the sugar industry, I have a particular interest in the rural parts of our council area.

With qualifications in corporate governance and accounting, I have to acknowledge that coming in as an independent candidate into an elected role has had its challenges.

It has been a rapid learning experience about the roles and responsibilities of the three tiers of government and how they are funded.

Local government has by far the lowest share of the tax dollar of the nation but is the closest to the population in terms of service delivery.

Right now there is a focus on the council Budget for 2025/26.

Whilst the Budget, and the methodology for the collection of rates, will not suit everyone, what I am pleased with is the commitment to infrastructure investment – a no frills, back to basics focus on the key essential infrastructure supporting our community.

Overall, there is $125.6M allocated to capital, and whilst there is a major investment in the Northern Beaches Community Hub, the majority of the program ($80.7M) will be focused on the renewal of existing assets, ensuring they are fully serviceable for the community.

Council’s current infrastructure includes the below, most of which is in the rural areas of our region:

· 931 rural roads (totalling 1615km, including 796km of sealed and 818km of unsealed roads).

· 31 boat ramps.

· 325 bus shelters and 465 bus stops.

· 190 bridges and 444 major culverts.

Key infrastructure investments this year include $10.05M for culvert rehabilitation projects, $6.63M for Bridge projects generally, and specifically $5.45M for the Bell Creek Bridge upgrade at Munbura.

These projects, as well as a large investment on unsealed road maintenance (more than $7M) are all focused on the rural areas of our region.

With a large and diverse council area, balancing the needs of all communities if difficult, however, it is pleasing to see the investment by council in key infrastructure, specifically supporting the more rural areas.

By Cr Peter Sheedy

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Rates season always sparks conversation — and rightly so. After all, these decisions impact your wallet, your neighbourhood, and your long-term future. This year, the voices of concern have grown louder across the board. Local residents are feeling the strain as household budgets tighten; rural landholders are facing mounting pressure from soaring land valuations; and developers are raising red flags about rising costs and planning roadblocks. Amid the growing unease, Mackay Regional Council has defended its 4.95 per cent general rate rise as one of the lowest in Queensland. A similar increase has also been handed down in the Isaac region.

So who's right? The truth likely sits somewhere in the middle.

The Mackay region is vast — stretching from the cane fields of Calen to the cattle stations of Eungella and the coastal communities of Seaforth and Sarina Beach. Maintaining this network of rural roads, ageing infrastructure, water and waste services, and supporting small outlying communities is no small feat.

The budget has been described as one that digs deep into essential service delivery and asset renewal — prioritising the basics over big-ticket beautification. It’s not a flashy budget, but rather one aimed at “keeping up” with core infrastructure demands across a vast and varied region. With very little financial fat left to trim, the focus remains firmly on maintaining the essentials: roads, water, waste, and community support.

As a mother, I’d love to see more imaginative playgrounds, a more exciting and shaded lagoon, better coastal dining options and a riverfront that lives up to its potential. These are the “wants” — the things that make a city hum with life and pride. But in tough economic times, “needs” take precedence.

And while council has copped the brunt of criticism, perhaps the bigger question is what more the state government could be doing. They collect more revenue from our region than any other tier — yet deliver comparatively little in return.

It's easy to point fingers until you’re the one in the hot seat. Prioritising basics over beauty may not win hearts in the short term, but it's often what keeps the lights on, the water running, and the roads safe.

Amanda

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Vision Alone Won’t Build A Brand

Some business owners have a strong sense of what their brand should be, what it should convey, how it should appear, and the impression it should make on their customers. But when it comes time to execute, progress often slows. Tasks that should take 10 minutes take hours, as internal teams attempt to master skills well outside of their wheelhouse, relying on trial and error to replicate what seasoned marketing professionals and designers have spent years refining. The result is lost momentum and a brand that looks like a draft instead of a polished product, underselling the value it truly offers. To explore a better way forward, we spoke with Jody Euler, the director of redhotblue, a creative agency that has spent more than two decades helping businesses bring their ideas to life with the quality they envisioned.

1. What are the risks of taking a ‘learn as you go’ marketing approach?

The problem with learning on the fly is that business owners don’t realise they are steering off course until it’s too late. I doubt most people would place trust in a professional service with a learner driver at the wheel, so why business owners think DIY marketing and creative execution is a good idea is anyone’s guess. Great strategy paired with creative execution requires more than good intentions – it needs expertise, experience, and exceptional skill.

2. What are the tell-tale signs that a brand is off-track with its marketing?

You don’t need to be a seasoned marketer to spot when a brand is off. Today’s consumers are incredibly perceptive; even if they can’t articulate it, they instinctively know when something doesn’t feel right. Inconsistency in your messaging, shortcuts in execution, or a lack of attention to detail don’t go unnoticed, and they speak volumes, for all the wrong reasons. When a business cuts corners, it’s the customer’s trust that pays the price.

3. Do you think AI is a good alternative to working with a creative agency?

AI absolutely has its place, like any technology, it can enhance how we do business. But at the end of the day, it’s just a tool. Real success comes from understanding your audience, knowing what makes them tick, and crafting messages that cut through the noise, not generic automation.

4. Can clients really tell the difference between work that uses a Canva template or professional tools?
   Scroll through your social media feed, and you’ll see it: content clones. In business, everyone’s chasing the biggest slice of the pie, trying to be top of mind and the brand of choice. So why would you place your brand in a template that looks identical to everyone else? Or worse still, your competitor. If you want to stand out, give people a reason to remember you, not scroll past you.
5. For those hesitant to outsource due to cost, what would you say?

It might seem like you're saving money by handling advertising and creative work in-house, but unless you have a qualified expert dedicated to that role, you're gambling with your results. For instance, I’m not going to get our Creative Director to start managing finances, or our Web Designer to perform a grease and oil change on the company vehicle. The same principle applies to your marketing. What feels like a saving today could end up costing you far more in the long run. Cutting corners on marketing isn’t saving, it’s sabotaging.

6. When a client insists on keeping some marketing in-house, which responsibilities do you recommend they delegate to a marketing agency?

Every business serious about marketing should outsource the development of a comprehensive strategy. This strategy should encompass key messaging, the brand promise, the business proposition, a deep understanding of the target audience, and how to effectively engage them, along with the creation of unique, compelling creative to support the campaign rollout. These critical elements require experienced professionals, not guesswork or decisions based on team opinions or committee

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OUR LONGEST SERVING SUGAR MILL MANAGER

“From 1919 until his retirement in 1964, (Mr Murray Gibson) provided a steady leadership which saw Proserpine take its long-predicted place as a leading sugar district.” A Crystal Century by John Kerr.

For forty-five years, Murray R Gibson was a well-respected mill manager whose tenure far outstripped that of any other manager since. When he retired, directors had to select the first general manager since the formation of the Association.

Murray Gibson first visited Proserpine in 1905 aboard the ‘Ada Dent’, a small coastal vessel trading between Bowen and Proserpine. The mill manager at the time offered him a position as an office boy and four weeks later he took up the position. In 1913, he was appointed the accountant.

In 1919, after some time in the Innisfail area where he was an accountant at the South Johnstone Mill, he returned to Proserpine as mill manager at the young age of 30. In the book, “A Crystal Century”, author John Kerr painted a glowing picture of this man described as a “gentleman who raised his hat to every woman. He never raised his voice, always wore a white shirt and long trousers, and on entering the mill, he said ‘Good Morning’ to everyone. He was respected by all. He was also tough, resolute, and strong-willed. … He was astute at handling money, stretching a pound and getting value for expenditure. He was frugal; for many years his own house had no hot water system and only a wood stove.”

Throughout his time as manager, Murray Gibson continued to live in the manager’s house – as old as the mill. It was so old that no one submitted a tender to buy it for removal when, in 1972, directors provided a new house for Rod Suthers, their new manager.

Gibson also gave the mill priority over opulent offices. He had the space under his high set house enclosed and this became the secretary’s residence and office for twenty-five years. When the association was formed in 1931, any expenditure on new office space and a board room was deferred for three years to focus on urgent expenditure.

Murray Gibson’s first year as mill manager was something of a baptism of fire. Confronted with five strikes in the short space of fewer than two months, right in the middle of the crushing, he demonstrated his metal. But the man was fair and on at least one occasion championed the cause of a sacked worker.

Faith in Gibson’s leadership was confirmed when he was appointed manager in 1931 when the mill once more became a co-operative owned by the farmers. From the outset, Murray Gibson did all in his power to ensure the technical and financial success of the mill. He was a forward-thinking manager, always focussed on improving outcomes and embracing change where necessary.

In his first annual report to shareholders of the co-operative, Gibson emphasised the need to abandon their outdated process of disposing of mud by adding to bagasse. He also pointed out the need for a fourth mill if Proserpine was to match other mills’ performances. Investment in the manufacturing end of the plant continued to pay dividends.

When the Royal Commission of 1942 adopted the Sugar Bureau’s unpopular system of rationing based on need, Murray Gibson attended hearings in Mackay and proposed a system of controlled substitution for land exhausted for lack of fertiliser which was in short supply during war, explaining how the system had operated at Proserpine for years. Proserpine’s unofficial migration had enabled the district to produce record crops while using less fertiliser than other districts.

As well as being busy as the mill manager, he found time to be associated with many public and sporting organisations including in the early days of the School of Arts and Patriotic and school committees. He was

also Vice President of the Recreation Tennis Club, Patron of the District Tennis Association and President of the Golf Club.

Personally, Murray Gibson suffered much tragedy in his life. His first wife, Mabel (nee Blair) and her baby died in childbirth. Then, in March 1918, during the ferocious Innisfail cyclone, his second wife died while helping a woman who was expecting a child. She was hit in the chest by a flying beam and killed instantly. South Johnstone. He then married Florence Emmeline (nee Gordon) and they had three children but there was more heartache to follow. One of their children, Marjorie, was killed in a shooting accident and not long after that, Florence died. Later, he married Mrs Connie Scott (nee Busuttin), a widow, and he outlived her. So much sorrow to bear.

Murray Gibson spent most of his working life in Proserpine, retiring in his 70s after fifty-nine years in the sugar industry. He died in Bundaberg in 1992 aged 94 years.

To acknowledge all that he achieved would take far more than can be covered within the length constraints of this article. Suffice to say, Murray Gibson was a man who is remembered for his unwavering commitment to progress within the sugar industry in Proserpine. His forty-five year tenure of office as mill manager is a milestone unlikely ever to be replicated.

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

Mr Murray Gibson. Photo supplied.

Did you Know?

This year’s National NAIDOC Week (6 -13 July) marks 50 years of the week-long celebrations. The theme,  The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, celebrates achievements of the past and the bright future ahead.

Join us over the course of the week as we celebrate regionwide with a variety of events which recognise the histories, cultures, achievements and ongoing contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our region.

Including guided nature walks, street parades, community barbeques and fun-filled family days – there’s an abundance of activities for all to enjoy this NAIDOC Week.

For more information, head to Council’s website.

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The Heart Behind Fresh Fields News & Gifts

This month, we meet the passionate business owner – Barbara Cochrane – behind Fresh Fields News & Gifts, a beloved local hub for stationery, lotto, gifts, and more.

Owned since December 2013, Barbara offers a wide range of products to support office, home, and school needs—from essential stationery and school supplies to unique gifts for all ages and special occasions. Whether it's a beautiful journal, a quality pen, or a thoughtful baby gift, the store prides itself on offering items that can't be found elsewhere.

“I’d always wanted to own a book and stationery shop,” says the owner. “I love engaging with customers, and this business has been the perfect fit.”

Staying ahead of trends and customer preferences is a top priority. The business continues to expand its stationery range in response to demand, and it constantly sources distinctive items that give the store its personal touch. This commitment to uniqueness is what sets Fresh Fields News & Gifts apart.

Like many small retailers, the business has faced growing competition from overseas online platforms. These competitors not only impact local sales but also pose a long-term challenge for employment and business sustainability. In response, the newsagency focuses on in-store availability, personalised service, and products customers can take home immediately—no waiting, no shipping delays.

Barbara’s top tips for fellow business owners?

Be seen – Stay visible and involved in your business.
Be front of house – Be actively involved and connect with customers directly.
Know your customers – Take time to understand and anticipate their needs.
As a Chamber member, Barbara values the opportunity. “The Chamber is a great way to learn from other’s experience”

Barbara is an active member of the Whitsundays Chamber’s newly formed Proserpine Sub-committee, dedicated to strengthening the voice of the Proserpine business community and help shape Chamber initiatives from a grassroots level.

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Karina Clarkson, Barbara Cochrane and Libby Hinschen. Photo supplied.

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This week I assisted Dr Olaf Meynecke, the Lead Scientist Marine Megafauna Coastal and Marine Research Centre from Griffith University in an exciting research project, deploying a 24/7 hydrophone (an underwater microphone and recorder) at 26 metres in the humpback highway in the Whitsundays.

This is one of six hydrophones, which will be spaced at approximately 500km intervals along the East Coast of Australia from Merimbula to the Ribbon Reefs off Cooktown, ensuring wide coverage of the annual humpback whale migration.

Even though the hydrophones are being deployed around the humpback whale migration, they are for acoustic data collection on all whales and marine sounds.

Monitoring the sounds and songs of humpback whales is a helpful indicator of ecosystem health. It can help scientists understand migration activity, patterns, mating calls and competitive behaviours.

In the past, whale research using sightings data is collected during daylight hours and whale songs have mainly been recorded during the day, so hoping to get some insight into what the whales and other marine life are doing at different times.

We have to patiently wait until we retrieve the unit at the end of whale season, to find out what has been recorded.

In the meantime two smaller units have been deployed in the Whitsundays, which are retrieved every two weeks.

For more information on the project https://news.griffith.edu.au/2024/09/24/google-australia-and-griffith-unite-to-monitor-whale-sounds-and-marine-habitats/

Contributed by Kellie Leonard - Master Reef Guide/Whales of the Whitsundays

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Eco Barge Clean Seas is proud to announce that it has extended its collaboration with Hamilton Island to support vital marine conservation efforts in the Whitsunday Islands. Hamilton Island’s continuing support will greatly assist Eco Barge’s mission to keep the islands clean and protect vulnerable marine life, including the care of rescued sea turtles.

One important part of the collaboration is Hamilton Island’s support through the Containers for Change program, where eligible containers collected across Hamilton Island are donated to
Eco Barge, and which has resulted in collection of an impressive 144,751 bottles with a 10-cent refund from each. This directly funds marine debris removal, turtle rehabilitation, and essential conservation efforts.

Going forward, Container for Change funding contributed towards the purchase of a new
granulator that enables Eco Barge to upscale its recycling, and to upgrading the Whitsunday
Turtle Rescue Centre, ensuring better care for injured sea turtles.

The Eco Barge / Hamilton Island collaboration was first launched at Hamilton Island Race Week
2024. Looking to Race Week 2025 (16-23 August), all competing boats will receive Eco Barge
recycling sacks and guests will be encouraged to use Eco Barge recycling bins on the island.

"This collaboration is a game-changer for our efforts to protect marine life and remove plastics from the Whitsundays," said Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. "With
Hamilton Island’s support, we can expand our programs, improve our recycling capabilities,
and continue making a tangible difference in preserving our stunning coastline and caring for
injured sea turtles."

Hamilton Island will also promote Eco Barge’s work across its various communication
platforms, helping to raise awareness about marine debris and the importance of recycling, and Hamilton Island staff encouraged to actively volunteer as part of Eco Barge clean-up initiatives.

"Protecting Australia’s natural wonder - the Great Barrier Reef, and Hamilton Island’s beautiful natural surrounds, is at the heart of Hamilton Island’s values," said Nick Dowling, CEO of Hamilton Island. "We are proud to support Eco Barge, and it is a privilege to contribute to their incredible efforts to protect the Whitsunday Islands’ precious ecosystems and marine life."

This collaboration highlights the power of teamwork in tackling marine debris and ensuring a
thriving, healthy ocean. With Hamilton Island’s backing, Eco Barge will continue its mission to create a cleaner future for marine wildlife and the Whitsunday community.

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OPINION PIECE

It’s no secret that the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is under financial pressure. Costs have ballooned, and participation rates are rising faster than anticipated. Reform is clearly needed. But how the government plans to tackle reforms is all cloak and dagger.

Before the May election, Labor stuck to its usual script, spruiking only they could be trusted with healthcare and made promises of no cuts to health. Yet just two months into a new term, Labor is making cuts to the NDIS and doing so without a clear plan or any consultation.

From July 1, funding cuts will reduce hourly rates paid via the NDIS scheme to Allied Health professionals and their travel allowances to visit patients for in home appointments halved. These cuts will hit regional and remote communities hardest. With zero foresight to the future of the sector they are down right cruel to providers, participants and their families.

As the Federal Member for Dawson, I’m deeply concerned about what this means for our region and other regional and remote communities across Australia.

Health professionals who travel long distances to support patients with disabilities may now face the difficult choice of no longer travelling for in home care appointments, or passing the extra travel costs onto their patients. Some may shut their doors altogether.

If help can’t travel, the burden falls on caregivers to get to the nearest provider, meaning more expenses, lost time, and the sacrifice of work and other commitments. Reducing access for mobility impaired people in this way will also shrink services in regional centres, like Mackay and Townsville.

These cuts have also been announced with next to no lead time, leaving many practices scrambling to find ways to keep skilled health professional employed and to remain viable. The shock to the system could result in many professionals working with mobility impaired patients leaving the sector.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association has called for an immediate reversal, warning the changes will mean fewer services, reduced hours, and worse outcomes. They say it will put more pressure onto an already strained hospital system. I support these views and call on the government to rethink their actions.

Reforms must start with identifying inefficiencies in the system, and tightening up eligibility criteria, not hitting those who do the valuable work and those that need the help most.

Labor says it wants to fix the NDIS, but cuts without strategy isn’t the answer.

The question remains, does Labor have a real plan to reform the NDIS, or are they simply cutting until the system collapses onto our public hospitals?

People with mobility impairments in regional areas should be a top priority, not collateral damage of the government’s pursuit of budget repair headlines.

Opinion Piece by Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox

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Federal Member for Dawson and Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability Andrew Willcox says cuts to NDIS could impact access to regional healthcare. Photo supplied

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