The Queensland Government’s Primary Industries and Resources Committee held a well-attended public hearing in Mackay as part of its Inquiry into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities in Queensland.

Canegrowers Mackay Chairman Joseph Borg, Deputy Chairman Brett Leach, and Canegrowers Proserpine Chairman Glenn Clarke presented on behalf of growers. Mr Borg highlighted the opportunities for mill cogeneration and virtual microgrids to help farmers access cost-effective irrigation, boosting productivity for the regional sugar industry.

Mr Clarke emphasised the need for strong government policy and regulatory frameworks to support the development of a sugarcane-derived bioenergy sector, ensuring growers could confidently invest in new opportunities.

The hearing also heard from Greater Whitsunday Alliance (GW3) CEO Kylie Porter, who outlined the broad range of bio-manufacturing opportunities available within the Greater Whitsunday region. Regional Development Australia – Greater Whitsunday representatives Rob Cocco, Stephen Cutting, and Paul Schembri spoke on the region’s deliverability, underpinned by its unique co-location of feedstock, engineering, manufacturing, and port facilities.

A recurring theme throughout the day was the importance of return on investment for growers. Presenters stressed that diversifying the sugar industry beyond raw sugar – while still maintaining its core – was essential to secure not only the future of the sector but also the wider economic prosperity of the Greater Whitsunday region.

The Mackay hearing is one of several being held across Queensland as the state considers how to unlock the potential of sugarcane bioenergy for energy security, regional growth, and industry resilience.

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Industry, regional leaders and politicians presented to the Queensland Government’s Primary Industries and Resources Committee during the Mackay hearing into Sugarcane Bioenergy Opportunities. Photo source: CANEGROWERS

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Simon Hood, Wilmar Manager Grower Marketing

A final reminder to growers regarding the Global Traders Roadshow featuring Wilmar’s Senior Sugar Trader Peter Bingham. Peter is currently in India attending the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) convention, which means he will bring the very latest insights into Indian crop developments and ethanol policy for the year ahead. With India’s production forecast rising sharply this season, the country’s decisions around exports and ethanol could play a crucial role in shaping sugar prices for the tail end of the 2025 season pricing period.

With the weather cooperating and the mills running well, the end of season could be upon us before we know it. We’re already fielding enquiry from growers about their pricing status with the GEI Sugar they have delivered so far to determine whether they can confidently start pricing their GMPRS orders. To support this process, we have developed a new exposure monitoring tool to give growers clearer visibility of their position and help manage final pricing decisions as the season winds down.

As always, if growers are concerned about their final estimated delivery against pricing commitments please talk to your local Relationship Manager as soon as possible. We have options to deal with production shortfalls and the sooner we identify a potential issue the more flexibility we have in managing it.

On the global stage, #11 sugar prices continue to languish while the Brazilian crush powers ahead. A record 55 per cent sugar mix in the latest UNICA report has analysts revising their final Brazilian sugar production number higher. However, ethanol parity continues to ratchet higher with current estimates above 16 USc/lb.

The next couple of UNICA reports will be interesting to see if there is a switch back from sugar with ethanol stocks low in Brazil. A stronger AUD driven by a weak USD is adding to the uphill battle the AUD sugar swap price is facing.

I look forward to seeing you at our Global Traders Roadshow next week and introducing you to our expanding team. RSVP’s close this week so if you would like to attend, please contact your local Grower Marketing Relationship Manager to secure your spot.

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Our Grower Marketing Relationship managers are on hand to help growers check their final estimated delivery against pricing commitments. Pictured are Misty Bland, Owen Richards, grower Russell Laidlow, Jonathan Reichard, Fiona Villis, grower Greg Laidlow and Trent Johnson. Photo supplied

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By Owen Menkens, Chairman, CANEGROWERS

Sugarcane has always been part of Queensland’s story. From the sunlit paddocks along our coastline the sweet scent of a mill in full crush, it’s hard to imagine our state without it.

But there’s a side to the industry that many people don’t see – how far our growers have come in making cane a world leader in sustainability.

This month we reached a milestone worth celebrating. Farms accredited through our Smartcane BMP program have now earned a rare triple tick from the three most respected international sustainability umpires – VIVE, Bonsucro and ProTerra.

In layman’s terms, this means independent global auditors have confirmed that Queensland cane is grown to the highest environmental and sustainability standards.

That recognition didn’t arrive by chance. It’s the result of years of effort by growers keeping detailed records, improving soil health, managing water carefully and refining how they farm.
Today almost half of Queensland’s cane area is managed under Smartcane BMP, and that number keeps climbing.

Why does this matter? Because major buyers – from soft drink companies to overseas refiners – are demanding proof their sugar comes from responsible sources.

Thanks to the dedication of our growers, Queensland cane can meet that test. In fact, we’re now one of the very few cane-growing regions on the planet able to offer this level of verified sustainability.

And it’s not just about the environment. Smartcane BMP helps farmers build stronger, more profitable businesses, which means healthier regional communities and a stronger state economy.
When Queensland sugarcane is recognised internationally, the benefits flow to everyone – from the workers in the mills to the small businesses in our towns.

So next time you stir a spoonful of sugar into your tea or coffee, think of the people behind it – the Queensland growers proving that you can farm sustainably and stay competitive on the global stage.

They deserve every bit of the pride we feel today.

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Canegrowers' Owen Menkens (Photo Supplied)
Smartcane BMP farms have earned international recognition (Photo Supplied)

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As CANEGROWERS prepares to celebrate its centenary in 2026, the organisation is inviting the community to help build a unique photo collection that captures 100 years of cane country history.

Locals are encouraged to dig out their treasured sugarcane snapshots — from family moments on the farm to milestones in the industry — and share them on Facebook or by emailing info@canegrowers.com.au.

The collection will form part of a centenary showcase honouring the people and stories behind the sugarcane industry. Selected photographs may even feature in a special-edition 2026 Centenary Calendar, ensuring the region’s history is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.

Your photos could help tell the story of a century of cane country!

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Applications open for 2026 Rural Women’s Award

The search is on for inspiring rural women to step forward, with applications now open for the 2026 AgriFutures Australia Rural Women’s Award.

The award recognises and celebrates inclusive and courageous leadership by women involved in Australia’s rural and emerging industries, businesses, and communities.

Queensland’s 2025 state winner and Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Agribusiness Network, Nicole McNaughton, said she encouraged all rural women to put themselves forward.

"The Rural Women’s Award has been a life-changing opportunity to grow and connect with like-minded, passionate and supportive women,” Ms McNaughton said.

"It's given me the opportunity to grow personally and professionally while connecting with an inspiring network of Queensland finalists – the inspiring Libby Cook-Black and Angie Nisbet.”

As part of her win, Ms McNaughton received a $15,000 grant from Westpac to further her work and will represent Queensland at the 2025 National Gala in Canberra on Tuesday, the 28th of October.

"I’m excited for the upcoming National Gala – it's a chance to reconnect with my fellow state winners, celebrate the strength of rural women, and proudly fly the flag for Queensland. This journey has re-energised my passion for building ecosystems where women support one another,” Ms McNaughton said.

For women not quite ready to apply for the award, AgriFutures also offers a $7,000 Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant to support leadership and development opportunities.

Applications for both the 2026 Rural Women’s Award and Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant close on Friday, the 7th of November 2025.

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Queensland 2025 state winner Nicole McNaughton (Photo Supplied)

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The Nebo Bush Poet’s Smoko 2025 drew a strong crowd earlier this month, with 105 people gathering to celebrate the art of storytelling through rhyme and verse.

The event featured 21 performers, who entertained with a mix of heartfelt reflections, witty tall tales and traditional bush poetry that resonated with the spirit of the outback.

The morning’s program highlighted both seasoned poets and emerging voices, giving audiences a taste of the rich diversity within the bush poetry community.

Between performances, attendees enjoyed a classic smoko, adding to the relaxed and distinctly regional atmosphere of the gathering.

Organisers said the turnout reflected the enduring popularity of bush poetry as a unique cultural tradition that continues to connect communities across the outback.

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Poets and community members gathered for the 2025 Nebo Bush Poet’s Smoko. Photo source: Isaac Regional Council

CUC Engineering Futures At Home

Moranbah High School vice-captain Ethan Azzopardi hopes to be one of CUC Isaac’s first graduates: he’s one of five high school students who have already enrolled for the region’s new Country Universities Centre.

The first of its kind in the Isaac region, the CUC Isaac campus gives locals a free, practical base to study without leaving town. Open from 6am to midnight, seven days a week, the centre provides high-speed internet, printers, quiet rooms, exam supervision, video conferencing and face-to-face support. It’s part of a national network designed to make higher education more accessible for regional students who often face isolation or the high costs of moving away.

With his sights set on studying a Bachelor of Engineering with honours at either QUT or the University of Queensland, 17-year-old Ethan’s family was preparing to meet the expense of moving him to Brisbane and finding campus accommodation.

Now he’s able to stay in Moranbah, which he said was a financial relief for his parents but also an opportunity for him to be supported by his father who works for BHP’s Peak Mine.

“I thought I was going to have to go to Brisbane for QUT or UQ because those are my top two preferences and leave my family home,” Ethan said. “For me, I want my life to be more set forward and I don't want to get the distractions of Uni like parties: I'm not into that, but in here I'll be able to focus on work and school.”

Ethan said he did not think he was missing an ‘on-campus’ experience.

“With people asking those questions, I just say it's more financially stable for me and I can set up my career pathway better,” he said. “I get the support from my parents in town and from CUC – it's a lot more comforting. One of my homes is rowdy and the other is quiet, thanks to Dad. When I'm at my mum’s house it's good to come here because I’ve got two little siblings and them trying to break into your room all the time, isn't helpful for studying.”

For Dad, Justin Azzopardi, who has lived in Moranbah for 19 years, it means he can provide mentoring but also utilise the money that would have been spent on campus accommodation elsewhere.

“It was great, such a big stress relief,” Mr Azzopardi said. “I can help him pay his HECs bill instead of putting that money towards accommodation and food there and help him get his car and all those things matter so much. I was amazed because I was trying work out how we were going to get everything rolling to give him the best opportunities and now I know he can get everything he needs right here.

“Being in the mining industry, I can also relay information to him that can help him further, as well as leading to other opportunities after his studies or find some scholarships while he’s studying.”

The new centre was made possible with $2 million from the Regional Economic Futures Fund and $1.4 million over four years from the Federal Government’s Regional University Study Hubs program. A second facility is planned for Clermont in 2026.

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Moranbah High School vice-captain Ethan Azzopardi with his dad Justin and CUC Isaac Manager Kim Edwards at the opening of the new Country Universities Centre, which is giving locals the chance to study and stay in their hometown. Photo supplied

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Queensland’s coal industry faces a major blow as BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) announced plans to cut about 750 jobs across its operations, citing the financial strain of state royalties and challenging market conditions.

The company confirmed that its Saraji South mine at Dysart will be mothballed from November. Saraji South, part of the greater Saraji complex, is one of BMA’s five steel-making coal mines in the Bowen Basin and has been in operation since 1974.

BMA asset president Adam Lancy said the decision, while difficult, was necessary.

“The simple fact is the Queensland coal industry is approaching a crisis point,” he said.

“This is now having real impacts on regional jobs, communities and small businesses. The uncertainty this creates for our people and our communities is not taken lightly, and we will do everything we can to support them.”

Federal Member for Capricornia Michelle Landry described the job losses as devastating for the region.

“The announcement of 750 job losses at BHP is nothing short of a tragedy for Dysart and the wider Bowen Basin. Behind every job lost is a family struggling with a mortgage, children missing out on after-school sport and a local economy that will be gutted,” she said.

Ms Landry attributed the cuts to state and federal government policies.

“This is not bad luck, it is the direct result of the former Labor government’s job-destroying royalty regime… these royalties are now the highest in the world. They are driving up costs, shutting down investment and killing jobs across Central Queensland.”

She highlighted the rising costs for coal production.

“Metallurgical coal cost of production has skyrocketed 47 per cent in three years, while thermal coal costs have exploded by 50 per cent. Mines are being pushed to the brink and workers are paying the price.”

Ms Landry also called for urgent government action.

“That is why I will be lobbying my LNP colleagues relentlessly to bring forward an urgent review of the royalty regime. We simply cannot afford to sit on our hands while mines close and livelihoods are destroyed.”

She further criticised federal policies.

“The Federal Labor Government has piled on more costs with its job-destroying Safeguard Mechanism, a carbon tax by stealth… Central Queensland has become ground zero for Labor’s reckless carbon tax,” Ms Landry said, emphasising coal’s ongoing economic significance.

“Coal remains the backbone of our economy… Far from being a sunset industry, coal remains our nation’s second largest export and a critical part of powering the world.

"Labor’s war on mining is economic vandalism,” she said, calling for urgent reform to protect jobs and regional communities.

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BHP's Saraji mine near Dysart. Photo source: BHP

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With Titan Security & Protection

Titan Security & Protection is providing a premier option for security services across the Mackay region, standing out for its professional approach, community focus, and locally owned drive.

Founded by Beau Bath, a father of two, the company exists with one mission in mind.

“We aim to protect the community we live in and give back to the place we call home.”

Unlike larger out-of-town firms, Titan brings a fresh, locally driven approach to security in Mackay.

“We’re locally owned and operated, so all our profits go back into Mackay,” Beau explained.

Titan Security & Protection actively engages with the local community, attending PCYC events, youth barbecues, mental health initiatives, and assisting the homeless.

The company specialises in a comprehensive range of security services. Static guarding provides professional protection to prevent incidents before they start. Mobile patrols deliver visible, unpredictable rounds that deter threats, protect assets, and secure premises after hours. Alarm response ensures rapid arrival and professional action whenever alarms are triggered, offering clients peace of mind.

But it’s the quality and reliability that underpin every service.

“We have all the equipment we need to get the job done safely and effectively. Reporting, body cameras, and GPS tracking ensures every location is left safer and more secure than when we arrived,” Beau said.

Beau’s background in hospitality, construction, and community engagement informs Titan’s approach.

“I started this because I wanted to keep crime away for locals… and as a dad, I wanted to be able to protect my children, and my community.”

With a heavy focus on safety, accountability, and community engagement, Titan Security & Protection delivers more than security services. It sets a new benchmark for professional, locally driven protection across the Mackay region.

Secure your site with Titan Security & Protection today – local, professional, and trusted.

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Four years ago, Kimberly Stevens’ world was shattered when she lost her teenage son, Ethan, in 2021. A talented local footballer signed to the Broncos’ elite development squad, Ethan’s passing left a void no parent should ever endure.

Six months later, as Kimberly returned to work, she found herself searching for something more, and there she found a calling to help other parents navigate the same heartache.

“I didn’t know a lot about grief back then… and I just knew there wasn’t a lot around to help,” she said.

Kimberly noticed two glaring gaps: the lack of local, real-time connections and the way support networks fade over time.

“Support networks fade over time… not through anyone’s fault, but because grief is uncomfortable. I wanted to help parents rebuild them with people who really understand on a personal level.”

From that vision, Kids Connecting Parents was created – a unique app designed to connect grieving parents safely, locally and globally.

“I saw mums reaching out online saying they needed a coffee, but by the time someone replied, it was days later and hours away. I thought, this needs to be local, this needs to be on the day.”

Initially funded through memorial rugby league games for Ethan and later supported by community groups such as the Moranbah Bulldogs AFL Club, the app has already facilitated coffee catch-ups, yoga sessions, and peer support groups.

“The app is really a tool to find people, but my ultimate goal is the face-to-face connections.

“It’s so grieving mums and dads can sit together, laugh, cry, and create support in every town,” Kimberly explained.

The app’s impact has now been recognised nationally, winning Gold in Wellness Services and Silver for Overcoming the Odds at the 2025 AusMumpreneur Awards.

“It’s hard to be proud of something you wish you never had to create… But I’m glad I can help others, which helps me too.”

Kimberly also shared words of wisdom passed on by another mother she met along her journey.

“It takes a village to raise a child – and it takes a village to grieve one.”

If you’d like to help, you can support the Supported Pathways for Grieving Parents Program by donating to sponsor a parent to join the App. 100% of every donation, big or small, enables more parents to feel less alone.

Donations can be made at www.kidsconnectingparents.com

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After losing her teenage son Ethan, Moranbah mum Kimberly Stevens created the award-winning app Kids Connecting Parents to provide local, real-time support and connection for grieving parents. Photos supplied

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For many small business owners, getting a website built can feel overwhelming. You know you need an online presence, but when quotes start coming in, it’s hard to know what you’re actually paying for and what makes one website better than another. If you don’t know what you’re paying for, chances are you’re overpaying.

A good website doesn’t have to be complicated or cost a fortune. What it does need is to speak to the right audience, be easy to use, and guide people to take action. That’s what makes a website “high-converting” - it turns visitors into enquiries, calls, or bookings.

Too often, business owners get caught up in flashy designs or features that look impressive but are confusing to use and fail to actually attract customers. A clean, simple site with clear call-to-actions will almost always outperform a cluttered, “pretty” one.

Remember: your website is for your customers, not for you.

Before you commit to paying for a website, ask a few key questions:

• Who is my target audience, and what are they looking for?
• What services are included in the package? (hosting, SEO, content, support)
• How long will it take to deliver?

At Glow Sphere Marketing, we specialise in helping small businesses who want something simple, professional, and effective without the big-agency price tag. Our approach is to make everything clear at the beginning, so you know exactly what you’re paying for and get a website that works as a tool to bring in customers.

When done right, your website becomes more than just a digital business card; it’s a growth driver for your business.

• Gabriella Sòvàgò - Marketing, Sales & Business Coach from Glow Sphere Marketing

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Welcoming a new councillor with prior experience in local government presents a unique and valuable opportunity for both council and community, especially almost halfway through a term.

Their familiarity with governance structures, policy development, and stakeholder engagement allows for a smoother transition into their role and accelerates the momentum of ongoing initiatives.

One of the most immediate benefits is their ability to contribute meaningfully from day one. Of course, there will still be a transition time to understand policies and procedures specific to our council.

With a solid understanding of council operations, legislative frameworks and community expectations, an experienced councillor can quickly identify areas for improvement, champion strategic priorities and support evidence-based decision-making. Their insights can help streamline processes, reduce duplication and enhance collaboration across departments.

Moreover, they have existing networks and will bring ideas from other local government areas we can leverage to strengthen partnerships, attract funding and promote regional projects.

Whether it's advocating for infrastructure upgrades, supporting social services, or driving sustainability initiatives, their credibility and connections can open doors that might otherwise remain closed.

It’s important that we listen as councillors and that we are transparent and responsive; this can foster greater trust between council and constituents, especially when navigating complex or sensitive issues.

In regional areas, where local knowledge and continuity are critical, an experienced councillor can help preserve institutional memory while embracing innovation. They are often well-versed in balancing economic development with environmental stewardship and social equity – key pillars of resilient communities.

But, most importantly, they understand the financial restraints and how our responsibility and accountability for the people that elected us is not about getting re-elected, but about leaving the council financially in a better place.

Ultimately, working with a councillor who has walked the path before, no matter where in Queensland, means tapping into a wealth of practical wisdom, leadership and dedication.

Welcome to Mackay Regional Council, Cr Anne Baker.

By Cr Alison Jones

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We place significant focus on building a career by developing our skills, acquiring qualifications and putting in the effort in the work we do. While these elements are an important foundation, there is another that is just significant, and that is the power of connection.

Careers are not built in isolation and the connections we build along the way support personal growth, open up (often hidden) opportunities and feed into longer-term success. Careers are a lot about people so creating meaningful professional relationships on the journey does make a difference.

Here’s some key reasons why connection is key.

Connection is more than networking: the mere mention of networking, especially in face to face environments, tends to bring out the sweats in many people and especially introverts. In the interest of building connection, you do have to talk to people and engage in conversation and by taking a genuine interest in others, you build authenticity.

Reputation matters: when professional connections are built on mutual respect, curiosity and a growth mindset, you create a positive vibe and this develops with each of your interactions to help build your credibility and visibility.

Connection opens opportunities: when you engage with your trusted professional circle, you often find out about opportunities that may not ordinarily surface across your desk and before they are ever publicly available. The adage ‘it’s as much about who you know than what you know’ still holds true and your relationships can open career opportunities.

Connection builds community: genuine connections based on trust and respect create a sense of inclusion and build a community where we feel valued and it nurtures well-being. The evidence indicates that human connection reduces stress and builds resilience.

Connection expands your influence: the more you build and expand your professional network, the more opportunity you have to contribute, influence and make a difference. Also your connections enable you to share ideas and learn informally from others, supporting your personal and professional growth.

Connection is about forming genuine professional relationships with people. Whether attending events or engaging through online platforms, take the opportunity to connect. The people you meet and the conversations you have will impact your career journey and build your reputation as much as the work you do.

Feeling unsure on how to build those professional connections; let’s talk it through and work it out together  - contact me at powerup@careerforceaustralia.com.au or 0409 894 131 to learn more.

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When it comes to social media marketing, most of us focus on posting – but your profiles themselves can do a lot of the heavy lifting. Think of them as an online shopfront. When someone clicks through – can they quickly + easily see who you are, what you do + how to take the next step? If not, it’s time for a few simple tweaks that can make a big difference!!

Instagram bio glow up

If someone sees your content in their feed, they’ll often check your profile before following. Make sure it answers the basics straight away:

· Who you help

· The result you deliver

· An example of credibility (ie “500+ clients” or “Locally owned since 2018”)

· Clear call to action (CTA)

Example: Instead of “XYZ Fitness – Mums + bubs classes, all levels of fitness”, try “Helping busy Mums feel strong in 30min • 500+ clients • Book a free trial ↓”. The first one is fine, but the second is optimised to make people take action.

Other quick wins:

· Add a prime keyword to your profile name – this is searchable too!

· Add your website or booking link – the link that matches your main CTA

· Check you’re on a professional account – ensure your category + contact details are correct + set to display

· Pin 3 posts that show what you do, proof you’re good at it + how to start with you

· Clean up Story Highlights – rename them to be helpful, not random (eg Start Here, Offers, FAQs, BTS – topics that will help people decide if you are the right fit for them)

Facebook fixes

Your About section should follow the same rule – who you help, result, proof + CTA. Keep it short and clear – simplicity ALWAYS wins.

Then check:

· Check all the info is correct – hands up who hates going to a business’s FB page + finding that the info is out of date or inconsistent with their website (so what ARE their open hours? Which one to believe???)

· Use your Big Blue – the call-to-action button under your cover image – and make sure it matches your main goal (Book Now, Call Now etc)

· In Details about you, use a keyworded up blurb from your website to give a full rundown on who you are + what you can do – this is also searchable!

· Invite your friends to follow your page – if it’s relevant to them (logged in as you, click on the 3 dots under the cover image + click Invite friends)

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Kaley-Jade Baker’s Rise on Air

By Amanda Wright

A life that might have gone off the rails has instead found its megaphone.

Kaley-Jade Baker’s rise from a fractured childhood to one of regional radio’s most compelling voices is a study in grit, reinvention and the redemptive power of community — and this year her work has been rewarded in the only currency that matters in broadcasting: listeners.

Come survey day at ARN’s Star FM in Mackay, staff were stunned to learn the station had climbed to the top across the board. Kaley’s afternoon show was the biggest story of all — up an extraordinary 19 points to a 39.5 share, with an additional 94,000 listeners tuning in. For a presenter who arrived in regional radio almost by accident, the numbers confirmed what locals had already been saying: people want authentic local voices.

Her path to that sound has not been straightforward. Born in Dubbo and moving to Brisbane at 12, Kaley drifted between cities and identities through her teens. A family tragedy — the death of her sister when Kaley was young — forced adult responsibilities on her while leaving a lasting fissure of grief.

“My mum never really coped after that,” Kaley recalls.

“I felt like I had to step into the parent role, but I was still just a kid. I was hurting too, and I didn’t always make the best choices.”

By her teenage years, she admits she was heading down the wrong path.

“I had family members who weren’t exactly role models, and I was mixing with the wrong crowd. It was getting bad. Really bad.”

That trajectory changed thanks to one decisive act of love. Kaley’s aunty invited her to Mackay for what Kaley thought was a Christmas holiday — but it was really an intervention.

“She rang my mum and said, ‘She’s not coming back. Consider it boarding school,’” Kaley says with a smile. Enrolled at Holy Spirit, stranded without a licence on her aunt’s property, she suddenly had structure. She also had horses.

“Horses became therapy for me,” Kaley explains.

“They gave me purpose, routine, something outside myself to focus on. I honestly don’t think I’d be the person I am today without that time in Mackay — or without her. She saved my life.”

That grounding gave Kaley the resilience to chase opportunities that came later — though she never imagined radio would be one of them.

“It wasn’t even on my radar. I was working at a uni as an executive assistant when someone said, ‘We need a presenter for the student news — she talks underwater, let’s throw her in.’ I’d never done anything like it, but somehow I nailed it. And suddenly, I’d found something I didn’t know I’d been looking for.”

Radio soon became a passion. Kaley worked her way through community stations, the ABC and regional commercial networks, learning the craft from the ground up. By the time she returned to Mackay, she had discovered not just a career but a calling.

“There’s a difference between a job and a career,” she says.

“When I walked into a radio studio, I just knew — this is where I’m meant to be.”

Listeners have felt it too. This year, survey results showed Kaley’s afternoon show has skyrocketed, pulling in tens of thousands of listeners across Mackay and Townsville.

“That’s what I love most about radio — it’s one-on-one. It’s me talking to you,” she says.

“And I think people respond to that honesty. They want to hear from someone who gets what it’s like to live here.”

Off air, her creativity doesn’t stop. From promotions and giveaways to product launches and community events, Kaley thrives on connection.

“It’s not just about being in the studio,” she says.

“It’s about being part of the community and bringing that energy back on air.”

Her effervescent personality — once dismissed by some as “too much” — is now her greatest asset.

“I’ve always been loud, passionate, full-on,” she laughs.

“For a long time, people told me to tone it down. But honestly? That’s who I am. That energy is what’s carried me here.”

And it’s carrying her further still. Kaley recently appeared on Channel Nine’s Tipping Point and has already auditioned for Big Brother.

“It would be a lifelong dream come true to make it on the show,” she says.

For now, her focus remains on the people of Mackay and the Whitsundays, who have embraced her as one of their own.

“This place gave me a second chance,” Kaley reflects.

“I don’t take that for granted. Every time I go on air, I want people to feel like they’ve got a mate riding shotgun with them. Because that’s what radio is — it’s personal, it’s real, and it’s powerful.”

From grief and chaos to ratings and recognition, Kaley’s story is one of survival and reinvention. But more than anything, it’s about voice — the voice she nearly lost, and the one she now shares with thousands every afternoon.

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Kaley-Jade Baker brings her vibrant energy to the airwaves, connecting with listeners across Mackay and the Whitsundays. Photos supplied

Kaley with Todd Woodbridge, host of Tipping Point Australia, ahead of her appearance on the show

Kaley as MC for the Just Saying Project's 2025 Women's Awards, showcasing her commitment to community support

Kaley finds solace and purpose in horseback riding, a therapeutic outlet that played a pivotal role in her personal journey.

A young Kaley, a country girl who found her voice in the big smoke

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