Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Government have announced a $1 million project to construct women’s changerooms for the Rugby League Mackay & District playing fields in an aim to support the next generation of female players in the region amid an increasing demand for participation. The commitment to deliver the changerooms comes after local MP Nigel Dalton petitioned for the investment and was backed by more than 300 community members. The changerooms will also be adjacent to BB Print Stadium, the home of the Mackay Cutters, which is used by a range of other sports including rugby union and soccer for major fixtures. The project will be jointly funded by the state government and Mackay Regional Council and will include two fully-serviced changerooms with dedicated female amenities. Premier David Crisafulli said the new changerooms would provide greater dignity for women and girls wanting to play rugby league. “Every Queenslander who plays sport, regardless of their gender, age or ability, deserves to have access to changerooms and facilities,” Premier Crisafulli said. “Mackay is one of Queensland’s greatest rugby league nurseries and the growth of the women’s game in the region has been outstanding. “It’s imperative women and girls who play the game are made to feel as welcome as possible, and these new changerooms will make rugby league even more inclusive for the Mackay community. “This upgrade is overdue and our government is delivering the infrastructure local sporting clubs need to thrive, while creating more opportunities for women and girls to get involved in sport.” Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the new changerooms were a gamechanger for sport in the region. “Having the right infrastructure in place will attract more women and girls to want to play rugby league, and that is a huge win for Mackay,” Mr Dalton said. “This project is a direct result of listening to our local sporting clubs and the wider community over the past year. Time and again, people told me they wanted better facilities to support the growth of women's sport, and I'm proud we have been able to deliver on that feedback. “Having the new changerooms adjacent to BB Print Stadium means female participants using that venue, whether it be for rugby league, rugby union or soccer, will also be catered for. “This is a fantastic outcome for our community and for Mackay sport, and it's another example of what can be achieved when we listen to local people and deliver on their priorities.” Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the project was a significant win for local sport. “We’re seeing strong participation in women’s sport right across Mackay, and these new changerooms will make it easier for more women and girls to get involved and stay involved in sport,” Mayor Williamson said. “The Mackay Regional Council is pleased to partner with the Crisafulli Government on a project that will deliver benefits for local clubs and the wider community for years to come.” Mackay Cutters Board Member Emma Coburn said the upgrades would allow female players access to safe, modern and inclusive facilities that support their participation in the game. “We’ve seen incredible growth in women’s rugby league across Mackay, and having modern, dedicated female facilities is essential to supporting that growth,” Ms Coburn said. “This investment will help strengthen the pathway from grassroots participation through to representative rugby league and ensure the next generation of female talent can continue to thrive right here in our region.”
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A notorious Bruce Highway intersection long considered one of the region’s most dangerous blackspots is set for a major safety overhaul, with Premier David Crisafulli announcing plans to upgrade the Habana Road junction. The project forms part of the joint State and Federal Government’s $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program and will include a reconfigured intersection and road widening to improve safety and heavy vehicle access. Notorious intersection to be upgraded as part of Bruce Highway upgrades Premier David Crisafulli has announced a major safety upgrade to the notorious Bruce Highway intersection blackspot at Habana Road. The Premier visited the site on the morning of June 9th to share plans for the project, which will be funded by the $9 billion Bruce Highway upgrade program jointly delivered by the state and federal Governments. The intersection will be reconfigured to improve safety and boost capacity, with the road widened to improve safe heavy vehicle access. The site is a known crash hotspot, with four hospitalisations following serious incidents in the past decade, and many more accidents reported. Planning and design will now commence for the upgrade, with construction expected to commence in 2027. “We are delivering the safer Bruce Highway that regional Queensland has demanded and waited too long for,” Premier Crisafulli said. “This is about getting Queenslanders home sooner and safer, starting with the worst blackspots to boost safety on the Bruce.” According to Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm: “The Bruce Highway and Farleigh Habana Road intersection is notoriously dangerous, and these overdue upgrades for our community will deliver a major boost to safety,” “In addition to saving lives, this investment is ensuring we have the regional connectivity to support our tourism, mining and agricultural industries.” Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said he was proud to be part of a government delivering for regional communities. “These upgrades to the Bruce Highway are something the community has been calling for and now thanks to the Government securing a $9 billion program, it’s getting the critical upgrades it needs,” Mr Dalton said.
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A Commemorative Ceremony marking the 83rd anniversary of Australia worst air disaster was conducted at the Bakers Creek memorial on Sunday 7th June. The B-17c Flying Fortress, a former bomber which had been converted to a transport aircraft, carrying 41 American military personnel back to ‘Maple’ (Port Morsby following their rest and relaxation leave in Mackay, crashed shortly after taking off from the Mackay airport before sunrise, at 6.02am, on the morning of 14th June 1943, in the area now occupied by the abattoir. There was only one survivor. The memorial which is located at the Bakers Creek Community Hall, less than a kilometre from the crash site, was unveiled and dedicated on 11th May 1992, and remembrance services have been conducted annually since that date. Following the arrival of special guests by WW2 Jeeps, American, Australian and 24 ‘Home State’ flags (representing the casualties) were marched on, with music provided by a band comprised of primary school students from several schools. A contingent of No.105 (City of Mackay) Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) followed the flags, and a guard of cadets was mounted at the corners of the memorial. The ceremony commenced with the Australian National Anthem and the American National Anthem, and an address by Mr. Greg Williamson, Mayor of Mackay Regional Council. An aerial tribute was provided by a Fly Past and ‘Dipping of Wings’ by a Tiger Moth aircraft from The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum. Piper Isaac Williamson, a member of the Mackay and District Pipe Band, played a lament as flowers of remembrance were being laid, and the last, representing the sole survivor by a staff member of the Dundula State Primary School. Taps and The Last Post were sounded by the Bugler, and the Ode to the Fallen recited following a minutes silence, after which Rouse was sounded. The ceremony concluded with a march past of the AAFC.
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After its busiest year on record and more than 300 missions already completed in 2026, BMA CQ Rescue is calling on Mackay and surrounding communities to help ensure the region's rescue helicopter service remains ready for the next emergency. The community-funded organisation this week launched its 2026 Annual Appeal, aiming to raise $280,000 to help offset rising operational costs and maintain its around-the-clock rescue capability. Based in Mackay, BMA CQ Rescue provides critical aeromedical, search and rescue, and emergency response services across the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Demand for the service continues to grow. In 2025, crews responded to a record 778 missions and flew more than 339,000 kilometres across Central and North Queensland. So far this year, they have already completed more than 300 lifesaving flights. Chief Executive Officer Tim Healee said every mission represented a family facing one of the most challenging moments of their lives. “For 30 years, our crews have answered the call without hesitation, no matter the time, weather, or how remote the location,” Mr Healee said. “But every mission relies on the strength of our community. There will always be another accident, another medical emergency, another family needing help fast. And when that call comes, we must be ready.” While government funding supports part of the service, BMA CQ Rescue must still raise almost $7 million from the community each year to continue operating. The 2026 appeal centres on the story of 13-year-old Tallis Anderson, who suffered critical injuries in a serious motorbike accident near Moranbah. When the emergency call came through, BMA CQ Rescue crews responded rapidly, providing urgent medical care before transporting Tallis to Mackay for specialist treatment. For his family, the helicopter's arrival was a moment they will never forget. “You don't realise how precious they are until something like that happens,” Tallis' father Ryan said. Today, Tallis continues his recovery surrounded by family, something his parents believe may not have been possible without the quick response of the rescue crew. Mr Healee said Tallis' story highlighted why community support remains so important. “The people who need us tomorrow don't know it yet, but when that moment comes, our communities support means we can be there,” he said. This year's appeal also marks 30 years of service for the rescue organisation, which has become a vital lifeline for regional communities where distance can often mean the difference between life and death. Operating 365 days a year, the service now flies further and faster than ever before, thanks to its fleet of AW139 rescue helicopters. However, officials say continued community support remains essential to ensuring crews can respond whenever the next call for help comes. Community members can support the appeal by donating through the BMA CQ Rescue website via www.cqrescue.org.au. CAPTION: To help keep this vital service in the sky, residents are encouraged to support the 2026 Annual Appeal. Every dollar counts and could be the difference in someone’s life. Photo source: BMA CQ Rescue
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James Grech, Hamish Wright, Kimberley Doyle and the Mackay Rowing Club emerged as the best in North Queensland, representing Mackay Regional Council at an illustrious dinner last weekend celebrating the best in sport for 2023.
The MECC came alive on Saturday night as hundreds of sporting heroes from across the state attended North Queensland’s premier sporting awards event.
A number of Mackay athletes, teams and volunteers took home top honours at the MM Electrical NQ Sportstar Awards, an annual awards event held at different regional towns each year.
James Grech won the Service to Sport award, Hamish Wright took out the Masters Sportstar of the Year, Volunteer of the Year was won by Kimberley Doyle and the Mackay Rowing Club took out the Senior Team of the year.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said he was excited to see such a large number of our sporting greats receive recognition.
“The last time these awards were held in the Mackay region was in 2012, so it was exciting to have the event return to Mackay for 2023,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Our region punches above its weight in sporting excellence and it was amazing to see our region win first or second place, for seven out of 11 categories on offer,” he said.
North Queensland Sports Foundation CEO Stephen Farrell said it was an unforgettable evening of celebration, recognition and inspiration.
“The event was a resounding success, with emcee Glen “Minty” Mintern and world class VIP guest speaker, Brooke Hanson OLY OAM keeping the crowd on the edge of their seats,” Mr Farrell said.
“The prestigious annual event brings together sporting enthusiasts, athletes and community leaders to honour and celebrate the region's exceptional sporting talent,” he said.
“The 2023 MM Electrical NQ Sportstar Awards serves as a platform to recognise and applaud outstanding achievements and dedication to sports.
“The winners and runners-up have demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication and contribution to their respective sports, and we applaud them for their achievements.
“This year's gala event also marked a significant milestone - the 40th anniversary of the NQ Sports Foundation, and the MECC was decorated to celebrate the occasion.
“The awards event would not have been possible without the support of our sponsors, partners and unwavering enthusiasm of the local sports community, which we deeply appreciate.”
Guest speaker Brooke Hanson OLY OAM, gold and silver Olympic swimmer and Order of Australia Medal recipient, shared her inspiring journey and insights from her illustrious career at the event. Her words resonated with the attendees, reminding everyone of the importance of dedication, perseverance and the pursuit of excellence in sports and life.
Mayor Greg Williamson also said one of the highlights of the evening was the induction of two distinguished Mackay individuals into the North Queensland Sports Foundation Hall of Fame.
“The honour went to Tracey Belbin and George Moore, both of whom have made invaluable contributions to the sports community,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Their dedication and outstanding achievements have left an indelible mark on the Mackay and North Queensland's sporting landscape,” he said.
> Senior Sportstar of the Year sponsored by Consolidated Engineering Plastics Products
Winner: Jake Doran, Townsville City Council Athletics
Runner up: Janee Emms, Baton Twirling, Mackay Regional Council
> Rural and Remote Senior Sportstar of the Year sponsored by Fitzroy Mining
Winner: James Lowe, Muay Thai, Charters Towers Regional Council
Runner up: Campbell Hodson Charters, Rodeo/ Team Roping, Charters Towers Regional Council
> Junior Sportstar of the Year sponsored by Anything Environmental
Winner: Ciara Storch, Boxing, Isaac Regional Council
Runner up: Monique Bobongie, Basketball, Mackay Regional Council
> Rural and Remote Junior Sportstar of the Year sponsored by Wilmar Sugar
Winner: Cade Ferguson, Rodeo, Cloncurry Shire Council
Runner up: Kiera Wiseman, Waterskiing, Burdekin Shire Council
> Athlete with a Disability sponsored by DGH Engineering
Winner: Samuel Le Feuvre, Athletics, Charters Towers Regional Council
Runner up: TJ Straw, Basketball and Powerlifting, Mackay Regional Council
> Masters Sportstar of the Year sponsored by City Fitness
Winner: Hamish Wright, Track Cycling, Mackay Regional Council
Runner up: Julie Dunn, Outrigging, Cairns Regional Council
> Senior Team sponsored by Mackay Regional Council
Winner: Mackay Rowing Club - Sculling mix quad double rowing, Mackay Regional Council
Runner up: Cooktown Underwater Hockey Team (Senior), Cook Shire Council
> Junior Team sponsored by Struddys
Winner: Cooktown Underwater Hockey Team (Junior), Cook Shire Council
Runner up: 11-12 Boys Northern Rugby League, Townsville City Council
> Volunteer of the Year sponsored by Queensland Hydro
Winner: Kimberly Doyle, Basketball, Powerlifting and Table Tennis, Mackay Regional Council
Runner up: Jack Baldwin, AFL, Mackay Regional Council
> Service to Sport sponsored by Struddys
Winner: James Grech, Track and Field (Athletics), Mackay Regional Council
Runner up: Joesph Pennisi, Rugby League, Hinchinbrook Shire Council
> Sporting Excellence sponsored by JMS Aquatics
Winner: Grace Grandcourt, IPSC Pistol Shooting, Mareeba Shire Council
Mackay’s winners and runner-up’s at the MM Electrical NQ Sportstar Awards. L-R (front): Jack Baldwin (AFL), Hamish Wright (track cycling), Councillor Laurence Bonaventura. L-R (back): Councillor Fran Mann, Mayor Greg Williamson, Kimberley Doyle (Special Olympics), TJ Straw (basketball and powerlifting), James Grech (athletics), Janee Emms (baton twirling), Therese Clancy (rowing), Councillor Belinda Hassan. Photo credit: Liz Andrews Photography
Hamish Wright, track cycling: Masters Sportstar of the Year sponsored by City Fitness
James Grech, athletics: Service to Sport sponsored by Struddys
Mackay Rowing Club, Sculling mix quad double rowing: Senior Team sponsored by Mackay Regional Council. Photos: Liz Andrews Photography
Two-way traffic will return to Pioneer Street from Sunday (November 12) as upgrade works continue at the intersection of Holts Road and Pioneer Street.
The works are being undertaken to improve safety and traffic flow, and are expected to be completed in mid-December, weather permitting.
In the second stage of works at the intersection, traffic will again flow in both directions, however traffic control will be in place at Holts Road and there will be a reduction to the speed limit.
Work will take place between 6am and 6pm, Monday to Friday. Some weekend work may also be required.
There will be some noise and dust disturbances with various plant and equipment on-site.
This project is funded by the Australian Government’s Black Spot program.
For more information go to connectingmackay.com.au
Deborah Heron works for a local Mackay organisation called Connect 2 Wellbeing, who assist vulnerable people to access vital services around our region from hygiene and food assistance, to housing and legal aid.
A reluctant gentleman and regular client of Deborah’s had been to visit a few places in town, where he didn’t feel as supported or respected as he should have.
After a recent trip to Whitsunday Foodbank Mackay, located at 352 Bridge Road in West Mackay, the man sent an email to Deborah commending the positive experience he received at the charitable organisation on his visit.
The man stated, “I was given a warm welcome by volunteers, it was a very bright and warm atmosphere.
“There was assorted foods, enough options to cater for most diets and fifty per cent off retail prices.
“There wasn’t a limit on groceries, I definitely will make this my regular weekly shop,” he said.
Living in supported accommodation with four strangers, the man felt seen at Foodbank and was treated with the respect and compassion he deserves.
“To be able to go to Foodbank and feel supported and welcomed, he has come back with a glowing recommendation and glowing experience,” Deborah commented.
It is vital to our community to have these organisations to rely on when times are tough, especially with the cost of living crisis seeing many who are in dire need of support.
Congratulations to Whitsunday Foodbank Mackay for going above and beyond to offer a compassionate service and leave customers with a smile.
Whitsunday Foodbank Mackay
It's a Wednesday morning, triple deadline week – the kind where your schedule is so tight you can hear it creaking like an old rocking chair. The newspapers need to go to print, the printers are waiting, and the distribution clock is ticking. Plus, we're on the final stretch of getting Core Magazine ready for print, too.
And then, out of the blue, the telecommunication deities decide to hit the snooze button. An Australia-wide Optus outage? Really? It's like they've chosen the worst possible moment to test our patience.
Thankfully, the majority of our team have their telecom allegiance with Telstra, feeling all smug as they continue to scroll, chat, and call while I find myself plunged into what feels like an apocalyptic darkness, disconnected from the world. The internet refuses to connect, my phone becomes an expensive paperweight, and I start to wonder if smoke signals and carrier pigeons might be making a comeback.
As the blackout stretches on, my eyes stay glued to the ticking deadline clock. At 9am, I have no choice but to bundle my little one into the car and embark on a quest for an elusive Wi-Fi haven, preferably one running on Telstra's network.
Yet, amid the frantic hunt for connectivity, there's something sobering about the whole experience. We've become so dependent on computers and the digital realm that a mere blackout makes us feel like helpless cave-dwellers. No offense to our ancestors, but we've grown used to a certain level of convenience.
The Optus meltdown does raise some intriguing questions. It's a stark reminder of why physical cash should remain legal tender, and why businesses should be obligated to accept it. The growing number of businesses refusing to take cash might, in fact, be a dangerous path we're treading.
In the meantime, I'll sip my fifth coffee of the day, trying not to feel like a freeloader as I adapt to this sudden twist in our digital age saga. After all, when the Telecom Gods hit snooze, there's only so much we can do but ponder life's curiosities while we await their wake-up call.
Amanda
Exciting news for the Clermont community as a permanent doctor will begin practicing at the Clermont Multi-Purpose Health Service (MPHS). This significant development is a welcomed relief for the locals and has garnered enthusiastic support from community advocate group Clermont4Doctors.
Mackay HHS Executive Director of Public Health and Rural Services Terry Johnson said both organisations had been working hard to attract more permanent doctors to the area.
“We are thrilled to announce that Dr Tim Lane has been appointed to the position of Senior Medical Officer (SMO) at Clermont and he has made a permanent move to town with his family,” Ms Johnson said.
“Dr Lane has previous experience in the Northern Territory and in Queensland in both remote and regional facilities.
“He has worked in a number of rural and regional areas including Bundaberg and Gin Gin.
“Dr Lane is also interested in general practice and primary health care, and we will be working with Tim to see how we can support his interest in this.”
Dr Lane commenced at Clermont MPHS on Monday, 6th November.
The Clermont MPHS will continue to be served by visiting locums to support Dr Lane and share the workload at the facility while we undertake further medical recruitment.
Clermont4Doctors Project Worker Janelle Otto said it was a very good outcome for the Clermont community.
“This is a great step forward in improving the community’s access to doctors so they can get the care they need, when they need it,” Ms Otto said.
“Clermont4Doctors will continue to support further medical recruitment and any doctors interested in finding out more about our community are invited to contact us.”
Dr Lane is excited about the move to our region.
“I am committed to rural health, and I look forward to giving my time and energy to supporting the Clermont community,” Dr Lane said.
Dr Tim Lane, left, has taken up residence in Clermont with his family (partner Freddy and baby son Dominic)
This Saturday on 11th November marks Remembrance Day. Every year at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, millions of people around the world pause in silence to remember the sacrifices made, and to honour armed forces members who have died in the line of duty.
The Mackay Tiger Moth Museum will be hosting a flyover Jubilee Park Cenotaph in Mackay, during the RSL service with Tiger Moth planes (VH-CYA and VH-IVN) in action, both having served in the Second World War with one in active service as a spotter reconnaissance in New Guinea.
The RSL Sub Branches across Queensland invites veterans and their families to join in remembering fallen service personnel.
Read our guide to discover the services in Mackay and surrounds, to allow you to pay your respects on this upcoming Remembrance Day. All Remembrance Day ceremonies will include the laying of wreaths, the playing of the Last Post, and the observance of a minute's silence at 11am.
Mackay
When:
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Cenotaph at Jubilee Park, Alfred Street
Contact
Name: Nichole Hood
Phone: 0499567297
Email: info@mackay.rslqld.net.au
Northern Beaches
When:
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Where:
Opposite Playground at Bucasia Esplanade, Seaview Park
Contact
Name: Ruth Wickham
Phone: 0401416943
Email: ruth.wickham@farleigh.rslqld.net.au
Walkerston
When:
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Location:
Anzac Park on Bridge St
Contact
Name: Gail Clark
Phone: 0407127256
Email: gail.clark@walkerston.rslqld.net.au
Seaforth
When:
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
Location:
Cenotaph at Palm Avenue
Contact
Name: Ron Cameron
Phone: 0417933348
Email: ronaldcam@bigpond.com
Marian
When:
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
Location:
Marian Community Wall Memorial Hall, 17 Daly Street
Contact
Name: Marian Sub Branch
Phone: 0458543486
Email: robert.murry@marian.rslqld.net.au
Mirani
When:
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM
Location:
Mirani Cenotaph at Railway Park Mirani, Mackay Eungella Road
Contact
Name: Jan Lindbergs
Phone: 0488783214
Email: jan.lindbergs@mirani.rslqld.net.au
Calen
When:
10:45 AM - 1:00 PM
Location:
42 McIntyre St
Contact
Name: Barbara Farren-Price
Phone: 0436602496
Email: barb.farren-price@sthelens.rslqld.net.au
Other ways to be involved on Remembrance Day include donating to the Poppy Appeal, wearing a poppy of remembrance and volunteering.
On Remembrance Day or any time of year, volunteering at your local RSL Sub Branch is a great way to support veterans and their families.
A significant accommodation precinct is being proposed at Mackay Airport, with concept developments underway in partnership with Greater Whitsunday Communities and Regional Development Australia.
The concept was introduced during a strategic meeting at the Housing Summit in August, hosted by Greater Whitsunday Communities and Regional Development Australia to identify the issues faced in our region and allow key stakeholders to identify solutions.
Innovation through collaboration was a key focus of the Housing Summit, identifying Mackay Airport as a spearhead for future opportunities. A prominent solution was the Housing Action Plan, with the Mackay Workforce Accommodation Precinct introduced to hopefully create more affordable housing.
Key local stakeholders say the development would help to relieve the critical strain on workforce accommodation options in the region, which is impacting employers, their operations and overall economic viability.
Executive Officer of Greater Whitsundays Communities, Carol Norris stated, “What we’ve discovered in our collaboration, is that there is a real gap in social infrastructure, and that starts with housing.
“We need to improve the liveability of our region.”
Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles said, “As a crucial gateway to the Mackay region, Mackay Airport is committed to supporting economic growth and enhancing the overall experience for workers and residents alike.
“To this end, we are exploring the overall demand for development of a permanent workers accommodation precinct on a designated portion of airport land.
“Concepts have been done, and we want to work with interested parties to develop those further. We want to make sure we get it right so we can deliver exactly what is needed for the community’s workforce.
“Mackay’s workforce industries are suffering from the lack of accommodation within Mackay. When they do employ people to come to the region, as we know there is very low rental occupancy rates as well as permanent housing available.
“This would offer that permanent solution for workers coming to Mackay. I believe this could be the catalyst to kick it off and look at those permanent, long-term housing solutions in Mackay.”
The accommodation precinct would be strategically located within the airport precinct, offering convenient access to the terminal and industrial areas, including flexible accommodation options with a mix of studio, one bed and two bedroom units.
Chief Executive Officer of Regional Development Australia, Jeff Stewart-Harris stated, “The housing situation in [the] region is a common problem across Australia. What we need to be able to do to grow as a region, is to get the workforce accommodated.
“What we know is that this region has an economic output of over $22 billion, and that’s being strained by housing.
“We know that there are more than 20,000 non-resident workers in the region throughout the year, many of those who would like to be part of the community who can’t be because of this.
“What’s being proposed by Mackay Airport is to test the market to see who would be interested in being able to solve their piece of the puzzle in part of a bigger picture.
“Interest is there, it’s about finding ways to create new supply,” he said.
Mackay Airport invites qualified and interested parties, companies and organisations to come forward to submit expressions of interest and work with us on this concept and lease the purpose-built accommodation.
Interested groups are being invited to submit an EOI by the end of November.
Mackay Airport Head of Operations Adrian Miles, Chief Executive Officer of Regional Development Australia, Jeff Stewart-Harris and Executive Officer of Greater Whitsundays Communities, Carol Norris discuss a new accommodation precinct
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
Mockup for the Mackay Airport Village design concept
Mockup for the Mackay Airport Village communal space design concept
Photos supplied
Last month, the Endeavour Foundation hosted an empowering event for people in the community living with disability, the Business Solutions Employment Showcase. This occasion provided a unique window into the world of fulfilling work opportunities for individuals living with disabilities.
During the event, attendees had the chance to see firsthand the dedication and expertise that the foundation's team brings to various work areas. From assembly work to document destruction and even painting of stakes and pegs, it was evident that this organisation provides valuable support and fosters an inclusive workplace environment.
The Rotary Club of Mackay played a pivotal role in the event by presenting supported employees with "Pride in Workmanship Awards." Ten supported employees were honoured with Rotary medallions, recognising their valuable contributions to the team, while staff received well-deserved Valued Employee certificates.
The event also received support from organisations like Blackwoods, who share a commitment to assisting businesses in the community. Blackwoods has a strong history of supporting local businesses and has dedicated itself to helping Endeavour Foundation to offer opportunities for people with disabilities to work, develop skills, earn an income, pursue their interests, and engage with the community.
Supported Employment embodies a beautiful symbiosis, offering tailored business solutions to local businesses while creating life-changing opportunities for people with disabilities.
Back row (L-R): Linda Tuckerman – Leadership Award, Frank Gilbert (President of the Mackay Rotary Club), Jason Roseblatt – Team Player Award, Rommaney McAullay, Robert Pethebridge – Attendance and Punctuality Award, Rosemary Campbell – Employee Wellness Advocate Award, TJ Straw – Quality Assurance Award
Front Row (L-R): Peter – Safety Champion Award, Blake Heinrich – Customer Service Excellence Award, Jordan – Mentorship Award, Brendan Blomfield – Problem Solver Award
Staff valued employee certificates
Representatives from Blackwoods with two supported employees
Everyone enjoyed socialising around the barbeque
Detectives have charged a man after he allegedly stole two rural fire trucks in separate incidents near Mackay over the past week.
It will be alleged on October 31, the man broke into the Sarina Marlborough Rural Fire Brigade on Tara Creek Road and stole a Nissan Patrol rural fire vehicle and other equipment.
It will be further alleged on November 4, the same man broke into the Victoria Plains Rural Fire Brigade on Victoria Plains Road and stole an Isuzu NPS 3007 fire truck.
After information was received from members of the public, police located the Nissan Patrol in bushland at Sarina Beach Road near Campwin Beach Road on November 4.
On Sunday, November 5, police executed a search warrant at Keilbach Court in Sarina where they seized emergency lights from the Isuzu truck, hidden in the house.
Police subsequently attended an unoccupied property at Marlborough Sarina Road at Sarina Range and located the Isuzu covered by a tarpaulin. It will be alleged the dashboard and parts of the truck had been extensively damaged and the body of the vehicle painted with white house paint.
A 22-year-old Ilbilbie man has been charged with two counts each of break and enter premises, stealing of vehicle, unlawful use of motor vehicle, wilful damage and driving whilst licence suspended. He has also been charged with one count each of evade police, possession of tainted property and possession of explosive (ammunition).
Police arrested a 27-year-old man following an alleged grievous bodily harm incident in Mackay on November 4.
It will be alleged around 3pm, five people who are known to each other became involved in an altercation along Juliet Street. It was reported that the man allegedly stabbed three people.
A 23-year-old Mackay man and a 21-year-old Mackay man sustained non-life threatening wounds and a 36-year-old Mackay woman sustained a minor facial injury as a result of the incident.
A 28-year-old Mackay man was not physically injured.
Police attended and located a 27-year-old Bucasia man nearby.
He has been charged with one count of wounding, three counts of assault occasioning bodily harm and one count of common assault.
The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating a serious traffic crash that occurred in St. Lawrence on November 7.
Initial information indicates a truck has left the Bruce Highway and crashed with a tree near Wumalgi Road around 7am.
The driver and sole occupant of the vehicle, a 55-year-old Rural View man, was flown to Rockhampton Hospital in a critical condition.
The Bruce Highway was closed in both directions for a period of time while investigations were ongoing.
Anyone with information about the crash, or who has dashcam vision, is urged to contact police.
One person has died following a single vehicle crash near Habana on November 3.
Initial information indicates a Mitsubishi Triton was travelling along Mackay - Habana Road around 10:45am when it left the road.
The driver of the vehicle, an 84-year-old Andergrove man died at the scene.
Forensic Crash Unit investigations are continuing.
Forensic Crash Unit officers are investigating after a man died in a single vehicle roll over north of Sarina on 1st November.
Initial investigations indicate at 3.25pm a 4WD utility was headed south on the Bruce Highway just past Sarina Homebush Road when the vehicle has left the road and rolled several times.
A male passenger died at the scene.
The male driver was transported to Mackay Base Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Investigations are continuing.
Police are appealing for witnesses after a 45-year-old Sarina man was allegedly assaulted during a road rage incident in Andergrove on 6th September.
Emergency services were called to a shopping centre carpark along Campbell Street at approximately 5pm following reports of an altercation involving two drivers.
Upon arrival, a 45-year-old man was located on the ground next to his white Holden Commodore sedan with serious injuries.
He was transported to Mackay Base Hospital for treatment.
It will be alleged the man was pulled from his vehicle and struck multiple times by a 42-year-old Andergrove man who then left the scene in a black Nissan Dualis.
It will be further alleged prior to the assault, an altercation occurred between the occupants of the two vehicles while they were travelling along Sams Road and Glenpark Street.
On September 11, police arrested the 42-year-old Andergrove man.
He has been charged with one count of assault occasioning bodily harm and is due to reappear at Mackay Magistrates Court on January 24.
Mackay detectives are appealing to witnesses, particularly anyone with relevant vision of the two vehicles at the time of the alleged incident, to come forward.
Following the informational video released by the State Emergency Services – Mackay Regional Unit, an emergency kit is necessary during disaster season.
Fires, flooding or cyclones could force you out of your home, or keep you stuck there for an extended period of time.
Your kit should include these basics, but you can think about what items your family might use if you had to stay at home for up to three days.
• Food items include bottled water and non-perishable canned food (And don’t forget a can opener!)
• Non-powered items such as a torch, portable phone charger and cable and portable radio are important if there is a power outage, as well as spare batteries.
A portable radio is vital to listen in to emergency broadcasting.
• Important documents could include emergency contact numbers, passports and insurance documents.
• A first aid kit and medications are vital in an emergency, you can also pack hygiene supplies such as a toothbrush, soap and toilet paper.
• If you have a pet, don’t forget! They need their own supplies too, such as food and water, bowls, a leash and a lightweight crate for transportation.
• Disasters can be scary, but they can sometimes be boring too. Pack a few entertaining items such as a good book, playing cards or board games.
Water supplies could stop working. You can’t get to the shops or maybe you can, but the shelves are bare when you get there. Avoid being ill-prepared by stocking up on essentials before a disaster strikes.
You can also include more items, particularly if you live in a remote area. Think about your situation and pack a kit that is right for you.
Keep your kit in a strong waterproof storage container and store it in a safe place in your home that you can get to easily in the event of an emergency.
You can find more information about household emergency kits at getready.qld.gov.au/check-out-what-you-need
Mackay Regional Council have geared up their disaster preparedness, hosting their Disaster Ready Saturday event last weekend at Caneland Shopping Centre.
Seeing over 1200 people stop by the event and collect new and up-to-date disaster preparedness material, attendees were also able to check in with Australian Red Cross, Ergon Energy, Sunwater, SES and the Mackay Hospital and Health Service.
Visitors received important information regarding the Council’s Emergency Action Guide booklet.
Storm Season for the Mackay region is November to April, and it is best to construct a Household Evacuation Plan, including know where to go, know how to go, know where to go, know what to take, and know your neighbours, as well as be subscribed to the Emergency Dashboard.
Sarina Neighbourhood Centre and Aurizon are putting the call out to the community to help make a better Christmas for those doing it tough.
Sarina residents are asked to donate Christmas gifts, holiday season items and nonperishable hamper items to help bring joy and comfort to those in need during this festive time.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said unfortunately Christmas wasn’t a festive time of year for everyone in our community.
“While most of us look forward to exchanging gifts, feasting and relaxing; for some people Christmas is a really hard and stressful time,” Cr May said.
“Christmas drives, like this one, make such a difference – they mean presents to unwrap and food in the pantry for people who would otherwise really struggle,” she said.
“What we are hoping is that people will just put one extra item in their trolleys this year – an extra toy, another Christmas pudding or a second box of crackers.
“Drop them at the Sarina Neighbourhood Centre and we will ensure they go to a family who needs a hand up this festive season.
“Anything you can give is appreciated.”
The Sarina Neighbourhood Centre Christmas appeal runs until Friday, December 8.
Donations are welcome during opening hours (9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday).
For more information, contact the team on 4961 9290.
You couldn’t wipe the smiles off the faces of Sarina State High School (SSHS) students Sophie Steindl and Jacob Adams after they received a Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank Senior Schooling Scholarship last week.
Presented at the annual SSHS Awards Presentation Night, Community Bank Sarina sponsored two $2000 scholarships which provide funding for excursions, textbooks, and technology and also encourages students’ dedication to both their education and community involvement.
Community Bank Sarina has been partnering with SSHS since 2017 to provide scholarships and a variety of annual awards for students.
Community Bank Sarina Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich said the purpose of this community investment was to support young people and allow them to focus on their talents.
“Scholarships can be the bridge to a world of opportunities for students, they open doors and give every student a fair shot at success,” Ms Franettovich said.
“Whilst there were many strong applications, we are very pleased to have named Sophie and Jacob as the 2024 SSHS Senior Schooling Scholarship recipients.”
Scholarship recipient Jacob thanked Community Bank Sarina for giving back to the community and said this Scholarship had further fuelled his passion to chase his dreams.
“After school I hope to study engineering at university and pursue a sporting career in either NRL or sprinting. I’d like to aim to be in the Olympics one day,” he said.
“This Scholarship will help get my name out in the community and I look forward to representing Sarina and the Bank at events as well.”
Scholarship recipient Sophie was grateful to Community Bank Sarina for the opportunity and said she would utilise the scholarship to pursue a career in the medical field after Grade 12.
“This scholarship will provide the funding for me to complete further education in the health sector,” she said.
“I think it’s great that these scholarships provide kids like me with educational opportunities they might not have thought was available.”
Community Bank Sarina also offer CQUniversity scholarships annually and applications opened on 1st November. For more information see the Community Bank Sarina Facebook page or contact executive@sarinacommunity.com.au.
Maree Franettovich, Sophie Steindl, Jacob Adams, Charmaine Matsen and Ann Fordyce
Consolidating your savings
Ah, savings. We all want more. Just when you think you might be getting somewhere, that’s often when bills and repayments, rent and other expenses are ready to bring you back to reality. So, how can you start ascending the savings summit and, most importantly, continue climbing?
Customise
Saving means different things to different people. Because – and this shouldn’t come as a shock – we’re all different.
Firstly, you need to have a glance at what you’re spending your money on. A quick look over your account statements should bring to light some of your money habits. It might remind you that you’re an absolute bargain hunter. It could also shine a spotlight on some less than necessary buys too. Whoops!
But that’s okay. Figure out your cash flow first, so you can get an idea of where your money’s going.
Our app gives you a simple and visual look at your account, offering you a straightforward view of your comings and goings.
Minimise
Once you know how your pay cheque is being spent, you can start setting aside what’s essential to you and what isn’t. If your bank statements are suggesting that some changes are in order, that’s achievable!
It might be helpful to put your expenses into categories. Highlighting your different expenses will demonstrate what should stay the same, what you can cut back on, and maybe even what you can eliminate all together.
Keep in mind that some expenses will change while others will be consistent. But even the consistent expenses can be reduced such as phone bills, utilities and groceries to name a few. So, being flexible and adaptable could go a long way, especially if you’re able to lessen some of the bigger costs like insurance and housing.
Organise
Try and identify a few saving targets. And again, this should be tailored to you. No one knows what you’re after better than you. And by simply setting some goals for your savings, it’ll help inspire some change in your spending habits.
Set both short and long-term goals. Short-term targets might be within one to five years away. They might include things like appliances, technology or furniture. But could be a little bigger in the form of travel or reducing debt.
Short-term goals will also help train your goal setting habits and reward you when you fulfil what you set out to achieve. Long-term goals might be reserved for larger targets like cars, a house deposit or investments.
Once you get going, you might realise that the saving ascent isn’t as steep as you first thought. If you want more personalised help and advice on how to increase your savings, visit the Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Branch team at 37 Broad Street, Sarina or call us on 4943 2634.
Look out Cockroaches, Sarina’s Buffy the Cane Toad is on the march.
More specifically Sarina’s tribute to one of Australia’s greatest ecological disasters, the dreaded cane toad, is the subject of a post card prepared by Sarina Arts and Crafts volunteer Owen Bromley.
A range of cards by Owen and other volunteers are available at the centre, and Blues supporters could even find them featuring Buffy turning up in their letterboxes if visitors from NSW are game enough to buy them.
Owen has made ‘countless’ cards depicting Sarina scenes in nearly 30 years of supporting the centre, and as he’s a big supporter of Queensland State of Origin, Buffy was a subject he’s wanted to do for some time.
Buffy is enough to scare any Cockroach supporter, as the Blues were known in the early days of Origin clashes with the Queensland Cane Toads, standing more than a metre tall and guarding the northern gateway to Sarina in Broad St.
He was the brainchild of a former Sarina Shire councillor the late Jean Coleman, who with her husband Bevan ran the Tramway Motel on Sarina’s northern outskirts.
Friends who knew them said motel guests were always amazed by the size and number of cane toads sitting around the street lights so Bevan and Jean decided to make up a giant cardboard toad which featured on floats in Sarina’s annual Mardi Gras and Mackay’s Tourist Festival parades in the 70s and 80s.
Buffy won the Mardi Gras award for best float in 1986 and was then donated to Sarina Shire which made a fiberglass replica of it as a tourism drawcard – and something to scare Blues supporters.
A final word on Buffy from a plaque at his statue: “Since his construction Buffy has seen glory, shame, neglect, resurrection and finally recognition as a tourism attraction.”
Maroons supporter Owen Bromley with Sarina’s Buffy the Cane Toad, which features on post cards made by Owen and available at the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre. Photos: Charlie Payne
Post cards by Owen Bromley
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