What feelings does Australia Day evoke within you?

Is it of pride for the nation you love, or of sadness for the Indigenous who feel that a celebration of the day they coined ‘Invasion Day’ is disrespectful? Perhaps you feel a little bit of both.

For me, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the past and celebrate today. I used the day to learn a little bit about Indigenous culture that I didn’t know previously before enjoying some time at the beach and cooking a BBQ.

Perhaps the biggest controversy for me is when it comes to Australia Day desserts. I’ll admit it, I don’t like lamingtons. See, I said it would be controversial. Secondly, I believe the pavlova is a Kiwi dessert. Ooooh, perhaps the biggest dessert debate of them all! I like to have a laugh over that one.

Another Australia Day tradition I enjoy is attending the Mackay Regional Council’s Australia Day Awards every year. It’s an incredibly inspirational evening to hear about the people in our region who selflessly do so much for the community. Congratulations to this year’s Citizen of the Year, Nigel Dalton, and to all of the winners and nominees who were represented on the night.

Of course, this week was also the week our region’s kids headed back to school. I love to see the juxtaposition of emotions experienced by parents. Some can’t wait for the peace and quiet of having their kids back at school while others mourn the loss of holiday sleep-ins and dread the busy morning rush.

School zones are back to 40km/hr during designated morning and afternoon hours. When you see the signs flashing, slow down and pay attention. A blink of an eye is all it takes for a child to make a fatal mistake.

Amanda

‍

In order to reach their 2030 climate targets, the Federal Labor Government has announced they will force 215 of Australia’s biggest polluters to cut emissions by 5 per cent each year or pay for their emissions output.

“In effect it acts as a tax on families, a tax on businesses and a big tax on regional Australia.  It’s Carbon Tax 2.0 and another major blow for the energy industry.”

“Labor is executing drastic climate targets with no consideration for the toll it takes on Australian jobs and household budgets.”

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox has opposed this decision saying that Labor is targeting regional Queensland jobs and inflicting more pain on household bills.

“Labor’s Safeguard Mechanism affects facilities that emit more than 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide a year. If facilities exceed this amount, the business will need to buy carbon credits,” Mr Willcox said.

“We have 28 of the high emitting industry facilities in surrounding regions who will be impacted by these mandatory emissions cuts. These are Dawson jobs now put in jeopardy by Labor’s climate targets.

“Leading up to the 2022 Federal election, Prime Minister Albanese and his party promised there would be no carbon tax.

“This is just a fancy name for exactly that.”

Andrew Willcox

Federal Member for Dawson

‍

RACQ CQ Rescue flew 11 missions between Friday and Sunday last week, including the airlift of an injured motorbike rider and two flights to Bowen and two to Clermont on consecutive days for seriously ill patients.

The Mackay-based rescue helicopter has now completed 39 missions in the first 22 days of 2023. RACQ CQ Rescue was tasked by Queensland Health to fly back-to-back missions to Clermont on Friday to transfer two patients to Mackay Base Hospital including a two-year-old child with a serious abdominal condition who was accompanied by their mother.

A patient was also transported from Dysart to Mackay Base Hospital with a cardiac issue. That same afternoon, a woman in her 60s was airlifted from Victor Island, about 48km southeast of Mackay, after being bedridden and alone for two days.

The helicopter landed on the beach at sunset and the medical team walked to the island homestead to treat and administered pain relief to the woman. She was carried to the aircraft, flown to Mackay Airport and transferred to a waiting ambulance to be taken to Mackay Base Hospital.

Overnight Saturday, two patients were also airlifted from Bowen to Mackay Base Hospital. About 10.30am on Saturday, RACQ CQ Rescue was tasked by Queensland Health to airlift a dirt bike rider seriously injured in a crash at Yalbaroo, about 70km north-east of Mackay.

The 47-year-old man attempted to cross a culvert flowing with water on a remote dirt road in the Cathu State Forest, but a concrete slab underneath had dislodged in recent flooding, causing the rider to be thrown violently from the bike.

An RACQ CQ Rescue crewman said the force of the impact would have been like “hitting a wall at speed”.

The unlucky rider suffered injuries including a seriously dislocated hip and had to be relocated out of the water while they waited for the helicopter to arrive. Incorrect coordinates delayed the landing of the chopper at the scene, but it finally touched down on the dirt road about 500 metres from the accident site. The rider was treated and transferred to Mackay Base Hospital in a stable condition.

A helicopter Rescue Crewman was able to assist the local paramedic at the accident scene who was suffering heat exhaustion while tending to the injured dirt bike rider. The crewman drove the ambulance and his colleague back to the station at Calen.

Three training flights for new Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics joining the aeromedical team were also conducted on Sunday around the Mackay region, as well as the airlift of a patient from Proserpine hospital to Mackay.

CAPTION: 230120 Victor 1&2 – RACQ CQ Rescue airlifted a woman from Victor Island at sunset on Friday

230121 Yalbaroo 1-4.jpg – A 47-year-old dirt bike rider was injured in a crash in the Cathu State Forest on Saturday and was airlifted to Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credits: RACQ CQ Rescue

‍

Enforcing laws, investigating reported offences and prosecuting when appropriate takes place on a daily basis with regards to car thefts.

As the Officer in Charge of the Mackay Northern Beaches Acting Senior Sergeant Mitch Benson points out - all car owners have an opportunity to take action which will frustrate the thieves.

Statistics within the Mackay Northern Beaches division show that one in every two car thefts take place when thieves gain possession of your car keys.

As a result, officers will have dedicated time periods when they will perform foot patrols in residential streets and business locations in an effort to find unlocked cars and/or unattended cars with keys still present.

If face to face dialogue is possible, police will talk to the car owners about the likelihood of car theft taking place and how we can disrupt the efforts of thieves who are looking to steal your hard-earned possessions.

Vehicle security information will also be made available - particularly when face to face dialogue is not possible.

If you see police officers walking the streets in your area - day or night - inspecting vehicles, don't be alarmed.

"Our efforts to identify car thieves and hold them to account are still going to take place, we are taking on these targeted foot patrols in addition to that,” Acting Senior Sergeant Benson said.

"By continuing our enforcement efforts, educating the public on crime prevention techniques and reducing the opportunities for car thefts to occur we hope to see fewer car thefts taking place,” he added.

‍

Captions: Jenna K will represent her region as Mrs Charity Oceania in Perth next year. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

After almost a decade in modelling and pageantry, Jenna K has embarked on her latest challenge.

She will represent her region of Oceania as Mrs Charity Oceania 2023, travelling to Perth next year as a finalist for Charity Pageant Intercontinental.

Jenna described the Charity Pageant Intercontinental as a pageant with a difference.

“It’s just one that has that really great motto of ‘uniting women in service’ and it just really is something to empower women to love themselves and be passionate and to give them a voice to speak with,” she said.

“I just really loved what it stood for, it just really aligned with me.”

Charity Pageant Intercontinental gives contestants from all over the world the opportunity to advocate and fundraise for important causes, with the oceans, self-confidence and breast cancer awareness three causes close to Jenna’s heart.

“I really wanted to represent Oceania because I’m so passionate about the ocean,” she said.

In 2017, Jenna held the title of Mrs Water Australia, a time during which she worked with local Wildlife Warrior teams to help reduce debris in the ocean.

“I’m going to be continuing that, I’m collecting plastics and recyclables and I’m really wanting to get involved in the Mackay turtle association,” she said.

During her time as Mrs Charity Oceania 2023, Jenna will fundraise for the Mackay Hospital Foundation and Breast Screen Mackay, a cause very close to her heart after watching her Nanna survive breast cancer.

“I’m just really passionate about advocating to do the process, get your mammograms, get your checks done because early detection can save lives,” she said.

Another of Jenna’s passions is helping people to love themselves as they are and help them to find their self-confidence.

She plans to do this through her inaugural Beeyoutiful Charity Pageant, to be held on Saturday, March 18 at the Andergrove Tavern.

“I’ve always wanted to put an event together for people to experience some of what pageantry is like, but the extra fun side of it without the interview and public speaking,” Jenna said.

The pageant will consist of a confidence and mindset masterclass in the morning followed by the pageant that evening.

“There’s going to be a lot of people that might enter that have and no exposure to anything to do with modelling or pageantry, so I really want them to feel comfortable before they come back later in the afternoon to showcase what confidence they have established with themselves from the morning masterclass,” Jenna said.

The Beeyoutiful Charity Pageant is open to children and adults ages seven and older.

For more information and to register, go to the ‘Beeyoutiful Charity Pageants’ Facebook page or email beeyoutifulcharitypageants@gmail.com.

Jenna is also available for volunteering opportunities and appearances and hopes to use her platform as Mrs Charity Oceania to help her community.

“The shine and sparkle of the crown and sash draws enough attention, so it’s not about me,” she said.

“I’m just really trying to make a difference and make an impact in the community.”

‍

“They’re not only bolstering our workforce and making a real difference to our patients today, but they’re building the foundations of medical careers which will serve our community and Queensland for decades to come.”

Caption: Mackay Base Hospital has welcomed 37 intern doctors

A group of 44 intern doctors have joined the Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS), providing a boost to the medical team serving the region.

The intern group includes 37 doctors who are joining the team at Mackay Base Hospital, five at Proserpine Hospital and two at Bowen Hospital.

Interim Chief Executive Melissa Carter congratulated the new doctors on starting their journey in medicine and welcomed them to the Mackay HHS team.

“It’s exciting to welcome first-year doctors to our team and support them as they begin their career with the Mackay HHS,” Ms Carter said.

“They’re not only bolstering our workforce and making a real difference to our patients today, but they’re building the foundations of medical careers which will serve our community and Queensland for decades to come.

“Several of our intern doctors have already spent time with our team as medical students and, after positive experiences, have chosen to come back for the start of their career.

“Regardless of where their careers take them, they will develop strong foundations for the years ahead from the guidance of our experienced, dedicated and highly skilled team of Mackay HHS medical professionals.”

Thirty-two of the first-year doctors are from the Queensland Health program, six from the Queensland Rural Generalist Pathway and six from the Commonwealth-funded Junior Doctor Training Program.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Charles Pain said the interns will benefit from Mackay HHS’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere, its supportive medical culture and their broad exposure to a wide range of clinical cases.

“The interns will gain invaluable clinical experience during their first year as doctors, which will enable them to develop advanced skills as a foundation for their future medical careers,” Dr Pain said.

“Their diverse placements and experience in the MHHS will also help them make an informed choice when it comes to which speciality they wish to pursue in their future careers.

“Last year 21 interns stayed in Mackay HHS for their second year, which indicates to us how much they appreciated Mackay and valued the experience they obtained here.

“Our hope is that by providing excellent training experiences, many of our 2023 interns will also choose to build their future careers in the Mackay region.”

Student Placement Brings Dr Chamberlain Back To Mackay

Positive experiences as a student on placement at Mackay Base Hospital and his desire to become a general practitioner in a regional centre led to Dr Michael Chamberlain choosing to return as an intern.

Originally from Rockhampton, where his mother is a general practitioner, Michael studied at James Cook University in Townsville and returned to Mackay Base Hospital where he previously spent time on student placement.

“Comparatively I knew that this would be a very safe choice and being here just makes the start of my year easier,” Michael said.

“I think knowing that particularly the education support was really good and knowing people seem to be really happy here is what enticed me here as well.

Michael is joined in Mackay by his wife, who is a speech pathologist in private practice.

“Practicing in regional areas is definitely something I want to do long term - we don’t particularly like big cities and I’m less inclined to rural or remote practice, but regional practice is very appealing to me as I really like the lifestyle.”

Though he was exposed to life as a general practitioner through his mother, Michael said he didn’t always want to practice medicine.

“Growing up I didn’t really want to be a doctor, but by the end of my schooling I decided it was probably a good fit and then the more I looked into it, the more I liked it.”

Michael said an important consideration for choosing Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) was the inclusion of general practitioner placement in the internship, which is rarely offered to first year doctors.

“Regional general practice would be ideal for me - you do really get to know the community more than you think and growing up in a regional town with similar size I definitely felt that, and I also really like being able to have a steady patient base,” he said.

“A big drawcard to Mackay HHS was the general practice rotation as it was something that I was pretty excited to do.”

While he is working towards general practice, Michael said he was looking forward to his rotations across all areas and the supportive environment within the Mackay HHS team.

“Everyone seems to be very well supported and happy, so I think I’m most looking forward to practising and learning in a very safe environment,” he said.

“I think another benefit for Mackay studying here and then staying on was that we already had a support network of people not just from the hospital, but also out in the community.

“I’m definitely looking forward to improving my knowledge and getting into a routine.”

Michael added that the Mackay lifestyle was a bonus whether it was heading to Eungella or enjoying a nearby beach or simply gardening at their home.

‍

Find your perfect shade match at Inspirations Paint's newest store located in the Porters Homemaker Centre at 16 Carl Street, Rural View.

Now servicing the Mackay Northern Beaches area six days a week, the Porters Homemaker Centre is your local DIY home hub with a new store - Inspirations Paint. The experienced and knowledgeable team will provide the best advice for your next DIY home project, including how to choose the perfect shade of white for your home!

Choosing the right white isn’t as easy as it sounds. Furnishings, lighting, and the style of your home can all play a factor in choosing the perfect shade of white for your space.

Cool Whites

Cool whites have a subtle grey, beige or blue undertone. They are a popular choice in modern and contemporary homes and spaces when wanting to achieve a minimalist look.

Popular cool whites:  Dulux Vivid White, Dulux Lexicon Quarter, Berger Ice Fountain, Porter’s Paints Snow White.

Warm Whites

Warm whites create a cosy feel to a room, popular with traditional and country-style homes. The subtle peach, yellow and pink undertones help create an earthy, organic and natural boho feel.

Popular warm whites: Dulux Natural White, Dulux Antique White U.S.A, Berger White Score, Porter’s Paints Lace.

Visit the new Inspirations Paint Mackay Northern Beaches store for the Grand Opening from 8-11am on Saturday 11 February. Share your paint project with the team and together, we’ll make amazing projects happen.

Inspirations Paint Mackay Northern Beaches store for the Grand Opening

8-11am, Saturday 11 February 2023

16 Carl Street, Rural View

‍

Pic caption:  St Patrick's College Mackay Leadership Team for 2023: Standing L-R: Tracey McLeod (Assistant to Principal Welfare/Administration); Brendan Gunning (Assistant to Principal Mission); Chris Sorbello (Assistant to Principal Students); Janelle Agius (College Principal); seated: Sean Geoghegan (Deputy Principal Senior Campus); Scott McSherry (Assistant to Principal Curriculum) and Adam Skoczylas (Deputy Principal Mercy Campus)

Nearly one hundred and thirty years of combined history will be preserved with the amalgamation of two renowned Mackay educational establishments, St Patrick's College and Mercy College, in 2023.

Both institutions will operate under the one banner of St Patrick's College when the new school year commences this week – signalling the start of an exciting new era.

Boasting a rich history built on the Sisters of Mercy and Christian Brothers, who founded schools in the Mackay region in 1880 and 1929 respectively, St Patrick's – an established co-educational Catholic College - will continue to be committed to Catholic values which are at the core of all the school's learning.  

"This merger marks a significant milestone for two of Mackay's leading educational facilities and will continue to provide a unique experience for students consisting of a dual campus concept," declared St Patrick's College Principal Janelle Agius.

"Our students are encouraged to excel in personal growth and faith development in a learning environment and will continue to specialise in lower and middle secondary years at our Mercy Campus in Penn Street and the Senior Years Campus located in Gregory Street in the city heart," said Mrs Agius.

"We value a broad-based curriculum that allows students to discover new interests and abilities, while focusing on higher levels of literacy and numeracy," she added.

"Our staff work collaboratively with students and their families and challenge students to become active learners, to prepare them for success in a variety of pathways for senior school and beyond. Students are offered many extra opportunities to allow them to become the best person they can be."

A proud Mrs Agius said her staff took satisfaction in fostering an environment of friendship and service, which is so important in developing students to become lifelong learners.

"This collaborative approach to learning is enhanced by the knowledge that in the wider community the College is known for our excellent academic results, community service, sporting successes and cultural achievements," Mrs Agius revealed.

St Patrick's College Vision Statement is fostering the holistic development of students to champion compassion, hope, justice and respect.

The College's Mission Statement is to provide a Catholic education following the example of Catherine McAuley and Edmund Rice.

They strive to be a nurturing community of faith with Christ's teachings at the heart of all that they do; inspire students to be courageous and defend the dignity of all persons; foster a quest for educational excellence and a desire to discern truth plus to recognise each student's uniqueness and dedicate themselves both to knowing them and meeting their needs.

By Chris Karas

‍

Mackay Police reported that a home on McHugh Street in Rural View was broken into via an unlocked door last week.

An Asus laptop was the only item stolen from inside.

Police said that shortly after the laptop was stolen it was fraudulently used to access the victim's online bank accounts and a significant financial transfer took place.

Anyone who might have information about this matter is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible.

Please refer to the report number QP230099136.

Thieves typically devote much of their time seeking easy entry points into homes - for example, unlocked doors or unsecured windows.

The simplest security measures cause thieves the most frustration. Police are asking homeowners to ensure their homes are properly secured either when unattended or during night-time hours.

‍

Photo caption: (L-R) Alison Mann, a 2023 CAP participant based at St Paul’s Catholic Primary School Gracemere, with Anthony Greene, Principal and Mentor Teacher Kasey Gilbert

A new partnership between Catholic Education-Diocese of Rockhampton (Queensland) and CQUniversity aimed at building the capability and confidence of pre-service teachers has attracted great interest in 2023 following a highly successful pilot in 2022.

From two successful applicants in 2022, the Career Assistance Program (CAP) has expanded in 2023, with 11 pre-service teachers being appointed to Catholic primary schools across the Diocese of Rockhampton. There are 15 schools in the Mackay region which are included in the Diocese of Rockhampton.

The Career Assistance Program (CAP) is designed to support pre-service teachers in the third and fourth year of their teaching degree, through on-the-job mentoring and coaching.

CAP pre-service teachers have the opportunity to practise and refine the routines and strategies that support well organised, highly functional learning environments and experiences. These might include managing transitions from lunch break to the classroom so that students are ready for learning; arranging students into purposeful groups; asking questions that elicit higher order thinking; helping students regulate their own behaviours in positive ways; assessing student learning ‘on the go’ and responding ‘in the teachable moment’; and providing feedback that supports ongoing learning.

Student and 2022 CAP participant Hayley Wornum said she would highly recommend the program to fellow students.

“The CAP provides a flexibility for learning, through a hands-on approach in a realistic setting,” Hayley said.

For Hayley, the CAP has resulted in a permanent teaching position with Catholic Education at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Clermont.

The second 2022 CAP participant is continuing her placement at St Benedict’s Yeppoon while she engages in the final year of her Bachelor of Education Degree with CQ University. CEDR Assistant Director: Teaching and Learning, Carmel Kriz, said “The Career Assistance Program enables Catholic Education to nurture and support pre-service teachers more effectively than a short-term practicum placement, leading to beneficial outcomes for students and families.

“All the research shows us that it is the quality of teaching that makes the greatest difference for learning outcomes of young people. So, we want the very best teachers for our students.”

Mrs Kriz further advised that, “Our CAP allows us to foster high-quality teachers and immerse them in the practices and routines that we need in our teachers and that cannot always be explored fully in an undergraduate education course.”

CAP participants can access up to two years of working in a school community, being coached by mentor teachers, building skills and confidence and gaining a deeper understanding of the knowledge required by a contemporary teacher.

“Our CAP participants have the opportunity to grow in their professionalism on a daily basis. Over time, they build confidence and competence, ‘the mindset, toolset and skillset’ that make for a great teacher.”

Mrs Kriz said the program helps pre-service teachers learn in collaboration with a mentor teacher who supports them in targeted and responsive ways. This is complemented by support from school leadership teams, and professional collegiality and collaboration from the whole school staff.

“We are in a position where we have great belief and faith in our teachers. With that comes the recognition that we need to provide support, over time, in a very safe and nurturing environment. That’s our work, to support teachers to be the very best that they can be. I think our Career Assistance Program gets pre-service teachers off to an amazing start: it is one of the key ways in which we invest in our people,” Mrs Kriz said.

‍

Images:

Kevin Hughes

Lakeisha Patterson

Mayor Anne Baker

A military veteran advocate with a passion to protect endangered species and a gold medal-winning Australian Paralympian swim star visited the Isaac region as part of Australia Day celebrations.

Kevin Hughes, who was awarded a Bravery Medal, and Queensland’s very own golden girl Lakeisha ‘Lucky’ Patterson shared their inspirational stories at selected Isaac region events on January 25-26.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said it was a privilege to host Kevin and Lakeisha and for the opportunity for the rural and regional communities to connect with them.

“We’re all part of the story of Australia – from those whose ancestors walked on Country for tens of thousands of years to the newest Australian citizens,” Mayor Baker said.

“On Australia Day, we reflected on our past, accepted the truth of our history and respected that we all have a contribution to make to the story of Australia.

“We celebrated being part of a diverse and multicultural nation and welcomed Kevin and Lakeisha to the Isaac region to hear their courageous stories.”

Having served in the military within Australia and overseas, as a firefighter in Brisbane and a professional pilot worldwide, Kevin’s passion for Australian native animals started in the early 1990s.

He held the senior pilot position for the Wirrimanu Aboriginal Community in Balgo, Western Australia with aircraft based at Halls Creek. It was there his education of native animals grew along with the passion to assist in bringing awareness to as many people as possible. Kevin then founded Endangered Species Supporters Australia.

Lakeisha started swimming at the age of five to help ease her muscle stiffness from Hemiplegia, a form of Cerebral Palsy.

Lakeisha was a three-time Paralympic Gold medallist and dual World and Commonwealth Champion.

She represented Australia at two Pan Pacific Championships, two Commonwealth Games, three World Championships and two Paralympics with other international events, medals and records in between. An ambassador for numerous organizations and charities, as well as an Order of Australia Medal recipient,

Lakeisha studied at university, volunteered within the community, spoke at numerous events, and raised education and awareness about inclusion, diversity and resilience. Council hosted eight events across the region in conjunction with the support of many local businesses and community groups.

‍

The Queensland Government is funding the expansion of a pilot plant that converts biomass from a sugar mill into bioproducts. The QUT Mackay Renewable Biocommodities Pilot Plant (MRBPP) is a research and development facility that converts biomass into biofuels, green chemicals and other bioproducts. The expansion of the facility is expected to create regional jobs and build on Queensland's growing biofutures industry.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said, "Queensland is in a position to become an Asia-Pacific hub in biomanufacturing and bio-refining. Which is why we are investing in the Mackay Pilot Plant expansion through the Queensland Government's $350 million Industry Partnership Program."

The expansion of the common user research and development facility will enhance the development of regional biomanufacturing industries, attract further investment and create local jobs.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the Government was bringing together traditional and new industries to build our biofutures sector.

"The Mackay region has been identified as a key location for biofutures industry, including the potential development of a Future Foods BioHub," Ms Gilbert said.

"The region is known around the world for its sugar cane, and the expansion of this facility, located on a sugar mill site, will have a strong appeal to companies looking to use sugar feedstocks for their products."

QUT's Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Queensland's Biofutures Industry Envoy, Professor Ian O'Hara said that the funding will be used to enhance the capability of the facility to be able to test a wider range of new and emerging technologies at scale.

"This expansion is critical to support companies seeking to supply new products for the future foods and other biomanufacturing industries, enabling them to rapidly demonstrate their technologies and products for market testing," Professor O'Hara said.

"As a result, the facility will support the growth of a range of Australian companies and attract new investors into the Mackay region, creating new jobs and supporting a profitable future for the Australian Sugar industry."

The Industry Partnership Program is part of the $5.84 billion Queensland Jobs Fund which aims to boost the State's industry footprint, create jobs and strengthen the economy.

For more information on Industry Partnership Program: https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/queensland-jobs-fund/industry-partnership-program.

To read the Queensland Biofutures 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan, visit: Biofutures | State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning.

‍

Photo caption: Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey met with Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert to inspect the region’s roads following this month’s flooding event. Photo credit: Office of Julieanne Gilbert

Caption: Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said he has driven the length of the Bruce Highway in the Dawson electorate since the flooding event and challenged Minister Mark Bailey to do the same. Photo credit: Office of Andrew Willcox MP

“Flood resilient upgrades along the Bruce Highway delivered by the Palaszczuk Government have stood up to the test of a recent heavy rain event which impacted Central and Northern Queensland,” the State Government said in a recent press release, however both federal and local LNP members have said this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey was in Mackay last week, inspecting some of the damage to the Mackay and Whitsundays region, saying many communities which would have once been cut-off in similar events have stayed connected.

"The Palaszczuk Labor Government has 106 Bruce Highway projects funded and underway right now, including 45 in construction, as part of a massive $13 billion pipeline of joint funding locked in over the next 15 years," Mr Bailey said.

"Flood resilience is one of the three major scopes of the current $13 billion Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, and the flood resilient projects we have delivered have stood up to the test of months' worth of rain hitting Central and North Queensland in just a few days.

Minister Bailey said he visited the $145 Mackay Northern Access Upgrade on the Bruce, which was opened late last year, saying it “has held up incredibly well despite the big downpour, as has the $500 million Mackay Ring Road on the Bruce, which we opened in 2020.

"We also contributed funding for the drainage upgrades at Archibald and Milton Streets in Mackay, which traditionally cut access to the airport when they flooded, and they too have held up well.”

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox hit back saying the minister’s comments couldn’t be further from the truth.

“I am very concerned that the Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Mark Bailey, came to Mackay to inspect how our roads have held up during the floods, and come to the conclusion that they are good,” Mr Willcox said.

“The fact that he only visited newly built roads to form this conclusion is pure madness.

“The State Member for Mackay should know her constituents are tired of battling constant road work delays and are now dealing with immense flooding damage on the Bruce Highway which is unsafe for motorists and costing locals thousands in repairs.

“It is negligent of the State Member for Mackay to be fully aware of the disgraceful and dangerous condition of our main highway and not lobby her Minister for action! Instead, they revisit recently completed roadworks,” Mr Willcox added.

“The Minister has accused me of “going rouge” all because I am calling for the State Government to take our road safety seriously – this is the same Government who has been in power for 27 out of 30 years.

“The first thing I have done since the roads have re-opened is drive from one end of the Dawson electorate to the other, from Mackay through to Townsville. I know exactly what condition the Bruce Highway is in.  

“I invite Minister Bailey to do the same.”

Minister Bailey said that "Right up and down the Bruce, the projects the Palaszczuk Labor Government have delivered are doing their job.

"It's a stark contrast to the LNP who, when David Crisafulli was a minister in the Newman Government, delivered just four projects on the entire Bruce Highway, one of them was an audit report, and two others were fully funded by the Federal Government.

"Just four projects from the LNP compared to 106 projects being delivered right now by the Palaszczuk Labor Government.

"Not to mention that David Crisafulli, Amanda Camm and the LNP lied to Queenslanders before the last state election with their Bruce Highway duplication hoax, which was exposed to be only a planning study with no funding for upgrades.”

Member for Whitsundays Amanda Camm said Minister Bailey’s comments were “disrespectful” and “out of touch”.

“Given the Minister flew in and out of Mackay to inspect an inner-city project that was 80 per cent funded by the former Federal demonstrated arrogance and out of touch he really is,” Ms Camm said.

“His comments were an insult to every resident across Mackay and the Whitsundays who was isolated from their jobs, their hospital, and critical services.

“Minister Bailey demonstrates every day the lack of consultation and arrogance through the Hamilton Plains Project that has not commenced in seven years, the Shute Harbour Road upgrades that will now be littered with traffic lights against the communities wishes and the Northern Beaches Mackay-Bucasia Road where there is no plan for duplication, upgrades, or alternative access.

“A Minister who lists announcements yet has delivered no outcomes evidenced everyday by the sub-standard roads and boat-ramps our region must put up with."

Mr Bailey said the Queensland Government will continue to deliver more flood resilient projects along the Bruce Highway, and deliver a Second Bruce Highway to provide an alternative during rain events like the one we have just seen.

"At 1,679km long the Bruce Highway is a massive stretch of road, and there's no denying we still have work to do, but it's clear we are delivering and have a credible plan for the future," he said.

"Our future plan for the Bruce includes flood resilience improvements on projects like the 26km long Gympie Bypass project, the 15km long Rockhampton Ring Road, the 9km long Tiaro Bypass, and the almost 30km of flood resilient stretch being delivered as part of the Townsville Ring Road and Townsville Northern Access projects, just to name a few.

"But we know the North Queensland coastline usually cops it worst in summer during the wet and cyclone season, and that's why we're building a second Bruce Highway from Charters Towers to Mungindi which was bagged by the LNP when we announced it in 2020.

"The Inland Freight Route (or 'Second Bruce') will provide a genuine alternative to keep supplies coming into Central and Northern Queensland communities during the wet season or a cyclone.

"There is more than $1 billion in joint funding committed to upgrade the Gregory, Dawson, and Carnarvon Highways to provide a real alternative to the Bruce during the wet season, and also get more trucks off the Bruce all year round.

"The inland link to Mackay will also soon be bolstered by the $186 million Walkerston Bypass where construction is progressing well and is on track to be completed next year."

‍

PHOTO CAPTION: The 2021 Youth Ambassadors, Sebastian Padget, Emilia Konopka, Savannah Vella, Laina Rudken, Jonte Tupaea, Jack Oliveira, Suzanna Elliott Haynes, Lisa Grobler and Jayde Readman. Photo supplied: MECC

Becoming a MECC Youth Ambassador is a life-changing opportunity. Not only do you enjoy special access to arts events, but you also gain hands-on experiences in performing arts, technical productions, and media and marketing.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the MECC had just opened applications for the 2023 Youth Ambassador Program.

“If you are looking to undertake a career in the arts, media or marketing, this is an exciting opportunity” Mayor Williamson said.

“Our MECC Youth Ambassadors have exclusive access to workshops and events that link directly to their studies,” he said.

The program has seen great successes over the years, with many students continuing their studies in the events industry post school.

“We have had a number of Youth Ambassadors successfully apply for the annual Jack Sturgeon Bursary, a $1000 bursary to help with the expense associated with tertiary studies,” Mayor Williamson said.

“One former Youth Ambassador, Eddie Tiller, recently won Mackay Regional Council’s Jason Vassallo Trainee of the Year Award.”

Eddie Tiller spoke highly of the program.

“My experience as a Youth Ambassador was amazing,” Eddie said. “I met like-minded friends – who I would never have met otherwise,” she said.

“My favourite moment was volunteering at a Queensland Museum exhibition. I was able to create life-like movements with animated puppets, it was a lot of fun.”

After completing the program, Eddie was successful with an application for employment at the MECC and has since completed a Certificate III in Live Production.

Budding performers, singers, dancers, sound designers, lighting technicians, curators, producers, marketers or anyone with an interest in the MECC can apply.

Criteria:

• Must reside in the Mackay Regional Council area

• Enrolled in grade 10-12

• Must have parental permission

• Must be able to attend regular workshops, meetings or training sessions

• Be willing to positively advocate the MECC and its programs and performances

• Have the support of one teacher at your school who will liaise with the MECC Engagement Officer

• This is a voluntary position

All entries must be received by Friday, 3 February 2023. Application forms available from themecc.com.au/schools/youth_ambassador

‍

See a wave tank in action when environmental consultants Alluvium visit our region next month.

The wave tank simulates the ocean’s movements to demonstrate how different combinations of coastal defences and wave and tide conditions can affect issues such as wave overtopping and flood risk.

Alluvium will be hosting four community workshops in February as part of the Mackay Coast Our Future program, which will include coastal erosion and storm tide inundation displays and maps, and opportunities to discuss possible adaptation options for the region.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the workshops would allow residents to gain a better understanding of what adaptation options would be most suitable for specific locations in our region.

“When you install a barrier like a seawall to help protect the coastline, the water has to go somewhere,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The purpose of the wave tank is to demonstrate that not every adaptation option is suitable for every location,” he said.

“We want to take proactive action to protect our region’s coasts and foreshores from the future effects of climate change and coastal hazards, such as erosion, storm tide inundation and rising sea levels.”

The Mackay Coast Our Future study aims to determine what adaptation options are best suited to the areas that have the most risk of these coastal hazards in our region.

Council conducted two surveys last year to gather feedback on how residents use the coast and what knowledge they had in relation to coastal adaptation options.

“Next month’s workshops will be an opportunity for residents to learn from experts about what coastal hazards exist in their area and what adaptation options make the most sense,” Mayor Williamson said.

Residents are invited to attend one of the following workshops:

> Thursday, February 2, from 11am to 1pm at the Jubilee Community Centre

> Thursday, February 2, from 4pm to 6pm at Seaforth Community Hall

> Friday, February 3, from 4pm to 6pm at Llewellyn Hall, Armstrong Beach

> Saturday, February 4, from 1pm to 3.30pm at Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club

No bookings are required.

For more information on the Mackay Coast Our Future study and to subscribe to project updates visit connectingmackay.com.au/future-coast.

Recent results of the Mackay Coast Our Future surveys revealed:

• The top three reasons that attract people to live and visit our region are:

> Outdoor experiences and recreational opportunities (boating, fishing, camping, 4WD etc)

> Unique landscapes and natural beauty

> Access to the beaches

• 68 per cent of respondents visited the beach or foreshore weekly, with 43 per cent visiting the beach two to three times a week

• 49 per cent of respondents believe there is a lot more planning and preparation required to prepare for coastal hazards

• 49 per cent of respondents have been affected by coastal hazards

• 63 per cent of respondents believe they have a good to expert understanding of potential coastal hazards such as sea levels rising and changing storm tide intensity.

‍