Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Rarely do you turn your nose up at a cheap deal, an opportunity to save some money. Life is too expensive, kids cost too much … even when they grow up and go to uni. But this was the discount I never wanted, the bargain I never sought. I was about to have lunch with a bunch of colleagues and friends at a local pub one Friday recently but couldn’t find anything on the menu that appealed to me that day. I wanted something light, or a smaller dish that wasn’t going to weigh me down for the rest of the day. I was ordering at the bar and the barmaid, trying to assist in my search for a lighter or smaller meal, came up with the words I didn’t want to hear. Her voice was loud and clear, easily picked up by my friends: “Why don’t you get one of the seniors’ meals?” There was a split second of silence when I took in and tried to comprehend the strange words I had never heard directed at me, then another split second of panic as I realised the friendly barmaid had a voice like a megaphone and my friends were well and truly within earshot at a nearby table. Then came the laughter from my friends who for some reason thought this was the funniest thing they had heard that day. “A seniors’ meal! Yeah, mate get yourself a seniors’ meal!” Apparently, it was hilarious. Now, I don’t know the exact age one becomes eligible for a seniors’ meal, or any seniors’ discounts for that matter. I have to keep working hard and staying fit and feeling young and in the prime of life so that I can continue to pour funds into the funnel that provides food and accommodation and uni life for kids and family. I have deliberately avoided thoughts of being a “senior” and, therefore, taking advantage of the discounts and special deals that no doubt are on offer. I googled the qualifying age the other day and it said traditionally Queensland set the age at 65. Which means I’m not qualified for seniors’ stuff yet. I suspect there are opportunities for “younger seniors” but I don’t need to go there. There is, of course, nothing wrong with seniors’ deals and one day I am sure I will take full advantage of them. But it is more of a mindset for me, living life, selling houses and working in a way that deems age irrelevant because there is too much to do. I might not look young but I need to feel young so I can keep going … so no thoughts of seniors’ anything. In the spirit of fighting against the tide of time, I stepped up my exercise routine recently and joined one of the flash new gyms in town. The space, lighting, music, and “feel” of the place create an “energy” that helps inspire you to work hard and get results. When it comes to real estate, I am a buyer who thinks more about location than how modern and terrific the house is, which is why I live in West Mackay. But a venue like that gym reminds me that the right house, with the right features and feel, creates an inspiration that elevates the experience of life. It’s not just about the location, it’s how you feel when you are there, what your life feels like and looks like. Location is important but sometimes the most convenient location can’t provide the elevated experience that a particular house can offer. It can change the way you feel and interact, how you entertain and enjoy yourself. The right environment can bring out the best in you and inspire you to greater heights. Even if you’re a senior.
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1986 – M&P Auto's Established, Archibald Street [860m2] 1987 – Moved to Satellite Crescent [3539m2] 1990 – M&P Transport Division 1994 – Shipping Containers 1997 – Max Lamb Jnr Joins M&P As Director 2002 – Moved to Spiller Avenue [16,000m2] 2004 – Authorised Duckbill Agent 2005 – First Transportable Building Designed & Built, Terry Seay joins M&P as a Director, Incorporated Company 2006 – First Mobile Crib 2008 – Opening of Rockhampton Depot (3998m2) 2009 – Combo Toilets 2010 – Authorised Teco Agent 2011 – Mobile Crib Rooms to PNG 2013 – Moved to Diesel Drive 2014 – Added Heavy Haulage To Transport Fleet 2016 – First Charity Golf Day, Authorised Tennant Agent 2017 – Authorised Earth Track Agent 2019 – Undercover Shed Extension 2021 – Wheeled Products division expanded, First Solar toilet trailers produced 2022 – Mobile Crib Rooms Added to Standard Hire Fleet 2023 – Largest Supply contract entered into at $4.9m 2024 – Cyclone Block & Log Tiedown System added to Manufacturing, Sales & Hire 2025 – 10th Annual Charity Day Raises 75k in one day, Manufacturing Excellence Award 2026 – 40th Year Milestone Achieved
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Every rescue kitten carries a story. Some begin in uncertainty, some in hardship, but all share the same quiet hope… to one day belong. Then there is Jinx. Sleek, black, and quietly enchanting, Jinx is the kind of kitten who stays with you. Like many rescue kittens, her early days were not easy, but with patience and care, she has discovered her confidence. Now, her playful spirit and affectionate nature are shining through more each day. Jinx is curious and clever, happiest when she is exploring her surroundings, watching the world from a sunny window, or settling in close after a burst of play. She is a reminder that sometimes the most overlooked animals—like black cats—have the most to give. Those who open their hearts to them are often rewarded with a loyalty that runs deep. Each of these kittens is on their own journey, but Jinx shares the same destination: a home filled with understanding, patience, and love. Because in the end, it’s not just about rescuing animals—it’s about giving them the chance to truly belong. Please contact foster carer Robin 0457 134 750. Contributed by Mackay Pet Rescue Inc.
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After nearly five decades of teaching, one of Mackay’s most passionate music educators is preparing for a bittersweet farewell as she leads her final ANZAC marching band trip. Kathryn George OAM has spent almost 49 years at North Mackay State High School, where she helped build the school’s renowned marching band program from the ground up. This year’s Brisbane ANZAC Day March will mark her final major appearance before handing the program to the next generation of staff. Mrs George formed the marching band in 1992 alongside fellow founding director David Bayliss. Since then, the program has grown into one of the largest single school marching bands in Australia. She said the program began as a way to extend talented instrumental music students beyond simply playing their instruments. “It’s a specialised skill and an extension to just playing an instrument, where you actually have to march and hold your position both vertically and horizontally while you’re playing,” she explained. Over the years the band has performed on some of the world’s biggest stages, representing Australia at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, performing at Disneyland and the Los Angeles Independence Day Parade, and even appearing at the Shanghai Tourism Festival. “It’s certainly one of the largest single school marching bands in Australia,” Mrs George said. “It’s so unusual – and rather wonderful – that it comes from a little town like Mackay rather than a big capital city.” This year the school band will again travel to Brisbane with around 90 students preparing for the parade, where they will appear as the first civilian band at the start of the procession before later marching alongside the army contingent marking its 175th anniversary. Among those helping carry the program forward are former students who have returned as staff members. “I know it’s in good hands,” she said. This year’s band will be led by Year 12 drum majors Chloe Waples and Alana Plunkett, who were selected after extensive auditions. Reflecting on her career, Mrs George said music has always been central to her life and she believes it plays a powerful role in education. “I’m really passionate about how important music is in learning for students and how it enhances the whole learning experience,” she said. “It teaches self-discipline and patience. With an instrument you have to work at it… it’s not a quick gratification, but it’s highly rewarding.” When she retires at the end of the year, she hopes to spend more time with family, including welcoming a fourth grandchild. And as she prepares the band for Brisbane one last time, she says the milestone fills her with immense pride. “I’m just so proud of my legacy and that the teachers continuing the tradition have come up through the band themselves.” “It’s going to be a very bittersweet moment, but it’s something I’ve been preparing for a while now.” After nearly 49 years at North Mackay State High School, Kathryn George OAM is preparing to lead her final ANZAC marching band. Photo supplied
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A woman has been charged with murder following the death of a woman in Glenella on Thursday, 5th October.
Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) was called for assistance to a Burge Court property in Glenella at approximately 10:45am.
Detective Inspector (DI) Novosel said QAS responded in response to the call saying an elderly woman had had a fall.
“On attendance of that address they identified that the injuries they observed on the deceased person were not consistent with that of a fall and consequently requested that police attend,” she said.
DI Novosel said that the injuries sustained included “significant head injuries”.
“Police attended and located a number of people at that address, including a 55-year-old woman, she was taken into custody and has since been charged with one account of murder in a domestic violence setting,” she said.
A crime scene was declared.
The 55-year-old woman was confirmed by DI Novosel as being the daughter of the 73-year-old. Both women are from Bundaberg and were visiting family in Mackay. They had been in Mackay for around two days staying with family before the alleged incident. They had been staying within the Burge Court address, the 73-year-old had a temporary makeshift bedroom in the garage and that is where the deceased was located by Queensland Ambulance paramedics.
DI Novosel confirmed that the 55-year-old woman is known to police, but there is no domestic violence history reported between the deceased and the accused.
Police said that there are children that live at the Burge Court property but they believe no children were present when they think the alleged incident took place.
The occupants of the Burge Court property were also not believed to have been home during the alleged incident in what was described as a ‘normal morning’ before they left to do their daily business.
DI Novosel said it was confirmed by the occupants that the 73-year-old had been “alive and well” earlier that morning.
She confirmed that neighbours had been canvassed and that some had been able to provide police with information.
DI Novosel said at this stage no weapon had been found consistent with their investigation.
The 55-year-old Bundaberg woman was charged with one count of murder (domestic violence) and appeared in the Mackay Magistrates Court last Friday morning.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, you should report it to police.
Support and counselling is available from the following agencies:
DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811
DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636
1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732
Detective Inspector Emma Novosel
The Australasian Society for Historical Archaeology held their 2023 ASHA Conference at Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre from 19th to 23rd September, with a theme of ‘The past in the present for historical archaeology.’
The 2022 ASHA Conference was held in New Zealand. This year, Mackay had the privilege of hosting the event.
The conference drew in a large crowd of fascinated community members, encouraging reflection on the complex dynamic between the information about our past and how it is understood and accepted in the present.
The sessions and presentations included research with relevance to contemporary issues, community-led projects, public interpretation of archaeological heritage, and evolving values in significance assessment.
Keynote Speaker, Jeff Cheng, spoke about his decade-long study uncovering invaluable insights into both Japanese and Bunun cultural heritage sites, which bear immense significance for contemporary indigenous communities.
With a presentation titled ‘The Past in the Present of the Bunun Country, the Lakulaku River Basin’ explaining Taiwan’s inhabitancy of Austronesian-speaking people before the arrival of colonizers.
Heritage practice lives in the tension between intangible and social values and the materiality of the archaeological record. Many believe historical archaeology only relates to a neutral gathering of evidence that explains the past.
However, the sites and objects in fieldwork, labs and museums comprise important places that resonate directly with living communities.
Sites and objects exist in relationship with communities in the present – not only human but also non-humans such as plants, animals and rivers.
Changing the understanding of the value and meaning of cultural heritage assists in shaping important debates within the world of historical archaeology.
The ASHA Conference also celebrated the following esteemed winners of various historical and archaeological-related awards:
● Best paper – Cassie J Gordon, Being-in-the-Roadside – Roadside Memorials as Artefacts of Contemporary Personal Heritage
● Best student paper – Ramona Lola Angelico and Angela Goh-Smith, ‘A Chinese Den’: The archaeology of intimate exchange in Jones Lane.
● Best poster – Hilda Maclean, No further “Visitations from God”: Classifying Queensland colonial deaths with the Nosological Index
● Best photograph – Tracey Martens, ‘Plain weave silk fabric excavated from a Victorian era cesspit in Melbourne CBD’
● Bursary recipients – Yongjun Qiu and Ramona Lola Angelico
Keynote Speaker Jeff Cheng
Mayor Greg Williamson of Mackay Regional Council announces opening remarks
Members of the ASHA Conference 2023
Busy hall of eventgoers at the ASHA Conference 2023 (Photo Credit: Australasian Society for Historical Archaeology)
A thrilling adventure awaited 15 Cub Scouts, 1 Venturer Scout, and 7 adults, including leaders and helpers from Hibiscus Coast District, as they embarked on the 7th Queensland Cuboree from September 17th to 22nd, 2023. Originating from Banksia, Mackay City Central, Sarina, and Proserpine Cub Scout Sections, this ultimate holiday was filled with camaraderie and unforgettable experiences.
The biennial Cuboree, held at Maryborough Showgrounds, brought together around 1000 attendees, comprising approximately 780 Cub Scouts and various leaders and adult helpers. As the most significant and exhilarating camp for Cub Scouts, Cuboree offers a unique opportunity to create lifelong memories.
Under the theme "Choose Your Adventure," the camp featured subcamps named Circus, Universe, Bizarre, and Sea, creatively spelling out "CUBS." An additional sub-camp called "Adventure" catered to Scouts and Venturer Scouts attending as helpers, while "Oasis" accommodated Activity Leaders and Adult Helpers. The youth participants slept in 8-person bell tents, with daily awards for the cleanest tent.
Activities galore were on offer, and it followed the CUBS theme of:
Create your own adventure, which were STEM activities, rope bridge, rope maze, catapult building, ciphers and marble races.
Up, Up and Away, was exploring Maryborough, a joy flight, steam train, damper making and heritage style games in Queens Park. Of great interest at the Museum the Cub Scouts were able to hear the story of how Keith Payne, VC AM earned his Victoria Cross Medal. Another very interesting story was about Able Seacat Simon and how he earned the Dickins Medal.
Beyond Base, bottle rockets, paper planes, games and the very popular colour explosion was held.
Seabound, was an all-day at Hervey Bay foreshore, swimming, fishing, sandcastles, and giant games. These activities were run by the Hervey Bay Sea Scouts.
Evenings were not devoid of excitement, with activities including the Opening Ceremony, a disco night, a STEM Magic Show, a Subcamp movie night, and a promotional video for the 2025 Australian Jamboree, also to be held at Maryborough Showgrounds. Many Cub Scouts who attended Cuboree will be eligible for the Jamboree.
With anticipation, leaders and younger Cub Scouts are already looking forward to the next Cuboree in 2025.
Contributed by Mary Wallace, DL, Hibiscus Coast District
MCC and Banksia cub scouts
Proserpine cub scouts
Joy flight
Steam train
Storm and cyclone season in Queensland runs from October to the end of April. During this time, flooding is more likely to impact the state.
Sandbagging is a helpful solution to divert water away from your property and preventing floodwater damage.
The State Emergency Service Mackay Regional Unit operates two sandbagging machines. One electric machine at their headquarters and a mobile, trailer-mounted machine that is transported around the local region.
You can buy sandbags from local hardware stores. Alternatives include fertiliser or potting mix bags, old pillowcases, plastic shopping bags and plastic downpipe bags.
Ensure you only fill your sandbags ¾ full, so they are not too heavy to lift and provide a flat layer for stacking. Place a plastic tarp down before you start to provide a barrier.
The SES encourages self-reliance from our community to reduce requests for assistance.
Access to emergency sand stockpiles in Mackay and surrounding areas:
● North Mackay – Norris Road reserve
● South Mackay – BB Print Stadium overflow car park on Leisure Street
● West Mackay – Hume Street and 374 Shakespeare Street
● Sarina – SES Facility – Brewers Road
● Seaforth – Community Centre, 1 Elizabeth Street
● Armstrong Beach – Rural Fire Brigade Shed
● Calen – Church St
● Campwin Beach – SES Facility - 103 Campwin Beach Road
● Finch Hatton – SES Facility, 17 Letchford Street
● Grasstree Beach, 40 Zelma Street
● Koumala – SES Facility, Bull Street
● Midge Point – SES Facility, 1503 Midge Point Road
● Mirani – Corner of Victoria and Augusta streets
You can find out more information through the Mackay Regional Council or SES websites.
Sandbagging reduces floodwater damage to your property
The new Mackay Hospital and Health Board came together on Thursday, 5th October to introduce themselves to health service personnel, appointed to set the strategic direction and oversee the management of Mackay Hospital and Health Service.
The event was kickstarted with a Welcome to Country and traditional smoking ceremony conducted by Elder Uncle Phillip Kemp, to the sound of the didgeridoo, played by Toasie Cora. Alongside this was a performance by the Tchundal Malar Dance Company.
This was followed by a traditional Torres Strait Islander prayer by Aunty Matilda Christian, asking for support and guidance on behalf of the new team of Board members to provide governance for the health service, in both Merian Mir and English languages.
Members include Board Chair Helen Darch, Deputy Chair Kerry Maley and Members Maud Chapman, Bill Cooper, Dr Luke Lawton and Dr Peter O’Mara.
Board Chair, Helen Darch OAM is an experienced board member in both government and not-for-profit sectors, with over thirteen years in the industry.
When Helen received the opportunity to apply for the Mackay Board, she was excited to come in with a broader experience to a team of exceptional people.
Helen’s aim is, “To try and unpack some of the challenges of regional Queensland and its health, and to advocate for change for our community.
“In this first phase, our key focus is to go and listen to staff, to our community, to our politicians to actually understand what is really not working well, what people really need and how best to step in and work together to fix it.
“The past is the past, we must learn the lessons from that to make sure that we are building a far better future for our community.
“I can’t undo what’s happened, but I am absolutely determined that we are going to change things.”
The six-member Board brings a vast range of experience across the fields of emergency medicine, business, nursing and law. This newly assembled team strives to create positive change for the future of Mackay Hospital and Health Service.
The new Mackay Hospital and Health Board
Mackay HHS Chief Executive Susan Gannon
Tchundal Malar dance group
Smoking ceremony. Photos supplied by Mackay Hospital and Health Service
GetReady Queensland has partnered with Mackay Regional Council, calling on local residents to stock up their emergency kits and get their emergency evacuation plans in place, before a natural disaster strikes.
Know when to go
Keep track of emergency warnings - Tune in to the official emergency broadcaster ABC Tropical North 101.1FM, or opt in for notifications from the Mackay Emergency Dashboard.
Know where to go
Identify which family, friends, or commercial accommodation you would go to. Make sure you let someone know where you have evacuated to and that you arrived safely.
Know how to move
Identify the safest route and consider potential hazards. If you are elderly or have a disability, use the Person-Centred Emergency Preparedness resource.
Know what to take
Consider what you would pack for a remote camping trip and don’t forget the essentials.
Know your neighbours
Often, neighbours will be your first responders in a disaster event and can assist with preparing your home before disaster strikes.
All eight Woolworths stores across Mackay will have two dedicated aisles featuring key items for household disaster kits, as well as tear-off shopping lists.
To find a more detailed summary of advice and information, visit www.mackay.qld.gov.au/getreadymackay.
GetReady stall geared up for the Seniors Expo. Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council
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Women dressed in their most vibrant pink outfits gathered at an exclusive event over the weekend to show their support for breast cancer awareness and fundraising.
Usually held on the 28th October is Pink Ribbon Day, an annual event hosted to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
This past Sunday, October 8th, a group of thirty-five local women eagerly joined the nationwide event ahead of schedule, uniting in their finest pink attire to rally behind the cause.
The event consisted of a morning tea spread, as well as a bidding auction.
A group of small businesses, as well as attendees provided a donation of prizes for the auction, including Debbie’s Seafood, Reef Contracting, Suterbly Crafted and Fancy Pants Ranch.
Collectively, the team managed to raise an impressive sum of $3,482, a remarkable effort from everyone involved.
Main host and organiser, Cheree Ridolfi, commits herself to a different fundraising event each year, dedicated to spreading awareness for various charities.
Last year, Cheree had a close friend who was battling breast cancer. This hit close to home, inspiring her to host the Pink Ribbon Day event.
Cheree commented, “We have some amazing women in our life who we hold close to our hearts and we would hate to lose any of them to breast cancer.”
“It means that one day, when we hopefully find a cure, we can say we helped towards that cure because every little bit helps.”
Cheree’s most memorable moment was the banter between the ladies while holding the auction, stating, “They are a great bunch of ladies and we are lucky to call them our friends.”
Cheree appreciates her supporters braving the strong winds to provide vital support to those battling breast cancer. She aims to raise awareness and promote regular checks.
A variety of donations supplied for the event
(L-R) Host Cheree Ridolfi, Natalie Fitzgerald, Debra Goodall and Raechel Gribbin
(L-R) Sophie Gribbin, Tiaani Blunt and Sarah McGrath
(L-R) Leonie Goody, Tammy Molloy, Sonya Turner and Jackie Bella. Photo credit: Sinead Porter
Teams will be revving up for the Spring Shitbox Rally, held from 13th to 21st October 2023. They will be piloting beat-up cars valued under $1500, zooming from Port Douglas to Adelaide over rugged roads for a charitable cause.
This event is considered to be representative of the ‘bumpy ride’ that people diagnosed with cancer might be experiencing, like needing a few adjustments along the way, having faith that you'll make it to the other side and having people along the journey to pick you up when you need a hand.
The Mackay side of the Shitbox Rally teams include ‘Not Lost - Just Looking’, ‘Leketek Mackay’, ‘Whiskey Business’, ‘Hakuna Matata’, ‘Team Ramrod’, ‘The Bozlicks’ and ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’.
Mackay teams look forward to the adventure, where they have a chance to meet new and like-minded people and see the countryside.
In the weeks ahead, we'll provide an update on how the Mackay teams fared tackling the rough terrain.
The Shitbox Rally event raises money for the Cancer Council, to go into numerous research projects, in total raising over $2 million this year so far. Donations can be made via shitboxrally.com.au
Shitbox Rally cars gearing up for an epic road trip. Photo supplied.
Queensland is taking a major stride towards training and re-skilling its future workforce for the renewable energy sector with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Queensland Hydro and the Mackay-based Resources Centre of Excellence (RCOE). This collaboration aims to address the future skills training needs of the resources sector and support Queensland's transition to renewable energy systems.
Queensland Hydro, a publicly owned entity established by the Queensland Government to develop, operate, and maintain long-duration pumped hydro energy storage assets, is at the forefront of the state's energy transition. The 2GW Borumba project, located near Imbil west of the Sunshine Coast, and the proposed 5GW Pioneer-Burdekin project west of Mackay play pivotal roles in Queensland's renewable energy future.
The RCOE serves as a hub for connecting experts in research, technology, education, and mining equipment, technology, and services (METS) to shape the future of the resources sector. This partnership aligns with the core objectives of the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, which seeks to create employment and training opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
Julieanne Gilbert, Member for Mackay, expressed enthusiasm for the training opportunities, stating, "The collaboration between Mackay's Resources Centre of Excellence and Queensland Hydro is a massive boost for local jobs and will ensure that the workforce for the renewable sector is trained and ready for the challenge of these new projects."
Queensland Hydro CEO Kieran Cusack emphasised the importance of the partnership, saying, "We want to support workers looking to transition into roles in the energy sector with the right opportunities for skills and training. This MOU covers a range of goals and project outcomes around the areas of training, innovation, and research and development.
“We want as many workers as possible on our projects at Pioneer-Burdekin and Borumba to come from Queensland and from within the energy sector. For those looking to transition into roles in the energy sector, we want to be able to support them with the right opportunities for skills and training.”
Steven Boxall, CEO of the Resources Centre of Excellence, expressed excitement about the collaboration's potential, stating, "We have the skills, expertise, and first-class facilities with a training platform to work with Queensland Hydro to ensure their future workforce has access to a range of innovations for traditional jobs and the skills training to prepare them for Queensland Hydro's major projects."
“The team at the Resources Centre of Excellence is very excited to bring this MOU and collaboration to life after many months of discussion. I believe the RCOE is the ideal partner for Queensland Hydro as being based in Mackay, we’re ideally placed to help facilitate the transition from traditional energy sector jobs to the new clean, green energy sector.”
"The Pioneer-Burdekin pumped hydro project is a long-term game-changer for the Mackay region as the largest infrastructure project in Queensland's history, and it's exciting to see that the benefits from the Queensland Hydro project continue to flow to our region," added Mrs Gilbert.
This partnership between Queensland Hydro and RCOE represents a significant step towards building a skilled and prepared workforce for Queensland's renewable energy sector, aligning with the state's ambitious renewable energy goals.
Signing of the MOU at the Resources Centre of Excellence, L-R: Queensland Hydro CEO Kieran Cusack, CEO of the Resources Centre of Excellence Steven Boxall, Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert
Two Feet & A Heartbeat returns strong again in 2023, an annual four-kilometre walk organised by HeartKids to commemorate the four lives lost to congenital heart disease (CHD) in Australia each week.
This event will take place on 15th October, with the tribute not only to raise awareness, but to bring together families to celebrate the lives of heart kids while remembering children who have tragically lost their fight against CHD.
HeartKids is a national health charity, working with health professionals to provide lifelong support for those with congenital heart disease and their families Australia-wide.
Lesley Jordon, CEO of HeartKids said, “Having dedicated my life to children’s health and welfare, the Two Feet & A Heartbeat event is close to my heart.
“With 3,000 Australians diagnosed with CHD this year, the significance of community and support stands unrivalled.”
This year’s campaign aims to rally 4,500 participants with a fundraising goal of $350,000 across each of the events nationally.
Money raised through the walk goes back into the community through HeartKids, including delivering in-hospital and family support programs, camps for children living with CHD, and vital education days and peer support programs.
HeartKids invites everyone to participate in the Two Feet & A Heartbeat event. Every step you take will make a difference. To register for Two Feet & A Heartbeat, visit: https://www.twofeetheartbeat.org.au/
Two Feet & a Heartbeat Walk. Photo credit: HeartKids
This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with Mackay Hospital and Health Service encouraging eligible women to be breast-aware and take advantage of the free BreastScreen Queensland Program.
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in female patients, with around one-in-seven women diagnosed in their lifetime.
The best way to detect early signs of breast cancer is to have a routine breast screening conducted, which allows treatment to be more effective.
Women aged 50-74 are encouraged to have a mammogram every two years. However, women aged 40-49 and those over 75 are also eligible for screening with BreastScreen Queensland.
‘Freya’ the BreastScreen mobile service will be making stops around our local community throughout October:
● 9 – 13 October | Marian – Marian Town Centre
● 17 – 30 October | Greenfields – Beside Autobarn
● 31 October – 3 November | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service – 9 River Street, Mackay
Swelling, skin thickening or redness, warmth and itching, nipple changes or discharge or breast pain lasting for more than three to four weeks as well as lumps can all be possible symptoms of the early stages.
Whether you are new to BreastScreen or due for your next screen, it's easy to make an appointment by calling 13 20 50 or online via www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au.
Appointments are available at the BreastScreen Queensland Mackay Service from Monday to Friday.
This service is a check-up, if you have noticed any breast changes that concern you, you should talk to your doctor before booking a breast screen appointment.
‘Freya’ the BreastScreen Queensland van. Photo credit: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
Sarina’s tight-knit community is a result of committed and passionate locals, focused on the progression of our region and the people who call it home. Mary-Therese Watson is the embodiment of this passion, uplifting and supporting the community through her role as President of the Queensland Country Women’s Association’s (QCWA) Sarina Branch.
Mary-Therese leads the charge when it comes to empowering and inspiring women through friendship, education, connection, and advocacy – a vision that Ruth Fairfax, Founder of the QCWA had at its start, which is still relevant today.
“Over the years, many women have worked hard to continue the work of QCWA - to bring women together to support communities, to celebrate their interests, and to forge friendships in respectful and caring environments,” said Mary-Therese.
Celebrating its centenary this year, the QCWA Sarina Branch is a highly relevant and integral part of the community, with support from its 30 members, locals, and Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.
Community Bank Sarina has been a key supporter of QCWA Sarina Branch for many years, and has recently sponsored several centenary celebrations, including a Race Day and High Tea, and soon a visit to a local Kindergarten to celebrate Queensland Senior’s Month.
Mary-Therese said the QCWA Sarina Branch members were grateful for Community Bank Sarina’s support in upskilling, as well to sell tickets online and for providing raffle prizes for events.
“The support Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank provides to groups like ours ensures the local community grows and is appreciated.”
This month offers another opportunity for the community to thank women like Mary-Therese and organisations that support women for their unwavering efforts, with the occurrence of International Day of Rural Women on October 15.
This day serves as a platform to address the unique issues that women in rural areas face across the world and is an opportunity to amplify their voices, something which Mary-Therese and the many volunteers at QCWA assist with closer to home.
Community Bank Sarina thanks Mary-Therese for her relentless efforts in upholding the values that make the QCWA Sarina Branch the network of support it continues to be.
Keep up to date with Community Bank Sarina’s community initiatives by following them on Facebook – www.facebook.com/communitybanksarina
QCWA Sarina Branch centenary cake cutting
Congratulations to Year 8 student from Sarina State High School, Matilda Davies, who competed in the Junior Women’s National Inline Hockey Competition.
Her team placed second in the event, held in Browns Plains over the school holidays.
Such an incredible accomplishment, great work Matilda.
Matilda Davies alongside National Championships 2023 banner
Matilda Davies in action at the ice-skating rink
Koumala State School (SS) has celebrated a century of shaping generations of student’s education and the local community this year.
To commemorate this special occasion, the Koumala SS Parents & Citizens Association (P & C) held a centenary event last month, where past students, teachers, staff, and the local community were invited to reminisce and celebrate.
The celebration included activities such as planting a centenary tree, laying a new time capsule, live entertainment, student performances, and memorabilia displays.
The Koumala SS P & C has also compiled a centenary booklet that highlights stories, photos, and accomplishments of the school’s students over its long lifetime.
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank sponsored the centenary event and printing the centenary booklet, a unique keepsake that has been well received by the school community.
Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May congratulated the school on this remarkable achievement.
“Koumala State School is a wonderful example of what a school dedicated to students and their families can provide for a small community, and what an incredible legacy this creates over time.
“We are proud to support this school‘s commitment to fostering a bright future for Koumala’s youth over the past century and we know they will continue this for many more years to come.”
Koumala SS Centenary Advisor Committee member, Janine Borg, said it was wonderful to see people catching up with old friends and teachers at the event, and past students were able to see how the school had changed over time.
“The costs for these activities can add up for a small school but the sponsorship from Community Bank Sarina enabled us to make these activities a reality.
“The school has had many families with multiple generations attending, so the booklet is a wonderful memento for them to keep passing on.
“Any income generated from both the event and booklet is invested straight back into the school, meaning the bank's support will go even further to support current students.”
The centenary booklet is now available to purchase via the Koumala State School P & C Facebook page: www.facebook.com/kss100years2023.
Community Bank Sarina Chair Karen May at Koumala State School’s centenary
To celebrate Mental Health Week and to promote positive mindfulness, students at Sarina State High School spent their lunch break building terrariums to take home and care for.
An excellent initiative to encourage self-care and support Mental Health Week awareness.
Students from SSHS with their newly built terrariums
Students get busy with their Mental Health Week project
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