Backing A New Generation Of Skippers

As owner of three of the Mackay-Whitsunday region’s top tourism businesses, Asher Telford is used to innovating through challenges, his latest leading him to initiate a unique solution for industry-wide staff shortages, while also creating career pathways for local youth.

Last Friday, October 29, a total of 31 Grade 11 and 12 students from 10 schools between Calen and Sarina, completed their last practical session in a year-long specially tailored ‘Coxswain’ course, aboard Mr Telford’s state-of-the-art vessel and nationally acclaimed tourism product, ‘Wildcat Mackay’.

Officially part of the Queensland Government’s Vocational Education and Training in Schools (VETiS) program, enabling students to gain nationally recognised qualifications while still at school, the course has also been delivered in partnership with the Whitsunday Maritime Training Centre (WMTC).

Across the year’s four school terms, WMTC trainers have travelled from Airlie Beach to Mackay each week, to deliver classroom training in venues provided by the Resources Centre for Excellence, Volunteer Marine Rescue Mackay and North Queensland Bulk Ports.

Additionally, for two days each term, and in many cases across weekends and school holidays throughout the year, students have been privileged to access valuable practical training and work experience aboard both Wildcat Mackay and other working vessels in the Airlie Beach-based Red Cat Adventures fleet.

Sailing Toward Success
Local Students Complete Coxswain Course

With achieving the required sea-time for a Coxswain licence often proving the stumbling block for students who have otherwise successfully completed classroom components, Mr Telford said he hoped this approach would deliver real results.

“I wanted to see these students trained in real life situations on real working boats, not just in a classroom setting and then dropped into the industry,” he said.

“I also wanted to show our region’s young people that the maritime industry is up there with the mines as a satisfying career path; this is a profession where Australians are very highly regarded worldwide, so they’re effectively opening up opportunities to travel the world by gaining a global skillset.”

WMTC Training Coordinator, Deb Duggan, said students had completed a number of quite difficult subjects, particularly for those new to boats, including coastal navigation, seamanship and vessel handling, collision regulations, legislation, and engineering, as well as separate ‘Shipboard Safety’ training, where they learned to launch life rafts, light emergency flares, fight fires, and practise in-water survival skills.  

“The students have had a fantastic, sometimes challenging year, and it has been awesome to watch them grow and gain confidence on the water,” she said.

“I am really proud of what they’ve achieved and look forward to seeing them turn their new-found knowledge into meaningful careers.”

Sarina State High School Deputy Principal, Matt Allen, said the initiative had given participating students “the opportunity and experience of a lifetime”.

“Honestly, I can’t think of anywhere else that would engage multiple agencies so effectively to provide school students such a leg up into this industry with these real-life training opportunities,” he said.

Mr Telford said none of this would have been possible without the support of the Queensland Government’s Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning, and access to the VETiS program, through which students were subsidised for the theory and practical assessment components of the course.

“When I came up with this idea staff levels were critical – not just for us, but across the region,” he explained.

“At the same time, we were facing a housing crisis, so even if skippers applied for our jobs, they were typically from out-of-town and couldn’t find accommodation.

“Meanwhile we had local school students asking for work experience; my thoughts were: ‘well the local kids are here, they’re already embedded in the community, all they need is the training and opportunities to work in their own slice of paradise’.

“The housing crisis wasn’t going to be fixed in one year, but maybe in that time we could address the crew crisis instead, and there was a government body out there who could help.”

Tourism Mackay Chief Executive Officer, Al Grundy, commended all involved in the initiative saying each had played a part in future-proofing the local marine and tourism industries.

“It is wonderful to see these local students given an opportunity to enter such an exciting industry – congratulations to everyone involved,” Mr Grundy said.

For more information, visit www.wildcatmackay.com.au  

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Onboard Mackay’s ‘Wildcat’, Al Grundy - Mackay Isaac Tourism, Asher Telford, Richard Roberts and Sam Bloor - Wildcat Mackay, Deb Duggan - Whitsunday Marine Training Centre with students -  Max Klosterman, Ryan Meads, Blake Pullen, Baley Allen, Cooper Stuckey, Isabelle Halliwell, Samual Docherty, Daniel Harris, Corbin Schultz, Nikolas Lampe, Caleb Robertson, Jackson Payne, Sam Patroni, Sam Gutsell, Haydee Brice, Jasmina Zec, Chloe Hogan, Dakota Cooper-Rose, Nathan Stephens, Owen Norton, CJ Henry, Nicolas Cheesman, Jaezel Querro, Lee Rennie, Ky Barker

Students learning to light flares

Asher Telford, Caleb Robertson and Isabelle Halliwell

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RACQ CQ Rescue assisted Queensland Police with a search for a missing light aircraft near Finch Hatton last weekend on Saturday, 28th October.

Mackay Police reported that just before 9am, police were contacted by a local community member alerting officers to the crash.

The helicopter crew were tasked about 10.15am after a small aircraft with two people on board, believed to be travelling from Townsville, failed to arrive at its destination at Palmyra. The aircraft was last seen on flight radar about 70km west of Mackay.

The chopper crew were provided with these radar coordinates by the tasking agency and flew directly to the mountain location about 5km north of Netherdale. The crew on board, including pilot, aircrewman, Critical Care Paramedic and doctor, immediately spotted small plumes of smoke rising from a small burnt out clearing on the northern side of the mountain.

As the helicopter flew overhead at about 200 feet, the crew spotted wreckage and a smouldering site of about 100 metres below.

The helicopter made multiple passes over the mountainous terrain before being requested to land on a property nearby to meet with Queensland Police.

A police officer was then flown over the crash site before the helicopter was stood down and returned to base about 1pm.

The crash location was described as inaccessible and in very difficult, mountainous terrain with a thick forest canopy overhead.

A 73-year-old man and a 75-year-old woman are believed to have been on board the aircraft and are not expected to have survived the crash. The couple reported to be from Walkerston have two sons and grandchildren.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has been notified of the crash and will conduct a transport safety investigation.

The Forensic Crash Unit will investigate the crash on behalf of the State Coroner.

Retrieval of the wreckage and investigations are ongoing.

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Vision from a RACQ CQ Rescue helicopter as it located the smouldering site of a small aircraft which had crashed into a mountain near Netherdale. Image taken from video footage provided by RACQ CQ Rescue

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4MK Mackay Radio AM 1026 had one very happy listener last week, with Mark from West Mackay calling into the local radio station with a specific request.

Mark asked radio host, Rob Kidd if he was able to track down some music for him to listen to. More specifically, an album by Graeme Connors.

Graeme, who heard the call over the radio, dropped by the station to leave a signed copy of his album titled ‘North’ for Mark to enjoy.

Just in time for stormy weather, with a song on the album titled ‘Cyclone Season’.

Good on you, Graeme!

A truly kind gesture from one lover of music to another, proving how connected the Mackay community is through our local media channels.

Enjoy your country tunes, Mark!

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Rob Kidd and Mark from West Mackay with his newly signed album

Credit: 4MK Mackay

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OPINION PIECE

The world lost a true talent on October 28 when actor Matthew Perry passed away at the age of 54. Known primarily for his iconic role as 'Chandler Bing' on the beloved TV show 'Friends,' Perry's passing sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. While his portrayal of Chandler brought laughter to millions, it was his kindness and commitment to helping others that truly defined his legacy.

Many may not be aware that, in his younger years, Perry aspired to become a professional tennis player. However, it's not his athletic ambitions or his acting career that he wanted to be remembered for. He once said, "I've said this for a long time; when I die, I don't want 'Friends' to be the first thing that's mentioned." Instead, he wanted to be recognised for his dedication to assisting those struggling with addiction.

Throughout his life, Perry faced his own battles with addiction, but he channelled his experiences into a mission to help others on their path to recovery. Notably, he transformed his former Malibu beach home into a men's sober living facility. Before his untimely passing, Perry was in the early stages of establishing a foundation aimed at supporting individuals grappling with substance abuse issues.

His story serves as a poignant reminder that our legacies are not solely defined by our achievements or careers but by our capacity to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Reflecting on his legacy, it makes me contemplate what I hope to be remembered for. It's a question that, until recently, I hadn't considered. As I read Councillor Justin Englert's words in this edition's Councillor Column, "leadership is hard but simple – all you must do is empower your people and recognize their efforts," it struck a chord.

Throughout my career, I've strived to uplift and encourage those around me. My aim is to instill hope, nurture aspirations, and motivate the storytellers of the future, guiding them toward success. I hope that, when people look back, they remember me for the kindness I extended and the encouragement I provided. In doing so, we can all aim to leave behind a legacy defined not by accolades but by the positive influence we've had on others.

Amanda

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The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating following a two-vehicle traffic crash at Marian on 29th of October.

Police reported that just after 3am a Toyota Corolla was travelling west along Mackay Eungella Road when it hit a motorbike travelling in the opposite direction. Initial investigations indicate that the Corolla has crossed the centre line on a straight piece of road into the path of the oncoming motorcycle.

The rider, a 35-year-old Mirani man, was declared deceased at the scene.

The other driver, a 23-year-old Marian woman, was taken to Mackay Base Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. It is understood she was travelling home from her workplace when the accident occurred.

It is unknown at this stage what caused the Corolla to veer onto the other side of the road. Witnesses or anyone with relevant vision are urged to contact police.

Investigations are continuing.

The incident marks the 15th official road fatality for the Mackay Whitsundays region in 2023

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Local career guide company CareerForce Australia has announced the inaugural recipient of the Postcode Proud Award for Sarina State High School (SSHS) as Grade 11 student, Chloe Nielsen.

As a former Sarina State High School student, CareerForce Australia director Maree Franettovich believes strongly in supporting local youth to attain their chosen career, while “retaining that talent for our region” and while understanding the pull that metro areas can have for students.

“Some of my own greatest opportunities came about from being a student of SSHS and, from a career perspective, being in a region affords opportunities not always available in more urban areas,” Ms Franettovich said.

“As well as being ‘postcode proud’, the award recognises a student who has demonstrated community spirit, takes great pride in their community and has contributed to making that community a better place to live for themselves and others.

“For CareerForce, this award is an opportunity to give back – to support and recognise students who appreciate where they come from, and the opportunities on offer.

“It’s important to develop talent and skill in regions, and encourage students to build their life and career here.”

Chloe Nielsen said that it “meant a great deal” to be the inaugural recipient.

“I plan on keeping up with this commitment and contribution to the community by continuing to volunteer at the Sarina Library and Sarina Hospital,” Ms Nielsen said.

“I have also been accepted as an executive leader for Sarina State High School, so I plan on trying to get more involved within the community through the school as well.”

The Postcode Proud Award also comes with $150 cash and a complimentary career consultation at CareerForce Australia.

“I am saving up for my first home, which may take a while, but the $150 contribution towards my savings account means a lot to me, as buying a home is an important investment to make for my future.

“I am very grateful for this award, let alone the nomination, and look forward to my consultation.”

For more information about CareerForce Australia, visit www.careerforceaustralia.com.au.

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Chloe Nielsen receiving the inaugural Postcode Proud Award from CareerForce Australia director Maree Franettovich

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Mater Private Hospital Mackay stoma and wound nurse Elly Engstrom has been recognised for her unwavering commitment to patient care for a second year in a row at the annual Mater People Awards.

The Surgical Ward Nurse Unit Manager received the prestigious Clinical Excellence (Individual) Award at a ceremony in Brisbane, after being nominated by her peers.

Mater Health Executive Director Paul Darcy said the feedback from Ms Engstrom’s colleagues was an overwhelming demonstration of the impact she has on her team and the broader community.

“Elly was recognised for exceptional skills and expertise, which ensure the best possible care for patients with stoma and wound-related conditions,” Mr Darcy said.

“Her team feels she always goes above and beyond and leads by example, demonstrating openness, honesty and clear communication, which has created an environment of trust and collaboration.”

Ms Engstrom is no stranger to the Mater People Awards, having also received a Clinical Excellence (Individual) Award at last year’s ceremony. Then, she was recognised by her peers for establishing a dedicated wound and stoma care role with Mater Private Hospital Mackay, as well as for her commitment to educating her colleagues on wound care management and leading the adoption of innovative new trials and updated practices to ensure improved patient outcomes.

“To be nominated two years in a row by her colleagues is a true testament to Elly’s leadership and passion for healthcare – we’re very lucky to have her with us at Mater Private Hospital Mackay,” Mr Darcy said.

Over the past 12 months, she’s continued to build on these foundations, continuing to inspire and educate others.

When Ms Engstrom isn’t at Mater Private Hospital Mackay, she’s lecturing at CQUniversity, sharing her expertise.

“Elly’s colleagues were quick to recognise her passion for nursing education and commitment to equipping the next generation of nurses with the knowledge and skills necessary for excellence in their practice,” Mr Darcy said.

“Over the past year, she’s also become a published author, educating the broader medical community on the utilisation of negative pressure wound dressings, which really exemplifies her dedication to advancing patient care.”

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Elly Engstrom

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A First Nations cultural hub that will promote Indigenous tourism in our region is one step closer thanks to a lease approved at today’s ordinary meeting of council.

Yuwi Aboriginal Corporation’s application to lease the former tourist information centre building at 316 Nebo Road was approved, with councillors pleased to see the facility activated as a tourism asset once more.

Mayor Greg Williamson said there wasn’t currently a location in the Mackay region that displayed Yuwi stories, artwork, images or artefacts.

“Yuwi wish to establish a premises where they can share their knowledge – and tourists, schools and the community can go to view displays and learn about the rich culture of the Yuwi people,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It’s a tremendous location for a cultural centre,” he said. “Not only is the facility close to the city gates, but it is also near the Australian South Sea Islander Hut and the Torres Strait and First Nations sections of the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.”

Yuwi has indicated the premises will also be used for board meetings and for the ranger, sea ranger, cultural heritage and TUMRA (Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreements) projects.

The lease has been approved for a period of five years.

Another beneficial community lease, for 10 years, was also approved at the meeting for Football Queensland to continue to lease land at 10 Hewitt Way, Glenella, as well as an additional 23,366sqm to the east.

Mayor Williamson said Football Queensland had done a great job of growing Mackay Football Park – and the sport of soccer within the Mackay region – and had developed a master plan for the premises.

“Patrons have identified insufficient carparking at the facility as an inconvenience and safety issue,” he said.

“Football Queensland have developed their future plans around this feedback and proposed the land to the east of the current lease area as appropriate for parking.

“Council was happy to work with them to facilitate this extended lease to alleviate some of the parking and congestion issues caused by the growth and popularity of the sport.”

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The vacant former Visitor Information Centre on Nebo Road will soon become a cultural centre. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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This week’s Chamber of Commerce Business to Business Brews coffee catch up was held at Ninth Lane Grind. Hosted by Whitson Dawson, the growing membership of the Chamber was evident with around 100 people in attendance.

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DON’T DRIVE ON DUNES AND BEACHES

The seaward side of the coastal track along Harbour Beach to East Point is a no-go zone for vehicles and motorbikes in a bid to protect this environmentally sensitive stretch of coastline.

Mackay Regional Council last week launched a public education campaign asking users of this area to not drive on the coastal dunes or beach.

The plea is to help protect sea turtles and hatchlings during the nesting season, which began this month and runs through to March, as well as shore birds, which nest along the coastal dunes.

The campaign features educational signage onsite, as well as regulatory signage, and offenders will be fined.

Mayor Greg Williamson said public education was the immediate aim of the campaign and stakeholders were hopeful users of the area would cooperate.

“We are not wanting to start fining people from day one, but we will have signage in place and will begin fining offenders if motorists and motorbike riders don’t cooperate,’’ he said.

“That will include surveillance cameras to identify any offenders so Penalty Infringement Notices (PINS) of $774 can be issued by our Local Laws Officers if needed.

“There will also be an increase in patrols in this area, including with the assistance of Queensland Police Service.”

Mackay and District Turtle Watch Association president Steve Fisher said Harbour Beach was a significant site for turtle nesting.

He said that during the 2022-2023 sea turtle nesting season, there were 34 turtle nests along this stretch of beach, with 1610 eggs laid.

“Sea turtle populations require nesting success of more than 80 per cent to be sustainable.

“There was a 96 per cent nesting success on Harbour Beach, with 1560 hatchlings emerging from the nests, although this does not mean that all of those made it to the ocean.”

Mr Fisher said turtles could be disturbed by vehicles, causing them to return to the ocean and not nest.

He said turtle hatchlings on the beach making their way to the ocean could get run over or stuck in wheel ruts.

Mr Fisher said Harbour Beach was extremely important for turtle nesting.

“The entire East Point ecosystem is important. As adjacent beaches are impacted by development and climate change this area can remain an island ark into the future.”

Mackay Birdlife president John Morris said every year Mackay was the home of 14 species of shorebirds that flew all the way from Siberia and Alaska to spend summer on our beautiful beaches.

“In autumn, they turn around and go all the way back to the top of the world to breed,’’ Mr Morris said.

“They need to feed up after their long journey and fatten up before their return. If they are constantly disturbed, they can’t eat enough and won’t make it back on that long journey.”

Mr Morris said there were also four species of shorebird that lived here all year round and had their nests in the sand dunes.

“Don’t drive on beaches – that’s where they feed,’’ he said.

“Don’t drive on dunes – that’s where they roost, rest and recuperate.

“Don’t drive on dunes – that’s where they nest.

“And keep your dog on a leash and away from the shorebirds.

“Shorebird numbers are declining. Let’s make sure they stay around.”

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At the launch of the campaign at Harbour Beach are (from left) Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, Birdlife Mackay's John Morris (president) and Ian and Mary Cruickshank and Mackay and District Turtle Watch's Fay Griffin and Steve Fisher (president). They are displaying some of the signage that will be erected along the coastal track south to East Point

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The Shitbox Rally Spring Event for 2023 has screeched to a halt after a monumental trek for teams across the countryside between Port Douglas and Adelaide from 13th to 21st October.

With a chance to speak to two of Mackay’s attending teams, Leketek Mackay and Not Lost – Just Looking, we discover the trials and tribulations as well as the achievements and good times that were had on the journey.  

Chris Leeson and Ryan Haynes from team Leketek Mackay drove a Holden Commodore Omega 2009, raising $12,285.

Team Leketek Mackay were thrilled to have ‘an amazing experience with a mix of great people’, commenting on the beauty of the backdrop and well-organised logistics behind the event.

“We both have had people close be affected by cancer, so it was about trying to do our part, no matter how small it seemed to help.

“The fact that the money raised goes towards cancer research was the main factor, the chance to see some of the country that we wouldn’t normally see was an added bonus.

“The mateship of the people within our group was pretty cool, [we went] from not knowing anyone to pretty much being a big family by the end.” Team Leketek stated.

Leketek faced electrical issues throughout the Shitbox Rally, holding up their buddy group. However, they managed to work through the troubles and cruise onwards to see family and friends awaiting their arrival at the finish line.

Jo-Ann Clout and Warren Ponmoon of Not Lost – Just Looking, drove a Holden Commodore wagon and raised $14,012.

Jo-Ann is a well-seasoned Shitbox Rally goer, this being her fourth time attending the event. Her and Warren were lucky to have avoided any issues with their vehicle on the arduous journey.

Jo-Ann stated, “This was an incredible experience travelling through places I would never go, seeing the different landscapes. The ocean, rainforest, desert, mountains…all in the space of a week.

“But it’s the people you meet that really make this event special. Some become life-long friends while others are an inspiration in what they’ve overcome.”

Jo-Ann’s favourite moments were catching up with past rally buddies and blasting through a huge mud puddle and spraying water everywhere.

Jo-Ann’s teammate, Warren Ponmoon said his first Shitbox Rally experience was ‘like no other’, although having to get used to lining up for everything from food to showers to fuel, has a newfound love for the cause as well as new lifetime friendships.

Warren was inspired by Jo-Ann, stating, “My now best friend, I saw how inspired and excited she was doing this great cause, [so] I had to give it a bash!”

So far, the Spring 2023 event has raised a total of $2,361,876 for the Cancer Council, a tremendous effort from all involved.

Visit shitboxrally.com.au for more information.

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Leketek Mackay set up camp under a gorgeous sunset

Not Lost – Just Looking parked outside Mungerannie Hotel

Photos supplied

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Banksia Scout Amy Harlow is the first recipient in the Hibiscus Coast District to receive the Australian Scout Award (ASA), with the award also the first ASA presented in the Central Coast Region.

Amy first joined as a Scout at Mackay City Central Group in April 2019, before moving to Banksia Scout Group in May 2022. It was then that she made the decision that she was determined to achieve the Australian Scout Award.

Over the next nine months, Amy focused on the Outdoor Adventure Skills which comprised of skills in Campcraft, Bushcraft and Bushwalking. Lastly, she concentrated on achieving the required tasks in the Special Interest Areas, which are optional for youth to explore new interests and are encouraged to achieve a high standard. These areas include Innovation and STEM, Growth and Development, Creating a Better World, Environment, Adventure/Sport, and Arts and Literature.

Amy was required to complete her Stage 5 in Bushcraft, Bushwalking and Camping, achieve a minimum of ten advancements in Outdoor Adventure Skills areas, complete six Special Interest Awards, complete Milestone 3 (requiring youth to lead four activities), she also was required to attend a Leadership Course and an Adventurous Journey.

For her Adventurous Journey, Amy planned and led a group on a three-day, two-night hike through Eungella visiting the diggings and Crediton.

Amy said it was an amazing hike and everyone enjoyed it and made unforgettable memories and stronger bonds with each other. It is the friendships she has made that she has found most rewarding from her time as a Scout.

The Australian Scout Award was presented at a special ceremony in Rowallan Park, attended by Region Commissioner Dougal McWhinney and District Commissioner Katrina Hoare, as well as Amy’s parents, youth members and leaders from the Banksia Group and the Mackay Rover Scouts.

Amy chose Scout Leader Joanne Hamilton (Rikki) to present her with the ASA Badge, as she was instrumental in guiding her along her scouting journey. Rover Scout Matthew Vella (Minke) on behalf of the Scout Unit, presented Amy with a gift on achieving this auspicious award.

Amy thanked her leaders and her parents for the assistance and encouragement leading to her achievement, and she has now advanced to the Venturer Scout Section and is continuing to make strides in her progression.

Contributed by Mary Wallace

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Amy Harlow with her parents

Amy Harlow with the leaders who have helped her along her journey in scouting

Photos supplied

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Mackay’s rugby league legend, with a lifetime of rich sporting history

The 24th of October was the one-year anniversary of the passing of Paul Wright, a pioneering legend in the Mackay rugby league community.

A week before Mr Wright passed away, he had finished writing his memoir detailing his rich background and commitments with the local rugby league community.  

Paul Wright had his first open heart surgery in 2007 and was told by his son, Dane: “Dad, I don’t know that much about you.”

This inspired him to write a short history of his life for his family, before he went in for his first valve replacement operation. Paul realised in the process of his writings, that rugby league had been and still was a massive part of his life.

Over two years of painstaking research went into Paul’s memoir, including two trips to Biloela and Moura to search through newspaper archives and many hours of searching the Daily Mercury archives to finalise his piece.

Paul discovered he had been involved in rugby league in some way, every year since he first played for Salisbury State High School in 1958, some 64 years ago at the time of his writings.

Paul’s accomplishments in the field include coaching thirty-six different Sarina Junior league teams and eight Sarina Senior Rugby League teams.

This year, to recognise his contributions, both Sarina Junior Rugby League and Sarina Senior Rugby League named their coaching awards the ‘Paul Wright Coach of The Year’.

President of Sarina Junior Rugby League Gary Dickson and Vice President of Sarina Rugby League Matt Simpson were both formerly coached by the late Paul Wright, and were the masterminds behind honouring his namesake for the awards.

You can access Paul Wright’s full memoir online at: tinyurl.com/39tus9mt

Or visit his Facebook page in memoriam: facebook.com/groups/290612458740763

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Paul Wright (right) and Wendell Sailor, who Paul had a lot to do with as a young squash player in Sarina.

Paul Wright coaching the East Coast ‘F Troop’ in 1978

Paul Wright (far left) coaching Rueben Cotter in 2011

Paul Wright (front, second from left) played for Southern Suburbs in 1965 (Now the Souths Sharks Mackay)

Photos supplied by Paul’s son, Liam Wright

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The National Farmers' Federation, in collaboration with CANEGROWERS, is urging the Federal Government to halt free trade negotiations with the European Union, emphasising the importance of avoiding unfavourable deals that could adversely impact Australian farmers.

Federal Trade Minister Don Farrell will meet with his EU counterpart in Japan later this week, to discuss and possibly even agree to a free trade deal.

However, there appears to be little of value to agriculture on the table, with CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens warning that “the current proposal could leave Australian farmers disadvantaged for at least a generation”.

“We haven’t seen a final offer from the Europeans, but if whispers out of Canberra are to be believed, meaningful tariff-free access for agricultural produce is a long way off,” Mr Menkens said.

According to recent media reports, the tariff-free sugar quota being offered by the EU does not provide commercially meaningful access for Australian exporters.

“Contrast this with the recently signed AUS-UK Free Trade Agreement and the difference couldn’t be more apparent,” Mr Menkens said.

“The Australian Government was successful in negotiating a deal with the UK that provided tariff free access for 80,000 tonnes of sugar in the first year, increasing by 20,000 tonnes per year for eight years, at which time all quotas and tariffs on Australian sugar would be lifted.”  

Mr Menkens said the EU needs sugar.

“They regularly import two million tonnes of raw sugar per year to meet their domestic demand. And European sugar refiners are crying out for access to the type of high quality, sustainably produced sugar we produce here in Australia.

“However, the EU seems unwilling to offer meaningful access that would benefit both the Australian and the European economies.  

“Our position is consistent with the National Farmers' Federation and all other agricultural industries. If the offer on the table does not improve, the Australian Government should step away from negotiations and continue discussions at another time.”

Mr Menkens said that the trade minister Farrell and the Australian negotiators have been working night and day on this agreement.

“Now is not the time to agree to a deal that Europe wants but actually sends Australian agricultural exports backwards.”

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Following up from State Emergency Service – Mackay Regional Unit’s informative video, read ahead for some handy tips in preparing your yard against potential damages when strong wind gusts blow through your property.

Things you may need:

- Star pickets or solid stakes

- Ropes/Straps

- Garden shed or storage area

Tie down and secure bulky items such as trampolines, patio furniture, barbeques and washing lines.

Store smaller items in areas such as a garden shed, carport or other suitable storage facility with a strong foundation.

These items can include pot plants, rubbish bins, kids toys, dog houses, shade sails and other miscellaneous items, such as hoses and gardening tools.

Ensure to clean out your gutters on a regular cycle, at least every few months to avoid leaks and potential electrical damage during a natural disaster event, which can lead to awaiting maintenance and costly repairs.

Cut down overhanging branches, as they can snap off and be a dangerous flying hazard for your property and surroundings. Branches have potential to cause damage to power lines which leads to outages and electrical fires.  

It is also important to ensure any pathways on your property are clear and safe for water flow that is caused by a storm. If the paths are blocked, and water flow is diverted from its intended path, it can cause flood damage to your property.

For more information on preparing for storm season, visit facebook.com/mackaySES or mackay.qld.gov.au

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Don’t be this guy! – Prepare and prevent for storm season

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